The LifeCourse Nexus recently hosted its 10th annual Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) Showcase, bringing together 301 attendees from 32 states and territories for an energizing and inspiring event centered on supporting individuals and families to live good lives.
Self-advocates, family leaders, professionals, educators and system partners gathered to learn from one another, share ideas and strengthen connections across the growing LifeCourse community. Throughout the week, attendees explored how CtLC is being used across all life stages, for different roles and in many practice areas. They learned how the framework strengthens self-determination, supports families, aligns teams and creates transformational change across schools, organizations, communities and systems.
For many participants, the Showcase reinforced both the power of the work and the strength of the broader community. One attendee reflected that there were “so many ‘Aha!’ moments and so much knowledge gained and shared at this event,” adding that they were proud “to be a part of this movement with so many wonderful people.”
Preliminary Sessions Build Knowledge and Connections
Activities began on May 5 with the annual Community of Practice for Supporting Families meeting and two pre-showcase intensives: Charting the LifeCourse Fundamentals and Person-Centered Systems & Organizational Transformation. These sessions gave participants opportunities to deepen their understanding of CtLC principles, share practical approaches for embedding CtLC into daily practice and systems change efforts, and connect with others leading this work across the country.
Attendees described the Fundamentals session as especially impactful. One participant shared that the training was “very eye-opening,” while also recognizing that CtLC principles extend beyond formal services and supports, noting that the framework “isn’t just for the individuals being served, it can apply to everyone involved in their lives.”
The day concluded with the Ambassador Reception, celebrating CtLC Ambassadors, coaches, and champions who are advancing Charting the LifeCourse across organizations, communities, and systems nationwide.
Showcasing Real-World Impact
The Showcase officially launched with a plenary session introducing the inaugural Charting the LifeCourse Distinguished Affiliates, recognizing organizations demonstrating deep and sustained commitment to implementing CtLC principles across practice, leadership, and systems change.
Throughout the event, attendees participated in 27 breakout sessions, six CtLC in Action groups, 16 spotlight sessions, and five One-Slide Challenges. Sessions highlighted how CtLC is being used in transition planning, employment supports, family leadership, community living, organizational transformation, and systems change efforts.
Participants appreciated hearing diverse perspectives and real-world examples from across the country. One attendee noted that “the showcase was well organized, and the sessions were terrific,” adding that the experience demonstrated “that we CAN do anything through Charting the LifeCourse!”
New Opportunities Highlight Community and Creativity
New this year, the Showcase also featured local Kansas City entrepreneurs with disabilities who shared and sold their products during the event, highlighting the talents, creativity, and contributions of people in the community.
Attendees also explored the first-ever LifeCourse Market Pop Up, previewed new resources, and connected through networking opportunities and collaborative conversations throughout the week.
Looking Ahead to the Future of the LifeCourse Movement
As the 10th annual Showcase came to a close, attendees reflected on the energy, creativity, and shared commitment that continues to grow the LifeCourse movement. One participant shared that it “felt wonderful to be in the company of so many folks who are living the principles with me,” while helping to build systems and communities that increasingly allow people and families to “live their best lives.”
Save the date for Showcase 2027 — May 18-20 in Kansas City, Missouri.
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