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Ruth Huggins of the Bladen County Local Interagency Coordinating Council (LICC) has recently shared a series of transformative opportunities for both professionals and families in the realm of developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs. These initiatives offer comprehensive support, education, and empowerment, aiming to foster leadership, advocacy, and community integration.
1. Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program: The Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities (CIDD) is currently accepting applications for Family Fellows within its LEND program. This prestigious interdisciplinary leadership training program caters to a wide audience, including undergraduate, graduate, postdoctoral levels, family members, and self-advocates. Its primary objective is to cultivate leadership in various professional disciplines, ensuring exceptional levels of clinical competence. Participants are also eligible to receive a stipend, making this an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their expertise. For more details, visit the CIDD website.
2. ECAC’s 2024 Leadership Summit for Families of Color: Addressing the unique challenges faced by families of color, the ECAC’s Leadership Summit provides a platform for honest discussions and education. The summit recognizes the racial disparities in outcomes for students with disabilities and aims to support caregivers in navigating these complexities. Scheduled for May 18, 2024, at UNC Pembroke, the summit invites parents and caregivers of children with disabilities to engage in meaningful dialogue and advocacy. Space is limited, and applications are due by April 19, 2024. Further information and application forms can be found online.
3. Parent Empowerment Program with Hope Community Clinic Charlotte: Starting April 2024, the Hope Community Clinic in Charlotte offers a new 3-month double certification program for State and Nationally Certified Family Peer and Adult Peer Specialists. This innovative program is designed to build a skilled workforce dedicated to supporting families and individuals with special healthcare needs.
4. 2024 North Carolina Down Syndrome Conference: This comprehensive conference, happening on April 27th, 2024, promises an engaging day full of activities and learning for teens and adults with Down syndrome. Highlights include a plenary session by Dr. Brian Chicoine and a variety of breakout sessions, including those presented in Spanish. The event aims to provide valuable resources, education, and community for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
5. National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Basics: NAMI Basics is a free 6-session education program for those caring for youth experiencing mental health symptoms. Available both in-person and online, this program has been highly recommended by past participants for its comprehensive support and resources.
6. DRNC’s Annual Disability Advocacy Conference: Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) is set to host its annual conference on May 1, 2024, in Raleigh. This event gathers a diverse group of stakeholders to discuss and advance disability justice within the state, promoting change and advocacy.
7. Side by Side Monthly Webinar: Hosted by The DHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, this monthly webinar aims to unify various community members and stakeholders to discuss policies and programs affecting the community. The next session is scheduled for April 1, 2024.
8. New Inclusion Connects Initiative: The NCDHHS is developing a centralized resource to aid people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) in accessing services and supports. This initiative will enhance community integration and provide a comprehensive guide to available resources.
These initiatives, as announced by Ruth Huggins and the Bladen County LICC, underscore a commitment to inclusivity, support, and empowerment for families and professionals alike. Engaging in these opportunities can lead to significant growth, learning, and advocacy in the field of developmental disabilities and beyond.
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