2026 Transition Conference: The Transition Journeys
Conference Information
Transition Journeys 2026:
Tools for Today, Hope for Tomorrow
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Renaissance Framingham Hotel and Conference Center
Registration is now open for Transition Journeys 2026: Tools for Today, Hope for Tomorrow, The Arc of Massachusetts’ premier conference for families, self-advocates, and professionals navigating the transition to adulthood for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.
Through more than 20 workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, families gain valuable guidance on topics including adult services, housing, higher education, healthcare, transportation, advocacy, employment, and more.
Join us for a full day of expert-led workshops, resources, and connections. For the first time ever, CEUs will be available for educators.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tools, build connections, and prepare for the future with confidence.
Workshops
Through more than 20 workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, families gain valuable guidance on topics including adult services, housing, higher education, healthcare, transportation, advocacy, employment, and more.
Sample workshops include:
- Transitioning to DDS Adult Services
- Navigating the Shift: Actionable Strategies and Resources for the Adult Healthcare Transition
- Assistive Technology: Tools for Independence
- New and Upcoming Innovative Housing Models
- Navigating Government Benefits with Confidence
- Real Challenges and Rewards of the Self-Direction Service Model
- Protecting Benefits, Building Security: Financial and Estate Planning for Loved Ones with Disabilities
- What to Know about MassHealth and Transition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who should attend the Transition Conference?
The Transition Conference is intended for a mixed audience: parents, guardians, families, self-advocates, educators, and human services professionals.
Q: What is included with registration for the conference?
Attendees of the conference will be able to attend three workshops during the day. In addition, there will be a keynote address, two lived experience panels (one from parents, one from young adults with disabilities), and a networking reception. There will be exhibitors from dozens of organizations and agencies. Lunch will be provided.
There will be a reception at the end of day with availability for 100 people. RSVP is required as space is limited.
Q: I can’t afford the price of admission, but I want to attend. What can I do?
Check with your local family support center regarding the availability of family support funds. Select chapters of The Arc may also be offering assistance to families supported by the chapter. The Arc of Massachusetts has limited scholarships available; please complete this form to be considered for a financial hardship scholarship.
Q: I need transportation to attend the conference. Will you be arranging group transportation opportunities?
The Renaissance Framingham Hotel and Conference Center is conveniently located near major highways and public transportation. The Banana Lot/Intermodal Center is a major bus transfer hub in Framingham, Massachusetts, operated by the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA). It serves as a key connection point for multiple bus routes and can connect you to a bus to the hotel. In addition, check with your local chapter to see if they’re sending a shuttle bus to the conference.
Q: I need interpretation in a different language. What languages will you be offering? How do I register to confirm interpretation needs?
Wordly, a language interpretation app, will be available in the ballroom for the main speakers and in several breakout rooms throughout the day. Language interpretation can not be guaranteed for all sessions; we will make decisions about availability based on RSVPs received by September 15. Wordly is available in nearly 70 common languages; for a complete list, see Translator Languages for Meetings and Events | Wordly.
Q: Is this conference accessible?
The Renaissance Framingham Hotel and Conference Center is an accessible venue. Please refer to their website for more information.
Q: What is your refund policy?
Refunds are available only for single-registration purchases made prior to September 15 at the early bird or full price rate, less $50 (i.e., $95 minus $50 if early bird, for a refund of $45; $125 minus $50 if full price, for a refund of $75).
No refunds are available for group registration or other special rates.
If you would like to transfer your registration ticket to another person, you may do so by September 15.
Q: Will you be hosting a call for proposals for submissions for conference presentations?
We are inviting presenters who have expertise on relevant topics. There will not be a general call for proposals for this year’s conference.
Q: I can’t attend the conference in person. Will there be a virtual option?
There will not be a virtual option.
Q: Will conference materials be available after the conference?
Presenters will have the option to share their slide decks and contact information with all attendees. We also anticipate recording several of the conference sessions.
