Community of Practice for Supporting Families National Meeting

More than 60 leaders representing 22 member states gathered in Kansas City on May 5, 2026, for the Annual Community of Practice (CoP) for Supporting Families national meeting. The day was filled with energy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to strengthening support for families of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Throughout the meeting, state CoPs highlighted innovative strategies and promising practices aimed at building stronger family networks, establishing shared values, and meaningfully engaging families at every level of the system. Participants also explored how evolving federal policies are influencing state efforts and shaping the future of family support systems nationwide.

Most importantly, the meeting created space for meaningful conversations, authentic connections, and peer learning across states. Attendees left inspired by the creativity and dedication of their colleagues — energized with fresh ideas, strengthened partnerships, and renewed motivation to continue the work that matters every day.

The Community of Practice for Supporting Families is a collaboration between NASDDDS, the University of Missouri, Kansas City Institute for Human Development, and 22 member states and is more than 12 years old. It continues to serve a critical role in helping state systems to understand how to best support families of all people with IDD across the lifespan. We are inspired by the states and look forward to continuing in partnership. For more information about joining the CoP for Supporting Families, please contact Laura Vegas at lvegas@nasddds.org or see this website: https://www.supportstofamilies.org/