AAIDD: Texas Chapter Annual 50th Anniversary Convention-Save The Date! (August 18th-August 21st, 2026)

Please mark your calendars for the 50th Annual AAIDD Texas Chapter Convention in Corpus Christi, Texas!  This annual convention is open to all non-members of AAIDD as well as new and current members. We encourage you to become a member, as you will receive a discounted registration rate to attend the convention, and you will have a chance to win some fabulous prizes from “YETI”.  Of course, there are many other great reasons to become a member.  Please click here for more information and member registration.

Texas Chapter of AAIDD website.

As some of you may know, I (Julie Blacklock) am on the board at AAIDD Texas Chapter. Twogether Consulting has also been a long-time sponsor. AAIDD Texas Chapter is currently putting together this year’s 50th anniversary convention, and we plan for it to be jam-packed with amazing, interesting, and pertinent presenters and breakout sessions.  We hope that many of you will be able to attend this year, and we have tried to make the dates for this convention a bit more convenient, as we know that the Fall is a big time for IDD events, conferences, and conventions in Texas and nationwide. 

One of the exciting things we plan on having in place this year is our HHSC/TMHP “information tables” with experts from TMHP (Texas Medicaid Health Partnership) and HHSC (Health & Human Services Commission) in areas/departments where HCS/TxHmL and ICF providers, in particular, will have a chance to have their specific questions and concerns answered and or addressed. We have received confirmation that the following departments/units will be coming with representatives and experts concerning: Contracts & Enrollments, Utilization Review, Provider Monitoring, TMHP (Texas Medicaid Health Portal), and Medicaid.   LIDDA staff and IDD  Bring your DLN #’s, ticket #’s, Level of Need (LON) denial letters, and any other documents pertaining to your questions and any previously reported issues that have not been addressed, for “on-site” assistance.  The representatives will be available from about  8:00am to 4:30pm on both days.

Please save the date, as registration, sponsor, and vendor information, as well as agenda topics for the convention, will be available soon in the next few weeks.

What a great place to have a summer convention, if I do say so myself.  Bring your family, spend the weekend at the beach, and enjoy the summer fun just a little bit longer.  This convention will bring together individuals with IDD, professionals, advocates, family members, and community members to share experiences and insights for the continuing support and empowerment of individuals with IDD. 

There will be a silent auction, a chance to win some cash with our 50/50 raffle, and a chance to win prizes with a drawing for current and new members. 

 Continuing education credits will also be available.  

For inquiries about the convention, our speakers, and topics please contact Pat Holder at patholder@austin.rr.com. We look forward to seeing you at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Purpose of AAIDD  

Is a nonprofit organization.  Their mission is to enhance the quality of services and provide meaningful opportunities and choices for people with IDD and their families by exchanging information and ideas, and by advancing the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field.  The Association represents many disciplines (professionals, individuals with IDD and their families, and other interested persons).  AAIDD Texas Chapter provides a forum for:

• Developing the human resources and leadership needed in the field.

• Promoting quality services that include persons with IDD in the rhythms of the community.

• Encouraging basic and applied research and its dissemination and application.

• Influencing progressive public policies.

• Promoting public awareness and attitudes.

​From the AAIDD Texas Chapter President’s Report in April 2026

Attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of presentations, including:

• A thought-provoking opening session by AAIDD (National Chapter) CEO Margaret Nygren, exploring the evolution of publicly funded supports and what lies ahead

• Insightful discussions on mental health, trauma-informed care, and family experiences in crisis

• Practical strategies for supporting independence, transition-age youth, and workplace inclusion

• Emerging perspectives on sensory processing, peer support roles, and person-centered practices

• Timely updates on Texas legislation and system-level changes impacting IDD services  

From topics like polypharmacy and proactive medical care to the role of music, faith, and outdoor experiences in enriching lives, the program reflects the diversity and depth of our field. Whether you are a clinician, provider, educator, policymaker, or advocate, there will be meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.  

As we reflect on Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, I encourage each of you to carry its message forward—recommitting to our shared mission of promoting policies and practices that support inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all.  

Thank you for the work you do every day—and for being part of this community.

2026 Convention Committee