Full Breakdown
Laredo Genetics Conference to Support Families of Neurodivergent Children
3/29/2026, 11:36:53 AM
Overview of the Event
The Area Health Education Center (AHEC) has announced its annual Genetics Conference, scheduled for April 24, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Laredo Public Health Auditorium, located at 2600 Cedar Ave. This event aims to provide resources and support for parents of children with developmental disabilities and autism. It is open to families, caregivers, educators, and the general public.
Collaborative Efforts
The conference is a collaborative initiative involving several key organizations, including the Baylor College of Medicine's Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Texas Children’s Hospital, and The University of Texas at Austin's Texas Center for Disability Studies. Additional partners include Laredo Rehabilitation Hospital, Gateway Community Health Center, the Office of Border Public Health, DSHS South Texas, SCAN, Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, and Border Region Behavioral Health Center.
Keynote Speakers and Topics
The event will feature a lineup of keynote speakers who are experts in their respective fields. Notable speakers include:
- Arturo A. Hernandez, MD from Gateway Community Health Center
- Gabriela Winconek, M.S., BCBA, LBA from Little Bloom ABA Workshops
- Laura Buckner, M.Ed., L.P.C. from the University of Texas Center for Disability Studies
- Salma Nassef, M.S., C.G.C. from Baylor College of Medicine
These speakers will address various topics pertinent to the audience, including screening and coordinated care, behavioral therapy, health care transitions, and guidance on when to seek genetic testing.
Importance of the Conference
According to AHEC Program Coordinator Erika Morales, the Genetics Conference has been a vital resource for parents for over a decade. The event aims to empower families by providing them with knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities associated with raising neurodivergent children.
Official Statements & Responses
Erika Morales emphasized the significance of the conference, stating that it serves as a crucial support system for families dealing with developmental disabilities and autism. The collaborative nature of the event reflects a community commitment to enhancing the lives of affected children and their families.
What's Next
As the date approaches, families and interested parties are encouraged to participate in the conference to gain insights and connect with professionals in the field. For more information, attendees can contact AHEC at 956-712-0037.
This Genetics Conference represents a concerted effort by local health organizations to provide essential resources and support to families, fostering a more informed and supportive community for those affected by developmental disabilities and autism.
