Tag: DisCo at the Capitol

VistAbility, a nonprofit organization serving adults with disabilities in Contra Costa County, rallied more than 100 program participants and staff to attend the 19th Annual DisCo at the Capitol this year, ensuring self-advocates had a voice during critical discussions around proposed cuts to Medi-Cal, food assistance and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS).

To make the trip possible, one of VistAbility’s programs organized a spaghetti dinner fundraiser and silent auction to help charter a bus from Martinez to Sacramento for the 160-mile roundtrip journey. What began as a creative fundraising idea last year has now become an annual tradition that continues to grow.

“This was our second year chartering a bus to DisCo at the Capitol,” said Hannah Michaelsen, Director of Development for VistAbility. “We refused to let the state make decisions that directly affect us without us. So we showed up.”

Michaelsen said the fundraiser exceeded expectations, helping support additional activities throughout the year while also creating a memorable experience for participants.

“I could tell the program participants felt special pulling up to the event in a big fancy bus,” she said. “Most of all, it allowed them and staff to all ride together.”

This year, seven VistAbility programs participated in DisCo at the Capitol, bringing approximately 100 staff and advocates to Sacramento. Some attendees met directly with legislators and legislative staff, while others participated in the rally and advocacy activities throughout the day.

“It’s part of our agency mission to foster independence and inspire personal choice for our participants,” Michaelsen said. “The DisCo event is a great venue to put our mission into action. Not all of our participants can share their thoughts verbally, but all could wear a t-shirt, or a button or make a sign.”

Participants described the experience as “Awesome!” and shared how much they enjoyed traveling together and being part of something bigger than themselves. Staff also appreciated the opportunity to engage with participants during the trip without the stress of driving.

“Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” she said. “Don’t underestimate the ways your community might support an event like this. It’s worth the effort to help participants get there.”

Photo Credit: Maddy Pisio

More than 700 self-advocates, family members, service providers, disability rights leaders and community partners from across California traveled to Sacramento last week for the 19th Annual DisCo at the Capitol: California Disability Community Advocacy Conference presented by The Arc of California , Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA), Easterseals and United Cerebral Palsy of California.

The two-day event brought together California’s disability community for advocacy, celebration, education and connection during a pivotal moment for disability rights and services.

The evening reception kicked off with energy and excitement as attendees enjoyed a special book signing with actress, author and advocate Sofia Sanchez. Artists from Studio 700 of The Arc of Placer County showcased and sold their artwork, highlighting the creativity and talent of artists with disabilities.

Attendees were also surprised by a special appearance from Orange County U.S. Congressman Lou Correa, who energized the crowd ahead of the conference’s advocacy day at the Capitol.

A highlight of the evening was a special program commemorating the 60th Anniversary of California’s Regional Center System. Speakers reflected on the progress made over six decades and the importance of continuing to protect and strengthen community-based services for people with developmental disabilities. Featured speakers included The Arc of California Board President Pat Hornbecker, Actor John Tucker, Associate Director of ARCA Tony Anderson, Golden Gate Regional Center Executive Director Eric Zigman, The Arc of San Francisco Executive Director Kristen Pedersen, and Associate Director of The Lanterman Regional Center Rose Chacana.

The celebration continued when the dynamic musical duo MC Down & DJ Hymn got attendees moving, grooving and celebrating together.

Day two focused on advocacy, inspiration and community action. The conference honored The Kelsey and Easterseals Disability Film Challenge with the prestigious California Disability Innovation in Advocacy Award for their groundbreaking work advancing inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities.

Sofia Sanchez returned to co-host the conference alongside The Arc of California Executive Director Jordan Lindsey, helping guide attendees through a day filled with powerful stories and advocacy.

Attendees also heard inspiring presentations from disability advocates Adan Correa and John Tucker (AKA MC Down), who shared personal stories about advocacy, inclusion and the importance of using your voice to create change.

Following legislative meetings and lunch, attendees wrapped up the conference with one of the event’s most popular traditions — the Silent DisCo featuring MC Down, DJ Hymn and DJ Lady Char. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary popsicles from Sofia Sanchez’s 321 Pop mobile popsicle stand.

The Arc of California and event partners extend sincere gratitude to the many sponsors whose generous support helped make this event possible and ensured advocates from across California could participate:

Waymo, Chick-fil-A, Pacific Homecare Services, Tierra del Sol Foundation, The Arc of SanDiego, College of Adaptive Arts, Desert Arc, Home of Guiding Hands, Pediatric Day Health Care Coalition, Public Partnerships PPL, Hope Services, Therap Services, 24 Hour Home Care, Cookman Law, Faria Engineering and Surveying, Fragile X Association of Southern California, Law Offices of Chad Carlock, PathPoint, Ruzzo Scholl & Murphy, Station 16, UCP of the North Bay, Luther and Amy Nishimura, Pat and Tim Hornbecker, Felisa Strickland, Dr. Lou Vismara

View media coverage, event photos and highlights from the conference:

• News Coverage by KCRA 3 and KTLX 10:
• True Love Photography Event Photos:

Last week, on April 1 and 2, the 18th Annual DisCo at the Capitol: California Disability Community Advocacy Conference brought together over 600 attendees, marking a record attendance for this vital event. Hosted by The Arc of California, Easterseals, and United Cerebral Palsy, the conference aimed to empower and educate advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The event kicked off with a series of impactful sessions, including discussions on the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts by Katy Neas, CEO, The Arc of California, and updates on California’s Master Plan for Developmental Services featuring Secretary Kim Johnson, California Health and Human Services Agency. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with influential speakers and participate in meaningful conversations about the future of disability services in our state.

One highlight of the conference was the surprise visit from California’s Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, who addressed the audience with a strong message of support. She reassured attendees that California stands firmly behind them in the face of potential federal cuts to Medicaid and other essential programs.

Additionally, we presented the first ever “California Disability Innovation in Advocacy Award” to the very deserving Season Goodpasture, Founder and Executive Director of Acorns to Oak Trees, who is doing extraordinary work in making regional center services available to tribal communities across California.

The second day featured a spirited walk, rally, and roll to the legislative offices, allowing participants to meet with their legislators and advocate for their rights. The event also included a silent DisCo and a moving performance by the Access Dance Program, showcasing the talent and creativity of individuals with disabilities.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors who made this event possible, and the dedicated staff, volunteers, and vendors who made it a memorable experience for all. Their hard work and commitment played a crucial role in creating an inspiring atmosphere for all participants.

As we reflect on this year’s conference, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of the California disability community. Together, we will continue to advocate for change and ensure that every voice is heard. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important event, and we look forward to seeing you next year!

In case you missed it, KCRA’s Edie Lambert invited Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director of The Arc & UCP California Collaboration, and parent-advocate and The Arc of California Board Member Felisa Strickland and her daughter Lily to sit down for an interview on April 2 to talk about the threat to Medicaid-funded services and programs and how those cuts could impact Californians with developmental disabilities and their families.  Click HERE to watch the interview.

Click HERE to view photos.