FREE workshops!
Here is the 2023 Abilities Expo line-up.
Check back 3 months out to find out what's in store for 2024.
Take advantage of Free Workshops that focus on many topics from home access and medication overload to accommodations at work, living authentically, and empowerment.
There's no need to register - just arrive early to get your seat!
There's a lot going on at Abilities Expo! Be sure to also check out the Exhibitors and Events.
Professionals:
Certificates of participation are available for all workshops. Please see the Accessibility Help Desk during the show for information on how to obtain a certificate.
* Workshop dates, times, topics, and speakers are subject to change without notice. The opinions presented at the workshops are those of the presenters and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Abilities Expo. Workshop content should not be considered as a replacement or substitute for the services of trained professionals in any field, including, but not limited to, financial, medical, or legal matters. We encourage you to seek the advice of professionals, as appropriate, regarding the evaluation of any specific information presented in these workshops.
11:45am – 12:45pm
Accommodating your Abilities: California Workplace Protections
Presented by: Jonathan Delshad, Attorney, Law Offices of Jonathan J. Delshad, PC, JD/MBA
Location: Workshop
Learn about the rights and protections California law provides to employees who need special accommodations to do their job. We'll discuss the applicable laws, discrimination, reasonable accommodations, the interactive process to ensure accommodations, and what to do when an employer fails to provide accommodations to an employee.
Learn more at delshadlegal.com.
The "CURE" to Inclusion
Presented by: Ruth Rathblott, MSW, DEI Certified, TEDx Speaker, Author
Location: Workshop Area
Discover the power of living authentically through connection (C), understanding (U), representation (R), and empathy (E). Attendees will have the opportunity to explore their own differences through personal reflection and small group activities, as well as having presented current language and curated conversation on inclusion. The C.U.R.E. model engages attendees on 4 dimensions:
- Connection through courage and commitment.
- Understanding by uncovering those parts of ourselves that are different and creating safe places for conversation about difference.
- Representation by making sure all voices are recognized and have a seat at the table
- Empathy and evolving to create an amazing workplace.
Learn more at ruthrathblott.com.
Book Signing Follows! 2:15pm – 2:45pm
Meet Ruth Rathblott near the workshop area between 2:15pm and 2:45pm to purchase signed copies of her new book, Single Handedly: Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection. A limited number of copies will be available for purchase at the show. Copies can also be purchased in advance at Amazon.
Maximizing Function in Joystick Driving
Presented by: Nicholas Delenikos, Stealth Products, Western Regional Sales Manager
Location: Workshop
This hands-on workshop will provide a basic to intermediate level understanding of how joysticks are used to communicate with the mobility base of your wheelchair. Explore how product variations and configurability are used to maximize function, and considerations for adapting to your changing needs. Topics we will discuss include:
- Intro to basic joystick function
- Joystick styles and application
- Configurability
- Adaptability to change
Learn more at stealthproducts.com.
Cannabis for Well-Being
Presented by: Mskindness Ramirez, MA Ed, Founder and Executive Director, Club Kindness, and The Social Impact Center
Location: Workshop
Through the advancement of science and research of the cannabis plant, we have learned that homeostasis is easily achieved with the support of cannabis. From physical and mental exercise to maintaining a healthy diet, we've all explored ways of elevating our well-being. Presented by The Social Impact Center, this workshop will explore an ancient medicine rooted in the present using an informational storytelling style that expands on the benefits of cannabinoid medicine for wellness.
Learn more at thesocialimpactcenter.org.
Bedside Matters
Presented by: Dr. David Kipper, Peter Tilden and Anna Vocino
Location: Near Registration Area
Tired of getting the run-around from YOUR medical professionals? Join renowned Beverly Hills internist Dr. David Kipper, Emmy-nominated Los Angeles radio personality Peter Tilden, and stand-up comic and voice actor Ann Vocino—and finally get the answers you've been looking for!
Don't miss your chance to seek out answers with this prominent physician about ANY questions related to your health and disability. It's time you got actionable suggestions for treatment.
Learn more and follow the popular Bedside Matters podcast at bedsidematters.org.
Planning for Special Needs Children
Presented by: Jeremiah Raxter, Esq, Principal Attorney, Raxter Law
Location: Workshop Area
Many children with special needs rely on public funding for their support, like Medicaid for health insurance and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for monthly income. Learn how to set up your estate plan correctly to protect your child's eligibility for these programs when he or she needs them the most. The workshop will discuss Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, Supportive Decision making, and limited conservatorships and how and when to use each different planning technique. Whether your child with special needs is a minor or an adult, you will need to address unique issues when making your estate plan.
Learn more at www.raxterlaw.com.
Finding Solutions for Multiple Medication Overload
Presented by: Jay Gupta, RPh, 340B ACE, MTM Consultant, C-IAYT
Location: Workshop Area
This workshop is presented by the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and is geared toward anyone who lives with paralysis from disease, injury, or birth condition as well as their loved ones.
Medications are intended to improve our health and well-being. Some medications present more risks and adverse reactions than others. Persons who live with disabilities often take multiple medications to treat secondary/other chronic conditions which may escalate risks and reactions. This session will:
- Outline the incidence of polypharmacy and discuss who is at most risk.
- Explore the implications of polypharmacy and changing impact of COVID-19.
- Provide inspiration and strategies to minimize the risks and reduce polypharmacy where possible to enhance health and resilience.
Learn more at christopherreeve.org.
Travel with a Disability? Yes, You Can!
Presented by: Kristy Lacroix, Certified Accessible Travel Specialist, Founder, Wheelchair Escapes
Location: Workshop
Want to travel? Join Kristy Lacroix of Wheelchair Escapes as she shares what she has learned over 29 years of hands-on experience planning travel for people who use wheelchairs or have other disabilities. Discover travel tips, ideas, and advice to help you say, "I can do it!" So you can get out there and explore the world! Please bring your travel questions and concerns. Kristy wants you to leave this workshop knowing, that yes, you can travel the world!
Learn more at WheelchairEscapes.com.
Sitting Pretty: Strong, Disabled, and Independent
Presented by: Lauren "Lolo" Spencer, Actress, Model, Advocate, Speaker, Content Creator
Location: Workshop
Let's talk about women's empowerment and independent living! Join Lauren "Lolo" Spencer for an in-depth discussion about the topics that matter to women. We'll talk about social life balance, dating, accessible fashion, and more. Finally we'll examine the importance of empowerment when it comes to independent living, covering the following topics - housing, finances, and transportation for women with disabilities.
Learn more at www.lolospencer.com. Spencer is a Film Independent Nominated Actress for her role as Tracy Holmes in the critically acclaimed and John Cassavetes Award Winning film Give Me Liberty.
Accessible Home Design: The Basics
Presented by Mark Thompson, AIA, Senior Director of Architecture, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
Location: Workshop
Can I retrofit my master bathroom to include a spacious roll-in shower? What must I do to install an elevator in my two-story home? How can my flower garden be made more accessible? Who should I hire to make sure my home renovation project will fit my needs? Accessible Home Design: The Basics will address improving the accessibility in each specific area of a home, as well as what you need to know before taking on a renovation project. Whether it's a new accessible residence or retrofitting your existing home, information will be presented with real examples and case studies. Subject matter will include entering your home, residential elevators and lifts, kitchen design, bathrooms and plumbing fixtures, doors, windows, outdoor areas, and gardens, and much more.
Learn more at pva.org/accessibledesign and the popular book from PVA: Accessible Home Design: Solutions for the Wheelchair User, Second Edition.
Discover How to Pay for Everything You See Today
Presented by: Sonny Mullen and Kelly L. Green, Help Hope Live
Location: Workshop Area
Did you know that you can fundraise to cover the costs of everything you see at Abilities Expo? From power wheelchairs to accessible vehicles, from adaptive bikes to home modifications. And more! Help Hope Live wants to help make this happen! Come find out how the Help Hope Live non-profit organization works closely with Abilities Expo exhibitors and others – to get our clients on their way to independence!
Learn more at helphopelive.org.
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