To help families and professionals learn more about autism, the Lighting the Way Conference offers helpful information and resources. The conference provides solutions for success from diagnosis through adulthood. People who attend can hear from experts and self-advocates who share their experiences and knowledge.
This year’s keynote speaker is Brian Bernard, also known as Brian Be. Brian is a self-advocate and Community Outreach Professional at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine. He works in Pediatric Developmental Pediatrics at JFK Partners. Brian is also an autistic artist and advocate who lives with multiple disabilities.
About Brian Be: A Voice for the Autism Community
Brian Be has a wide range of experiences in the disability community. He has worked as a caregiver, job coach, peer advocate, case manager, and family member of people with different abilities. He has also been a leader in his community, using his voice to help others. In addition to his advocacy work, he is a talented performing artist and public speaker.
Brian has taken part in several important leadership programs. He is an alumnus of the Colorado LEND/UCEDD training program and the AUCD Leadership Academy. These programs help leaders improve services for people with disabilities. Brian has also served on advisory boards such as the Colorado Behavioral Health Council Advisory Board and Self-Advocacy in Leadership (SAIL). He was co-chair of the JFK Partners Community Advisory Council and the Autism Special Interest Group of AUCD.
One of Brian’s major projects is Having InterDependence (HI), a live, interactive arts workshop he co-developed with Phamaly Theatre. This theater company supports performers with disabilities. Over the past ten years, Brian has continued to present HI workshops at various training programs, helping others understand autism and disability through art.
Brian also helps coordinate speakers who share their personal experiences with disability. He works with groups like Pediatric Residents and the Inclusive Minds Team Member Resource Group at Children’s Hospital Colorado. By sharing real-life experiences, Brian helps future doctors and professionals better understand autism and other disabilities. As an artist and advocate, Brian chooses to go by Brian Be to encourage others to “Be yourself, quirks and all.” This message inspires people to embrace who they are and celebrate their differences.
Who Should Attend the Conference?
The Lighting the Way Conference is open to anyone who wants to learn more about autism and how to support individuals with ASD. People who may benefit from attending include:
- Parents: Learn how to support and advocate for your child with autism.
- Caregivers: Gain tools and strategies to help individuals with autism succeed.
- Self-Advocates: Connect with others and share your experiences.
- Educators: Discover ways to support students with autism in the classroom.
- Social Workers: Learn about resources and services for individuals with autism.
- Counselors/Therapists: Gain insights into helping individuals with ASD thrive.
- Adult Service Providers: Find ways to improve support for autistic adults.
- Business & Community Members: Learn how to create inclusive environments for people with autism.
Why This Conference Matters
Understanding autism is important for everyone. People with autism are valuable members of our communities, and they deserve support and opportunities to succeed. By attending the Lighting the Way Conference, participants can learn how to create a more inclusive world.
Speakers like Brian Be show that individuals with autism have unique talents and perspectives. His message of self-acceptance and advocacy reminds us that everyone has something special to offer. Whether you are a parent, educator, or community member, you can make a difference in the lives of people with autism.
Autism is a lifelong condition that affects many people around the world. While it can bring challenges, it also brings unique strengths. With the right support, individuals with autism can thrive. The Lighting the Way Conference provides valuable resources to help families, professionals, and self-advocates learn and grow.
By attending this event, you can gain a better understanding of autism and how to support those with ASD. You will hear from inspiring speakers like Brian Be, who encourage people to embrace their differences and advocate for themselves. Together, we can create a world where everyone, no matter their abilities, has the opportunity to shine.
South Dakota Parent Connection is once again offering a limited number of scholarships to support families in covering the registration fee.
