NAPLES — STARability Foundation, in partnership with Interpreting & Application Services, LLC (IAS), will host a virtual Social Security benefits series beginning in August. This free four-part webinar series will provide information on work incentives for working beneficiaries. All sessions take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon via Zoom.

Sessions will focus on:

• Aug. 22: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits for Young Adults - 18 to 22 years old
• Oct. 10: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits for Adults - 23 and older

• Feb. 13: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• June 11: SSI & SSDI (Concurrent Beneficiaries)

Registration is required; participants can register for one or more sessions. Reservations can be made online at https://givebutter.com/starability-ias-social-security-benefits-series.

Idela T. Hernandez, an employment and disability consultant at IAS, will lead the series. The workshops will cover topics such as assets limitation, Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE), Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE), 1619(b) Provision, SSI calculation, work credits and wage reporting responsibilities.

With over 20 years of experience in the field, Hernandez is committed to promoting meaningful changes in people’s lives. She provides employment services and benefits work incentives advisement to individuals with disabilities and their families. The services are designed to promote meaningful changes in their lives.

Hernandez received her bachelor of science in human services from Florida Gulf Coast University and her master in rehabilitation counseling from the University of Kentucky. She holds a national certification in Rehabilitation Counseling, CRC, as well as a national certification in Social Security Benefits Work Incentives Advisor, CWIC.

For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities, not disabilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. Their compassionate team supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities. To learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.