On April 26-29, 2010, the Hilton New York was abuzz with expert presenters and enthusiastic attendees at the YAI Network’s 31st Annual International Conference, “Decade of Decisions: Moving Forward in Developmental and Learning Disabilities.” 

Our annual conference is one of the largest and most comprehensive of its kind. This year, almost 3,000 people with disabilities, professionals and family members came together to learn the most effective and innovative approaches to helping people with disabilities lead productive, fulfilling lives. Extended sessions and full day workshops focused on treatment, practices and new models that enhance the lives of people with disabilities and their families.

A noted highlight of the conference was this year’s keynote address, given by TV personality and investigative journalist Geraldo Rivera.

In 1972, Geraldo, then a reporter, set a new standard in investigative journalism by exposing the horrific conditions and the negligent treatment of residents at Willowbrook, a state-run institution for people with developmental disabilities. Geraldo’s exposé ignited a social revolution. During his keynote address Geraldo vividly recalled the sights, sounds and indescribable smell of institution, and spoke passionately about the continued need to fight for the rights of people with developmental disabilities.. “We will never again be silent products of mass-produced care,” Geraldo said tearfully to the captivated audience. “Whenever you feel weakness, whenever you feel frustrated, remember where we started. It will be a better day.” Geraldo’s inspirational words set the tone for the entire conference.

Throughout the week, over 300 presenters in more than 130 seminars focused on key issues affecting people with disabilities, their families and the professionals who work with them including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Strengthening Families, Ethical and Policy Issues and many others.

“It’s a  really wonderful learning opportunity for the community that is lucky enough to attend this conference,” said Dr. Paul Grundy, IBM’s Global Director of Health Care Transformation, who presented at Premier HealthCare’s full day conference.

The conference drew attendees from all over the world including Lenore Vosberg, Executive Director, Center for the Arts in Human Development of Canada. Vosberg attended for the second consecutive year because of her desire to bring YAI’s "comprehensive services, recreational activities, self-advocacy & medical services” to her area.

Camilo was one of many YAI service recipients who were part of the conference. A member of the YAI Self-Advocacy Association, Camilo proudly participated in “In My Shoes,” a staff training program created by self-advocates. Following his presentation, Grau had the chance to speak one-on-one with Samuel, a conference attendee who is also a member of the New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project. “I’m here because I’m a self-advocate who loves to see people with disabilities proud of their differences," Jenkins explained. "I loved their presentation theme that ‘Nobody’s Perfect.’ That really hit home for me and hearing other self-advocates speak about their personal experiences reminds me of the importance of coming out of my shell."