KCDD Day at the Capitol
February 10, 2027
Join Us for our 3rd Annual Advocacy Day at the Kansas State Capitol in 2027!
Advocacy Day is a chance to learn about advocacy, meet other advocates, and talk with lawmakers about issues that matter to people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
YOU must be registered to attend so our KCDD team can schedule your legislative visits accordingly.
Image Description: A group of eight people. Seven of them are advocates, the other a legislator. They are all dressed professionally and seen smiling for the camera. They are standing in the capitol building in front of a brick wall.
Event Details
The day will start with a fun and interactive advocacy training. You will learn how to share your story, talk about issues that are important to you, and prepare for meetings with legislators. After the training, participants will meet with Kansas State Senators and Representatives at the Capitol. This is your chance to help lawmakers understand the needs, strengths, and experiences of people with disabilities and their families. Advocacy Day is open to self-advocates, family members, professionals, community partners, and anyone who wants to support disability advocacy. Whether you are new to advocacy or have attended before, your voice matters.
Together, we can help create positive change and build a more inclusive Kansas. We hope you will join us! 💙💛
Date: February 10, 2027
Time: 9:00AM - 3:00PM
Registration & Breakfast: 9:00-9:30AM
Breakfast and lunch will be served at the Sunflower Foundation Building
Advocacy Training for Attendees: 9:30AM - 11:30AM
Location: Sunflower Foundation – Powerhouse Conference Center (5820 SW 6th Ave, Topeka, KS 66606)
State Senate & State House Meetings: 12:00 PM AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Kansas Capitol
A Personal Message from Lola
Advocacy Day is one of the most meaningful events of the year for me because it brings people together to create change. As a self-advocate with a disability, I know how important it is for people with lived experience to have a seat at the table and be part of conversations that impact our lives. Some of the most memorable moments in my advocacy journey have happened at the Capitol, where I have had the opportunity to share my experiences and help raise awareness about issues that matter to people with disabilities. Those experiences have shown me that every voice has value and that positive change happens when people speak up and work together.
Whether you are a self-advocate, family member, professional, community partner, or advocacy ally, your voice matters. I hope you will join us to learn, connect, and help build a more inclusive Kansas.
If you have questions or need any additional information, please reach out to me directly at lola@kcdd.org
— Lola Kernell, KCDD Advocacy Coordinator
FAQs About KCDD Day at the Capitol
Where do we park at the Sunflower Foundation Building and the State Capitol?
The Sunflower Foundation has plenty of free parking available in front of the building. Parking near the Kansas State Capitol can be limited during the legislative session, so please plan ahead and wear comfortable shoes. Free parking may be available in the Capitol Underground Garage (2-hour limit) and Visitor Lot #1 (4-hour limit). Paid street parking and additional public parking lots may also be available nearby. All Capitol visitors must enter through the public entrance on SW 8th Avenue and go through security screening.
Do I need to buy a ticket to attend this conference?
No, this is a FREE event, but you must be registered to attend. All families, caregivers, professionals, and self-advocates are welcome!
What is the dress code for this event?
We want you to dress in business casual, which means you should look neat and clean, not too fancy. Shirts and Pants - It would be great if you could wear a nice shirt (like a polo or a button-up) and dress pants or neat, clean jeans. Shoes - Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes while avoiding sandals or flip-flops.
Will the accommodations I requested be readily available to me?
Yes, they will. All accommodation requests will be emailed to Lola at lola@kcdd.org
If you need any travel assistance or scholarships, please fill out this form HERE.
