Annual Conference

Many thanks to all who attended our 

2025 VFN Annual Conference!

Our 2025 Annual Conference “Navigating Transition: Empowering Journeys of Change” was held in-person* on April 8, 2025 at the University of Vermont – Dudley H. Davis Center from 9:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

This year’s conference focused on the intersections of education and health for children/youth with disabilities or special health needs. Health and educational professionals engaged in collaborative activities with families and youth as they examine the challenges during critical transitions throughout a child’s developmental journey. This conference promised to equip attendees with practical knowledge and essential tools through expert speakers, interactive workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities. The VFN conference aims to empower families and children/youth with disabilities or special health needs navigate their individual paths toward a brighter future.

This year we welcomed Kate Bove as our Keynote speaker. Kate grew up and attended schools in Vermont including Browns River Middle School and Mount Mansfield Union High School. She also attended two post-secondary education programs: the CAPS program in New York, and Think College at the University of Vermont. Kate currently lives locally with her roommate in an apartment. Kate has been working in Dining Services at St. Michael’s College for the past four years. She also volunteers at the Family Room in Burlington. 

When she is not working or volunteering, Kate pursues her personal growth through swimming and piano lessons, participating in Special Olympics, and attending the Unitarian Universalist Church. Kate also attends Zeno Mountain Farm, a camp in Lincoln, Vermont, for people with and without disabilities. Kate says that some of her strengths include her ability to speak up for what she needs and her strong social skills. She is passionate about Special Olympics, and loves the energy and encouragement of everyone involved. She serves as a Global Messenger for Special Olympics, was named the Special Olympics Vermont 2014 Female Athlete of the year and won a gold medal in 2019 while competing in the 50M breaststroke in Abu Dhabi! In her keynote, Kate will talk about her experiences as she navigated through her journey into adulthood while supported by her family who have guided her through various transitions in life.

Participants in this year’s conference had the opportunity to dive into a variety of enriching topics, such as:

  • Person-Centered Financial Planning: Understanding the financial resources and strategies available to support the youth.
  • The Transition from Pediatrics to Adulthood: Addressing the critical changes that occur as children move from pediatric care to adult services, and how to facilitate this shift effectively.
  • Care Coordination 101: Learning the fundamentals of coordinating care among multiple providers to ensure holistic support for the child and family.
  • Strengthening Partnerships within the Transition Team: Building effective relationships among parents, educators, and healthcare providers to create a seamless support system.
  • Transitioning from Adolescent to Adult Mental Health Services: Exploring the unique challenges and strategies associated with moving from adolescent mental health care to adult services. 
  • Youth Panel: Youth advocates will share their experiences navigating the transition from high school to adulthood.

Refund policy: Full ticket refunds are available through March 14, 2025. After this date, we are not able to provide a refund. Substitution of attendees is encouraged

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for next year’s 2026 annual conference, please contact [email protected].

If you interested in being an exhibitor or purchasing an ad for next year’s 2026 annual conference, please contact [email protected].

Our sponsors and exhibitors provided invaluable financial aid and informational resources for families. Thank you to all for your support!

Many Thanks to our 2025 SPONSORS!

Platinum Level

  • Pathways to Partnership
  • Children with Special Health Needs at the Vermont Department of Health

Gold Level

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Silver Level

  • Osher Center for Integrative Health
  • University of Vermont Medical Center
  • Vermont Center for Independent Living

Bronze Level

  • Building Bright Futures
  • Timber Lane Pediatrics
  • Rutland Regional Medical Center
  • Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council

Many Thanks to our 2025 EXHIBITORS:

  • Better Business Bureau
  • EDD Adaptive Sports
  • 24-Hour Postural Care Project
  • VT Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
  • Caffry & Keating PLLC
  • Seven Hills Foundation Children’s Division
  • Community College of Vermont
  • VT Disability Law – Client Assistance Program
  • Educational Services Practice
  • Kid CenterED
  • VT Occupational Therapy Association
  • DCF Family Services
  • Project SEARCH
  • College Steps
  • Public Assets Institute
  • Vermont Ambucs
  • Partners in Adventure/Adventures in Granola
Thank you to all  for your generosity and commitment to Vermont’s children, youth, and families. We could not make this important event happen without supporters like you!