Foundation hosting disability conference in San Tan Valley

An upcoming conference will provide an opportunity for families of young relatives with intellectual or developmental disabilities to connect with needed resources.

The People of Diverse Abilities Family and Resource Career Exploration Conference takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 26 at Central Arizona College’s San Tan campus, 3736 E. Bella Vista Road in San Tan Valley.

The conference is being organized by the Mary Gloria Foundation, a nonprofit that helps families in need in San Tan Valley and Queen Creek.

The primary focus of the conference will be on people between the ages of 14 and 22 who are preparing to transition from high school into the workforce.

“This conference is designed to provide valuable insights, answer critical questions and offer families the tools they need to make informed decisions about their children’s futures,” Theresa G. Palma, director of the Mary Gloria Foundation, stated in an email. “With a variety of vendors and experts on hand, we’re confident it will be an event that empowers and inspires.”

The conference will include information on:

• Self-advocacy
• Different career paths
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth
• Community and government resources

Families and individuals with disabilities can meet with agencies, organizations and employers in the community.

Conference sponsors include the Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, Southwest Institute and Pinal County.

Attendees will get swag bags, food boxes and hygiene products. Registration is required.