Annual conference highlights resources for families and professionals caring for individuals who have a disability 

(Columbia, SC)—Family Connection of South Carolina will be hosting its annual Hopes and Dreams Conference on Thursday, March 27th at the R2i2 Conference Center in Columbia. This event brings together professionals and families who care for children and young adults who have a disability as well as self-advocates for a day of learning and collaboration.  

Keynote speakers include Tanner Smith and his mother Nicci Smith in the morning session, and ‘quirky kid’ Amy Nelson, in the afternoon session. Tanner Smith is a 26-year-old South Carolina native who came into the public eye after appearing on Season 2 of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum US. Tanner was diagnosed with high functioning Autism and Sensory Integration Dysfunction at 4 years old. He is a 2022 graduate of ClemsonLIFE. Amy Nelson is an award-winning author who champions neurodiversity and inclusion with unmatched expertise and authenticity. Her dynamic presentations inspire audiences to create sensory-smart, inclusive spaces where every child can thrive.  

“We are delighted to welcome these exciting keynote speakers to our annual conference. Their presentations will enhance this day of learning and collaboration which highlights resources and best practices for families navigating the journey of parenting a child with disabilities” said Amy Holbert, CEO of Family Connection SC.  

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and opening remarks begin at 9:00 a.m.  

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are still available. Continuing education credits will be provided by the South Carolina Area Health Education Consortium (AHEC) and the South Carolina Community Health Worker Association (CHW). 
 
Registration and conference details are available at: www.familyconnectionsc.org/training/conferences  

This event is supported in partnership with BlueCross BlueShield, DentaQuest, the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council, SC Department of Public Health, SC Department of Education, the SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Healthy Connections BabyNet, South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Healthy Connections Medicaid, Transition Alliance of SC (TASC), ABS Kids, Springbrook Behavioral Health, Little Johnny, Abacus Planning Group, and HealthLinks Magazine.