Bullying tied to a disability happens more often than most people realize. A free workshop at the Brick Branch Library will help teens, adults, and caregivers recognize the signs and take action.
Program at a Glance
- Event: Being Bullied Because of a Disability: What You Should Know
- Date: Thursday, October 8
- Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Location: Brick Branch, Brick Meeting Room
- Audience: Teens and adults with disabilities, along with caregivers
- Cost: Free, registration required
- Registration opens: Tuesday, September 1
Why This Workshop Matters
Many individuals with disabilities face harassment at school, at work, or within their community. Recognizing the difference between ordinary conflict and true harassment is not always easy. This session gives attendees clear tools to identify the behavior and respond with confidence.
An attorney from Disability Rights New Jersey will lead the discussion. A representative from the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities will join the presentation. Together, they will explain how harassment, intimidation, and bullying, often shortened to HIB, affect the disability community across the state.
What Attendees Will Learn
The workshop covers several practical topics that apply directly to daily life. Attendees will walk away with a stronger understanding of their legal protections.
- The formal definition of harassment, intimidation, and bullying under New Jersey law
- How to identify conduct that qualifies as HIB
- The key differences between everyday conflict and true harassment
- Legal rights available to individuals facing disability-based bullying
- Steps for reporting HIB behavior and what the investigation process involves
Caregivers will also benefit from attending alongside the individuals they support. Understanding these distinctions helps families respond quickly and appropriately when bullying occurs.
About the Presenting Organizations
Disability Rights New Jersey serves as the state’s designated Protection and Advocacy agency. The organization works to protect the human, civil, and legal rights of people with disabilities. Its mission centers on self-determination, independence, and full participation in community life. Learn more at disabilityrightsnj.org.
The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities focuses on public policy and systems change. The council identifies pressing needs such as housing, employment, transportation, and support services for people with developmental disabilities. Learn more at njcdd.org.
Who Should Attend
This program welcomes teens and adults with disabilities from across our local service area. Caregivers, family members, and support staff are also encouraged to join. No prior legal knowledge is needed to benefit from the session.
Connecting Bullying Awareness to Career Success
Understanding your rights extends beyond school hallways and community spaces. Workplace harassment based on disability status remains a real barrier for many job seekers. The Ocean County Career Center offers job and career services designed to support individuals navigating these challenges.
Young adults facing disability-related bullying may also benefit from our youth programs. These offer career exploration and mentorship. Families seeking broader support can browse our community resources hub, which includes a dedicated section for individuals with disabilities.
For related reading, take a look at our recent post on disaster preparedness workshops for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Employers interested in inclusive hiring can also review our coverage of the 2026 Disability Employment Awareness Job & Resource Fair.
Get Involved with the Ocean County Career Center
Our team remains committed to connecting residents with resources that support independence, safety, and career growth. Explore our full learning center for upcoming events, or contact us with questions about available programs.
