The first National Training Conference of Proyecto Visión, held August 21-24 in Anaheim, California, enabled participants to network and learn from each other's experiences with Latinos who have disabilities, receive practical information and training on topics related to employment and see demonstrations of assistive technology. The Proyecto Visión conference, entitled Bridges to Employment for Latinos with Disabilities (Puentes Para El Empleo) was open to Latinos with disabilities who are seeking employment or career advancement as well as the professionals who work with them.

Plenary sessions in particular were used as an opportunity to present role models and success stories of Latinos with disabilities who have succeeded in their careers. Throughout the conference, employment specialists and other professionals were able to learn about successful programs that help Latinos with disabilities gain employment and become more independent citizens. Latinos with disabilities were encouraged to network with prospective employers and meet potential mentors.

Some of the concurrent breakout sessions included presentations on programs at independent living centers that have successfully reached out to Latinos with disabilities, information on legislative acts and government programs that make it easier for unemployed people with disabilities to return to work, services provided by the California Department of Rehabilitation, and using international travel as a way to increase job skills and experience.

Informal round-table discussions gave participants opportunities to experiences, insights, and advice related to helping young Latinos with disabilities develop more self-confidence, encouraging Latino agencies to become more inclusive of people with disabilities, defining the appropriate role of parents and family in the independent living process, and defining independence and success in the U.S. Latino community.

A closing dinner banquet and celebration gave participants a chance to enjoy a meal together, say goodbye to new friends before returning home, and show off individual talents in a free-for-all talent show. Performers sang, told jokes that reflected Latino or Deaf cultures, played the guitar, and demonstrated other talents.

The conference was organized by the World Institute on Disability (WID), the National Technical Assistance Center for Latinos with Disabilities, and the Central Coast Center for Independent Living, and sponsored by the Rehabilitation Services Administration and the U.S. Department of Education.

For more information on the Bridges to Employment Conference, go to http://www.proyectovision.net/news/english/bridges/bridges.html or contact Kathy Martinez of WID at 510 16th Street, Suite 100 Oakland, CA 94612; Tel: 510-251-4326; Fax: 510-763-4109; e-mail: kathy@wid.org.

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