2026 Statewide Learning Conference and Self-Advocate Retreat

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Minneapolis Marriott Northwest | 7025 Northland Drive Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

This Statewide Learning Conference is for parents, grandparents, siblings and caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome.

The Self-Advocate Retreat, which runs in conjunction with the conference, is for teens and adults with Down syndrome. You must be a high school freshman or older to attend the retreat.

Conference Fees

CLICK HERE to register

Statewide Conference Fees
(Breakfast & Lunch included)

$125 Early Bird Registration EXTENDED THROUGH March 6th
$150 Registration - March 7th - April 5th
$200 Late Registration - April 6th - April 23rd, subject to availability
$250 Onsite Registration - subject to availability

Self-Advocate Retreat Fees
(Breakfast & Lunch included)

$85 Early Bird Registration EXTENDED THROUGH March 6th
$110 Registration - March 1st - April 5th
No Late or Onsite Registration available

The self-advocate retreat is open to individuals with Down syndrome 9th grade and older.
*There will be plenty volunteers at the event, however if your loved one with Ds needs a PCA or support to attend an event like this, we’d love to have them. Just let us know and we will make accommodations for the PCA/support person to attend.

Hotel Information

Minneapolis Marriott Northwest | 7025 Northland Drive North Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55428

Click HERE to book your room

$139 per night, subject to availability
Book by April 6th

Statewide Learning Conference Schedule At-A-Glance

7:45am: Registration & Breakfast
8:45am: Keynote and Panel
10:00am: Breakout Session 1
11:00am: Breakout Session 2
12:00pm: Lunch & Keynote Program
1:30pm: Breakout Session 3
2:30pm: Breakout Session 4
3:30pm: Minnesota's Got Talent: Self-Advocate Talent Show

Keynote Speakers

Opening Keynote: Ellen Boyer, President & Co-Founder of The Brett Boyer Foundation. Alongside her husband, Bo, Ellen established the foundation to honor the legacy of their daughter, Sadie Brett Boyer. She is a tireless advocate within the CHD and Down syndrome communities, committed to improving outcomes and providing resources for families in need. Beyond her leadership role, Ellen is a devoted mother to Wells and Lottie and finds her greatest joy in time spent with loved ones.

After Ellen's keynote, she will be joined by local advocates and philanthropic leaders Maria Harris (Carly May Foundation) and Stephanie Palewicz (Fiona's Hope Totes) for a panel focused on their stories and journey as philanthropists. The panel will be facilitated by Bruce Granger.

Lunch Keynote: Sarah Curfman, DSAMn Organizational Update & Public Policy Update
Sarah Curfman, President & CEO of Down Syndrome Association will provide 2026 update of the association, what is or is not happening at the state level and federal level as well as time for networking.

Breakout Sessions

Career

Vocational Rehabilitation Services - Chris McVey, Deputy Director Disability Employment Services, State of Minnesota
Understanding Minnesota’s Employment Services - Brian Begin, Lifeworks

Financial Planning

Employment, Supports, and Benefits: Understanding How They Work Together - Brian Johnson, Clarity Consulting Special Needs Planning
Long Term Resource Planning - Joe Kukla, Thiel, Anderson, Kukla & Gunderson

Education

College is Possible! - Katie Parry, Institute on Community Integration , MIHEC (U of M)
Utilizing MN Disability Hub Resources to Advocate for the Use of Person-Centered Practices in Special Education - Kelsey Black, Minnesota Department of Education
The Transition To Kindergarten, A Conversation for Parents of Children Pre-K through K.

Medical

A Physician's Tips for Managing and Navigation Your Child's Care - Dr. Tori Bahr, Gillette Children's
Common Mental Health Concerns in Individuals with Down Syndrome - Dr. Peter Ladner, Gillette Children's
Down Syndrome Regression Disorder - Dr. Kara Thompson, MercyOne, Des Moines
Obesity and Weight Management for Adults with Down Syndrome - Dr. Kara Thompson, MercyOne, Des Moines
So Many Therapies… What is PM&R and Do I Need It? Dr. Mark Gomley, Gillette Children's

Behavior

Social Continence in Adolescents, Teens & Adults (Ages 8+) - Teanna Nelson & Dr. Stella Evans, Childrens MN
The Routine Teen - Carolyn Littlle & Gracie Bates, Sunny Days Therapy
Why Are Transitions So Hard? - Jamie Waldvogel, Behave Your Best

Adulthood & Aging

Dementia Friends - Colleen Fritz, Trellis & Rebecca Ebsen, The Arc Minnesota
The Importance of Social Connection - Holly Olena Kampa, Highland Friendship Club

Other Topics & Opportunities

Thriving Together: Supporting the Family's Well-being on the Journey of Raising a Child with Down syndrome - Sara Elsbecker, MHealth Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital
Ask a Family Connector
Resource Fair
Minnesota's Got Talent, Self-Advocate Talent Show (Parents are invited!)

Self Advocate Retreat Sessions

The Self-Advocate Retreat, which runs in conjunction with the conference, is for teens and adults with Down syndrome. You must be a high school freshman or older to attend the retreat. This year's topics include:

Adventures In Job Hunting - Career Search with Luke Daily, DSAMn
Create Your Character! with Jäc Miller, DSAMn
I Dream! with Brian Donovan
Improv! with Brian Donovan
Movement and Dance with Jäc Miller, DSAMn
Physical Fitness - Move Your Way! with Joseph Meier, personal trainer
The Importance of Employment and Power of Mentorship with Olivia Lape, The Arc Minnesota
Write a Mini-Play! with Jäc Miller, DSAMn
Your Work, Your Way - Career Exploration with Luke Daily, DSAMn

Teens and adults are also invited to join us for our FREE Self-Advocate Spring Gala the night before the conference.

Tentative Session Schedule

7:45 - 8:45: Registration and Breakfast for both Parents/Caregivers & Self-Advocates

Parent/Caregiver Conference Schedule

8:45 - 9:50 Keynote

Listen to Ellen Boyer of the Brett Boyer Foundation and then join in hearing from a Panel.

10:00 - 10:50: Breakout Session #1

The Routine Teen with Carolyn Little & Gracie Bates
Learn about the foundational skills and the importance of managing daily routines to strengthen the independence of your adolescent as they transition into adulthood.
College is Possible! with Katie Parry
Participants will gain an overview of the current state of inclusive higher education and opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Attendees will be able to identify barriers faced by students with IDD in accessing postsecondary education and identify supports and resources for students, families, and colleagues.
DSRD with Dr. Kara Thompson
DSRD is a disorder that appears suddenly and causes loss of skills, psychosis, mood changes, incontinence and insomnia in those with DS. In this talk, Dr. Thompson will discuss the signs, the causes and the treatments of DSRD, alongside her daughter Jenny's 5-year journey living with DSRD.

11:00 - 11:50: Breakout Session #2

Utilizing MN Disability Hub Resources to Advocate for the Use of Person-Centered Practices in Special Education with Kelsey Black.
Attendees will learn about person-centered practices and how their use can support individualized programming in special education. They will learn about the resources on the Disability Hub and how they can be used throughout the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and vocational planning processes. Parents/caregivers and individuals with Down syndrome can advocate for the use of these tools to help service providers use more person-centered practices when planning.
Why Are Transitions So Hard? with Jamie Waldvogel
When you feel like moving between simple activities or routines at home is like summiting Everest or the idea of leaving home or a community event has you breaking out in a sweat, this is the workshop for you. There are smaller steps and strategies that can be used to help you get through the barriers and behaviors that interfere with successful transitions. These strategies help develop new coping skills for caregivers and their loved ones. Everyone needs skills just to make the regular days feel a little easier, and the hard days to feel manageable.
Understanding Minnesota's Employment Services with Brian Begin
This session introduces parents to how Minnesota supports youth with disabilities in preparing for and entering competitive, integrated employment, emphasizing the belief that all young people can work and deserve meaningful opportunities. It explains the roles of schools, waiver case managers, Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS), and employment service providers in helping youth explore interests, build skills, find jobs, and receive ongoing support along the way. Parents will learn about important programs such as Pre‑Employment Transition Services (Pre‑ETS), Customized Employment, and the E1MN framework, which help create individualized pathways to successful work experiences. Overall, the presentation equips families with clear information about how to access services, advocate for their child’s employment goals, and navigate the transition from school to adulthood with confidence.
Obesity and Weight Management for Adults with Down syndrome with Dr. Kara Thompson
Obesity is common in those with Down syndrome. This discussion will look at why it is more common in the DS community and the possible consequences. It will also address life- style, medications and even surgery as potential treatment options for obesity for those with Down syndrome.
So Many Therapies...What is PM&R and Do I Need It? with Dr. Mark Gormely, Gillette
Session Description still to come

12:00 - 1:20: Lunch & Keynote Presentation

Join us in the Minnesota Ballroom for a lunch and update from Sarah Curfman, DSAMn regarding 2026 plans, Public Policy update and time for networking

1:30 - 2:20: Breakout Session #3

The Importance of Social Connection with Holly Olena Kampa
This session will be about the importance of social connection, being with others, partaking in activities that make you feel good, and having a wide-reaching support system. Oftentimes we have to prioritize the critical aspects of life like housing, employment, and healthcare, while social connection is put on the backburner. This session will discuss why social connection should be valued equally and can prevent/minimize risk of mental and physical health conditions.
Vocational Rehab Services with VRS team
Join specialists from Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) for an informative and practical session designed to help you better understand how VRS supports individuals with Down syndrome in achieving competitive integrated employment. This session will provide an overview of VRS services, including eligibility, application steps, and how counselors partner with individuals to develop personalized employment plans. Participants will learn how VRS supports job seekers before, during, and after employment through Customized Employment, Supported Employment, on-the-job supports, and Youth Services. Attendees will gain insight into how VRS collaborates with families, schools, and community providers to create successful employment outcomes. Whether you are supporting someone exploring their first job or helping an individual grow in their career, this session will equip you with practical knowledge and tools to navigate services and build strong employment pathways for your loved one.
Long Term Resource Planning with Joseph Kukla
How to provide additional resources to a person who is dependent on government assistance programs. Options for parent estate planning with the Supplemental Needs Trust, understanding eligibility requirements for MA and SSA benefits, utilizing ABLE or a Special Needs Trust to preserve personal assets.
Medical Update with Dr. Tori Bahr
Session Description still to come

2:30 - 3:20: Breakout Session #4

Social Continence for ages 8+ with Teanna Nelson & Stella Evans
Joint presentation between MD and pelvic health/bowel/bladder OT on social continence (what it is, why it is important) and strategies to support ages 8+ in achieving social continence to be successful at school and work.
Dementia Friends with Colleen Fritz & Rebecca Ebsen
Dementia Friends is a global movement working to change the way people think, act and talk about dementia. Developed by the Alzheimer’s Society in the United Kingdom, the Dementia Friends initiative is now active in Minnesota and across the United States. Dementia Friends Minnesota is a program of Trellis, a nonprofit organization that helps everyone thrive as we age.
By helping community members understand what dementia is—and how it uniquely affects people with IDD and their supporters—we can all make a meaningful difference. You don’t need to be a dementia expert to become a Dementia Friend, and you don’t need to know someone with dementia to participate. This session is focused on recognizing early signs of dementia and sharing information on support and connection.
Employment, Supports, and Benefits: Understanding How They Work Together with Brian Johnson
Employment creates opportunity, independence, and income — but it also raises important questions about how earnings affect public benefits.This session will provide a clear, practical overview of: Employment supports available in Minnesota, How earned income affects SSI and SSDI, What happens to Medical Assistance when someone starts working, Work incentives that protect benefits, Common myths about “losing everything”, Steps to take before starting or increasing work
Participants will leave with a better understanding of how employment and benefits work together — and how to plan ahead with confidence.
Thriving Together: Supporting the Family's Well-being on the Journey of Raising a Child with Down syndrome Thriving Together: Supporting the Family's Well-being on the Journey of Raising a Child with Down syndrome with Sara Elsbecker
Addressing the psychosocial impact of a diagnosis across the lifespan, and covering common emotional responses experienced by the whole family (parents, siblings, and extended family). Discussing coping strategies, and guidance for navigating key transitions from early childhood through adulthood. This presentation will briefly highlight Sara’s role as a longitudinal partner in providing clinical care, emotional support, and resource navigation for families.
Mental Health Resources for people with Down Syndrome with Dr. Peter Ladner
Session Description still to come

3:30 - 5:00: Minnesota's Got Talent

Get ready to be inspired at Minnesota’s Got Talent, a high-energy self-advocate talent showcase celebrating the incredible skills, creativity, and confidence of our adult self-advocates.
This uplifting session shines a spotlight on the diverse talents within our community — from singing, dancing, and comedy to art, storytelling, and more. Minnesota’s Got Talent is more than a show; it is a powerful celebration of self-expression, leadership, and inclusion. Performers take center stage to share their passions, demonstrate their strengths, and show what is possible when individuals are empowered to pursue their goals.
Audience members will leave energized and inspired, having experienced firsthand the confidence, dedication, and joy that our self-advocates bring to the stage. Join us as we celebrate ability, amplify voices, and honor the unique talents that make our community shine. Emceed by Brian Donovan
Audience: Parents/Caregivers All Ages in Minnesota Ballroom

Self-Advocate Retreat Schedule At-A-Glance

7:45 - 8:45am: Registration & Breakfast (Combined with Caregiver Conference)
8:45pm: SA Keynote & Check In
9:50am: Session 1
10:45am: Session 2
11:40am: Session 3
12:30pm: Lunch
1:35pm: Session 4
2:30pm: Session 5
3:20pm: Transition Upstairs to Ballroom
3:30pm: Minnesota's Got Talent SA Talent Show
4:30 - 5:00pm: Parents/Caregivers pick up in Ballroom

Tentative Self-Advocate Schedule

7:45 - 8:45: Registration and Breakfast for both Parents/Caregivers & Self-Advocates

Self-Advocate Sessions - a schedule will be created for each self-advocate based on their ranked choices.

8:45 - 9:50 Keynote

Brian Donovan starts the day with an amazing Keynote for teens and adults with Down syndrome.

Breakout Session Descriptions

Adventures In Job Hunting - Career Search with Luke Daily
Are you ready to start looking for your dream job? Know what you want to do but not sure how to get there? Learn the job search step by step — from finding jobs to interviewing — through fun games, interactive activities, and team discussions. Get tips, practice skills, and leave ready to tackle your next job adventure!
Create Your Character! with Jäc Miller
Ever wanted to invent your own unforgettable character? Now’s your chance! In this creative and playful acting workshop, participants will imagine, build, and bring to life their very own unique characters. Is your character shy or bold? A superhero? A boss? A comedian? A mystery? You decide! Through fun acting exercises and short scenes, you’ll step into your character’s shoes and see how they think, feel, and respond. This session builds creativity, confidence, and performance skills — all while having a blast. Come ready to imagine big, take creative risks, and bring someone brand new to life on stage!
I Dream! with Brian Donovan
This fun workshop lets you tell everyone what you love, what you hate and most importantly, what you DREAM! There are no wrong answers!
Improv! with Brian Donovan
This workshop is fast and fun for everyone who joins. We bring Hollywood to the room and create dynamic scenes - funny, dramatic, intense, ridiculous - anything goes!
Movement and Dance with Jäc Miller
Get ready to stretch, shake, and dance your way to fun!
This energetic workshop is all about exploring movement and dance in ways that feel good for you. No matter your style or skill level, there’s a place to move, express yourself, and have fun.
In this session, we’ll:
-Try different types of movement and dance
-Learn how moving our bodies helps us feel stronger and healthier Explore rhythm, energy, and creative expression
-Have fun together in a supportive, judgment-free space
You’ll leave with new ideas for moving your body, boosting confidence, and discovering the joy of dance. Come ready to move, laugh, and groove to your own beat!
Physical Fitness - Move Your Way! with Joseph Miller
In this session, we will focus on trying different ways to move our body that align with our goals and preferences. There are many ways to exercise and strengthen our bodies - and not every movement is going to be a personal favorite. You will walk away with different ideas on how to move better and be stronger and learn the importance of regular movement.
The Importance of Employment and Power of Mentorship with Olivia Lape
Join us for a discussion on why employment matters. Self-advocates will share their real-life experiences working in the community. We will also talk about why sharing these stories is important and how peer mentorship can help people explore employment options.
Write a Mini-Play! with Jäc Miller
In this creative workshop, we’ll work together as a team to write a very short play from start to finish. Everyone gets a chance to share ideas, help create characters, and build a story that comes to life on the page — and maybe even on stage! No experience needed — just bring your ideas and your imagination! You’ll leave with a finished play that’s completely unique and created by you and your team.
Your Work, Your Way - Career Exploration with Luke Daily
Ever wondered what work could look like for you? Think you know what you want to do but aren’t sure how to get there? Need some help exploring all the options out there?
This interactive, hands-on session is all about discovering your strengths, trying fun activities, and exploring different careers. You’ll play games, work with others, and get ideas for your future — all while having a blast! This interactive session is all about teamwork, creativity, and finding out what interests you.

Self-Advocate Spring Gala

Free Registration CLICK HERE to register

Registration is required, to speed up the line to check-in. A designated caregiver is required to check-in and check-out each attendee.

We are so excited to continue the well attended Self-Advocate Gala! If you'll be joining us, you can expect a night of desserts, dancing, friends and fun!

When: Friday, April 24th 7:00 - 9:00pm
Where: Fireside Room at the Minneapolis Marriot Northwest, 7025 Northland Drive, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
Who: Individuals with Down syndrome high school age through adult
What to Wear: Cocktail Attire Suggested! This is your chance to dress up if you want!

Additional details: The event will have desserts and refreshments. Attendees should plan on eating before the event. This event is for self-advocates only. There will be plenty volunteers at the event, however if your loved one with Ds needs a PCA or support to attend an event like this, we’d love to have them. Just let us know and we will make accommodations for the PCA/support person to attend.
Parents & Caregivers, The Wadsworth Restaurant and Bar is in the hotel about 200 ft. from the event. We encourage you to meet up, have a bite to eat or a drink together.

Scholarship & Financial Support

The Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota is dedicated to our promise to provide high quality, affordable programming and services for ALL individuals and families with Down syndrome regardless of income. Most programs are free or highly subsidized for all. Our new sliding-fee program provides additional assistance by providing a standard reduction for those programs that do have fees.
The scale is based on published Federal Poverty Guidelines and is as follows:

Households at or below 200% Federal Poverty Guidelines are fully scholarshipped (100%) discount.
Households between 200 – 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines receive a 50% discount.
Households between 250 – 300% of Federal Poverty Guidelines receive a 25% discount.

Documentation is not required but may be requested if verification is necessary.

Documentation and invoices can also be provided if submitting for assistance or a waiver through another organization.

Fees should not be a barrier to programming for any family. If you do not qualify for the sliding fee scale, but still need assistance to access programming we will work with you. Please email ashleyazar@dsamn.org for more information.