The Arc National Convention Recap
The Arc’s 2023 National Convention was three wonderful days of learning, connecting, and fun.
Attendees at this year’s event held November 6-8 in New Orleans had opportunities to network with advocates, professionals, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families.
Representatives from The Arc-JCCGC were there, including the winners selected in our random drawing for a trip to the National Convention. The winners of our chapter’s drawing and their support people were:
Michael Saynourath and his mother Melissa Saynourath
Mackenzie Cline and her father Bruce Cline
They attended informative sessions about employment, education, advocacy, housing, criminal justice, and more – sure to challenge, inspire, and motivate.
Q & A with Mackenzie Cline
Q: What was the highlight of the New Orleans trip for you?
A: Two highlights were meeting some people and having dinner with a group at Drago’s.
Q: What was your favorite breakout session at the National Convention?
A: I didn’t have favorites, but I liked the videos that were shown.
Q: What was the most important thing you learned by attending the convention?
A: Meeting new people.
Q & A with Michael Saynourath
Q: What was the highlight of the New Orleans trip for you?
A: Creole Queen Historic Cruise on a Paddleboat.
Q: What was your favorite breakout session at the National Convention?
A: When Ignorance Becomes Awareness: The Dark Side of Autism.
Q: What was the most important thing you learned by attending the convention?
A: Learning about resources to attend college.
