APSE Conference, Mobile, AL

On June 17th- 19th the Alabama APSE (Association of People Supporting Employment) and ACDD (Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities) Conference was held in Mobile, Alabama. Professionals in the disability arena as well as individuals with disabilities came together to not only learn but have fun.

 This year's conference featured a panel presentation featuring life challenges- tragedies and triumphs -told from the perspective of individuals with disabilities and their family members. Keynote speakers were Jeff Steinberg, (With his distinctive style of humor and song, reminded everyone that they are all a "Masterpiece in Progress"), Sue Swenson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, and Derrick Tennant (reminded us that while we all face significant obstacles in life, each can be used as an opportunity to become better and stronger. We have the choice to "Love our lives".) Daily breakout sessions were very informative and beneficial in educating service providers/stakeholders and those involved in disability advocacy