East Hudson Valley News

Dutchess County is set to host its 8th Annual ThinkDIFFERENTLY Conference on December 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Henry A. Wallace Center at FDR Presidential Library and Home in Hyde Park. This event is organized for service providers, educators, and families of individuals with disabilities. Registration is required for this free conference, which includes a complimentary lunch.

The focus of this year's conference will be on disability etiquette. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed pride in bringing together those committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities. "Disability etiquette encourages us to properly and respectfully interact with and speak to residents with disabilities, empowering them to contribute to their community," said Serino.

The ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative by Dutchess County aims to create a more inclusive environment by removing barriers and expanding opportunities for people with disabilities. Now in its eighth year, the conference serves as an important platform for discussions on inclusivity and sharing best practices that support individuals of all abilities across schools, workplaces, and communities.

The agenda for the 2024 ThinkDIFFERENTLY Conference includes opening remarks by County Executive Serino, followed by a panel discussion titled “Lived Experience Disability Etiquette” at 9:30 a.m. The session will cover experiences of local residents with disabilities, preferences regarding addressing disabilities, and appropriate language use.

After lunch from noon to 1 p.m., Emma Arnoff, LCSW, AutPlay Certified Therapist, owner of Sensory Space Poughkeepsie, and parent will lead a session on “Neurodivergent Etiquette & Ableism.” This discussion will focus on ableism and neurodivergent symbols. Each session will include question-and-answer sections and provide resources for continued learning about disability etiquette.

Dana Hopkins, Dutchess County’s All Abilities Programs Director stated, “Dutchess County is committed to ensuring that every resident, regardless of ability, feels valued and included." She added that the ThinkDIFFERENTLY Conference remains central to their mission of building an inclusive community.

Further details about the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative can be found on thinkdifferently.net.