LIFE conference set Jan. 29 for Delawareans with disabilities and their families
More than 500 people are expected to attend the 2020 LIFE Conference, the largest annual cross-disability conference in Delaware in support of people with disabilities and their families, from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 29, at Dover Downs Hotel and Conference Center.
Organized by a coalition of Delaware groups serving people with disabilities, the conference brings together people with disabilities, their families, advocates, providers, educators, legislators and government officials for educational and networking opportunities. LIFE stands for Liberty and Independence For Everyone, and the conference addresses the topics of legislation, education, families and independence through assistive technology.
Registration of $35 to $95 is required. Conference participants can choose from 12 different workshops, with breaks scheduled throughout the day to allow time to visit conference exhibitors.
Jarrett Butler, a 2019 graduate of the Developmental Disabilities Council Junior Partners in Policymaking Program, will provide opening remarks. Butler is a frequent presence at Legislative Hall in Dover as a passionate advocate for full accessibility in the community and for upholding rights and standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Junior Partners in Policymaking offers policy training for Delawareans ages 15-22 with disabilities.
This year’s keynote speakers are also self-advocates. Donna and Ricardo Thornton of Washington, D.C., believe that people should make their own decisions and choices, and individuals with disabilities can achieve almost anything with support. The keynote presentation will focus on ADA 30 Years Later: How Far We’ve Come and the Work Left to Do.
“For Delawareans with disabilities and their families, the LIFE Conference is an important opportunity to connect with educational and occupational resources that people with disabilities need to live, work and participate as active members of our communities,” said Dr. Kara Odom Walker, a practicing family physician and secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services. “I am excited about the role that self-advocates are playing in this year’s LIFE Conference because empowerment, inspiration and information are all critical in building a more inclusive Delaware. All of us at DHSS are proud to be a part of the LIFE Conference and to support Delawareans with disabilities and their families.”
For more information and to register, go to www.lifeconferencede.org.
