Different Together – And That’s Our Strength: Celebrating Every Voice

Different Together – And That’s Our Strength: Celebrating Every Voice

This year’s FREE Advocacy Conference was an unforgettable celebration of unity, empowerment, and the power of every voice. The event, Different Together – And That’s Our Strength: Celebrating Every Voice, brought together self-advocates, families, staff, and community members for a day filled with inspiration, learning, and connection.

Hosted in partnership with CSTEP and SUNY Old Westbury, the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving advocacy forward. From start to finish, the energy in the room reflected the passion and dedication of everyone present.

The day began with a moving performance by the FREE Players Drum Corps and a stirring rendition of the National Anthem performed by the FREE Players Ensemble—setting the tone for an uplifting and memorable program.

Senator Monica Martinez, a longtime champion for disability rights, captivated the audience with her personal story of advocacy. She spoke about the importance of knowing your rights, speaking up, and supporting one another. Her commitment shone through as she was listening to advocates share their experiences.

Throughout the event, FREE’s Speakers Bureau inspired attendees with powerful personal stories, leading conversations and audience engagement alongside advocacy groups including Prideability, Oakdale All-Stars, and the DSW Advocacy Group.

This year’s keynote presentation, Advocacy Meets Innovation: Merging Self-Advocacy and AI to Transform Human Services, delivered by Matt Hofele and Doug Golub, pushed the boundaries of advocacy by exploring the future role of technology in supporting human services.

A big thank you to Commissioner Willow Baer and OPWDD’s Peer Specialist team for their inspiring recorded message!

The conference also recognized outstanding contributions through this year’s Advocacy Awards:

• Community Advocacy Award: Emma Clark Library
• Family Advocacy Award: Mickey Michaels

Staff Awards

• Residential Staff Award: Krista Knoblich
• Day Services Staff Award: Kathleen (Kat) Kehoe

Self-Advocate Awards

• Rising Star: Janine Saunders Hooks
• Self-Advocate of the Year: Jessica Portnoy

FREE extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this day possible—our partners, advocates, families, and staff who continue to champion the belief that we are stronger together. This year’s conference was not only a celebration, but also a powerful reminder: when every voice is heard, real change happens.