The Arc of Illinois 65th Annual Convention

The Arc of Illinois 65th Annual Convention “The Arc at 65: Progress, Change and Bright Futures”, will be taking place April 22-23, 2015 at the Hilton Hotel in Lisle, IL. During this two day convention we will focus on the progress we have made in 65 years, the changes we face today and empowering individuals to have bright futures. There are twenty-four breakout sessions, three keynote speakers, two luncheon presentations and a Wednesday evening reception presentation. That means that there are over 30 presenters providing professional and self-advocate insight throughout the two day duration of the convention. This event will be inspirational as well as very informative with the latest information on many topics relevant to a person’s life.

Our first keynote presentation on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 is “Making a Difference in a Changing World: Invent the Future” presented by Derrick DuFresne. Derrick’s presentation will challenge participants to invent, not prevent desirable futures for people with disabilities. Also on Wednesday, Mike Callahan is presenting: “The Promise and Possibility of Employment First and Employment for All.” Mike will be discussing the critical ingredients of success in implementing Employment First and assuring employment is extended to all individuals with disabilities. Later that night at the reception there will be musical entertainment provided by the Naturals. The Naturals are a Chicago-area band created to promote the musical abilities of two young men with autism. The Naturals have been featured on ABC7 News and have become a household name in the autism community, you certainly won’t want to miss their amazing performance.

On Thursday, April 23, 2015 the keynote presentation will be “The Ligas Decree After Four Years: Is the Honeymoon Over?” presented by Tony Records. Tony Records, The Ligas Monitor, will explain the challenges associated with The Ligas Decree and what The Arc of Illinois members can do toward addressing them. Following Tony, as our Luncheon speaker, is Bridget Brown presenting: “A Life Worth Living.” Bridget is a successful young lady with Down syndrome and she will be discussing the decisions that are making her generation the last of individuals with Down syndrome. Bridget will share her personal story to educate the audience that all lives are worth living.

* Financial Assistance is available for those who need it.
* This event provides CEU’s & CPDU’s for professionals

For more information visit our website: www.thearcofil.org/events or call the office: (815) 464-1832