Family Support Network's First Annual TLC Pathways Conference
Your central hub for conference details, registration, payment information, schedule updates, and important announcements.
TLC Pathways Conference
Conference Details
Join us for Family Support Network's First Annual Teaching Loving Caring (TLC) Pathways Conference in Santa Ana, CA, a day created to support families of individuals with developmental disabilities. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis or preparing for the transition to adulthood, choose workshops that fit your family's journey, learn from trusted professionals, ask questions, and connect with local organizations at our Resource Fair.
Conference Information
- Date: September 26, 2026
- Time: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- Location: Reimagine OC |
1601 E St Andrew Pl,
Santa Ana, CA 92705
- Check-in: Begins at 8:00 AM
Conference Highlights
- Inspiring keynote presentations
- Educational workshop sessions
- Interactive panel discussions
- Networking with OC organizations
- Complimentary breakfast and lunch
- Resource materials and take-home tools
Larry Landauer
Featured Keynote Speaker
Featured Keynote Speaker
Larry Landauer
Chief Executive Officer
Regional Center of Orange County
We're honored to welcome Larry Landauer, CEO of the Regional Center of Orange County, as our keynote speaker for the 2026 TLC Pathways Conference. Larry will share insights and inspiration to help families, caregivers, and professionals navigate the journey of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
Conference Pathways
The TLC Pathways Conference is designed to meet families wherever they are on their journey. Whether you are navigating a new diagnosis or preparing for the transition to adulthood, this conference offers the knowledge, resources, and connections to help you move forward with confidence.
Attendees chose the pathway that best fit their needs
Stay Up to Date
Pathway A
Newly Diagnosed Families
Learn about early intervention, developmental services, education, therapies, and community resources to help build a strong foundation for your child's future.
Workshop 1 — Building Your Roadmap after Diagnosis
Learn the essential first steps after a diagnosis, including navigating services, understanding key systems, and connecting with the resources and support your family needs to build a strong foundation for the future.
Speaker: Glen Mijares, Intake Department Supervisor | Regional Center of Orange County
Workshop 2 — Understanding School Supports: IEPs, 504 Plans, and Your Child’s Educational Rights
Understanding School Supports: IEPs, 504 Plans, and Your Child’s Educational Rights
Speaker: Karen Yingling, Education and Disability Rights Advocate | Advocacy for Connected Education
Workshop 3 — Caring for the Family: Building Strength, Hope, and Resilience
Explore ways to support caregivers, siblings, and the entire family by building resilience, fostering meaningful connections, and creating a strong network of support.
Speaker: Sofia Martinez, Chief Executive Officer | Reimagine OC
Speaker:
Angie Medina, Children Services Program Supervisor | Reimagine OC
Pathway B
Transitioning to Adulthood
Explore topics such as employment, higher education, independent living, financial planning, adult services, healthcare, and preparing for life beyond school.
Workshop 1 — Helping Your Teen Transition to Adulthood
Understand the key changes that come with turning 18, from healthcare and education to public benefits, decision-making, and adult services, and learn how to support a successful transition into adulthood.
Speaker: Nicole Farschian, LCSW, HCBA Program Manager | Libertanna
Workshop 2 — Life Beyond School: Employment, Day Programs and Independent Living
Explore employment, day programs, housing, and independent living options that support independence, skill-building, and community participation.
Speaker: Ernie Cruz, Director of Community Services | Regional Center of Orange County
Workshop 3 — Preparing for the Future: Self-Determination, Legal Options, and Financial Planning
Discover how self-determination and supported decision-making can strengthen confidence, encourage informed choices, and promote self-advocacy in education, healthcare, employment, and everyday life.
Speaker: Scarlett vonThenen, Manager 1 | California State Council on Developmental Disabilities
Speaker: Nena T. Sheldon, Senior Associate Attorney | The Law Office of Susan A. Katzen
Learn about early intervention, developmental services, education, therapies, and community resources to help build a strong foundation for your child's future.
Stay Up to Date
Newly Diagnosed Families
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to attend expert-led workshops, connect directly with Orange County agencies and trusted professionals, and explore our Resource Fair featuring organizations from across the county. Families, caregivers, and community members were able to learn about local programs and services, ask questions, and make valuable connections with agencies that can support them throughout their journey.
Attendees left with practical tools, trusted resources, and connections to Orange County organizations they can continue to turn to for support.
Stay Up to Date
Conference Updates
Stay connected! We’ll continue updating this page with post-conference highlights, photos, testimonials, resources, and more from our first annual TLC Pathways Conference.
Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend the TLC Pathways Conference?
The conference is for parents, caregivers, and families navigating a new diagnosis or preparing for the transition to adulthood.
What Did Registration Include?
Registration included expert-led workshops, conference materials, Q&A opportunities, access to the Resource Fair featuring Orange County agencies, continental breakfast, and lunch.
Who can I contact with questions?
For conference updates or questions contact:
- Irene Miranda Bright Horizons Program Coordinator: Imiranda@fsn-oc.org
- Genesis Banuelos Bright Horizons Program Facilitator: Gbanuelos@fsn-oc.org
Where was the conference held?
The TLC Pathways Conference was held at Reimagine OC in Santa Ana, CA.
