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Community Events

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October 2026

Statewide Traumatic Brain Injury Provider Collaborative Kickoff

North Carolina is launching a Statewide Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Provider Collaborative to strengthen connections and expand support for people living with brain injuries. The new initiative responds to the state’s limited TBI workforce, growing provider needs, and the need for stronger, more coordinated collaboration.


By joining the Collaborative, participants will help build a more unified network and contribute to shaping statewide TBI priorities. Anyone involved in providing services or supports to people living with brain injuries is encouraged to participate in this new statewide effort. To learn more about TBI, visit the DMH/DD/SUS website.


Date/Time: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the kickoff

State to Local CFAC Community Collaboration Meeting

DMH/DD/SUS invites you to attend the State to Local CFAC Community Collaboration meeting focused on elevating the voices of people and families who receive mental health, substance use, intellectual/developmental disability, and traumatic brain injury services. This meeting is an opportunity to strengthen communication between local CFACs and the State CFAC, share updates, and identify priorities that shape services and supports in our communities. The public is invited to attend.


Date/Time: Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

Please register before the meeting to receive log-in and dial-in options.

NCDHHS Fireside Chat & Tele-town Hall

Youth Tobacco Cessation: Provider and Parent Roles

Join NCDHHS for a virtual Fireside Chat and Tele‑town Hall on how health care providers and parents can help youth quit commercial tobacco use. Nearly 13% of North Carolina high school students use electronic nicotine products, many of which contain high levels of nicotine that are especially harmful to developing brains. More than half of middle and high school students who vape want to quit, and expert panelists will share practical guidance on how to support them, including information about Nicotine Replacement Therapy and available resources. Together, we can help young people move toward a healthier future.


Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Join Link: Stream Live on NCDHHS Facebook, X and YouTube accounts

Dial In: Call 855-756-7520, Ext. 134951#

November 2026

North Carolina Rehabilitation Association Annual Conference

Beyond the Horizon: Pushing Past Limits and Seeing What's Next

Join the North Carolina Rehabilitation Association (NCRA) for the 2026 Annual Conference, welcoming rehabilitation professionals, community rehabilitation partners, special educators, and all allies of the disability community. This year’s event offers rich professional development, meaningful networking, engaging vendors, and a relaxing beachside setting in North Carolina.


A room block is available at Lumina Resort and can be accessed through the NCRA conference link, or by calling the resort directly and using group code CRA. The room block expires on October 2, 2026, so early reservations are encouraged. Let NCRA 2026 be your opportunity to learn, connect, and enjoy time with colleagues.


Date: Nov. 2-4, 2026

Location: Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG, 1706 N Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC

Registration: Register for the conference

More Information: Download the conference flyer

NASDDDS Directors Forum

& Annual Conference

Join the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS) for the 2026 Directors Forum and Annual Conference. This year’s event will bring together state I/DD leaders, federal partners, subject-matter experts, and industry representatives for a robust exploration of technology, innovation, and emerging priorities in state intellectual and developmental disabilities systems.


Attendees will engage in timely discussions on policy, workforce challenges, and service delivery issues, and will benefit from expert presentations, state-led conversations, and collaborative opportunities. The conference offers practical insights and meaningful connections to advance more person-centered systems nationwide.


Date: Nov. 2-5, 2026

Location: Marriott Marquis Chicago

Registration: Register for the conference

New Adolescent Residential Substance Use Treatment Center

Attend the Ribbon Cutting and Open House

Insight Human Services logo

Join Insight Human Services as they celebrate the opening of their new adolescent residential substance use treatment center in Marion, NC. Community members, partners and families are invited to tour the center, meet the Insight team, and learn more about this new resource for youth and families across North Carolina. 



The new program will serve up to nine adolescents ages 12 to 17, providing intensive clinical support in a structured, home‑like setting. Youth will receive treatment while staying connected to their families and school, helping them prepare for a successful return home. The program is supported by DMH/DD/SUS and was developed in partnership with with Vaya Partners. 

 

Date/Time: Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, 12:00 p.m.

Location: 200 Little Acres Drive, Marion, NC 28752

More information: Download the flyer

Beyond the Referral: The TULA Care Pathway to Ongoing Remote Support and Independence

Join Inclusion Connects for an engaging overview of how the Trillium Ultimate Living Assistant (TULA) program supports members from the first referral through long term remote support services. This webinar will explain the referral process and describe the assessment approach. We'll highlight how TULA collaborates with members, families, providers, and care teams to put technology supports in place that strengthen independence, safety, and quality of life. The session will also walk through how to access TULA. Referral is the starting point, not the finish line.


Date/Time: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

AskMeNC Anniversary Celebration and Report Release

Join partners from across North Carolina on Friday, November 6, as we celebrate the first anniversary of AskMeNC and mark the release of the North Carolina Institute of Medicine (NCIOM) Task Force Report. The event will bring together Service Members, Veterans, families, community partners, providers, and leaders from across the state to celebrate a year of asking, connecting, and strengthening support for North Carolina’s military‑connected communities. It will also look forward using NCIOM’s recommendations for improving Veterans’ health and systems of care.


Date/Time: Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, 11:30-2:30 p.m.

Location: DHHS Headquarters, 1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the event

More Information: Download the event flyer

Money Follows the Person Lunch and Learn

Overview of the NC Council on Developmental Disabilities

This month's Lunch and Learn features an overview of the NC Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD), how they support people with disabilities, and an introduction into the initiatives that support their priorities. Presenters include NCCDD Director of Operations David Ingram and Systems Change Manager Pam Dempsey.


Date/Time: Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m. 

Registration: Register for the lunch & learn

Assistant Secretary Kelly Crosbie to Speak on Keynote Panel at the

HOPE NC Inclusive Housing Summit 

Assistant Secretary Kelly Crosbie will join Janneke Ratcliffe, Housing Advisor to Governor Stein, for a keynote panel at the 5th Annual Inclusive Housing Summit. Members of the NC General Assembly I/DD Caucus and presenters from across North Carolina and beyond will also participate. The event will bring together leaders and advocates from across North Carolina who are working to expand inclusive housing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Register by Nov. 2, 2026 to attend.


Date/Time: Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, 8:00-4:00 p.m. 

Location: Friday Center, 100 Friday Center Drive, Chapel Hill, NC

Registration: Register for the summit

Side by Side with DMH/DD/SUS

Serving Those Who Served: A Conversation About Veteran’s Health and Wellness

Join DMH/DD/SUS for the November Side by Side webinar in recognition of Veterans Day. This month's event features a panel discussion focused on the needs of North Carolina’s veterans. We'll explore community connections, research insights, and statewide efforts to support veteran health and well-being. Panelists will share perspectives on access to services, current initiatives, and opportunities to strengthen support for those who have served.


Date/Time: Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

More Information: Download the event flyer in English and Spanish

Closed Captioning and American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided.

Triangle Business Journal, NCDHHS and Governor's Institute Present

State of Mental Health in North Carolina

North Carolina continues to see rising mental health needs, and this upcoming Triangle Business Journal event brings together leaders who are working every day to respond to these challenges. Save the date and register today to be part of the conversation.


Kelly Crosbie, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services at NCDHHS, will join experts from UNC Health and Duke to share what they are seeing across the state. Their conversation will highlight how collaboration and data are guiding efforts to support individuals, families, and communities.


With higher rates of mental illness among young adults, increased suicide risk in rural areas, and real economic impacts, these issues require strong, coordinated action. The panelists will discuss how statewide initiatives are addressing these trends and where work is headed next. It’s an important opportunity to hear directly from leaders shaping North Carolina’s mental health future.



Date: Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Location: The Umstead Hotel and Spa, 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary, NC

Registration: Register for the event

Brain Injury Advisory Council Meeting

The purpose of the Brain Injury Advisory Council (BIAC) is to review the nature and causes of traumatic and other acquired brain injuries in North Carolina. The Council makes recommendations to the Governor, the General Assembly, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services regarding the planning, development, and funding of a comprehensive statewide service delivery system.


These recommendations help guide the implementation of services that address the needs of people living with brain injuries. All BIAC meetings are open to the public. Virtual and in-person attendance options are available.


Date/Time: Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, 9:00-1:00 p.m.

Location: NCDHHS,1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the meeting

Public Comment: Sign up for public comment

AMERSA 50th Anniversary Conference

Whether you're developing policy, teaching, conducting research, or delivering frontline care, the AMERSA Annual Conference equips you with the latest tools and information to bridge the gap between research and practice. Register today and mark your calendar for November 12-14, with pre-conference workshops available on November 11. The AMERSA Annual Conference brings together a multidisciplinary community committed to advancing substance use education, research, clinical care, and policy.



Date: Nov. 12-14, 2026

Location: 2500 Calvert Street NW, Washington, DC

Registration: Register for the conference

NC Medicaid Community Alternatives Program Quarterly Stakeholder Meeting

NC Medicaid will host a Community Alternatives Program (CAP) Quarterly Stakeholder Meeting. This session will share program updates, provide important information, and offer a space for stakeholders to engage and provide feedback related to the Community Alternatives Program. To support broader access and participation, the meetings will be held as large‑group webinars via Microsoft Teams, welcoming beneficiaries, families, providers, and community partners. Participants are encouraged to submit questions in advance through the registration form.

 

Date/Time: Monday, Nov. 16 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

2026 Intimate Partner Violence and Brain Injury Virtual Conference

Join ENIGMA IPV and PINK Concussions for the 4th Annual Virtual Conference on recognizing and responding to brain injuries related to intimate partner violence (IPV), a two‑day event highlighting innovation, collaboration, and the lived experiences of survivors. This free virtual gathering brings together practice leaders, researchers, and advocates to share emerging knowledge and strengthen support for people impacted by IPV‑related brain injury. You will hear fresh perspectives on care, research, and real‑world challenges faced in communities every day. Recordings will be available if you cannot attend live, ensuring everyone has access to the information and stories shared.


Date: Nov. 17-18, 2026, 10:00-6:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the conference

More Information: Visit the conference website

State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee Meeting

The State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee (SCFAC) advises NCDHHS and the General Assembly on the planning and management of DMH/DD/SUS. Meetings include updates from state agencies, discussions on current issues impacting services, and opportunities for public comment.The monthly meeting brings together individuals with lived experience of mental health, developmental disabilities, substance use, and traumatic brain injury, as well as family members and advocates, to provide input and guidance in shaping policy and identifying service gaps. All SCFAC meetings are open to the public. Virtual and in-person attendance options are available.


Date/Time: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, 9:00-3:00 p.m.

Location: NCDHHS,1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the meeting

Public Comment: Sign up for public comment

North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities Self-Advocate Discussion Series

Joy, Fun, and Laughter

The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) hosts a monthly Self-Advocate Discussion Series webinar every third Wednesday. This month, we will get ready for the holiday season with music, comedy, works of art, jokes, storytelling, and more. 


Date/Time: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

State to Local CFAC Community Collaboration Meeting

DMH/DD/SUS invites you to attend the State to Local CFAC Community Collaboration meeting focused on elevating the voices of people and families who receive mental health, substance use, intellectual/developmental disability, and traumatic brain injury services. This meeting is an opportunity to strengthen communication between local CFACs and the State CFAC, share updates, and identify priorities that shape services and supports in our communities. The public is invited to attend.


Date/Time: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

Please register before the meeting to receive log-in and dial-in options.

Join NC Medicaid for the 4th Quarter 2026 MFP Roundtable

Join NC Medicaid for the quarterly Money Follows the Person (MFP) Rountable event. Topics include updates from the MFP program and highlights from the Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Conference held in Baltimore at the end of August.


Vaya Health will share information on their work as MFP’s Statewide Transition Coordination Entity for Adults with Physical Disabilities and Older Adult transitions. The four Capacity Building through Collective Impact Grantees—IDEAL Communities, Weaving Connections, WECARE, and WISHT—will provide updates on their activities. The UNC Cares team will also share outreach efforts and best‑practice work supporting MFP. This is an in-person event and the public is invited.


Date/Time: Friday, Nov. 20, 2026, 9:00-1:00 p.m.

Location: The Conference Center at Guilford Technical Community College, 7908 Leabourne Rd, Colfax, NC 

Registration: Register for the roundtable

December 2026

Mental Health Block Grant Planning and Advisory Council Meeting

Join DMH/DD/SUS for an important meeting of the NC Mental Health Block Grant Planning and Advisory Council (MHBGPAC) as we discuss priorities, funding strategies, and ways to strengthen mental health services across our state. This is a great opportunity to hear updates, share your voice, and help shape the future of mental health care in North Carolina. All are welcome: consumers, families, providers, and community advocates. Your input matters. Together, we can make a difference. Virtual and in-person attendance options are available. All MHBGPAC meetings are open to the public.


Date/Time: Friday, Dec. 4, 2026, 10:00-3:00 p.m.

Location: NCDHHS Headquarters, 1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the meeting

Opioid and Prescription Drug Abuse Advisory Committee Meeting

Join DMH/DD/SUS for the quarterly Opioid and Prescription Drug Abuse Advisory Committee (OPDAAC) meeting. This is a quarterly meeting, and the public is invited to attend. 


Date/Time: Friday, Dec. 11, 2026, 9:30-12:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the meeting

Money Follows the Person Lunch and Learn

Overview of the Dementia Alliance of NC

This session will provide an overview of the Dementia Alliance of NC and discuss the topic of dementia with co-occurring conditions including intellectual/developmental disabilities, mental illness, or traumatic brain injury. Presenters include Education and Outreach Manager Lisa Hughes, Family Services Director Dee Dee Harris, Dementia Training Specialist Melanie Bunn, and Program Assistant Addie Piper.


Date/Time: Monday, Dec. 14, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m. 

Registration: Register for the lunch & learn

Carolina Complete Health Offers Provider Claims Clinics

Carolina Complete Health will host its 2026 Provider Claims Clinics for Behavioral Health and Federally Qualified/Rural Health Clinic providers to support meaningful conversations around claims payment and processing concerns. These two‑day events will take place August 20–21, 2026, in Raleigh and December 14–15, 2026, in Charlotte, with one day dedicated to BH providers and the other to FQHC/RHC providers. Providers interested in attending can select the day and time that best fits their schedule. Questions about the clinic can be directed to Carolina Complete Health.


Date: Dec.14-15, 2026

Location: Charlotte, NC

Registration: Register for the clinic

More Information: Download the clinic flyer

North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities Self-Advocate Discussion Series

Gifting as a Self-Advocate

The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) hosts a monthly Self-Advocate Discussion Series webinar every third Wednesday. These sessions help North Carolina self-advocates stay informed and engaged in conversations about social and systems change, offering a welcoming space to connect with others, share lived experiences, and strengthen personal storytelling for impact. The final session for 2026 will be a discussion on what it means to make an impact and share stories about how small acts of kindness can make a bigger impact than we think. This month’s topic focuses on giving back in the I/DD community.


Date/Time: Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Registration: Register for the webinar

Save The Date

Money Follows the Person Lunch and Learn

Legislative Updates for 2027

Join the first MFP Lunch and Learn of the new year. Talley Wells, Executive Director of the NC Council on Developmental Disabilities, will present an overview of legislative changes at the state and federal levels that will impact individuals with disabilities and those receiving services under NC Medicaid in 2027.


Date/Time: Monday, Jan 11, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m. 

Registration: Register for the lunch & learn

The North Carolina Association of Public Community Health Plans Winter Conference

The North Carolina Association of Public Community Health Plans' Winter Conference will mark a new chapter for the event formerly known as the i2i Conference and will be hosted for the first time by the Association. The conference will highlight practical whole-person care strategies and demonstrate meaningful integrated care across mental health, physical health, I/DD, community-based services, and social supports.


Date: Jan. 12-14, 2027

Location: Benton Convention Center, 301 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC

Registration: Register for the conference

The NC Summit on Reducing Overdose

Save the Date: March 9-11, 2027

The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) invites you to register for the NC Summit on Reducing Overdose. The Summit will bring together local government leaders, subject matter experts, service providers, community partners, and people with lived experience working to respond to the opioid overdose epidemic. Join peers from across the state to share ideas and lessons learned about planning, implementing, evaluating, and reporting on strategies to reduce opioid overdose.


Don't miss the Thursday morning keynote speaker Kerwin Pittman and a special plenary panel exploring the critical intersection between incarceration, substance use recovery, and long-term community stability. The panel features Anna Stein, JD, MPH, First Lady of North Carolina and moderator; Lauren Garvie, CPSS, CADC, DMH/DD/SUS, Tommy Green, CPSS with the Orange County FIT Program and NC FIT; and Ashley Wurth, MA, DMH/DD/SUS. Drawing from lived experience, local programs, and statewide reentry work, the panelists will discuss how access to supportive care, housing, workforce development, and peer‑led services can reduce overdose risk and improve outcomes after release.



Date: March 9-11, 2027

Location: Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center, 500 South Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC

Registration: Register for the summit

More Information: Visit the summit webpage

NC One in Recovery Annual Conference

Save the Date: March 10-12, 2027