The Annual Voices of Change Conference is a student-driven gathering for D.C. high school students with disabilities to learn, lead, and act. Participants build skills, share their voices, and explore pathways toward employment and self-determined lives. Guided by a theme chosen by youth leaders, conference activities will center on disability awareness, self-expression, and career exploration.
When: Friday, March 20, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library | 901 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Eligibility:
- D.C. high school students with disabilities, including students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans
- This is a Pre-Employment Transition Service (Pre-ETS), funded by the D.C. Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). Students must complete the RSA Pre-ETS participation forms prior to the conference.
School Registration: This event is designed for small groups of students to be accompanied by school staff or an adult chaperone. Educators should register students by February 27, 2026. Venue capacity is limited.
Resource Tables: Interested in hosting a resource table in the Exhibit Hall? Please complete this interest form by March 6, 2026. Space is limited. Table reservations will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.
Lunch will be provided.
Learn More: If you have additional questions, contact Sarah Grime at 202-487-1976 or sarah.grime@schooltalkdc.org.
Agenda At-A-Glance
- Opening Plenary – Voices of Change will open with a high-energy plenary session featuring performers, a youth DJ, and brief framing remarks.
- Breakout Activities – Youth will rotate through several opportunities:
- Exhibit Hall with mini-informational interviews with professionals, community vendors, service providers, and entrepreneurs
- Exploratory Stations led by students with disabilities with a focus on their internships
- DC Public Library Tours hosted by the library’s Center for Accessibility (limited slots available)
- Closing Performance & Lunch – Voices of Change will wrap up in this session with a call to action and youth performers.
Special Thanks to Our Partners & Funders
- DC Department on Disability Services’ Rehabilitation Services Administration
- DC Public Library Center for Accessibility
- Education Forward DC
- Mid-Atlantic ADA Center
