Well it is another wrap for the 2013 SPEAK UP & SPEAK OUT Summit! What a pleasure it is to
work with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities to put on this remarkable event. The
Council and Director Romano’s commitment to the Summit is admirable.
Once again, the Summit was sold out with about 520 mostly individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities attending. The Summit is all about leadership and finding your own voice.
We have major keynote presentations, a time for self-advocates to Speak OUT, breakouts, exhibits,
meals and lodging and oh yes, the dance! This year’s dance theme was SUPER HEROES and it was
a sight to behold. I don’t think there is anything like the Summit anywhere. More photo’s will be posted
to our Facebook Page.

Here are some photos from the Summit:

Starting session: Anthony & Nicholas Billups – Special

.People Speaking UP

Secretary Saddler & Assist Sec Smyster-De Leon

Director Casey

Questions for the Director

Governor Quinn at the Summit!!!

Director Romano, ICDD Chair Bill Bogdan & the Governor

Tony & the Governor

The Dance Theme was Super Heroes!

Director Romano, Tim Harris & Tony

The final presentation was Tim Harris and wow! His presentation: “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do it” Here is a short clip of Tim’s talk.

The Arc Crew getting a chance to sit down!

I cannot wait for next year’s SPEAK UP & SPEAK OUT SUMMIT!


Tony Paulauski
Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org