Tools for Transformation Conference:
The Future of Autism Care:
AI, Innovation, and Transformational Change
19th Annual Tools for Transformation Conference
Join the Special Needs Network for a transformative two-day conference dedicated to advancing autism care, early intervention, and workforce development. This event brings together professionals, caregivers, and advocates to explore the latest innovations, emerging technologies, and strategies for creating an inclusive and equitable future in developmental disability services.
2-day Conference
For Parents, Professionals and The Community
This event is free and open to the public – Register Online Today!
FEATURING
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Omékongo Dibinga, Ph.D.
BEST SELLING AUTHOR, SCHOLAR
AND THOUGHT LEADER
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Creating Transformational Change:
A New Paradigm for
Interventionists
EVENT DETAILS
This year’s conference will feature expert-led workshops, cutting-edge research discussions, hands-on training, and networking opportunities—all designed to empower professionals and families in the autism and developmental disability community.
On day two of the conference, we provide free breakfast, lunch, childcare and a wide array of prizes, give-aways and resources for families. Over 30 health, educational and community-based vendors will be on site throughout the day. We also provide parents and the community with a legislative update on key state legislation impacting the autism community. This day is parent-focused and includes lots of opportunity for community building, engagement and empowerment!
Day 1: Professionals
Friday, April 25, 2025
7:45AM – 5:30PM
El Camino College | The Campus Theatre
16007 Crenshaw Blvd. Torrance, CA 90506
Parking: $3 Cash Only | Parking Lots: H/F/J/K/L
Day 2: Parents
Saturday, April 26, 2025
7:45AM – 3:00PM
El Camino College | Bookstore Conference Room
16007 Crenshaw Blvd. Torrance, CA 90506
Parking: $3 Cash Only | Parking Lots: C
Day 1: Professionals day
For CORE fellows and graduates, DD agency executives, service providers, therapists, health services and social services professionals.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DAY 1: PROGRAM
Opening Plenary
Areva Martin, Esq.,
Founder & CEO, Special Needs Network
Mayor George Chen
City of Torrance
Jason Barquero, Dean
Workforce Programs & Career Pathways, El Camino College
Christian Brooke Carnegie, M.Ed., BCBA
Special Needs Network, Clinical Director of
Featured Panels + Workshops
Emerging Technologies in Early Intervention Care – Integrating XR and AI
Discover how Extended Reality (XR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing early intervention therapies, enhancing communication, and improving daily living skills for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Presenters
Isabella (Bella) DiCaro, M.S.
Behavior Consultant and Quality Assurance Specialist
Aaron Chambers, M.S., BCBA,
Regional Director Special Needs Network
…….
Advancements in Autism Therapies: Exploring the Latest Research
Gain insights into the latest breakthroughs in autism interventions, evidence-based therapies, and innovative treatment models that are transforming care.
Presenters
Sai Kumar, Ph.D.
Board Certified General and Developmental / Behavioral Pediatrician
Snneha Saha, M.S., BCBA
Quality Assurance Behavior Analyst, Special Needs Network
…….
Parent Roundtable
A Conversation with Parents and CORE Graduates
A dynamic panel discussion featuring parents of children who have benefitted from early intervention services and graduates of the CORE Program. Learn firsthand perspectives on the impact of workforce development and culturally competent care.
Moderator
Ness Romero, M.Ed.
Behavior Consultant, Special Needs Network
Panelist
Cynthia Lopez
Cohort 1 CORE Fellow
Clara Youngblood, M.A.
Cohort 1 CORE Fellow
Janet Roberts
Cohort 1 CORE Fellow + Parent
Kimberly Barrow, M.A., M.S.
Cohort 1 CORE Fellow
Valentino Gonzalez
Cohort 1 CORE Fellow
…….
Keynote Presentation
Dr. Omékongo Dibinga
Best Selling Author, Scholar and Thought Leader
Keynote Topic
Creating Transformational Change:
A New Paradigm for Interventionists
…….
Afternoon Job Fair & Social Networking
Live music, mocktails, career connections, and refreshments on the Library Lawn.
……..
Earn Continuing Education Credits
Meet leading early intervention and developmental disability service providers, explore career opportunities, get matched with an agency for employment and network with professionals dedicated to expanding the autism and developmental disability workforce.
Day 2: Parents day
For parents, caregivers, community leaders, healthcare advocates, special needs advocates and anyone interested in learning more about providing support to an individual with autism and other special needs.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DAY 2: PROGRAM
Opening Session
Welcome
Areva Martin, Esq.
Founder & CEO, Special Needs Network
………
The State of Disability Rights—A Message from Sacramento
Janice Hahn
County of the Los Angeles Supervisor, Fourth District
………
Keynote Presentation
Dr. Omékongo Dibinga
Best Selling Author, Scholar and Thought Leader
Renowned educator, author, and motivational speaker, Dr. Omékongo Dibinga delivers a powerful keynote on the role of interventionists in shaping the future of inclusive care, workforce equity, and systemic transformation in early intervention.
………
Self-Advocates Roundtable
Moderator
LaShana Lewis
……..
Panel
Featuring young leaders with lived experience panel
Elise Duarte
Myles Keyes
Jacob Rodriguez
Collin Harris
……..
Track A Workshops
Room 111 / 11:15am
Early Interventions:
Creating culturally Competent/Sensitive Interventions and
the Best Interventions to Meet Unique Needs of I/DD Children 0-5 years
Tanya Sandoval Perez, M.A. BCBA (she/they)
Regional Director, Special Needs Network
Isabella (Bella) DiCaro, M.S. (she/they)
Behavior Consultant, Special Needs Network
………
Room 112 / 11:15am
Understanding, Accessing, and Navigating Complex systems of Care:
From Regional Center Services to IHSS, Medi-Cal, and other Generic Services
Brian Capra Esq.
Senior Staff Attorney, Public Counsel
……..
Room 214 / 11:15am
Moving Toward Independence:
Housing and Independent Living Options for I/DD Individuals—including
Support Options: Conservatorship v. Supported Decisions
Waterson Huth & Associates
Cynthia J. Waterson, Esq.
Sherell Robinson
Student Services Coordinator-Student Services,
Department of Rehabilitation Greater Los Angeles District
Track B Workshops
Room 111 / 12:00pm
Understanding the New Alternative Pathway to a High School Diploma
for Students with Extensive Support Needs:
Who is Eligible and How Will It Increase Career Opportunities
Kristin Wright, PhD, NCSP
Director, Community Clinic for Counseling & Educational Services,
School Psychology Program, College of Education,
Cal State University, Long Beach
……..
Room 112 / 12:00pm
Transition Planning:
College2Career Programs, CTE Program, Employment on the Spectrum,
ADA Resources & Inclusive High Need Supports
Nicole Douglas, Ed, MS
Specialist, Career & Transition Center, LAUSD
Division of Special Education
Sherell Robinson
Student Services Coordinator-Student Services,
Department of Rehabilitation Greater Los Angeles District
……
Room 214 / 12:00pm
IEP 101:
Building Blocks for an Effective IEP for Students from K thru 12
Lisa Moskowitz
CEO/Founder, SpEducational
……..
Track C Workshops
Room 111 / 12:45pm
Emerging Technology:
Using XR (Extended Reality), AI for Skill building,
Communication, Daily Living & Community Integration
Caleb Files
Training & Advocacy Manager, Integrated Resources Institute
………
Room 112 / 12:45pm
Read LA! Story-time — Bringing Comfort Through Stories:
Promoting resilience and healing through an engaging,
trauma-informed storytelling session
Sandy Mendoza
Program Lead
Sonia Guzman-Gonzalez
Program Coordinator
……
Room 214 / 12:45pm
Teen Years & Beyond:
Hacks to address Puberty, Dating, and Sexuality on the Spectrum
Kimberly Lavelanet
Founder & CEO, Behavrium Health Services
…….
Resource Fair & Vendor Exhibits
20+ vendors offering health, education, and advocacy tools
Food Distribution & Giveaways
Groceries, toys, museum passes, and more for families in attendance
Onsite Childcare Provided
This event is free, courtesy of the CORE Workforce Development Grant, designed to empower professionals like you to make a significant impact.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact connie@snnla.org.
For media inquiries contact communications@snnla.org.