Are you interested in developing or improving local housing projects to support those with autism and other developmental disabilities? If so, the following three events will certainly pique your interest!
I recently traveled to Houston, TX to attend Brookwood Networking Days, which focused on sharing the unique residential and employment model of the Brookwood Community. Boasting over $7 million annually in their social enterprises, offering multi-level supports that can accommodate those with medical fragility, standing committed to spiritual wellness, and strongly engaging the Houston community – it is clear that they have much to share.
In March, Madison House Founder, Jalynn Prince, and I will be traveling, once again, to LA for the FRED Conference. We are both very excited to be on a couple of the amazing panel discussions planned for the event. Expanding their art show from last year, this year, the FRED Marketplace will include products from around that country that those with autism or other developmental disabilities make and sell. Their panel of self-advocates should not be missed, as well as the Saturday night dinner. Last year, the poignant speakers knocked our socks off!
Kicking off Autism Awareness / Acceptance Month, the Marbridge Foundation is hosting their second annual Executive Leadership Symposium. This symposium will be held April 9-11, targeted to Executive Directors, Operations Leaders, and other Senior Management Officials free of charge! After 60 years in operation, the Marbridge Foundation has taken a lead in connecting other existing privately-funded communities, hosting them for several days to learn from each other and share best practices.
These three events have all been started within the past three years and have already proven influential in uniting those who want to create solutions to a national crisis – the scarcity of safe, affordable, and accessible housing that fits an individual’s needs and desired lifestyle. We look forward to attending and reporting further updates!
About the Author:
Desiree Kameka, Director of Community Education & Advocacy
Desiree’s work for the Madison House Autism Foundation focuses on researching housing issues, advocating with organizations, families, and autistic adults on housing issues, and presenting her work at local and national gatherings. She visits many residential communities and social enterprises across the USA and abroad in order to highlight their unique victories and learning curves while sharing stories of residents with autism and other developmental disabilities. Desiree is also the project lead for Madison House’s interactive Autism Housing Network, which is currently in BETA testing. Her passion is empowering communities to create a future that is exciting and life affirming for those of all abilities by offering small group consultations for forming projects.
Make Studio: A Sky Blue Door to Possibilities
