The Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities, in partnership with Down Syndrome Innovations, is proud to host the 2nd Annual SPEAK Up! (Self-Advocates Promoting Empowerment and Access in Kansas) conference — a free event designed for self-advocates and caregivers on Saturday, November 8th from 8 AM to 3 PM.
This empowering day will feature inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking discussions led by advocates, activists, organizations, as well as federal and state financial, legal, and benefits experts working to enhance resources and information for Kansans with IDD. Participants will explore real-life experiences and expert perspectives on the most critical issues facing individuals with disabilities and their families today.
Hosted By
Event Details
Date 📅
Saturday, November 8, 2025
Time 🕒
8 am - 3 pm
Venue 🏨
KU Edwards Campus
12600 S Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66213
Conference Overview
There will be two tracks – a self-advocate track led by Lola Kernell and a parent/caregiver track led by DSI.
The day will begin with a kick-off welcome keynote for self-advocates and caregivers!
Self-Advocate Track:
How to Ask for Accommodations in the Workplace and School Using Your Advocacy Panel, Art as Advocacy
If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It!
Goal Setting and Storytelling Workshop
Healthy Living & Self-Care Time
& an Ideas Workshop.
Parent/Caregiver Track:
Understanding & Navigating Federal & State Benefits for Kansans with IDD Training
Planning a Successful Life Care & Financial Plan for Your Family Training
Supported Decision-Making: From Justice for Jenny to Justice for All
& Caregiver Resiliency & Mental Health 101.
The day will wrap up with everyone coming together for “How to SPEAK Up: Empowering our IDD Community Panel” with the viewing of our SPEAK Up! Video series.
Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and SPEAK Up! for a more inclusive future!
Conference Agenda
Coming soon!
FAQs about the SPEAK Up! Conference
Where am I supposed to park for this event?
All parking instructions are found HERE on this website, as well as the Campus map, where you can find the ramps if you need them.
Where are the accessible restrooms/quiet spaces?
We will be in the Regnier Hall. HERE is the map of that building.
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 by September 15th, and travel assistance/scholarships requests will need to be sent in by August 15, 2025
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!