2026 Fifth Annual Inclusive Housing Summit--From Policy to Place: Building Affordable, Accessible & Inclusive Communities

We will explore the current housing policies at the state level and how they impact the creation of inclusive housing. As we move from policy to place,this year's format will be a little different--a morning panel with state level officials and a post-lunch panel with legislators from the the I/DD Caucus.

After the second panel, participants will have the opportunity to choose a breakout session that highlights several current housing communities (or "places") have created opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience belonging

Our Exhibit Hall will feature community organizations working to improve the lives of adults with I/DD. We listened to feedback and there will be more time this year to visit with each organization!

Summit Agenda:

8:00 am Registration Opens

8-9 Coffee/Networking–Visit Exhibit Hall

9-9:05 Welcome & Opening Remarks

9:05-9:35am HOPE NC: Building Inclusive Communities

9:35--10:55 Keynote Panel: How is the state addressing the need for housing options for adults with I/DD?

Janneke Ratliff, Housing Advisor to Gov Stein

Kelly Crosbie, Secretary of DMH/DD/SUS at DHHS

11:00 -12:00 Networking/Visit Exhibit Hall

12:00-1:00 Lunch

1:00-2:00 General Assembly Legislative I/DD Caucus panel--What is the I/DD Caucus and how does it relate to inclusive housing?

2:00-3:30 Breakout Sessions (choose 1)

Session A: Patuxent Commons, inclusive housing in Maryland, lessons after one year in operation

Session B:What is the Community Facilitator role and why is it needed? HOPE NC residents and Community Facilitators share their experiences

Session C: Two NC communities providing support for people with higher needs while creating community ties

3:35--4:00 Closing session

For Breakout Session details go to