A Regional Symposium Hosted by the Simcoe County Developmental Services Partnership Table
On behalf of The Simcoe County Developmental Services Partnership Table, we are proud to present The Power of Belonging: Our Stories, Our Voice — a dynamic one-day regional symposium dedicated to elevating the voices of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Simcoe County.
This impactful gathering celebrates the lived experiences, leadership, and advocacy of individuals supported, alongside the agencies, caregivers, professionals, self-advocates, and community partners who walk beside them every day.
About the Symposium
Under the theme Our Stories, Our Voice, this event is designed to foster connection, amplify lived experience, and strengthen inclusive communities.
Participants will:
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Build meaningful peer networks
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Share lived experiences and promising practices
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Learn practical tools for self-advocacy
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Hear from inspiring changemakers leading impact in their communities
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Strengthen collective confidence to shape inclusive spaces across Simcoe County
The day will center belonging, empowerment, dignity, and action.
Who Should Attend
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Individuals supported
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Self-advocates
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Family members and caregivers
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Developmental service professionals
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Community leaders and partners
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Agencies and organizations committed to inclusion
If you believe in communities where every voice matters, this symposium is for you.
Agenda:
|
Time |
Session |
Description |
|
9:30 AM |
Welcome Remarks |
|
|
10:00 AM |
Keynote Presentation - Michael Jacque |
Belonging in Action: From Awareness to Responsibility |
|
11:15 AM |
BREAK |
|
|
11:30 AM |
Stronger Together - From Ideas to Action |
Yvonne Spicer & Theresa Somerton, Lifetime Abilities |
|
12:30 PM |
Lunch Break |
|
|
2:00 PM |
Stories of Resilence Workshop |
Panel Discussion lead by Jamie Hall, Empower Simcoe |
|
3:15 PM |
BREAK |
|
|
2:30 PM Concurrent Sessions |
How to Be a Good Roommate |
Deborah Baptiste (Employment Coordinator, Karis Disability Services) |
|
2:30 PM Concurrent Sessions |
Internet Safety |
Karen Hirstwood |
|
2:30 PM Concurrent Sessions |
Employment Session |
Dr. Sonia Mastrangelo & Katherine Killam & Jamie Currie |
|
4:30 PM |
Break |
|
|
5:00 PM |
Voice for Impact Dinner & Award |
|
Subject to change.
Register Today
Join us for a day of connection, learning, and collective impact.
Spaces are limited. Early registration is encouraged.