Logo - Generation ADA: Rise Up! 2015 Annual Conference on Independent Living (Image: red power fist outlined by a black circle)
Conference Guide
- Registration
- Workshops & Events
- Hotels & Transportation
July 27-30; Grand Hyatt; Washington, DC
Presented by the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL Logo)

A Message from the Executive Director
Dear Advocates,
Since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) almost 25 years ago, an entire generation of young advocates with disabilities has grown up - the ADA Generation. These advocates are here; ready to be included and supported to lead. 
The National Council on Independent Living is the longest-running national disability organization working across lines of age and disability. If our success is to continue, we must look towards the future and build authentic and lasting participation and leadership of young advocates in NCIL and throughout the Independent Living and Disability Rights Movements. 
We will come together in Washington this summer to honor our past and catalyze our future as we learn from each other, foster new leadership, cultivate cross-generational connections, and secure our Movement’s growth
I hope you will join us this July as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ADA, lift-up the next generation of disability-rights leaders, and do the work that will bring our Movement to its full potential: a united people who will create a world in which people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully. 
Kelly Buckland
Executive Director
National Council on Independent Living
[Image: ADA25 Logo – Americans with Disabilities Act – 1990-2015]

Table of Contents
- A Message from the Executive Director: 2
- Agenda: 3
- Events: 4-6
- Workshop Sessions: 6-13
- Poster Sessions: 14
- Access, Accommodations, & Resources: 14-15
- Hotels & Lodging: 16
- What to Bring: 16
- Airports & Transportation: 17
- #ADAyouthpledge: 17
- Registration Details: 18
- Registration Form: 19
 
Important Notes
Registration: Register online at www.ncil.org
Questions: Contact us at conference@ncil.org 
Participants must register for the Conference before being eligible for a discounted rate at the hotels.
Accessible rooms are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reservations: 
Grand Hyatt: 800.233.1234 
Identify yourself as a NCIL Conference attendee to receive the discounted rate. 
Deadline: July 6, 2015

Agenda
Sunday, July 26:
- Registration Open: 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- Pre-Conference: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
- Orientation Session: 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Monday, July 27:
- Registration Open: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Opening Plenary: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
- Legislative & Advocacy Update: 10:15 - 11:30 a.m.
- Preparing for the Day on the Hill: 11:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- Concurrent Workshops I: 1:00 - 2:15 p.m.
- Regional Caucuses: 2:45 - 5:15 p.m.
- ADA 25th Anniversary Celebration: 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.

Tuesday, July 28:
- March to the US Capitol: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
- Rally at the US Capitol: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Hill Visits: 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, July 29:
- Registration and Exhibits Open: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Concurrent Workshops II: 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
- Exhibit Fair: 10:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- Awards Luncheon: 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
- Annual Meeting: 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
- Diversity Committee’s Closing Social: 8:00 - 11:00 p.m.

Thursday, July 30:
- Registration and Exhibits Open: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Concurrent Workshops III: 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
- Concurrent Workshops IV: 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- Concurrent Workshops V: 1:30 - 2:45 p.m.
- Legislative Debriefing: 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- Closing Plenary: 4:30– 5:15 p.m.
 
- NCIL Board Meetings will occur on Saturday, July 25, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; and Friday, July 31, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NCIL Board meetings are open to the public. If you plan to attend this event and require an accommodation, please contact tim@ncil.org.

Events

NCIL Board Meeting: Saturday, July 25; 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Pre-Conference: Sunday, July 26; 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
- This year’s theme celebrates a unique convergence of events: the 25th Anniversary of the ADA, the thousands of bright new leaders emerging all around us, and the burgeoning Independent Living Administration. The Pre-Conference will address this confluence by offering intergenerational dialogues and presentations to discuss, teach, and shape the future of our movement. 

NCIL Orientation Session: Sunday, July 26; 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
- NCIL offers this general session for new NCIL members and first-time Conference attendees. Join us to gain greater insight into NCIL’s history, our Annual Conference, and formal procedures such as voting at the Annual Council Meeting. The Board will discuss preparations for the March and Rally and more! 

Opening Plenary: Monday, July 27; 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. 
- A representative of the President’s Administration will offer a national plan of action to demand and win full implementation of our civil and human rights. Don’t miss this exciting 2015 Annual Conference opener! 

Legislative & Advocacy Update: Monday, July 27; 10:15 - 11:30 a.m.
- Get up-to-date information on the progress of NCIL’s advocacy efforts from the Chairs of NCIL’s Legislative & Advocacy Committees. The Chairs will review and answer questions about NCIL’s advocacy talking points so participants are fully prepared for their Congressional visits on Tuesday.

Preparing for the Day on the Hill: Monday, July 27; 11:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- Learn the ABCs of NCIL’s March & Rally, including where to meet, what to bring, important information about our route, what to do in case of an emergency, and how to get home after your Capitol Hill Visits.

Regional Caucuses: Monday, July 27
Regions I through V: 2:45 - 3:45 p.m.; Regions VI through X: 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.
- This is your opportunity to strategize for your Capitol Hill Visits. Each state decides who will attend which meeting to ensure that every legislator is visited. Please note the separate times listed for Regions I - V and VI - X. A list of Regions by state is available at www.ncil.org/regions.

ADA 25th Anniversary – A Celebration of Pride, Power, and Promise: Monday, July 27; 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.
- Please join disability rights leaders and activists, Members of Congress, Administration Officials, and others as we gather to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This community-wide celebration is being hosted by the National Disability Leadership Alliance (NDLA). Scheduled for July 27th, 2015, this will be the largest ADA Anniversary event in the United States. The first 1,000 people registering for NCIL’s Annual Conference will receive complimentary tickets to the event! 

March & Rally at the U.S. Capitol: Tuesday, July 28; 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- This annual tradition is your opportunity to take grassroots advocacy to the streets! Participants will march from the Grand Hyatt to Capitol Hill carrying signs and chanting in support of disability rights! Then, marchers will converge in front of the Capitol for an empowering rally. Complementary Do-It-Yourself Protest Sign Kits will be provided to Conference registrants who wish to participate.

Capitol Hill Visits: Tuesday, July 28; 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- The key to a successful Hill Visit is planning! It is very important that meetings with legislators are scheduled 4-6 weeks in advance. Contact the legislator’s Appointment Secretary / Scheduler to schedule a meeting for the afternoon of July 28 (after 1:00p.m.). Explain your purpose and who you represent. It will be easier for Congressional staff to arrange a meeting if they know what you wish to discuss.

Exhibit Fair: Wednesday, July 29; 10:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- Spend some time browsing the products and services offered by our exhibitors, many of which are your fellow NCIL members. The NCIL conference would not be possible without the generous support of our exhibitors and sponsors. 

Awards Luncheon: Wednesday, July 29; 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
- Join us to celebrate and honor this year’s national award winners! Awards will be presented over lunch. Admission to this event is included in full Conference registration.

Annual Council Meeting: Wednesday, July 29; 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
- Attend the 2015 NCIL Annual Council Meeting to vote for Board members and resolutions that will guide NCIL in the coming years. This year, elections will be held for: President, Treasurer, and three Members-At-Large. Elections for Representatives of Regions I, III, V, VII, and IX will be held prior to the Conference and the winners will be announced at the meeting. CILs and SILCs must pay their 2015 dues in full by June 29 (30 days prior) to be eligible to vote in person or by proxy. 

Diversity Committee’s Closing Social: Wednesday, July 29; 8:00 - 11:00 p.m.
- Don’t miss the 2015 Closing Social, hosted by NCIL’s Diversity Committee. The Diversity Committee will present awards to NCIL members who have committed themselves to centering people of color, LGBTQIA, young people, and other groups and communities underrepresented in IL. Following the awards, we’ll have music, dancing, and a whole lot of fun! Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be available free of charge, accompanied by a cash-bar.

Legislative Debriefing: Thursday, July 30; 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
- This session will summarize the advocacy accomplished during the week and serve as a springboard for development of a plan of action that can be implemented at the national, state, and local levels during the coming year.

Closing Plenary: Thursday, July 30; 4:30 - 5:15 p.m.
- Invited guests will deliver a plenary session on pressing advocacy issues important to the NCIL membership and energize the crowd before we return to our districts and prepare to make change.

NCIL Board Meeting: Friday, August 1; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.


Workshop Sessions

The following workshops have been selected by NCIL’s Annual Conference Subcommittee. Great care has been taken to ensure that the workshops are, as a whole, relevant to this year’s Conference theme and valuable to a cross-section of CIL, SILC, and IL Association staff, board members, consumers, and other advocates. 
Workshops are classified by target audience: Front Line Staff & Consumers, Advocates & Project Directors, or Executive Directors & Board Members. Workshops are also classified as Newcomer, Experienced, or Appropriate for all levels at the end of each description.

Tracks
-SILC Track: Workshops covering best practices and innovation in operations and programs of Statewide Independent Living Councils;
-ILA Track: Workshops for CILs or SILCs related to the IL Program’s transition to the Independent Living Administration at the US Department of HHS;
-Youth Track: Workshops related to youth leadership, outreach, and movement building; 
-Orientation Track: Workshops aimed at orienting young advocates and new attendees to NCIL, disability rights advocacy, and federal legislation;
-General Track: Workshops for staff, consumers, and other advocates in the Independent Living Movement that do not fit the other four categories. 

Concurrent Workshops I: Monday, July 27, 1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. 

Legislative & Advocacy Workshop Session
General Track
This workshop session has been reserved for discussion of a pressing advocacy issue. Details will be in the Conference Program. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences.

Sex, Drugs and Rock N' Roll: The Sequel
Youth Track 
Presented by: Roger Frischenmeyer
Sex has always been a taboo topic when it comes to people with disabilities. The rate of drug use among people with disabilities is significantly higher than the rate for those without disabilities. People with disabilities are significantly more isolated than people who do not have disabilities. If these topics are not addressed, this will never change. At the APRIL 2014 Conference, Sex, Drugs and Rock N' Roll took a first step in beginning this discussion. Join us for the Sequel, which will be even better than the first presentation, so that we can learn together how to teach people with disabilities about these important topics. After the conference, the discussion can continue in the SDR Facebook group. Target Audience: All Audiences. Knowledge Level: Newcomer.

Organizing Disabled Youth of Color: Finding Solidarity with Reproductive Justice, Violence Prevention, and #BlackLivesMatter
Youth Track 
Presented by: Adam Ballard
This workshop will explore ways for CILs to develop a more well-rounded racial justice lens to their work, with an understanding that organizing youth of color is central to broadening the IL movement and placing it in the midst of the larger progressive movement and the Black Lives Matter movement. Presenters will share their work & experiences organizing young people of color with disabilities around reproductive justice issues and instituting restorative justice practices both in schools and in their personal and social lives. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

How to Address a Priority Issue from Your Statewide Needs Assessment When Your SPIL Lacks Resources
SILC Track
Presented by: Brad Williams
Your statewide needs assessment reveals that the employment rate is 31.2% and the poverty rate is 28.6% for people with disabilities. The State has approximately $1.1 million dollars in Part B resources available on an annual basis. Is the overwhelming nature of this priority need beyond the scope, responsibility and control of your SPIL? Learn how the New York SILC and IL network addressed this priority need and successfully encouraged Governor Cuomo to issue Executive Order # 136, a cross-disability Employment First initiative with the goal to increase employment and decrease poverty for New Yorkers with disabilities by 5%. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Disability History is My History
Orientation Track 
Presented by: Jennifer Thomas
Learning about history can be boring, but not at this workshop! Disability History is My History offers participants the opportunity to explore events in disability history in a FUN and meaningful way. Join this youth-led session and discover ways you can help learn about and share disability history. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 


Concurrent Workshops II: Wednesday, July 29, 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

The Past, Present and Future of IL
Orientation Track
Presented by: Paula McElwee
How the Formative Years of IL inform Our Future: A historical retrospective on the formative years of IL: a look at the history of CILs and what we can learn from that history as we move into the future. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Phasing Out Section 14(c): Collaborating toward a Future of Equality in the Workplace
Orientation Track
Presented by: Rose Sloan
Under Section 14(c) of the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act, workers with disabilities can be paid subminimum wages—which the DOJ found to be a violation of the ADA based on the 1999 Olmstead decision. After we present on Section 14(c), we will discuss what FREED Center for Independent Living and the National Federation of the Blind are doing for its eventual repeal. Workshop participants will learn how people with disabilities are utilizing supported and customized employment strategies to engage in integrated, competitive employment, concluding with an interactive discussion of Section 14(c) and how we can responsibly phase it out. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

International Youth Seminar on Independent Living
Youth Track 
Presented by: Shoji Nakanishi; Judith Heumann
Japanese youth delegation, along with several youth leaders from Asia and Africa, will join in celebration of the ADA 25th Anniversary by creating an opportunity to bring emerging IL leaders together. There is a great need and demand for Japan and other countries to learn how to implement effectively their national legislation and CRPD. The current movement, especially youth with disabilities - including young women with disabilities - can benefit by learning from the experience of the ADA, both before and after implementation, and the work done by civil society and government. In turn, US Youth can learn about how the IL Movement has spread worldwide and explore ideas on how the new generation can cooperate internationally. Organized by Japan Council on Independent Living Centers & DPI-Japan. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Basics of Building Grassroots Organizers for a Grassroots Movement
General Track
Presented by: Christopher Worth
In this workshop, we will examine a model adopted in St. Louis, Missouri of building individual power, community power, and the power of an active coalition to raise up new leaders in the community of people with disabilities. Those leaders are then equipped to engage our community to take on issues important to us, and challenge systems, and get tangible results from that challenge. Finally, participants will be asked, how might this model work for you? Target Audience: Advocates & Project Directors. Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all levels.

Countering Bias: Intergenerational Agility and Effectiveness
SILC Track  
Presented by: Liz Pazdral
This workshop will present background information on the efforts of the California SILC to reduce the median age of its members. Explore perceptions, group identity, assumptions and stereotypes; constructively address disruptive beliefs and biased behaviors that divide and devalue people; define how we can build cross-generational SILCs. This session will offer tools and information on membership / recruitment audits. We’ll provide participants with examples of SILC activities that have been effective and provide an opportunity for participants to engage in discussion on what can be done in our SILCs to build participation and leadership of youth with disabilities. Target Audience: Executive Directors & Board Members. Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all levels.


Concurrent Workshops III: Thursday, July 30, 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. 

Evolution of ADRC into a No Wrong Door System of Access to LTSS
ILA Track
Presented by: Joseph Lugo
The landscape of long term services and supports is rapidly changing. Hear from ACL about upcoming NWD System opportunities for the Centers for Independent Living and the Aging & Disability Networks. Hear about new innovations and opportunities in a No Wrong Door system though HHS’s CMS & ACL grant activities. Hear from grantees how they created partnerships on the state and local levels. Target Audience: Advocates & Project Directors. Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all levels.

Critical Role of CILs in the Implementation of WIOA
General Track
Presented by: LEAD Center
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) represents new opportunities for Centers for Independent Living (CILs) to support Workforce Investment Boards (WIBs) and American Job Centers (AJCs) as they move forward to a fully accessible, seamless employment delivery system. At the state and local levels, WIBs must engage in a unified strategic planning process that will enhance their focus on cross  system collaboration in an effort to identify the needs and resources necessary to meet the diverse needs of today’s workplace. CILs can and should be a part of this process. Partnerships between the WIBs, AJCs, and CILs reinforce the inclusion of persons with disabilities at all levels. This session will help you understand WIOA from a disability perspective and how your fellow CILs are influencing positive change. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Addressing Structural Racism and Inequity
General Track 
Presented by: Stanley Holbrook
The treatment of people with disabilities by law enforcement and state and municipal officials is a serious problem. We have allowed problems of marginalization, exclusion, inaccessibility, discrimination, sexism and bigotry - problems that affect us all - to instead be addressed by a few, and have been content to say that it is a disability problem, or a race problem, or gender problem, or sexuality problem rather than admit that it is a problem for all of us. The purpose of this session is to institute a model of "engagement" to begin asking how the problems we see in minority and disabled communities are at least in part linked to the dehumanization that people can feel when they find themselves marginalized because of either the color of their skin or their disability. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Being an Advocate in Next Generation ADA
Youth Track
Presented by: Meredith Raymond
The ADA became law 25 years ago... what’s next? Youth with disabilities have grown up with protections not known by past generations; however, we have new and ever changing challenges that we continue to face. In this session we will discuss what it means to be part of the ADA generation, what challenges we face, and how to be an advocate in a way that suits you. Participants will put together an action plan to map out their goals on how to contribute to the disability rights movement. It’s our responsibility now to step up and become the next generation of leaders! Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Parking Equity: Encouraging Reservation of Spaces with Access Aisles for Lift-Van Users
General Track
Presented by: Glen White
This presentation focuses on a newly emerged issue of accessible parking, ramp or lift equipped van (RLEV) users having difficulty finding accessible parking spaces because of van accessible parking spaces being used by non-ramp or lift equipped vehicles (NRLEV). The presenters will present a project including a focus group of RLEV users to illustrate how this issue affects their ability to enjoy independent living, a brief interview of NRLEV users to show their view of using van accessible spaces, and a comparison of using different signs to discourage NRLEV drivers from parking in van accessible spaces. The presenters will facilitate a discussion on this topic, with the goal of examining policy options that might address it. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 


Concurrent Workshops IV: Thursday, July 30, 10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. 

Rising Up: Rochester’s Youth Leadership Group; a Formula for Success!
Youth Track 
Presented by: C. Jean Grover
The Regional Center for Independent Living in Rochester, NY began with 4 founding members in 2013, and built a youth program from the ground, up, called YO! – Youth Own. Join us for an engaging session, where we will share our formula for success, and ideas for you to start or build your own program! Co-led by RCIL’s Coordinator of Youth Leadership, and teens and young adults actively involved in YO!, this presentation will feature our youth-filmed promotional video, website, printed materials, project and service-based learning activities; and will stress youth involvement. You will hear success strategies from the youth themselves! Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Meaningful Reporting for the New Administration on Community Living
ILA Track
Presented by: Dan Kessler and Patricia Puckett  
Note: This session is limited to 40 people.
This session is an interactive discussion that will generate recommendations for a new reporting process and format for the Annual Independent Living Report (also known as the "704 Report"). The discussion will include (1) a short review of work already underway; (2) a discussion about what to leave behind and what to take forward to the future; (3) generating operating principles for the best of all possible annual reports; (4) next steps for continued work on this effort. Target Audience: Management Staff of CILs who have extensive experience in program evaluation, outcomes measures and outcomes management and who are willing to continue this work through to a satisfactory product. Knowledge Level: Extensive Experience in IL program management and reporting.

Election 2016: Increasing the Disability Vote for Impact
General Track
Presented by: Ted Jackson
The goal of this workshop is to lay the ground work for building a more recognized and significant disability voting bloc – resulting in more political power for the disability community. And a successful get-out-the-vote (GOTV) plan always begins with planning a year in advance, establishing workable staff priorities and leadership roles. Non-profit organization partners will become familiar with the concepts and parameters to follow that will allow them to engage voters and remain compliant to election law and funding regulations. They will learn about the stages and division of labor within an organization that is needed to build a realistic and sustainable voting effort, tailored to their community and resources. Everyone will have the opportunity to evaluate their voting priorities, engage with seasoned election professionals, join a national disability vote collaborative and leave with materials to get started on building a 2016 GOTV plan. At the end participants will be asked to join a national disability vote collaborative that will meet monthly by teleconference to share resources, network and collaborate on strategies. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences.

Are We For Real or An Illusion? Hard Truths on Growing Future 
Senior Leaders with Disabilities within CILs and SILCs
General Track
Presented by: Amber Smock
As the Independent Living network has expanded over the last four decades, thousands of people have come to work at CILs and SILCs. Yet as we look towards the future of the movement, how can we ensure that CILs and SILCs are truly led by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities? What opportunities exist, or are overlooked? Do we exercise ableism in overlooking potential? How do we ensure that our work is inclusive and intersectional? Join us for an expert panel discussion on what it takes to equip CIL or SILC staff for futures as senior or executive management in Independent Living. Target Audience: Executive Directors & Board Members. Knowledge Level: Experienced.

The ADA and Medicaid: Next Generation of Long-term Services and Supports
General Track
Presented by: Merrill Friedman
As the ADA celebrates its 25th anniversary and Medicaid celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s important to look back on their evolution, their role in America’s health care system, and the role they play for supporting people with disabilities into the future. Nearly a third of individuals today look to Medicaid for their long-term services and supports (LTSS). It is an important component of our nation’s shift to a more comprehensive model of social and economic supports that further the inclusion independence of people with disabilities. This session will explore the next generation of issues in Medicaid LTSS, including workforce participation; the nexus to employer insurance; full community integration; and, sustainability. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

 
Concurrent Workshops V: Thursday, July 30, 1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. 

Practical and Effective Uses of Social Media for Engagement and Collaboration Among Disability Organizations
Youth Track
Presented by: Maddy Ruvolo
This interactive workshop will encourage cross-generational, cross-disability online engagement among Independent Living Centers and other disability organizations. Learn to embrace social media as a means of communicating with consumers and sharing the important work your organization is doing. The session will cover best practices for using major social media platforms, social media strategy development, and online community building. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Mourn the Dead and Fight Like Hell for the Living
Orientation Track
Presented by: Julia Bascom
In the past five years, over forty people with disabilities have been murdered by their parents. These acts are horrific enough on their own. But they exist in the context of a larger pattern. For the last three years, ASAN, ADAPT, Not Dead Yet, the National Council on Independent Living, the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund, and other disability rights organizations have come together at local vigils across the country to mourn those losses, bring awareness to these tragedies, and demand justice and equal protection under the law for all people with disabilities. In this session, we will mourn these deaths, talk about what causes them, and talk about what we can do to make it stop. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Empowering Youth through Internship Opportunities
Youth Track 
Presented by: Kevin Webb
Are you interested in learning about internship programs available in Washington, DC for students with disabilities? Have you thought about creating an internship program at your Center for Independent Living? Would you like to discuss ideas on how to create more opportunities to empower young self-advocates through the power of internships and collaboration? Join us at this session to learn about internship opportunities available through the Greater Washington Internship Coalition; as well as the mechanics of establishing, funding and collaborating with others to develop new internship opportunities to empower young leaders. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

Keep the Wheels Rolling: ACL Highlights Progress Made Being 
Made on WIOA Implementation in the IL Programs
ILA Track
Presented by: Jamie Kendall
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) is a federal agency operating within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that works to realize its vision that all people, regardless of age and disability, live with dignity, make their own choices, and participate fully in society. ACL serves as the federal agency responsible for increasing access to community supports, while focusing attention and resources on the unique needs of older Americans and people with disabilities across the lifespan. The establishment of the Independent Living Administration and the programs transferred to ACL under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) will make important contributions to this work in unique ways. Target Audience and Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all Audiences. 

ADA in Action: Resources and Best Practices to Enhance Implementation of the ADA
General Track
Presented by: Marian Vessels
"How can I make meaningful ADA changes?” A panel will present strategies and resources for CIL staff to affect the implementation of the ADA in your community. A representative from NCIL will discuss the activities of the ADA / Civil Rights Subcommittee and its advocacy efforts on the ADA. The ADA National Network will review the resources available from the Network and regional ADA Centers. A CIL staff member will present ADA activities and strategies for developing an action plan to increase ADA implementation. Resources will be provided and ample time will be allowed for your questions. Target Audience: Advocates & Project Directors. Knowledge Level: Experienced.


Poster Sessions

A poster session is the presentation of research information with an academic or professional focus. Posters are displayed throughout the NCIL Conference space at the discretion of the presenter.

Research-Based, Plain Language, and Free Resources that Support Consumers with SCI, TBI, and Burn Injury: An Overview of Products Offered through the NIDRR-funded Model Systems Program
Poster by: Cynthia Overton
The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) is a national center that works with Model Systems researchers to make research meaningful to those with spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and burn injury. The poster will list all resources offered through the MSKTC by injury area and will provide information on accessing the resources.

Establishing Innovative Online Matching Service Registries
Poster by: Eli Gelardin
Explore the opportunities and benefits of establishing an online “matching service registry” to assist people with all types of disabilities in locating a care provider matched to her or his unique needs and preferences. Poster will demonstrate how the 7 organizations in the QuickMatch.org network have made matching service registries a reality and explored revenue generation, and how registries could be used for service delivery and workforce innovations. 

Climate Change and Disability: Impacts and Solutions
Poster by: Alex Ghenis
Climate change is one of the world’s largest problems, and people with disabilities will be hit by it especially hard. Whether it’s from difficulty evacuating storms or staying cool in heat waves, we have unique challenges that need to be addressed. This poster presentation will show the ways in which climate change will impact people with disabilities, and then lay out actions that we can take to improve our resilience going forward. It’ll also present ways that we can put those actions into policy - and show leaders worldwide the importance of this struggle.

Access, Accommodations, & Resources

Environmental / Chemical Sensitivities
Fragrance and chemicals can be access barriers. To help make this conference accessible to participants for whom chemicals or fragrances are an access barrier, NCIL requests that you come fragrance free. Please refrain from wearing any scented products or washing with them. This includes clothing that has been laundered with fragranced detergent or fabric softening products. Additionally, please completely air out any dry-cleaned clothing before wearing it to the conference. 
[Image: Fragrance-Free]
Smoke can also be an access barrier. It is essential that we maintain a smoke-free environment. If you smoke, please use the designated smoking area located outside the Hyatt. Please refrain from smoking near any other doorways or paths of travel. The hotel entrance at 11st Street should be the least polluted with cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust, although it unfortunately has steps.

Van Parking
The maximum vehicle height for the garage at the Grand Hyatt is 6’ 5”. Grand Hyatt valet staff will park taller vehicles at the Renaissance Washington as space allows. This arrangement will be made available on a first-come, first-served basis and billed at the Grand Hyatt regular self-parking rate of $32 / night.

Auxiliary Aids & Services
CART (Communications Access in Real Time), sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, personal assistants-, accessible materials, and other services will be provided upon request for all NCIL Conference activities. However, participants must arrange their own services for Hill Visits on Tuesday. 

Local Service Providers: Wheelchair and Scooter Rental and Repair 

ZASK Medical Supply - Alexandria, VA
- Phone: 703-354-1266
- Email: zaskoo@erols.com

Area Access - Falls Church, VA
- Phone: 703-573-2111

Roberts Home Medical - Germantown, MD
- Phone: 301-353-0300

Scooterplus / Lenox Medical Supply - Rentals only; delivery available
- Web: www.lenoxmedicalsupply.com
- Phone: 1-866 474-4356 or 202-387-1960

ScootAround - Rentals only; delivery available
- Web: www.scootaround.com
- Phone: 1-888-441-7575 

Local Service Providers: Personal Assistant Services

ENDependence Center of Northern VA (CIL) - Arlington, VA
- Contact: Ruchika Lalwani, PAS Coordinator
Phone: 703-525-3268; TTY: 703-525-3553
Email: ruchikal@ecnv.org; 

Maxim Healthcare
- Phone: 202-545-6980 (711 for Relay)
- Email: clduvall@maxhealth.com

Tips:
-The route of the NCIL March from the Grand Hyatt to the US Capitol is slightly less than one mile. Many conference attendees rent power chairs or scooters and have them delivered to their hotel to ensure they can participate.
-NCIL’s Personal Assistants will be available during conference hours only. 
-Use the information above to arrange your own personal assistant service during non-conference hours. 

Hotels & Lodging
 
Grand Hyatt Washington
We will return to the Grand Hyatt Washington, located at 1000 H St. NW, one block from the Metro Center subway station in downtown Washington, DC. The Grand Hyatt is the official Conference hotel and virtually all events will be held here.
A block of rooms has been reserved for NCIL Conference attendees from July 25-31, 2015 at a special rate of $239 single / double occupancy (plus tax of 14.5%). Triple and quadruple occupancy is available at $264 and $289, respectively (plus tax). Regency Club rooms are available at a variable rate, based on availability. 
You must be registered for the Conference to qualify for the NCIL room block and the discounted room rate.
To make your reservations online, use NCIL’s custom link (resweb.passkey.com/go/NCIL2015), or call the hotel at 800.233.1234 (voice / TTY). Be sure to identify yourself as a NCIL Conference attendee to receive the discounted rate. Reservations received after July 6, 2015 will be accepted on a space availability basis.

Embassy Suites
Overflow accessible rooms are available at the Embassy Suites Convention Center, 900 10th St NW, just one block from the Grand Hyatt. The rate is $239 per night (plus tax of 14.5%). Reservations must be made by July 3, 2015. 
Please call the hotel at 202.739.2001 for reservations. You may also reserve a room online using NCIL’s custom link (aws.passkey.com/event/13563714/owner/22851/home). Be sure to identify yourself as a NCIL Conference attendee to receive the discounted rate.

What to Bring
Conference participants often brave blistering heat, massive thunderstorms, and even chilly workshop rooms, all to bring our message to Capitol Hill! Remember to bring along the following items to ensure your comfort and safety:
- large plastic bags to cover any batteries or electric devices that might be exposed to rain during the March and Rally, and duct tape to secure them;
- attire appropriate for both very hot and chilly temperatures; and
- any medications or assistive devices you may need during strenuous activity.
 

Airports & Transportation

Reagan National Airport (DCA)
Metrorail: The Metro stops adjacent to Terminals B and C. Take the Blue Line to the Metro Center station or the Yellow Line to the Gallery Place / Chinatown station. Both stations are 1-2 blocks from the Grand Hyatt. Fare: $1.35.
Red Top Cab: Call to reserve an accessible van 2-3 days in advance.
Super Shuttle: standard vans are available outside the Main Terminal. Contact them to reserve an accessible van. 

Baltimore / Washington International (BWI)
Public Transportation: Metrobus B30 departs BWI once every 40 minutes and travels to the Greenbelt Metrorail station. From Greenbelt, take the Green Line towards Branch Avenue. Depart at Chinatown / Gallery Place, 2 blocks from the Grand Hyatt. Fare: $5.35; allow 1+ hour for travel. 
Taxicabs: Approximate fare to DC is $75. Call 410-859-1100 for details.
Van Service: Contact BWI Shuttle at 410-859-1100. Reservations recommended 4 days in advance.

Dulles Airport (IAD)
Public Transportation: Metrobus 5A departs Dulles once an hour, between 6:30 am and 11:30 pm, and travels to the L’Enfant Plaza station. From L’Enfant Plaza, take the Blue or Orange Line to the Metro Center station. Fare: $4.35. Please allow 1+ hour for travel. 
Red Top Cab: Call to reserve an accessible van 2-3 days in advance.
Super Shuttle: standard vans are available outside the Main Terminal. Contact them to reserve an accessible van. 

Tips:
- Visit www.wmata.com to plan your trip using public transportation.
- All public buses, stations, and trains are accessible (when in operation). 
- Super Shuttle: 800-BLUE-VAN
- Battles Transportation: 202-462-8658 
- Red Top Cab: 202-328-3333 
 
#ADAyouthpledge

#GenerationADA is the cohort of youth age 25 and under who grew up after the ADA was passed. In honor of the ADA 25th Anniversary, the 2015 NCIL Conference is committed to engaging and supporting #GenerationADA.  With our movement’s collective dedication to the next generation of leaders, we ask CILs, SILCs, and other organizations attending NCIL 2015 to take this pledge and to bring at least one #GenerationADA young leader to the Conference. Taking the #ADAyouthpledge acknowledges your dedication and concerted efforts in bringing youth to the NCIL 2015 Conference. Learn more at ncil.org/adayouthpledge.

Registration

Register at: ncil.org
- online registration
- printable registration forms
- personal assistant registration

Register Online

You may register single or multiple people in one transaction by using our online store. Please visit www.ncil.org to register online. Online registrants do not need to complete a hard copy registration form.

Register by Mail or Fax

If you refer to register by mail or fax, please use a separate form for each registrant. 

Onsite Registration

Please note that onsite registration fees differ from standard registration fees and plan accordingly.
- Full Conference NCIL Member Registration: $305
- Full Conference Non-Member Registration : $430
- Daily Rate: $210 / day

Registration Policies

Full Conference Registration Fees are per person and include registration for all events and activities, including the Pre-Conference, Awards Luncheon, materials and workshops. If you have any questions, please contact NCIL at 877.525.3400 (voice), 202.207.0340 (TTY), or by email at conference@ncil.org. 
- Confirmations will be sent to each participant at the email address listed on the registration form. 
- Individuals must register for the Conference and pay in full before reserving a discounted room at the Grand Hyatt. 

Registrant Replacement: If it becomes necessary for you to send someone in your place, please contact us as soon as possible.

Cancellation: Cancellation requests received by July 10, 2015 are refundable less a $50 processing fee. 

Replacement and cancellation requests must be made in writing and sent to NCIL by fax (202.207.0341) or email (conference@ncil.org) by Friday, July 10, 2015. No refunds will be issued after that date.

Personal Assistant Registration: Personal Assistants are not required to pay the registration fee but should fill out a form to receive a badge. Personal Assistants are welcome to attend all Conference events, including scheduled meals and receptions. Personal Assistants may also register online at www.ncil.org. Look for the link to Register a Personal Assistant.

Youth Registration Rate: NCIL offers a reduced youth registration fee of $110 to all NCIL members that are 26-years-old or younger. We hope this special rate will allow young people to afford the Conference and organizations to sponsor young people to attend.

Registration Form
1. Complete the form 
2. Save the form 
3. Email the form to Rie@ncil.org
2013 H Street NW, Sixth Floor 
Washington, D.C. 20006 
Fax: (202) 207-0341 

Prefix and Name: 
Title: 
Organization: 
Address: 
City, State, Zip: 
Email: 
Phone:  
Fax: 
[  ] Check this box if you are a personal assistant to a registered attendee and are therefore not required to pay registration fees. I certify that I am providing personal assistance to: 
Full Conference Registration: 
Early Bird Rate (must be postmarked by April 29, 2015):
[  ] NCIL Member: $190
[  ] Youth Member: $110 (26 & Under)
[  ] NCIL Member: $310
Standard Registration (postmarked after April 29, 2015):
[  ] NCIL Member: $265
[  ] Youth Member: $110 (26 & Under)
[  ] Non-member: $385
Subtotal: $ 
[  ] I request a ticket to the ADA25 Celebration on Monday, July 27 (space limited to first 1000 Annual Conference registrants)
[  ] I plan to attend the Pre-Conference on Sunday, July 26 (free with full conference registration)

Daily Registration: Skip this section if you are registering for the full Conference
[  ] Sunday (Pre-Conference)
[  ] Monday
[  ] Wednesday
[  ] Thursday
[  ] Friday
Membership:
[  ] NCIL Member: $115 / day
[  ] Non-member: $160 / day
Subtotal: $ 

Payment
Please charge my:
[  ] Visa
[  ] MasterCard
[  ] American Express
[  ] Discover
[  ] I'm sending a check
Total amount: $ 
Name on Card: 
Card #: 
Expiration: 
CID / CIV: 
If paying by credit card, consider mailing or faxing this form; email does not provide encrypted delivery of your personal information. 
Please make checks payable to National Council on Independent Living (Federal Tax ID: 74-2291620). 

Auxiliary Aids
Materials:
[  ] Standard Print
[  ] Large Print
[  ] Braille
[  ] Audio on CD
[  ] Text-Only
Diet:
[  ] Standard Fare
[  ] Vegetarian
[  ] Salt-Free
[  ] Low Colesterol
[  ] Other: 
Accommodations:
[  ] American Sign Language
[  ] Personal Assistant
[  ] Transcripts
[  ] Contact Sign
[  ] CART
[  ] Assistive Listening Device
[  ] Other: