2026 LIFE Conference: Moving Forward Together

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Emmanuel Jenkins

Community Relations Officer

Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC)

[email protected]

302-739-7192

2026 LIFE Conference: "Moving Forward Together"

Dover, DE - January 21, 2026 - The Delaware LIFE Conference will take place on January 21, 2026, at Bally's Conference Center in Dover, Delaware. Each year, the LIFE Conference brings together more than 500 people with disabilities, their families, advocates, and professionals to learn, connect, and collaborate. The conference, whose name represents Legislation, Independence, Families, and Education, is a joint effort of many organizations across Delaware, working together to support individuals with disabilities and their families. This year's theme, "Moving Forward Together," reflects a shared commitment to progress, unity, and hope. The LIFE Conference has become Delaware's premier event focused on the disability community, offering opportunities to learn about policies, innovative practices, and resources that strengthen independence and community inclusion. To learn more about the 2026 LIFE Conference and to register, please visit lifeconferencede.org.

In a world that often feels uncertain, what remains constant is the power of advocacy and the strength that comes from uniting as a community. The LIFE Conference is built on the pillars of Legislation, Independence, Families, and Education - and each year it provides a space for resources, networking, advocacy, and community building. "Resources, networking, advocacy, and community building are the key to legislation, independence, education, and family," said Emmanuel Jenkins, Community Relations Officer for the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council. "When we move forward together, we ensure that the disability community continues to grow stronger and more connected, creating a brighter future for everyone."

Committee members have also shared what the LIFE Conference means to them. Taylor Young, the newest committee member representing Autism Delaware, said: "I am excited to have joined the LIFE Conference Planning Committee, and in 2026, Autism Delaware will be 'Moving Forward Together' with leaders, advocates, and professionals from across the disability support community. This inspiring event will feature expert speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to empower individuals and families, with a strong focus on advancing supports for those with different abilities including individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. I look forward to collaborating to the innovation that makes this conference such a meaningful opportunity for progress."

Selina Butcher, a LIFE Conference Planning Committee member, shared: "The LIFE Conference has allowed me to navigate the challenges of adult life with a little bit more ease. To know that there are resources and a community that I am a part of is a calming feeling. A conference of resources, known and unknown, is what I take away from the LIFE Conference every year - a launchpad to success!"