The Value and Importance of Celebrations and Community Inclusion

Presented by: Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Virtual (via Zoom)

This training explores the profound impact that celebrations have on the lives of people with Intellectual & Developmental disabilities and the critical role that family members play in creating meaningful experiences. Participants will move beyond traditional holiday thinking to discover the rich variety of celebrations that matter, from personal milestones and cultural traditions to everyday victories. Through research-based content, real-world examples, and practical planning tools, families will learn how to create inclusive celebration experiences that honor their loved one’s preferences, strengthen family bonds, and build authentic community inclusion. Celebrations are not luxury extras but fundamental components of wellbeing, dignity, and belonging.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the psychological and social value of celebrations and why celebrating everyone is essential for dignity and belonging
• Identify diverse types of celebrations beyond traditional holidays, including personal milestones, cultural traditions, family rituals, and spontaneous daily victories
• Describe the critical impact of family connection and presence on their loved one’s wellbeing and quality of life
• Develop a personal action plan for meaningful celebrations that includes practical strategies for staying connected and collaborating with support staff
  
  This seminar is recommended for families and other stakeholdersPresenter:
  

  
  Dr. Sarah Gonzalez Noveiri is the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Officer at AHRC Nassau and an award-winning interdisciplinary rhetorician and Critical Cultural scholar. With a strong foundation in the humanities, Dr. Gonzalez Noveiri’s research and pedagogy address global diversity, equity, and inclusion through an intersectional lens.

Pre-registration is required below ↓