Participants are given information on the background of the family support movement, leadership, advocacy and the significance of self-advocacy, how to effectively advocate for change and ways to influence funding and delivery systems.

Goals/Objectives

• Families will acquire knowledge of leadership concepts
• Families will explore various leadership roles
• Families will acquire knowledge of the implication’s leadership can have on the lives of families and people with disabilities

Participants will learn ways to help their family member live quality life of full inclusion in their community. Several presenters offer their perspectives on a broad range of topics: Inclusion; Supported employment; Positive practices; Community living and Family support.

Goals/Objectives

• Families will acquire knowledge of “best practices” in supports and services
• Families will learn strategies for developing relationships and community involvement
• Families will acquire knowledge about the quality of services and supports
• Families will develop their vision toward full community inclusion

Participants are supported to “imagine better” and to create a vision of full community inclusion, with and for their family members, that guides their leadership and advocacy. What advocacy is necessary to ensure the visions that are developed and what is effective advocacy? 

Goals/Objectives

• Families will acquire knowledge of the concepts and implementation of advocacy
• Families will consider best advocacy practices for their personal situations
• Families will learn how to share their personal stories for maximum impact with legislators

Participants receive information on how to develop networks with professionals and families, how to access and control resources that affect family stress and satisfaction and how to use legislative change to procure resources.

Goals/Objectives

• Families will visit and gain knowledge of the Massachusetts State House
• Families will gain knowledge of the Massachusetts legislative system
• Families will acquire the ability to procure resources through legislative change
• Families will acquire strategies to develop networks with professionals and families

This is arguably the most important topic, this theme is weaved throughout, but tied up nicely by a full day focus on the importance of and ways to address and support themselves along the process.

Goals/Objectives

• Families will experience an interactive session on the importance of the care of caretakers
• Families will acquire creative strategies to decrease stress and increase personal satisfaction.