Annual Convention

Wednesday Keynote

Ashley Rhodes-Courter, Speaker and New York Times and international bestselling author

The Power of One: Creating Change That Lasts

From growing up in the foster care system, moving through 14 homes before age 12, to becoming a best-selling author, child advocate, and global philanthropist, Ashley shares her unforgettable story of resilience and transformation. Her keynote inspires audiences to see themselves as changemakers, showing how every role, from leadership to frontline case work has the power to spark lasting impact. Ashley’s experience affirms the critical work of professionals serving vulnerable communities and motivates attendees to bring renewed energy, compassion, and purpose to their organizations.

Thursday Keynote

James Beck, TEDx speaker, Relationship Building Expert, and author

Unlock the Power of Kindness, Gratitude, and Paying-It-Forward

James Beck gave away everything he owned and set out on a journey across all 50 states, serving one person or family in each state for three days—asking only that they “pay it forward.” His experience shows how even the smallest acts of kindness can spark powerful ripples of change. In this keynote, James shares practical ways leaders and teams can cultivate a service-first culture that strengthens trust, inspires connection, and drives lasting impact.

Friday Sessions

(more details coming soon!) 

Changemakers in Action: Advocates Driving Local and Statewide Change: This session includes a discussion with members of Change Makers, a group of advocates who have developmental disabilities and are sharing their lived experiences in order to make meaningful changes at the local level. This discussion will highlight ways Change Makers has engaged in local communities and how it hopes to expand its efforts in connecting self-advocates statewide to encourage changes system-wide that improve the lives of people living with developmental disabilities.

A Changemaker at the Statehouse: Lessons in Advocacy and Impact: This session features a state lawmaker who has leveraged personal experience to be a changemaker in the developmental disability system at the statehouse. Participants will hear how personal experiences have shaped their perspective, informed their policy priorities, and are helping to drive meaningful change for people with developmental disabilities. The conversation will highlight lessons learned, the importance of authentic advocacy, and how collaboration with legislators can turn personal stories into systemic impact.

Changemakers on Capitol Hill: Turning Local Needs into National Action: This session will showcase leaders who have partnered throughout the last year at the federal level to secure critical funding that strengthens programs for people with developmental disabilities. Speakers will share how collaboration, strategy, and persistence helped achieve these wins, as well as the impact this funding has on communities. Attendees will gain insights into effective federal advocacy and how local voices can influence national priorities. 

 Convention Venue and Nearby Hotels

Event Vendor Tables and Program Ads

Vendor Table Pricing

Wednesday Only: $435
Thursday Only: $435

Wednesday and Thursday: $685

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: $785

**NOTE: Vendor tables and program ads are available at a reduced rate for Affiliate Members:
Bronze Affiliate (10% off), Silver Affiliate (20% off), Gold Affiliate (50% off)**

 

Program Ad Dimensions and Pricing