Louisiana Disability Summit 2009 Call for Presentations

The Louisiana Disability Summit is preparing for its 2nd event from March 30 - April 2, 2009, in Lafayette, Louisiana. The Disability Summit is a statewide conference providing a platform for discussion of home- and community-based service delivery for persons with developmental disabilities in Louisiana and is supported by consumer, family, professional, and provider groups, as well as the state Department of Health and Hospitals. The 2007 conference attracted over 500 participants. The Program Selection Committee is soliciting proposals for presentations at the Louisiana Disability Summit 2009. Varieties of proposals are requested. The Committee is seeking a diverse range of presenters. Proposals detailing advances in service arenas, collaborative efforts in service delivery, community advocacy, research, and the accomplishment of personal success stories are all welcome. The central theme for the Disability Summit is "partnership and collaboration". The theme focuses on innovative ways of addressing the most critical issues that impose challenges for acquiring rich and satisfying community lives for us all. Some of those issues include but are not limited to: Housing, Employment, Health Care, Support Services, Transportation, Education, Friendships and Relationships, Community Participation and Inclusion. Presentations should outline how strategic alliances with others in the community are formed to create opportunities and resources that address a challenge or issue. Idea(s) discussed should address improvements in quality of services, quality of life, and/or availability/access to supports. Presentations should also speak to how the idea(s) presented result in better communities, including the best possible outcomes for all people in the community.

PROGRAM PROPOSALS/PRESENTATIONS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO: LOUISIANA DISABILITY SUMMIT 2009 C/O RESOURCE CENTER ON COMMUNITY INCLUSION 3501 FIFTH AVENUE, SUITE C2 LAKE CHARLES, LA 70607

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS, CONTACT (318) 741-5327 • jlott@dhh.la.gov