Disability Community Seminar: Accessing the World through International Exchange
People in the U.S. disability community are invited for this half-day seminar and luncheon in Denver as we discuss the ‘Who, What, Where and Why’ of international exchange, including overseas cultural, educational, professional and volunteer programs, for U.S. students, teachers, professionals and others with disabilities.
When: Tuesday, July 13th, 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
1550 Court Place
Denver, Colorado 80202
Registration Deadline: June 21, 2010. Space is limited to 50 participants, so register early!
Seminar Resources
Seminar Agenda
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Presenters will share practical tools and resources on using VR and keeping SSI benefits, while highlighting scholarships available for international exchange;
- A panel of exchange alumni with disabilities will give personal international exchange stories and accommodation strategies for navigating abroad: what to bring, what to expect and more;
- Professor Christie Gilson, who received a Fulbright fellowship in 2005 to conduct doctoral disability research at the University of Hong Kong, will deliver a luncheon keynote speech about her experiences in applying for the Fulbright, preparing to go abroad, and experiencing life in Hong Kong.
- Representatives of international exchange organizations will present to small groups about their programs and scholarships, best practices and past exchange experiences.
Attendees (U.S. citizens and residents only)
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U.S. Disability organization representatives
- People with disabilities of all ages and disability types in the United States
- Those who work with people with disabilities in the United States
Cost and Registration
- Registration is $40.00 (includes lunch)
- Need-based scholarships available.
- All participants must register by June 21, 2010.
- A luncheon is provided in the event cost. Participants are responsible for all other food costs as well as their own transportation and lodging.
- The site is wheelchair accessible and disability-related accommodations, such as sign language interpreters and alternative formats, will be available upon request.
Offered in partnership with the co-convened AHEAD and PepNet 2010 Conference. Co-sponsored by Mobility International USA (MIUSA), the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, and the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD).
Why International Exchange?
“You get to explore other lifestyles, education, music and culture. Once the intrigue started, I sought out the possibilities for having other international opportunities. I feel changed each time I travel somewhere internationally, and any career I do will have some type of international aspect to it.” -- Betsy Valnes, an American University student with a brain injury, and executive director of National Youth Leadership Network, traveled abroad to Canada and Europe as a youth in South Dakota and attended conferences and exchanges in Bosnia and Bahrain.
"I speak about the importance of opportunities for young people with disabilities to participate in international exchange programs that develop leadership skills...and how those early experiences transfer to increased self esteem and employability as adults.” -- Susie Grimes, former Paralympic wheelchair basketball champion, and consultant for international exchange and development projects, which have taken her from Australia to Costa Rica to Kuwait to Zimbabwe.
