The Arc of Massachusetts 2019 Transition Conference
Charting the LifeCourse during the Transition Years
On Saturday, November 16, 2019, a record-breaking over 400 family members, self-advocates, and professionals attended The Arc of Massachusetts 2019 Transition Conference, Charting the LifeCourse during the Transition Years. The conference, held at the Hogan Campus Center at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, was completely sold out. The day focused on the transition and future planning structure known as the Charting the LifeCourse Frameworks and Tools, developed by the University of Missouri–Kansas City Institute for Human Development.
Attendees were privileged to hear a moving keynote address from Jane St. John, the Training and Development Specialist for the Charting the LifeCourse team at the UMKC-Institute for Human Development, UCEDD, during which she discussed the implementation of the LifeCourse Frameworks and Tools in the life of her son, Ben. "We want people to have the supports they need - where and when they need them," St. John stressed. "You can’t buy a good life through the service and support system."
Another key focus of her keynote was the a fact often taken for granted and challenged: "All people and their families have the right to live, love, work, play and pursue their life aspirations in their community."
In addition to St. John's speech, Executive Director Leo Sarkissian provided an overview of the work of The Arc of Massachusetts, including The Arc belief that, "at the end of the day, if we’re not working together, we’re not really maximizing what we can do." "Your [personal and grassroots] wins make the state and federal wins come to life," he added, encouraging family advocates and self-advocates to keep up their important work in the community.
After the addresses and keynote speech, attendees were able to take part in their choice of 27 different workshops, including three in Spanish. Lunch entertainment was provided by the amazing jazz band from the Higashi School.
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible, including our generous sponsors, partners, planning committee, presenters, exhibitors, and attendees. Our next Transition Conference will be held in 2021. We hope to see you there!
