Raíces y Alas (Roots and Wings) Mental Health & Belonging Summit for Latinx Youth |
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Join El Futuro for a free event for young people to explore mental health, identity, connection, and healing. Enjoy a day of a day of connection, healing, leadership development, cultural celebration, expressive arts, and conversations about mental health, identity, and belonging. Brining together together youth, families, community leaders, and mental health professionals, Raíces y Alas is designed to honor the strengths, resilience, and cultural heritage of Latino youth while creating space for community, empowerment, and wellness.
Date/Time: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, 9:00-5:00 p.m. Location: Museum of Life and Science, 433 West Murray Avenue, Durham, NC Registration: Register for the summit More Information: Download the event flyer |
| Assistant Secretary Kelly Crosbie to Speak at the Growing Well Conference Hosted by Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness |
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The second annual Growing Well Conference will bring inspiration, education, and connection to those supporting children and youth with special health care needs in rural western North Carolina. This year’s theme, “Moving Mountains for People with Special Health Care Needs,” underscores resilience and collaboration across complex health and social systems.
Attendees will hear from top state and national policy leaders and autism advocates, including Georgia Commissioner Kevin Tanner, North Carolina Assistant Secretary Kelly Crosbie, and Dr. Andrea Davis of California, alongside providers, researchers, educators, and individuals with lived experience.
Sessions will explore medical management, behavioral therapies, cross-system collaboration, and transition planning for youth entering adulthood. Participants will gain practical strategies to address disparities, strengthen caregiver communication, support early identification of developmental needs, and apply evidence-based tools for families navigating complex conditions.
Date: Oct. 4-6, 2026 Location: Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences, 1179 State Farm Road, Boone, NC Registration: Register for the conference |
| Assistant Secretary Crosbie to Speak at the Recovery Alliance Initiative Summit OneNC: Whole Person, Whole Recovery Systems |
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The Recovery Alliance Initiative (RAI) Summit, themed OneNC: Whole Person, Whole Recovery Systems, will feature Secretary Crosbie alongside other insightful speakers, data-informed discussions, collaborative sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities to strengthen local response efforts. Whether working in prevention, treatment, recovery, harm reduction, policy, or community leadership, attendees will find valuable information and connections.
Designed for community leaders, service providers, advocates, and stakeholders, this free summit builds on county-level Substance Use Disorder needs and gaps assessments to advance actionable solutions. Participants can expect a focused environment for sharing best practices, aligning strategies, and supporting whole-person, whole-community recovery systems across North Carolina.
Date: Oct. 8-9, 2026 Location: McKimmon Center at NC State, 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC Registration: Register for the summit |
| Behavioral Health Springboard NC Children with Complex Needs: Ask the Expert Series |
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Behavioral Health Springboard, in partnership with DMH/DD/SUS, invites you to attend this two-part training series presented by Molly Hastings and Madeline Attianese of the Brain Injury Association of NC. The sessions will explore traumatic brain injury and the unique considerations for youth who are dually diagnosed with mental illness and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants will gain knowledge to better support these young people and their families.
Designed for behavioral health providers, medical and nursing professionals, LME/MCO staff, school personnel, child serving agencies, and parents, this two-part training consists of a 2 hour instructional session and a 1.5 hour Q&A session. Funded by DMH/DD/SUS as a project of the Children with Complex Needs statewide administration, the sessions are free to attend, but registration is required. Space is limited to 80 participants and early registration is encouraged.
Part One Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, 12:00-2:00 p.m. Part Two Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, 12:00-1:30 p.m. Registration: Register for the training series |
| Side by Side with DMH/DD/SUS Strengthening North Carolina’s Mental Health and Substance Use Workforce |
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Join DMH/DD/SUS for the October Side by Side as we highlight key workforce updates, including Loan Repayment initiatives, the UNC School of Social Work Public Service Leadership Program, and a presentation from the UNC Sheps Center. This session will provide a comprehensive look at North Carolina’s mental health and substance use workforce, exploring the range of professions across the state, current training pathways, and how North Carolina compares nationally.
Date/Time: Monday, Oct. 12, 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. |
NC Medicaid Lunch & Learn: Strategic Housing Plan |
| Join NC Medicaid's Lunch & Learn for an overview of the North Carolina Strategic Housing Plan, a five‑year roadmap designed to expand community‑based housing opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Josh Walker, Olmstead Housing Director in the Olmstead Office/Office of the Secretary, will walk participants through the plan’s focus on people receiving or eligible for NCDHHS‑funded services who are experiencing homelessness, living in congregate settings, or at risk of entering these settings. He will also highlight how the plan builds on ongoing Olmstead efforts within NCDHHS, including Transitions to Community Living (TCL) and Money Follows the Person (MFP).
Date/Time: Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar |
Benchmarks Destination 2026 |
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Join Benchmarks for a meaningful and memorable annual conference bringing together behavioral health leaders, innovators, and partners from across North Carolina and beyond. Experience several days filled with fresh ideas, valuable conversations, and opportunities to connect. Destination 2026 will inspire learning, spark collaboration, and create shared experiences.
Date: Oct. 13-16, 2026 Location: Cherokee Conference Center, 40 Convention Center Drive, Cherokee, NC Registration: Register for the conference Sponsorships: Sign up to be an event sponsor More Information: Download conference agenda |
State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee Meeting |
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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, Oct. 14, 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 Presents Introduction to Autism Diagnosis, Interventions, and Supports in North Carolina |
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Attend the final session of the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities webinar series on autism featuring clinicians, researchers, self advocates, and other experts who will share practical insights on diagnosis, interventions, and supports.
The webinar is designed to help families, professionals, and community partners better understand the path to an autism diagnosis and the wide range of available supports. Attend to learn more about autism resources and the experiences of autistic individuals and their families. Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar |
Carolina Institute for Neurodevelopmental Disabilities 45th TEACCH Autism Program Conference Thriving with Autism: Strengthening Neuroaffirming Practices |
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Join the Carolina Institute for Neurodevelopmental Disabilities for the 45th TEACCH Autism Program Conference. The event brings together educators, clinicians, researchers, autistic advocates, and families to explore approaches that honor neurodiversity and support authentic wellbeing. This year’s sessions highlight evidence-informed strategies and lived experiences that inspire stronger, more inclusive practices across schools, healthcare, and community settings.
Featured speakers will dive into topics ranging from early developmental supports and neuroaffirming classroom design to adult assessment, healthcare equity, and human-rights-centered care. Participants will leave with practical tools for strengthening neuroaffirming approaches across the lifespan. This is a hybrid event with in-person and virtual attendance opportunities.
Date: Oct. 15-16, 2026 Location: UNC Friday Conference Center, 100 Friday Center Drive, Chapel Hill, NC Registration: Register for the conference |
North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance 2026 Buddy Walk |
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The North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance (NCDSA) Buddy Walk is the organization's largest event of the year. Each year, nearly 2,000 participants come together for a day that feels like a true family reunion, bringing together individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, and supporters from across the state.
Registration is free! Register your team by June 30 to earn your team incentive. New teams will get a free custom yard sign with a QR code to your team's page. Returning teams will get a free Walk of Fame route marker sign.
Date: Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 Location: Sugg Farm, 2401 Grigsby Avenue, Holly Springs Registration: Register for the Buddy Walk |
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Inclusion Connects Advisory Committee Meeting |
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The Inclusion Connects Advisory Committee provides valuable feedback and guidance on how Inclusion Connects supports people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The committee’s role includes reviewing opportunities to enhance existing services and exploring ideas for new programs that better serve this community. Date/Time: Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, 11:00-12:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the meeting Closed-Captioning & American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided. |
Inclusion Works Community Advisory Committee Meeting |
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Join Inclusion Works for an update on the progress of Inclusion Works' programs and initiatives. The meeting will highlight advancements in the Inclusion Works Strategic Plan, standardized employment assessments, workforce enhancement, and provider innovation grants. Presenters will also share upcoming provider training opportunities and provide an overview of recent data insights.
Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 20, 2026, 11:00-12:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the meeting Closed-Captioning & American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided. |
| Inclusion Works Lunch & Learn Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month |
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Join Inclusion Works as we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month. We will highlight the progress made over the past year, including a look at Year One of the Inclusion Works Strategic Plan. You’ll learn about our goals for the year ahead and the steps we are taking to strengthen inclusive employment across the state. Most importantly, we will recognize and celebrate the work of North Carolinians who are advancing inclusion every day.
Date/Time: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, 12:00-1:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar Closed Captioning and American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided. |
| North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities Self-Advocate Discussion Series Getting Active in Advocacy: ALP-NC Alumni Network |
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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.
Date/Time: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar |
State to Local CFAC Community Collaboration Meeting |
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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. 21, 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. |
The Council Presents Educational Webinar Series: NCCDD Five-Year State Plan |
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The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) will share its newly adopted 2027–2031 Five-Year State Plan, which guides the Council’s priorities and funding to improve services and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across the state. Developed with extensive public input, the plan reflects the needs and lived experiences of North Carolinians concerned with I/DD. Effective October 1, 2026, the plan outlines future investments and the community-driven insights that helped shape them.
Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, 1:00-2:00 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar |
Statewide Traumatic Brain Injury Provider Collaborative Kickoff |
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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 |
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| North Carolina Rehabilitation Association Annual Conference Beyond the Horizon: Pushing Past Limits and Seeing What's Next |
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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 |
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| NASDDDS Directors Forum & Annual Conference |
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| 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 |
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Beyond the Referral: The TULA Care Pathway to Ongoing Remote Support and Independence |
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Join Inclusion Connects for an engaging overview of how the Technology Ultimate Living Assistant (TULA) program supports members from the first referral through long term remote support services. This webinar will explain the referral process, describe the assessment approach, and 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 and enabling device supports. Referral is the starting point, not the finish line. TULA partners with members and care teams every step of the way to empower greater independence and enhance quality of life.
Date: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026,1:00-2:30 p.m. Registration: Register for the webinar |
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State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee Meeting |
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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. 11, 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 |
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| Triangle Business Journal, NCDHHS and Governor's Institute Present State of Mental Health in North Carolina |
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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 |
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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, funding, and implementation of a comprehensive statewide service delivery system to 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 |
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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 |
2026 Intimate Partner Violence and Brain Injury Virtual Conference |
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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 |
| North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities Self-Advocate Discussion Series Joy, Fun, and Laughter |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
Mental Health Block Grant Planning and Advisory Council Meeting |
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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 |
Carolina Complete Health Offers Provider Claims Clinics |
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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 |
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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 |
| The North Carolina Association of Public Community Health Plans Winter Conference Save the Date: Jan. 12-14, 2027 |
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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 |
| The NC Summit on Reducing Overdose Save the Date: March 9-11, 2027 |
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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.
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 |
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| NC One in Recovery Annual Conference Save the Date: March 10-12, 2027 |
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