2025 Summit Presentation Details & Happenings
August 26 - 28, 2025
Beaver Run Resort and Conference Center
620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424
Click below to skip to:
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Tues August 26th
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Weds August 27th
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Thurs August 28th
Bios and/or contact information for each presenter is linked by clicking their names.
If the speaker shares them, presentation slides will be added the week of Sept 2.
Tuesday, August 26th Events and General Sessions
Please factor in extra time for parking & hotel check-in. There is no free parking on Beaver Run Property.
Summit Check-In
Times:
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9:30 - 10:30am for Pre-Conference Attendees and Exhibitors ONLY
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Will NOT reopen until 12:00pm – Pre-Conference Attendees and Exhibitors will need a “ticket” for lunch – there will be one in the back of your name badge, so be sure to Check-In during this hour!
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12:00 - 12:55pm for all other attendees
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General Attendees can enjoy lunch on their own; onsite options include Spencer’s (reservations requested) or the Skywalk Market (or order ahead to-go options here).
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Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Alliance Members should reference the Pre-Conference Peer Networks that will take place Aug 26 from 10:30 - 11:30am.
Lunch for Pre-Conference Attendees and Exhibitors Only
11:30am - 12:30pm in the Outdoor Tent
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Pre-Conference Attendees and Exhibitors will need a “ticket” for lunch – there will be one in the back of your name badge, so be sure to Check-In before 10:30am!
Welcome Remarks from the Alliance Board of Directors President, Tara Kiene
Time: 1:00 - 1:15pm
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
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Alliance's State of the Association
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 1:15 - 1:45pm
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Join us for the Alliance Summit's welcome session, where our Executive Director, Josh Rael, will set the tone with his annual State of the Association address. Josh, alongside the dedicated Alliance staff, will take a moment to celebrate our significant achievements over the past year. Together, we'll explore the milestones we've reached and the exciting opportunities that await us on our journey ahead. This session promises to inspire and inform as we embark on this pivotal moment together.
Joy Jolt: Ignite Your Culture and Retain Your Team
Time: 1:45 - 2:45pm
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
In a landscape where IDD professionals are often overwhelmed by deadlines, workforce challenges, and shifting regulations, maintaining high energy levels is imperative to providing quality outcomes. In this session participants will learn that the key to sustaining motivation lies in cultivating joy – a powerful force that transcends circumstances and gives teams purpose and resilience.
Participants will gain invaluable insights into the profound connections between joy, purpose, and team performance, laying the groundwork for a culture that fosters sustained engagement and productivity. Drawing upon her experience as a mother of a daughter with IDD, Kathy will equip attendees with practical tactics to infuse joy into their organizational culture. After examining the problem with joy, participants will fill their joy cup with tactics to build purpose, loyalty, and gratitude in their cultures. These practical take-aways will be easy to implement and will help participants ignite their own joy jolt as soon as they leave the event.
Hosted Stretch Break!
Time: 2:45 - 3:00pm
Type: General Session - SPONSORED BY SPIRIT CLUB!
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Tuesday, August 26th Concurrent Breakout Sessions
Partner at Wipfli
Streamlining Human Services: Strategies for Efficient and Effective Change
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Business Operations
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 3:15 - 4:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Beaver Den
Through a partnership between The Resource Exchange and Wipfli, a holistic approach to operational change enabled TRE to streamline its processes, align its people, and integrate and build synergy through technology to revolutionize human service delivery. The presentation will offer guidance on best practices, emerging
ideas, challenges, and an overview from TRE leadership on the positive impacts this project has had on TRE employees, partners, and most importantly the customers and community members TRE serves.
BREAK: Networking with Exhibitors; Summit Check-In Table OPEN
Time: 3:00 - 3:15pm
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Preorder beverages or snacks from Skywalk Market: https://beaverrunresort.buy-ondemand.com/
Director of Employment Services at DDRC
Curriculum Developer, Trainer at Colorado Office of Employment First
Invisible Leaders - Elevating the Employment First Movement
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Leadership
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 3:15 - 4:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Imperial Ballroom
We support people with disabilities to enter and thrive in the workforce. But what if YOU are a leader with disabilities...and they are invisible? Hear from two Colorado leaders in the Employment First movement about their experiences and advice for leading in this space. Engage in a robust discussion that will encourage you to bring your whole self to your work, and support your colleagues to do so as well.
Sarah Smith, MSW:
Chief Services Officer - Innovation and Support at Imagine!
Kyle Hammond: Remote Supports Consultant at SafeinHome
Ken Wilkinson: Founder & CEO at Layer 10
Autonomy Through Innovation: Advancing Inclusive Living Through Technology
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA)
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Technology
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 3:15 - 4:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Peaks 9, 10, 11, 12
Join Layer 10, SafeinHome, and Imagine! Colorado for a collaborative discussion on how technology can reshape support systems for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From smart home tools and structural design innovations to service delivery models like remote supports, this session explores
how technology can foster greater independence, enhance safety, and promote meaningful inclusion.
Presenters will share diverse approaches and lessons learned from real-world implementation—demonstrating how technology can complement human supports, expand options for person-centered care, empower individuals to live more self-directed lives, and offer peace of mind to families and caregivers.
Whether you're exploring tech for the first time or refining your strategy, you’ll leave with fresh ideas and practical insights to bring back to your team.
Executive Director at Envision
Early Intervention Director at Envision
From Vision to Victory: Envision’s Torch Award for Ethics and Employer of Choice Journey
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Organizational Culture
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 3:15 - 4:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Coppertop
Join Envision as they take you "back to the basics" to reveal the simple, no/low-cost strategies that have led to their success in attracting and retaining employees. They will share the practical tips and tools that have empowered them to reduce turnover, boost employee morale, and cultivate a positive work environment, ultimately leading to them being honored with the Better Business Bureau's Torch Award for Ethics. This presentation is designed to ensure every attendee leaves with at least one new, easily implemented idea to build a stronger, more engaged team.
BREAK: Networking with Exhibitors; Summit Check-In Table OPEN
Time: 4:15 - 4:45pm
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Take time to refresh before the Welcome Reception
Welcome Reception
Time: 4:45 - 6:15pm
Room: Breckenridge Ballroom - Floor 1
THANK YOU to our Beverage Sponsor, an Alliance CMA Member: Rocky Mountain Health Plans!
Everyone received one drink ticket in the back of their name badges.
VIEW DETAILS ON THE NETWORKING AND FUN PAGE!
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Bar open 4:45 – 6:15pm
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Light Appetizers available from 4:45 – 5:30pm ONLY
Contact the Event Manager in advance if you hope to bring a guest to this event.
Make dinner reservations for after the reception with your agency, other attendees or exhibitors, friends, or family in Breckenridge; take a nice walk into town or take the Beaver Run shuttle, or in-town bus.
Wednesday, August 27th Morning Events and General Session Presenter
KICK START YOUR MORNING!: Hike the B&B to Reiling Dredge to Minnie Mine
RSVP by 3pm on Aug 26 to Maria Jasso - VIEW DETAILS on the NETWORKING AND FUN PAGE!
10-minute drive from Beaver Run. Length: 2.6-mile loop; Elevation Gain: 383 ft
Time: 6:15 SHARP - approx. 8:00am
Meeting Spot: Beaver Run Hotel Lobby
Breakfast and Introductions; Check-In Table OPEN until 9:00am
Time: 8:15 - 9:15am
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Join our Strategic Partner breakfast sponsors for several short introductions to learn more about how they can work for your agency! Sponsored by Flood and Peterson, Frisco, giv, SETWorks, Shield HealthCare, Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy, and Wipfli
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Please be seated for Sponsored Introductions beginning at 8:35am
Ken Nwadike, Jr.: Founder at Free Hugs Project
Conversations with Ken
Time: 9:15 - 10:30am
Type: Keynote Presentation
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Ken Nwadike, Jr. has done many things in his life. He founded the Hollywood Half-Marathon to help the homeless after overcoming homelessness himself as a student athlete. He created successful businesses in the midst of a world crashing pandemic. As The Free Hugs Guy, He risked his life on the frontlines of protests across the nation, de-escalating violence in the midst of intense anger. Daily he provides a loving example of family connection for his 5 children. Despite all these seemingly large accomplishments, sometimes the most powerful thing Ken does, is done softly. Ken is a master of difficult conversations, of bridging divides, and helping the many parts of an organization or team feel connected. As one participant remarked after a conversation with Ken, “Now I know how to talk with my uncle this Thanksgiving!” This is the quiet work of building relationships. Relationships that change hearts and minds. The relationships we all really want. The relationships that remind us that we belong. We belong in Unity, we belong in understanding, and we belong in Love. In Conversations with Ken, Ken brings your group together for these important conversations. Whether through a conference keynote, small group leadership facilitation, or breakout workshops, Ken always inspires. He is a leader’s leader, and he leads with kindness, respect and hope.
BREAK: Networking with Exhibitors; Summit Check-In Table OPEN
Time: 10:30 - 10:45am
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Preorder beverages or snacks from Skywalk Market: https://beaverrunresort.buy-ondemand.com/
Wednesday, August 27th Concurrent Morning Breakout Sessions
CEO at Frisco
AI-Driven Transformation in IDD Services: Personalizing Care, Simplifying Compliance, and Demonstrating ROI
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Technology
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Data
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 10:45 - 11:45am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Imperial Ballroom
In the dynamic landscape of IDD services, agencies face significant pressure to deliver personalized care, manage complex regulatory requirements, and operate sustainably. This session will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is empowering IDD service providers to transform these critical areas effectively and affordably.
Attendees will learn:
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Enhanced Person-Centered Planning:
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Discover how AI-driven predictive analytics and data modeling can help agencies proactively identify changes in individual care needs, creating personalized and adaptive care plans.
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Automating Compliance and Documentation:
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Explore ways AI can streamline compliance processes by automating routine documentation tasks, reducing administrative burdens, and enhancing accuracy in reporting.
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Cost-Effective AI Implementation:
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Learn practical strategies to quantify the return on investment (ROI) of integrating AI into agency operations.
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Join this session to gain actionable insights and real-world examples, equipping your agency to harness AI for more personalized, efficient, and sustainable care provision.
State Director at Dungarvin Colorado
Soy Lattes or Support Services - Why the Customer Experience Matters
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Business Operations
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 10:45 - 11:45am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Peaks 9, 10, 11, 12
Companies like Starbucks, Subway, Amazon and more have found world-wide success by leading with the customer experience as the highest priority. Why do we as IDD service provider spend so little time even thinking about customer service.
This session will explore how customer-focuses leadership, utilized widely by other service industries, have a place in IDD service delivery. We will review how to align around customer experience, build a customer listening path, and support accountability. We will dive into the unique challenges faced by our industry and
demonstrate how a customer-focused mindset can promote stability in business operations, improve person-centered planning, and support safety.
![Stacy DiStefano Headshot [2025].jpeg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/81fcc7_32d2e659f64c4214814f92ff15eb7b50~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_102,h_99,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Stacy%20DiStefano%20Headshot%20%5B2025%5D.jpeg)
Strategic Growth Through Mergers and Acquisitions: A Roadmap for Nonprofit Provider Organizations
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Business Operations
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 10:45 - 11:45am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Coppertop
With Colorado’s case management redesign and increasing system complexity, nonprofit providers must explore new strategies for sustainability and impact. This session examines mergers, affiliations, and growth models as tools for navigating change. Led by the CEO of Consulting for Human Services, a specialist behavioral health consulting firm, the discussion will offer practical insights into evaluating strategic opportunities, ensuring board alignment, and managing risks. Attendees will hear diverse perspectives including those with private equity experience and explore how mission-driven organizations can adapt and lead in an evolving long-term care landscape.
Prevention Education Coordinator at The SAVA Center
Sexual Violence Prevention for Individuals with I/DD: Active Inclusion via Education
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Sexual Health and Safety
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 10:45 - 11:45am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Beaver Den
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are affected by sexual violence at rates 7x higher than those without (Shapiro, 2018). This is due to a variety of reasons, including the historic exclusion of students with I/DD from health classes/sex ed, combined with communication barriers and lack of believing
survivors with I/DD who disclose sexual violence, culminate in a much higher level of vulnerability to these types of crimes. SOAR (Safety, Opportunity, All Abilities and Resources) is a sexual violence prevention program that looks to address this disparity through education focused on bodily autonomy, healthy relationships and
safety skills.
After this presentation, attendees will be able to:
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identify contributing factors to the rates of sexual violence for those with I/DD, including systemic and social;
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learn sexual violence prevention frameworks;
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and be able to adapt these frameworks for individuals with I/DD.
Luncheon with Award Presentations
Time: 11:45am - 1:00pm
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
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Including Special Recognitions, 2025 Alliance Legislator of the Year Award (JBC Chair, Senator Jeff Bridges (D-Arapahoe County)) and introduction of the 2025 Summit Scholarship Winner (sponsored by Braaten Enterprises, an Alliance Strategic Partner!) and 2025 Case Manager of the Year. Recognition of the 2025 Direct Support Professional of the Year and Advocate of the Year
VIEW DETAILS ON THE NETWORKING AND FUN PAGE!
BREAK: Networking with Exhibitors
Time: 1:00 - 1:15pm
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Headshot Lounge OPENS through the Exhibitor Happy Hour - Sponsored by PDC Pharmacy, an Alliance Strategic Partner!
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Sign up in advance was required at time of registration.
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Your nametag will have a Headshot Lounge ticket in it if you signed up for this.
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Open 1:00pm - 5:30pm - no scheduled time slots, so please get in line when you can.
VIEW DETAILS ON THE NETWORKING AND FUN PAGE!
Wednesday, August 27th Concurrent Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Director of Organizational Excellence at CQL
Building Solid Systems for Improving Quality
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Business Operations
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 1:15 - 2:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Peaks 9, 10, 11, 12
If a provider organization is looking to be responsive, strategic, and effective in its supports and services, it needs a solid foundation built around systems and practices. Practices are observable – the actions an agency is actually taking in their supports and services … but what about systems? In this breakout, we’re offering guidance that agencies can use to establish robust systems that lay the groundwork for organizational transformation. Attendees will first find out what we mean by a ‘system.’ Then, we’ll share specific examples of systems and describe their connection to an organization’s operations, programs, and services. From promoting respect, to facilitating natural supports, addressing instances of abuse, implementing staff development programs, and more, we're detailing how solid systems will improve the quality of your organization, and ultimately, the quality of people's lives.
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Discover what a 'system' is and how it strengthens quality
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Receive specific action steps for developing robust systems
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Learn about examples of systems that make a positive impact
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Explore strategies for keeping systems sustainable
VP of Clinical Operations at StationMD
Transforming IDD Health Equity Through Virtual Urgent Care
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Emergency Resources
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 1:15 - 2:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Coppertop
In this session, we’ll explore how urgent care via telemedicine can be leveraged to address longstanding healthcare disparities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Drawing from real-world implementation and statewide policy adoption experiences, participants will learn how telehealth models have
reduced unnecessary ER visits, improved health outcomes, and empowered direct support staff in crisis decision-making. We’ll examine lessons learned from both pilot and mature programs, review outcome data, and engage in guided discussion about scalable strategies that IDD providers can adopt within their communities.
This session focuses on actionable, equitable solutions that strengthen organizational capacity and improve quality of life for people with IDD.
Senior Marketing & Communications Manager at SETWorks
Content Marketing Strategies for Non-Profits: Engaging Hearts & Minds to Amplify Impact
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Marketing & Communications
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 1:15 - 2:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Beaver Den
In the digital age, storytelling and content creation are not just tools of engagement; they are the heartbeat of successful organizations. This session designed to empower professionals with actionable strategies to harness the power of content marketing. This session dives deep into the art and science of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences, drive donations, and foster a committed community of supporters.
Creative Marketing Specialist at SETWorks
Colorado APSE Member Panel: Shifting the System: Aligning Best Practices in Colorado's New Outcome-Based Payment Model
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Employment
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 1:15 - 2:15pm
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Imperial Ballroom
Colorado’s Supported Employment system is at a pivotal moment of change. This panel discussion will explore the history of the Supported Employment model and its payment structure in Colorado, setting the stage for an in-depth look at why the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) is transitioning to an
outcome-based payment model. Attendees will hear diverse perspectives from HCPF staff, service providers, and people receiving services and their families, offering a well-rounded view of both the opportunities and challenges this shift may bring. The session will also include lessons learned from other states that have
adopted similar models. Join us in this valuable breakout session to engage in an open dialogue that will explore questions and concerns, provide valuable information on the benefits and new pay structures for providers, and the opportunity to strategize with committed Employment First providers as Colorado shapes the future of its employment services.
Facilitator
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Vikki Ortiz, MS, CESP: Curriculum Developer/Trainer at COEF; CO APSE Board Member and National APSE Board Member
Presenter
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Adam Tucker: Supported Employment Policy Advisor at Office of Community Living
Panelists
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Heather Hagen, BSW, CESP: Director of Employment Services at DDRC; CO APSE Board Member
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Karin Cowan: Employment Program Director at Common Roots; CO APSE Board Member
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Tom Knost: Senior Director of Programs at Continuum of CO
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Caitlin Pavlinek: Regional Manager of Employment and Day Services at Continuum of CO
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Heather McCalla, CESP, CPWIC: Director of Community Employment and Work Benefits at PPCH; CO APSE Board Member
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Sydney Esch, Customized ACRE and WIP-C: Employment Services Program Manager at Imagine!
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Lynda Drum: Company Manager at Encouraging Development Inc; VP of Encouraging Development Legacy Foundation; CO APSE Member
DESSERT & COFFEE BREAK with Exhibitors
Time: 2:15 - 2:45pm
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Wednesday, August 27th Afternoon General Session
Exhibitor Meet & Greet Happy Hour
Time: 4:00 - 5:30pm
Room: Floor 3 Foyer & Mountainview Deck off the Floor 3 Foyer
Catch up with our Exhibitors over Happy Hour!
Bar open 4:00 – 5:30pm
Light snacks available from 4:00 – 5:00pm
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THANK YOU to our Beverage Sponsor: Carpenter and Associates!
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Everyone received one drink ticket in the back of their name badges.
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THANK YOU to our Headshot Lounge Sponsor, a Strategic Partner Member: PDC Pharmacy!
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Sign up in advance was required at time of registration.
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Your nametag will have a Headshot Lounge ticket in it if you signed up for this.
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Open 1:00pm - 5:30pm - no scheduled time slots, get in line when you can.
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VIEW DETAILS ON THE NETWORKING AND FUN PAGE!
Make dinner reservations for after the happy hour with your agency, other attendees or exhibitors, friends, or family in Breckenridge; take a nice walk into town or take the Beaver Run shuttle, or in-town bus.
Owner & Psychologist at Dr. David Kalis Psychological and Consulting Services
The Healing Power of Humor- How We Use Humor to Heal from Trauma
Time: 2:45 - 4:00pm
Type: General Session - sponsored by Giv, an Alliance Strategic Partner Member!
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
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Last year, Dr. Kalis presented on happiness as it pertains to culture. Much of the work that we do can be difficult and, at times, even traumatic. We often, superficially, talk about self-care/ supporting one another but do not develop specific tools to provide the buffering effects that trauma and/or vicarious trauma cause. This presentation will focus on the current research on posttraumatic growth (PTG), humor, and supporting one another through difficult times. Early on in my career, it was said to me not to forget to have fun. This presentation will help the audience learn skills and understand how to have fun in the face of adversity as individuals and teams to promote individual and team well-being.
Thursday, August 28th Morning Events and Breakout Session Presenters
Breakfast & Introductions
Time: 7:00 - 7:50am
Room: Colorado Ballroom
Join our breakfast sponsors for short introductions to learn more about how they can work for your agency! Sponsored by Carpenter Associates Inc, Colorado Office of Employment First, and Dose Health.
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Please be seated for Sponsored Introductions beginning at 7:30am.
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Breakfast ends promptly at 7:50am.
Rights of People with Disabilities
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Legal
Slide Deck TBA >
Time: 8:00 - 9:00am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Beaver Den
This session will review the various Federal and State disability rights laws and policies that exist including the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehab Act, and the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. We will discuss what rights people with disabilities have and what rights providers need to meet. We will touch on reasonable accommodations in living and employment, public accommodations, and guardianship/supported decision making.
Chief Services Officer at Beken Holdings
It’s Not Me, It’s You: Why DSPs Break Up With Us
TOPIC AREA(S)
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Leadership
Slide Deck TBA >
Time: 8:00 - 9:00am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Imperial Ballroom
High turnover among direct support professionals (DSPs) threatens service continuity and quality for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This presentation shares research-based insights on how perceived organizational support influences job satisfaction and turnover intentions among DSPs. Attendees will explore actionable strategies to boost retention by fostering supportive work environments. Grounded in social exchange theory and supported by original research, this session invites collaborative discussion and empowers providers with data-driven practices to enhance workforce stability. After this session, participants will be able to: Identify key factors that influence job satisfaction and turnover intentions among DSPs. Apply strategies to enhance perceived organizational support within their organizations. Evaluate and design workforce retention plans based on data-driven insights.
President & Consultant at Lacuna Consulting
Consultant at Lacuna Consulting
Unlocking Innovation Through Understanding Regulations
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Learning & Professional Development
Slide Deck TBA >
Time: 8:00 - 9:00am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Peaks 9, 10, 11, 12
Let’s be honest. Regulations can feel overwhelming, boring, or even like barriers to innovation. The truth is: when you know the rules, you know your options. This interactive, hands-on session is designed to demystify the rules, regulations, and statutes that govern IDD services in Colorado. Attendees will bring their laptops and leave with a customized digital toolkit with bookmarked links, downloadable guides, and go-to references they can actually use in their day-to-day work.
Whether you're a Direct Support Professional, new supervisor, seasoned executive, or anywhere in between, this session is your chance to gain clarity and confidence in navigating the rules that shape our services. As our field faces major transitions, including the retirement of long-standing leaders, it's time to invest in the next generation of professionals by equipping them with the foundational knowledge they need. Knowledge is power and power leads to progress.
Director of Teen & Young Adult Advocacy at The Arc Jefferson, Clear Creek & Gilpin Counties
Supported Decision Making in Colorado: Best Practices in Action
TOPIC AREA(S):
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Advocacy and Family Supports
Slide Deck TBA >
Time: 8:00 - 9:00am
Type: Breakout Session
Room: Coppertop
This interactive breakout session is designed for professionals & stakeholders who support individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities in making informed decisions about their lives. As Colorado continues to advance alternatives to guardianship, Supported Decision-Making (SDM) offers a powerful, person-centered
approach that upholds individual rights and autonomy.
During this session, participants will gain an understanding of Colorado’s legal framework around SDM, including recent legislation and how it aligns with national trends. We’ll explore practical strategies and best practices for implementing SDM in real-world settings. The session will also showcase tools and resources that
professionals can use to guide conversations, build trust, and foster independence & self-determination.
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Learning Objectives:
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Through case examples, group discussion, interactive elements, and tool & resource sharing attendees of this session will be able to:
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Describe the key elements of Colorado’s Supported Decision-Making legislation and how it compares to guardianship.
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Identify at least three practical strategies for implementing SDM in their professional roles.
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Apply tools and resources that facilitate effective and ethical SDM practices.
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Recognize the benefits and challenges of SDM through real-world examples and peer discussion.
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Thursday, August 28th General Session Presenters
BREAK: Networking with Exhibitors
Hotel Check-Out by 11am
Time: 9:00 - 9:15am
Room: Floor 3 Foyer
Check-Out will be busy so we suggest checking out earlier so you don’t miss any sessions! Check out can be done by calling from your room or cell, or directly at the front desk.
Preorder beverages or snacks from Skywalk Market: https://beaverrunresort.buy-ondemand.com/
Case Management and Quality Performance Division Director at the
Office of Community Living
Bonnie Silva (virtual):
Director at Office of Community Living
Office of Community Living Updates
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 9:15 - 10:15am
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
OCL Leadership will provide the latest updates on the many Department-led projects that will impact people with IDD and the service system in the coming years. Highlights will include TBA.
HCBS Division Director at Office of Community Living
Operations & Administration Division Director at Office of Community Living
BREAK
Time: 10:15 - 10:40am
Hotel Check-Out by 11am
Check-Out will be busy so we suggest checking out earlier so you don’t miss the raffles or last General Session!
Preorder beverages or snacks from Skywalk Market: https://beaverrunresort.buy-ondemand.com/
This break is the last chance to enter any raffles offered by our Exhibitors!
Exhibitor Raffles! MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!
Time: PROMPTLY at 10:45am
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Vice President of Government Relations at ANCOR
2025 Federal Policy Trends for I/DD Providers
SLIDE DECK TBA >
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
While the dust settles on reconciliation legislation, this session shares insight into current federal policy trends impacting community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants will navigate the ins and outs of service delivery through shifts in policy from deregulation to recent reforms in federal Medicaid funding. Join us in identifying opportunities, challenges, and creative solutions to delivering high quality supports and services to people with I/DD.
Closing Remarks
Time: 12:00 - 12:15pm
Type: General Session
Room: Colorado Ballroom - Floor 3
Due to limited space and high demand, this is an Alliance Member event or by invite only.
Click HERE to read Alliance's Invitation Policy and to request an invitation to attend.