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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- 4:30pm
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!

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.

Mark Bradford

Fellow for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

at Word on Fire

Melody Escobar

Associate Research Scientist at Baylor University, Collaborative on Faith and Disability

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.

Pre-Conference Conversations

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Get inspired by listening to four conversations on beauty and disability!

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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

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

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Presented by:

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In Partnership with:

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