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“All men and women are entrusted with the task of crafting their own lives.
They are to make of it a masterpiece.”
St. John Paul II
2026 Conference
Building a Beautiful Life
Saturday, March 7
8:30- 3:00pm
Saint John Paul the Great High School
Potomac Shores, VA
Inspired by the truth that all are formed in the image of God and called to share our unique gifts, Porto Charities and the Diocese of Arlington invite you to a day of fellowship and action.
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Join parents, educators, catechists, clergy, and religious to explore concrete ways we can cultivate a beautiful life of belonging for individuals with disabilities within our schools and parishes.
Spanish sessions will be available!
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Keynote Conversation
Mark Bradford and Melody Escobar draw on their experience as scholars and parents of children with disabilities to discuss what living a beautiful life means for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Breakout Sessions
Dedicated tracks for: Parents, Educators, Clergy/Religious, Teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and Spanish speakers. Checkout the topics and presenters below.
Why Should You Attend?
Highlights
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Breakout sessions will cover topics integral to building a beautiful life in the areas of education, employment, recreation, faith, and housing.
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Engaging sessions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities aged 16+.
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A robust vendor fair where you can meet agencies, non-profits, and ministries supporting families at many life stages.
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New this year: All-abilities art show!
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Childcare for children 3-18 with or without disability.
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Meet and connect with special needs families from across the Diocese of Arlington.
Schedule
8:30 am - Registration and Breakfast
9:00 am - Opening Remarks & Prayer by Bishop Michael Burbidge
9:30 am - Keynote
10:45 am - Breakout 1
11:45 am - Breakout 2
12:40 pm - Lunch & networking
2:00 pm - Breakout 3
3:00 pm - Art show
4:30 pm - Vigil mass
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Vendor Fair: Open 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm.
Childcare: Open 8:45 am - 3:30 pm.
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“What is capable of restoring enthusiasm and confidence, what can encourage the human spirit to rediscover its path, to dream of a life worthy of its vocation, if not beauty?”
Pope Francis
Past Conferences
Check out the presentations from
previous conferences
Presented by:
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In Partnership with:
