Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities

01/07/2026

From WXXI News “Inclusion Desk” comes a six-episode audio and video podcast exploring self advocacy for people with disabilities. Hosted by WXXI News reporter Noelle E.C. Evans, each episode delves into a core aspect of everyday life for people with disabilities — education, employment, housing, relationships, healthcare, and transportation — told through the lens of the self-advocacy movement.

Through one-on-one interviews and panel discussions, the show empowers people with disabilities, caregivers, and allies with practical knowledge, resources, and inspiration to advocate for themselves and build stronger communities.

Episode 1 drops Monday, January 12!

01/05/2026

Interested in participating in a research study?

We are inviting adults with intellectual disability who have talked with a healthcare provider about genetics or genetic testing to share their experiences.

The purpose of this study is to better understand how genetic information is shared and understood, with the goal of making genetic healthcare more accessible for everyone.

If you would like to participate in this study, please click the link or scan the QR code below to complete an online survey.

Survey link:
https://universityrochester.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_czMQ55g6Qjkrq4

12/17/2025

Join Move to IncludeTM for a special FREE screening and panel discussion on transitioning to adulthood for people with disabilities.

In “The Ride Ahead”, meet Samuel Habib, a typical 21-year-old, itching to move out, start a career, and find love. But no one tells you how to be an adult, let alone an adult with a disability. Can a community of disability activists help him follow his dreams? The film will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Noelle E. C. Evans, WXXI News education reporter.

EVENT DETAILS:
“The Ride Ahead” Screening + Panel Discussion
Tuesday, January 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
The Little Theatre, L1 (240 East Avenue)
This is a free event, but reservations are required.

Join Move to Include(TM) for a special FREE screening and panel discussion on transitioning to adulthood for people with disabilities.

12/10/2025

Calling all Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) provider agencies, self-advocates, and Care Coordination Organizations (CCOs) who are passionate about inclusion efforts! The Community of Practice on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has launched a website with resources, trainings, and more.

This collaborative effort is designed to foster a culture of dignity, respect, and equity for all people supported, their families, and staff.

Visit www.deiforidd.org and learn more!

11/18/2025

Exciting news! Registration is OPEN for the ECHO for NYS Direct Support Employment Providers. This is a FREE statewide network where Job Coaches learn from experts & peers, solve real cases, and build skills to support people with disabilities in achieving competitive, integrated employment.

Register now: https://tinyurl.com/echo-esp

For more information, Contact Brandy_Solomon@urmc.rochester.edu

10/29/2025

We've updated our Sessions and Speaker page for the Skirboll IDD Conference! Learn more about our presenters and their presentations!

Still haven't registered? Don't miss out on up to 6 free CE credits for CME, CNE, NYS Social Work, Psychology, LMHC, and LMFT!

Register today! https://urmc.zoom.us/webinar/register/7717537391054/WN_uUdkt0RYST2C1NMvhIUYzg #/registration



https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/strong-center-developmental-disabilities/rochester-regional-ctr-autism-spectrum-disorder/skirboll-conference/sessions-and-speakers

URMC / Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities / RRCASD / Skirboll Conference / Sessions and Speakers Skirboll 2025 Event Schedule Register today for the 2025 Skirboll Autism and Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) Conference.Register NowSessions and Speakers Day 1: Taking Back Cont...

10/29/2025

Inclusive workplaces don’t happen by chance — they’re built.

Resources like the Job Accommodation Network (AskJAN.org) and Employer Assistance & Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (AskEARN.org) help employers hire and support people with disabilities year-round.

10/22/2025

Honoring the Contributions of Americans with Disabilities to the Workforce and National Progress

When: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
2:00 – 3:00 PM ET (Virtual via Zoom)

Hosted by AUCD, this webinar aligns with National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, exploring how inclusive employment has evolved and where it must go.

What to expect:
• A historical-to-future lens on disability employment
• Examples of UCEDD contributions in research, policy, partnerships
• Best practices and innovations in inclusive, technology-enabled work settings
• Opportunity to network and contribute to the dialogue

Accessibility matters: live captions and ASL will be provided.

Register here: https://www.aucd.org/event/honoring-the-contributions-of-americans-with-disabilities

Let’s continue to break barriers and build workplaces where everyone’s talent is valued.

10/17/2025

Have you registered for the Skirboll Autism and IDD Conference yet?

We are pleased to announce that the Skirboll Conference has been certified for up to 6 continuing education credits for CME, CNE, NYS Social Work, NYS Psychology, NYS Marriage and Family Therapy, and NYS Mental Health Counselors. These credits are completely free to all attendees! CME and CNE credits are available to all providers nationwide.

Check out our new flyers to share through your networks and Register today!

https://urmc.zoom.us/webinar/register/3317537388732/WN_uUdkt0RYST2C1NMvhIUYzg

Continuing Education Certification Statements can be found on our website:
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/strong-center-developmental-disabilities/rochester-regional-ctr-autism-spectrum-disorder/skirboll-conference/sessions-and-speakers