The Disability Summit 2025 took place at Temple University. Partnering organizations included Visions for Equality, The Arc of Philadelphia, and Special Olympics Pennsylvania. This event brought together people from across the disability community. Events like this are important not only for learning and advocacy, but also for outreach and networking. Attendees had the chance to connect with others, share ideas, and build relationships.
Organized by the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, the summit focused on three key themes:
- Change: Looking at how laws and policies have affected the disability community.
- Challenge: Finding ways to overcome barriers to equality and independence.
- Celebrate: Honoring the unique experiences and leadership of people with disabilities.
The day started with keynote speaker Emily Voorde, Founder of Into Strategies. She spoke about leadership development in the disability community.
Breakout panels covered topics such as:
- Self-Directed Autism Services
- Assistive Technology for Our Whole Lives
- Raising Your Voice for Positive Change
One of the breakout panels featured Rachel Milano-Davis, Chief Operating Officer with Values Into Action. She joined in a lively conversation with self-advocates, family advocates, and professionals about Home & Community Based Service. The group talked about:
- What is good about HCBS.
- What challenges exist with HCBS right now.
- Opportunities and recommendations for civic engagement.
- Dreams for the future of HCBS.
The presentation included active audience engagement. The consensus was that people are happier, healthier, and more fulfilled when they are supported to live within their community. The session concluded with a visioning exercise led by panel moderator, Marian Baldini, from Kencrest. Participants were encouraged to imagine HCBS in 10 years. She encouraged people to DREAM BIG, and offered that change is not magical – it comes from hard work.
The summit also included a Legislative Policy Hearing. Members of the Democratic House Caucus Policy Committee reviewed recommendations from the Pennsylvania Tech Accelerator. They discussed draft legislation for Technology First initiatives. They want to improve access to state services for the disability community.
Values Into Action was proud to take part in the Disability Summit. Our participation solidifies our mission and vision. We will continue to change, challenge, and celebrate!
Image features Rachel Milano-Davis, Julie Corredato, and PA State Representative, Joe Hohenstein