In the heart of San Diego’s bustling community, an event took place that resonated with the core values of inclusivity, innovation, and empowerment. Path-Now, a dedicated resource fair vendor, had the privilege of participating in the annual Leading the Charge conference hosted by the Developmental Disabilities Provider Network (DDPN). This one-day educational extravaganza, now in its tenth year, stood as a beacon of hope and progress for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their advocates.
The Leading the Charge conference, a brainchild of DDPN, has been a staple in San Diego’s advocacy landscape since its inception in December 2014. Its overarching mission remains steadfast: to provide a platform for education, collaboration, and advocacy within the IDD community. Year after year, this event gathers over 385 attendees, including professionals, parents, self-advocates, and community members, all driven by a shared commitment to bettering the lives of individuals with disabilities.
At the heart of Leading the Charge is a dual-pronged approach: education and advocacy. The conference serves as a hub for showcasing new, innovative service models aimed at meeting the evolving needs of individuals with disabilities. From cutting-edge therapies to community integration initiatives, attendees gain valuable insights into practices that can transform lives. Furthermore, the event provides advocacy training, empowering individuals with disabilities to become vocal advocates for their own needs. Through workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions, participants leave equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate systems, assert their rights, and drive positive change.
One of the defining features of Leading the Charge is its accessibility. Despite its high impact and quality programming, the conference remains a low-cost event, thanks to the generous support of sponsors. The San Diego Regional Center, alongside service providers and community businesses, rallies behind the cause, ensuring that financial barriers never hinder access to vital resources and information.
For Path-Now, participating in Leading the Charge was not just about showcasing services—it was about forging meaningful connections and fostering empowerment within the IDD community. As a resource fair vendor, Path-Now had the privilege of engaging with professionals, parents, and self-advocates, listening to their stories, understanding their needs, and offering support every step of the way. From informative pamphlets to one-on-one consultations, Path-Now left an indelible mark on attendees, serving as a beacon of guidance and support in their journey towards empowerment and inclusion.
In the tapestry of San Diego’s advocacy landscape, Leading the Charge shines brightly as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. Year after year, this transformative event reaffirms its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. And with each passing conference, the ripple effects of empowerment and progress continue to reverberate, touching the lives of countless individuals and families within the IDD community.
