Mental Health Matters: Training for Self-Advocates with IDD and Their Families
The Mission Project is excited to share an upcoming opportunity for self-advocates, families, and caregivers in our community to learn more about an important—but often overlooked—topic: mental health.
As our participant and self-advocate, Whit, has shared, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often spend years learning about their diagnosis, services, and support systems—but far less time learning about emotional wellness, stress, coping skills, and mental wellness.
To help address this gap, the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD) is partnering with Chandra Gordon, LMSW, to offer a new training designed specifically for the IDD community:
Mental Health Matters
Trainings for Self-Advocates with IDD and Their Families + Caregivers
📅 July 15, 2026
📍 Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center
8788 Metcalf Ave.
Overland Park, KS 66212
Training Schedule
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Training for Self-Advocates with IDD
6:45 PM – 7:45 PM
Training for Families and Caregivers
This training is completely free and tailored specifically to the unique experiences of individuals with IDD and those who support them.
Mental health impacts all of us, yet individuals with IDD and their families are often left out of these important conversations. Trainings like this create space for learning, connection, and support—helping participants better understand emotions, develop coping strategies, and build confidence in navigating mental wellness.
At The Mission Project, we believe supporting independence means supporting the whole person—including emotional health, self-awareness, and resilience. We are grateful to Whit, KCDD, and all those involved in bringing this important conversation to our community and creating space for meaningful dialogue around mental health.
Interested in attending? Register here:
Register for Mental Health Matters
We encourage self-advocates, families, caregivers, and community members to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
