Category: News

Statement from DDPA

The Developmental Disabilities Provider Association (DDPA) recognizes the growing community conversation regarding the Community and Employment Supports (CES) waiver waiting list in Arkansas. Our members share a deep commitment to ensuring that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families receive timely, meaningful support. Addressing the complexities of the developmental disabilities service system requires […]

2026 Fall Conference

The agenda for the 2026 Fall Conference will go live soon – if you have not already registered, please do so by: October 2nd. Date: 10/26-27 Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro Red Wolf Convention Center     223 Red Wolf Blvd, Jonesboro, AR 72405 Hotel Reservation Link (limited): Developmental Disabilities Provider Association $139 Our keynote speaker is […]

2026 Spring Conference

We are almost one month away from the 2026 DDPA Spring Conference in Little Rock! Learn more here: Spring Conference 2026. Our Keynote speaker this year is Cody Clark! In his theatrical magic show, magician/autistic self-advocate Cody Clark combines magic, comedy, and storytelling to share what living with autism is like. Starting with his initial […]

2025 DDPA Fall Conference

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Jacob Dent as our keynote speaker for the 2025 DDPA Fall Conference! Dr. Dent is known nationwide as the Special Needs Warrior Doc, an advocate, speaker, and dentist who’s changing the game when it comes to inclusive healthcare. His message is clear: individuals with developmental disabilities deserve accessible, compassionate, and […]

 Thank You for an Incredible First Year

On July 1st, I completed my first year as Executive Director of DDPA—and what a meaningful journey it’s been. Over the past year, I’ve experienced growth, learning, and a deep sense of purpose. After 24 years at Group Living, an IDD provider in Arkadelphia, stepping into this role has been an absolute honor. I’m incredibly […]

Welcome, Yukiko Taylor!

We’re beyond excited to introduce Yukiko Taylor, our new Executive Director, who brings an impressive 24 years of experience in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to her new role with DDPA! 🎉 Originally from Japan, Yukiko moved to Arkadelphia in 1996 to attend Ouachita Baptist University, where she graduated in 2000. She began […]

2025 Spring Conference

Join us in Little Rock at the Delta Marriott for the 2025 Spring Conference on April 22-24. Tickets and sponsorships are now available on our Square store. Learn more about the conference here.