Tools for Transformation Conference:  

A Comprehensive Two-Day Event

Join the Special Needs Network for a remarkable two-day conference designed to unite professionals and families involved in the developmental disability and autism community. This event promises a blend of professional development, networking, and practical resources tailored to both the experts in the field and the dedicated families navigating the special needs landscape.

Day 1: Professional Day – Friday, April 12, 2024

Location: West Los Angeles College | Fine Arts Auditorium
9000 Overland Ave, Culver City, CA 90230
Free Parking in the South Parking Structure

Time: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Agenda:

8:30AM – 9:00AM: Check-in and Breakfast

9:00AM – 9:30AM: Opening Session + Ice Breaker

9:30AM – 11:30AM: Conference Workshops

12:00PM – 1:15PM: Lunch + Keynote Address

1:30PM – 5:30PM: Conference Workshops

5:30PM – 7:30PM: Networking + Happy Hour + Live Music

Professionals Day is crafted for experts in the developmental disability and autism sector, offering a series of insightful presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities. Expect to engage in enriching discussions on culturally competent care, earn Continuing Education Credits, and connect with peers during our Jazz Networking Happy Hour. Featured speakers include Dr. Omekongo Dibinga, Dr. Eraka Bath, and Dr. Jonathan Tarbox, among others, who will provide invaluable insights and strategies for enhancing your practice.

Day 2: Parents Day – Saturday, April 13, 2024

Location: California State University, Dominguez Hills | Innovation & Instruction Building
1000 E Victoria St., Carson, CA 90747

Time: 7:45 AM – 3:15 PM

Agenda:

7:45AM – 8:30AM: Check-In and Continental Breakfast

8:45AM – 9:15AM: Opening Session + updates

9:30AM – 10:45AM: Track A Workshops

10:45AM – 11:00AM: Resource Fair

11:00AM – 12:15PM: Track B Workshops

12:15PM – 12:30PM: Resource Fair

12:30AM – 1:45PM: Keynote Address + Self-Advocates Panel

2:00PM – 3:15PM: Track C Workshops

3:15PM: Closing + Give-aways

The conference offers an engaging program with 12 expert-led workshops designed for immersive learning experiences. Participants can expect hands-on activities that enhance understanding, along with ample networking opportunities. The workshops cover a range of topics, including:

  • Early intervention strategies, best practices, and culturally sensitive approaches for implementing interventions at home and in educational settings.
  • The process of diagnosing a child with special needs, taking into account cultural, linguistic, and accessibility challenges, and selecting the most suitable interventions.
  • Evaluating whether a child’s therapy is free from bias and racism, and ensuring it meets the child’s unique needs in various educational environments, including public, private, and non-public schools.
  • Insights into understanding and addressing co-occurring conditions in children with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and aggressive behaviors.
  • Empowering participants to build their advocacy skills and navigate the complex care systems for interventions and treatments.
  • Guidance on creating effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) from preschool through 12th grade, and maximizing available school-based services.
  • Strategies for dealing with parent and caregiver burnout, and fostering strong, resilient relationships within families.
  • An overview of navigating regional centers, understanding private and public health insurance options, Social Security, and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS).
  • Career development opportunities, including job training programs, employment for individuals on the spectrum, and transition planning for independent living.
  • Information on higher education, including the college application process, accessing ADA resources, and securing financial aid.
  • Advice for managing the challenges of adolescence, including puberty, dating, and sexuality for individuals on the spectrum.
  • Financial planning tips, including managing self-determination budgets, setting up special needs trusts, and exploring homeownership options for adults with special needs and their families.

Parents Day is dedicated to families, educators, and professionals, offering workshops, discussions, and a resource fair designed to empower and support the special needs community. From learning about advocacy and rights to exploring therapeutic techniques and navigating the complex system of care, this day is packed with resources to support your journey. Engage with expert-led interactive workshops, connect with a supportive community, and gain access to essential services and resources.

Join us at the Tools for Transformation Conference for a transformative experience designed to foster professional growth, community support, and inclusive practices in the developmental disability and autism field.

Both days of the conference are free of charge, courtesy of the DDS CORE Workforce Development Grant, reinforcing our commitment to the growth and support of the special needs community. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now for an opportunity to grow, network, and contribute to a more inclusive world.