Participant (Delegate) Information
This National Summit is an invitation-only, working meeting to develop recommendations to guide improvements in disability policy and programs for the next decade. The topics and issues are national in scope and relevant to all people with disabilities. To achieve NCD goals and objectives for the Summit, invited participants must be knowledgeable in various areas of disability policy and represent the diversity of disability in the United States.
Balanced coverage and comprehensive representation includes the following requirements:
- Participants with expertise and experience in one or more of the 10 tracks and broad policy expertise;
- Participants with experience with all types of disabilities;
- Participants from all parts of the country and all types of communities (e.g., urban, suburban, rural, reservations);
- Participants from various ethnic, racial, and cultural backgrounds; and
- Participants with varying life experience and perspectives such as veterans, youth, employers, etc.
Delegate Application
Consumers and other individuals representing federal, state and local government agencies, community-based and national organizations, business and industry, and academia and research entities focused on disability policy were encouraged to complete a delegate application form. All participants should be self-nominated so that the selection committee is assured the individual is committed to attend if selected. The deadline for submitting the application was October 15, 2009.
Delegate Commitment
- Each delegate will review materials related to their assigned topic area before arriving in Washington and submit preliminary thoughts as requested prior to the conference. Total time commitment estimated prior to the summit itself equals approximately 10 to 15 hours.
- Each delegate will also have the option to review and provide input on other topic areas if they desire, as initial policy papers regarding each of the 10 tracks will be posted and disseminated to delegates by February 2010. This optional participation is not required.
- Delegates should plan to arrive in Washington, DC on July 25, 2010, and attend all plenary and working sessions scheduled on July 26 and 27, 2010.
Scholarships
To help ensure full participation, a limited number of scholarships are available for consumer delegates (individuals with disabilities not representing an organization). The scholarship will cover hotel and a pro rated per diem amount to assist with meals not covered as part of the Summit. Hotel and per diem assistance will be available for two or three days as needed. The delegate will be responsible for travel and other expenses. Accommodations required for participation during the meeting will be supplied. Lodging expenses for a personal attendant traveling with the delegate may also be requested. Scholarships will be awarded upon request once delegate selection is complete.