Welcome Letter from the Chair:
The 145th AAIDD Annual Meeting will provide a lively forum
for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, students, and advocates to
learn about strategies and opportunities to respond to workforce
challenges that have had an increased impact on people with IDD.
In the next decade, shifting demographics will result in a
significant decline in the number of workers in the US and globally.
While this will present challenges, it also provides opportunities. We
seek innovative, evidence-based proposals in the areas of research,
policy and practice that explore emerging workforce trends. Topics may
encompass diversity/equity/inclusion in employment, the potential of
technology to deliver services and supports while enhancing
independence, public financing of supports, lessons learned during COVID
19, and proven strategies for attracting and retaining a talented
workforce.
AAIDD members have been leaders at the cutting edge of
ground-breaking research, practice, and policy in the field of
intellectual and developmental disabilities for over a century. AAIDD
continues to be the leading interdisciplinary professional organization
in intellectual and developmental disabilities. The 145the
annual meeting will continue this tradition by providing conference
attendees with cutting edge information on research, effective
practices, and policy initiatives that support individuals with
intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
We hope you can join us!
Elisa Velardo, MMHS, FAAIDD, Chair, 2021 Conference Planning Committee