Conectar_Partnership, & Community:Advancing Disability Services for Latinos

Discover how research, partnerships, and community can advance disability services and support for Latino families.
About this Event

Join the Hispanic Leaders’ Network (HLN) for the next session of the Conectar-Connect Leadership Development Series, featuring Kristen Padilla, Ph.D., of Baylor University.

Dr. Padilla will present Research, Partnership, and Community: Advancing Disability Services for Latino Families, an engaging discussion focused on strengthening access, inclusion, and support for Latino families of individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Drawing from her work in research, professional training, and community engagement, Dr. Padilla will share practical insights into how culturally and linguistically responsive approaches can improve family engagement, reduce barriers to services, and create stronger partnerships between families, educators, service providers, researchers, and community organizations.

Attendees can expect to:

• Learn more about challenges Latino and Spanish-speaking families may experience when accessing disability-related services and resources.
• Explore how research can be translated into meaningful, community-based solutions.
• Understand the importance of culturally responsive assessment, intervention, and family engagement.
• Hear how partnerships between universities, service providers, and community organizations can strengthen systems of support.
• Gain ideas for elevating family voice and creating more inclusive services for individuals with disabilities.

This session is designed for community leaders, nonprofit professionals, educators, healthcare and social service professionals, advocates, families, and anyone interested in building more inclusive and responsive communities.

Friday, September 18, 2026
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Waco Civic Theatre
1517 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Lunch will be provided. Space is limited, so advance registration is encouraged.

Thank You - Waco Civic Theatre for serving as the Venue Sponsor for this Conectar-Connect session.