The BIGGEST Convention YET
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The 51st Annual NDSC Convention was an incredible weekend with more than 5,000 attendees who participated in educational workshops, community building and networking events, awards and recognition ceremonies, heard many inspiring speeches and did LOTS of dancing. Throughout the weekend’s events, the euphoria over our collective work together was something beautifully unique.
Not only was this year our biggest year overall, but we are proud to say that the Youth & Adults Conference, which serves only individuals with Down syndrome, hosted 400 attendees, shattering all previous Y&A attendee records! During this conference attendees have the chance to hear from speakers on topics like college, online safety, dating, and more.
Thank you to all who gave their time, talents and expertise, attendees and especially the NDSC Board and staff for their devotion and dedication to our loved ones with Down syndrome. Together we are molding a better future for them.
Thank you to longtime NDSC member and dad, Jay Silverman, for capturing many beautiful moments during the weekend. View Jay’s photos here.
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Get the General Conference Recordings
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The 2023 Convention General Conference Workshops recordings are available to ALL through PlaybackNow!
Learn how you can gain access to many valuable workshop recordings presented by the those at the top of their fields.
Did you attend the General Conference? Check your email for discounted access.
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We’re excited to announce that the 52nd Annual NDSC Convention will be held in Phoenix, Arizona from July 25-28, 2024! Get ready to experience another impactful convention with informative workshops, interactive activities, and the chance to create more meaningful connections.
Learn about the resort and city, apply to be a speaker, and suggest workshop topics!
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Join us as we celebrate the kickoff of the 2023 – 2024 school year and honor organizations, individuals, and the postsecondary programs for those with an intellectual disability who are making a difference for those with Down syndrome!
Learn more about how NDSC is raising awareness and honoring postsecondary programs serving those with intellectual disability and individuals and organizations advancing opportunities for those with Down syndrome to attend postsecondary inclusive education programs.
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The National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (NDAC) has grown to over 800 members across all 50 states. NDAC is the National Down Syndrome Congress’ grassroots advocacy service that is designed to educate individuals with Down syndrome, their family members, and other allies about policy issues and give them the advocacy tools and techniques they need to effectively engage with their legislators to advocate for change.
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State of the Art Conference on Inclusive Postsecondary Education
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NDSC is pleased to be a Silver Sponsor of the Annual State of the Art Conference on Inclusive Postsecondary Education (SOTA), held in Colorado Springs this October. Conference speakers include faculty and staff from postsecondary education initiatives, parents, self-advocates, and other experts—sharing effective practices and leading group discussions. Part of SOTA is the Student Leadership Conference, for current and future college students with intellectual disability to connect with their peers from across the country and learn useful tools to support college success. And, on the eve of the conference, a free Inclusive College Fair is offered for families to explore their options.
A longstanding tradition at State of the Art is the Leadership Awards, celebrating those who have made an impact in the field of inclusive education — from self-advocates and national leaders, to early career scholars, and more. Nominations submission are due by September 1.
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Pictured L-R: NDSC Policy & Advocacy Director Cyrus Huncharek, Florida Self-Advocate Andrew Gardiner, State Representative Kristen Arrington (D-FL-46), State Representative Jennifer Canady (R-FL-50), and Florida Self-Advocate Dominque O’Connell
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Parent advocate DeAnna Gaines (middle) sharing thoughts on how to engage people of color in policy advocacy. NDSC Board Member Tony Zanfordino facilitated this important discussion with DeAnna and her daughter, Courtney (L).
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Advocacy Training Boot Camp
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The NDSC Advocacy Training Boot Camp at the NDSC Convention was launched six years ago to provide beginner advocates with the tools and resources needed to advocate for policies that impact people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. This year’s Advocacy Training Boot Camp hosted 169 attendees who heard from policy professionals, parent advocates, elected officials, and most importantly individuals with Down syndrome. Some of the presenters even showed off their acting skills in the mock meeting skits. If you missed Advocacy Training Boot Camp or want to revisit some of the presentations or resources, the presentations and resources can be found on the NDSC Website under the Policy and Advocacy tab.
Thank you to all of the presenters, participants, volunteers, and support personnel who helped to make the 2023 Advocacy Training Boot Camp successful.
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