Unicorn & Florida Developmental Disabilities Council Host Survive-Or Conference

September 15, 2009

The Unicorn Children's Foundation (UCF) will host its 4th Annual Education

Conference sponsored by United States Department of Health and Human Services,

Administration on Developmental Disabilities and the Florida Developmental

Disabilities Council (FDDC). Survive-Or…Inform, Instruct, Inspire will take

place on October 17th, 2009 from 9am-5pm at the Florida Atlantic University,

Boca Raton campus.

Nearly one of every five children is affected by some form of developmental,

learning, or communication disorder, ranging from " dyslexia " , " attention deficit

hyperactive disorder " (ADHD) and other " learning disorders " to the more severe

" pervasive developmental disorders " and " autism " . This represents a significant

impact on the educational institutions serving these children, as well as on

their families and communities. This innovative one-day conference includes and

moves beyond the common early intervention focus. Topics will span across a

child's lifecycle, from educational and behavioral issues to sexuality and

transition to adulthood.

Presentations from nationally-recognized and local professionals with expertise

in these fields will educate participants on practical, best practice strategies

and tools to address these specific issues that may impede an individual's

ability to reach their maximum potential. The keynote presenter, Ari Ne'eman,

recently featured in Newsweek, is an autistic adult and has been active in the

autistic culture and disability rights movements for a number of years. He

first became involved in self-advocacy as a high school student, arguing for his

own inclusion and access to a high level academic education.

Several area organizations will participate in the event to educate families on

available local services including sponsors TD Bank and Butterfly Effects. All

participants will receive a survival kit at the end of the conference.

UCF's Executive Director, Sharon , says, " Our goal is to help families

move beyond simply surviving day-to-day experiences. This event is designed

specifically to inform and instruct parents and professionals on evidence-based,

proven strategies, supports, and services that can be used to enhance a child's

ability to reach their full potential. We believe that, in doing so; we will

inspire participants to lead fulfilling and productive lives. "

Cost is $20 for Unicorn members and $35 for non-members if registered prior to

10/8/09. Membership with Unicorn is free of charge. Some scholarships in honor

of Agnes Nolan and Belle Margolis are available for parents to attend.

Continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for professionals at an

additional $9 fee. Continental breakfast and lunch is included in the

registration fee.

Individuals can register by calling the UCF office: or visiting

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