MOVE FAQs

MOVE offers many layers of support for each participant. First, whenever possible, we practice Universal Design for Learning strategies. This means, that we try to plan all activities and assignments in a way that anyone can access them and be included. While it’s not always possible for every single thing, we always start with that in mind and offer accommodations for anyone who needs them. 

Second, we have a full staff at MOVE who are ready to help as needed. For parts of the event, your child will be with you, and you are responsible for him at those times. For other times, your child will be in a group of about 10 other youth. There will be one adult Coach who will always be with that group. The group travels together to different sessions. At these sessions, an invited guest will lead the youth. Beyond that, we have floaters who come and go, again depending on the need of those in the groups, as well as State Youth Leaders who have experienced MOVE before and can offer help to any youth. Beyond those individuals, there are at least two adults (I’m Determined Coordinators) stationed at a central location to handle any needs that are beyond the reach of all the other layers. The floaters and adult helpers that we use are mostly trained professionals (special education teachers, behavior analysts, and specialists, who come recommended to us as people who can work with whoever comes). 

For many parents, this may be the first time coming to an unfamiliar place, with unfamiliar people, and being separated from their child. We get it…this is not an easy thing to do! Because of this, we always have direct communication set up with those leading the parent sessions, so that we can communicate any needs necessary. 

Once we have our group of accepted youth, we send out another survey, where you are able to describe any accommodations, supports, etc. that you or your child would need to have a successful experience. We then use that information to figure out how many support people to hire, how many adults to assign to specific groups, etc. We have one of our staff members call each family to have a conversation and make sure we have what you’ll need. Our goal is for each participant to experience a youth-led Summit where they feel as much success as possible.

If you are a parent/guardian, MOVE is a three-day networking and learning event for parent(s)/guardian(s) of youth who apply and are accepted to attend MOVE. Youth attend youth-only sessions, and parent(s)/guardian(s) attend parent sessions.

MOVE is held each July on the campus of Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA.

While the event is open to and intended to support all students with disabilities from across the Commonwealth, the program is oriented to provide support to African American males, with disabilities, ages 14-21. Typically, up to 50 young men are accepted to attend. An adult family member or guardian must accompany the youth attending MOVE. All adults who accompany youth to the summit are registered to attend the parent sessions.

Every effort will be made to meet the needs of all who come. Accessible lodging is available. Those who are accepted will receive a form to fill out requesting any dietary needs, as well as personal or room accommodations.

Typically, in February-March each year, the MOVE application is posted on www.imdetermined.org. Youth can get assistance from a parent or teacher in completing the application prior to the application deadline. Applications are reviewed and decisions are made about acceptance by early April.

Each spring, applicants are contacted regarding their acceptance. At that time, additional information is gathered from all accepted applicants.

Yes, MOVE is an event that is for youth and parents. All adults who accompany a youth are registered to attend the parent sessions.

Yes, pending availability, family members are welcome to attend.

No. This event is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education. Lodging is provided for youth and their parent(s)/guardian(s), free of charge, inside conveniently located VSU dormitories. Free meal passes are provided to allow both youth and parents/guardians to receive all meals. Mileage to and from the event is reimbursed by completing a form once at the event (a reimbursement check is mailed within four to six weeks). Bringing personal spending money is optional.

Once accepted, youth and parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive information with specific directions and suggestions for what you may want to bring with you to make your stay more comfortable.

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