A Whole Life:
The Empowered Journey
Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, Springfield, MA
Also available online through Socio
8 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.
This year we are excited to be back in person! We will also offer online access to ensure accessibility to all who can benefit from this information-packed conference.
The day-long educational conference brings together agency and education professionals, families, parents, caregivers, individuals with autism, sponsors and exhibitors to build knowledge, inspire and make meaningful connections. The schedule includes Keynote Speakers Jennifer O’Toole, the “autism expert” on Netflix’s “Love On the Spectrum,” and bestselling female author of any single book in the genre; and Andrew Arboe, Founder of Driving with Autism and specializes on helping autistic drivers and their families pursue driving as a transportation option. He additionally reaches out to various autism/disability/neurodiversity organizations to start collaborations on empowering the community.
2023 Tickets now on sale!
Ticket Pricing
In-Person
*Includes full virtual access
$100
Families, individuals with autism
$150
Professionals
- Includes in-person ticket plus full virtual event access
- In-person Exhibitor Showcase
- Printed program guide
- Breakfast, lunch and snacks
Virtual Access Only
*Full access to virtual event
$75
Families, individuals with autism
$125
Professionals
- Full online access (Welcome remarks, Keynotes and Breakout Sessions.)
- Exhibitor pages with links and content
Keynote Speakers
Jennifer O'Toole
The "autism expert" on Netflix's "Love On the Spectrum," Jennifer is the bestselling female author of any single book in the genre and an award-winning international speaker, celebrated in the press as a "role model of positivity" whose insights touch hearts, lighten spirits, and broaden minds.
Andrew Arboe
Andrew Arboe is a self-advocate who has worked for various autism organizations, including Autism Services & Resource Connecticut, Autism Families Connecticut, Planning Across the Spectrum, and Focus Center for Autism. He also founded and ran Driving with Autism, an online driver readiness program. It was Andrew's personal experience of learning to drive that make his work history and public speaking possible. Andrew’s work focuses on the themes of empowerment and finding meaning in work.
Breakout Sessions
A short introduction to your team members and why their background should inspire potential clients’ confidence.
Participants will learn the benefits of using routines and schedules to help children complete tasks and activities. 1.5 BCBAs offered, organized through Julie Hayden!
This workshop will review in detail the DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder and the MGH Lurie Center for Autism’s approach to early and rapid diagnosis in children under 5 years old.
Transition is a word that has a unique meaning to families with a loved one aging out of the entitlement of education and into the world as productive, contributing adults. This anticipated change brings about many anxious feelings that Leilani and Jessica further discuss.
In this workshop, Lead Sexuality Educator for the Whole Selves program Brian Melanson will facilitate a focused, honest, and open discussion on sexuality, with the importance and practice of providing sexuality education for learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities taking center stage.
Exhibitor Opportunities
Your organization has a meaningful opportunity to engage with educators, agency professionals, people with autism and their families, and other exhibitors at Autism Connections’ 2023 April Conference.
Preferred Location Exhibitor
$300
Standard Location Exhibitor
$200
Sponsorship
Opportunities
Take the first step today by making your commitment to sponsor the 2023 Autism Connections Conference.
Advertiser
Opportunities
Take the first step today by making your commitment to advertise at the 2023 Autism Connections Conference.
Sponsored By
Thank you for your generous donations to support the Autism Connections Conference.
