Make Your Mark! Conference

September 16-17, 2026

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center | 2100 Green Hills Dr, Ames, IA 50014

This year's event is the 13th annual Make Your Mark! Conference. The last 12 conferences have brought Iowans with disabilities, direct care support professionals, parents and family members, and other disability advocates together to increase civic engagement, advocacy and leadership skills.

Want to volunteer?

Register as an Attendee and email us at contactus@iowaddcouncil.org to let us know you're interested in helping out!

WHO WILL ATTEND THE MYM! CONFERENCE?

The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) Make Your Mark! Conference is geared toward Iowans with disabilities who want to be more involved in advocacy at a local, state, or federal level. Parents, family members, caregivers, direct support professionals, and other disability advocates are also expected to be in attendance.

Exhibitor and Sponsor Opportunities

Stay tuned for details about this year's sponsorship levels!

Conference Video

Check out some of the excitement from last year's event.

AWARDS

MIA PETERSON SELF-ADVOCACY AWARD

Mia Peterson was a self-advocate who dedicated her life to advocating for individuals with disabilities.

Through her ongoing efforts, she successfully helped make meaningful changes within the disability community. After Mia passed away in 2021, we created the Mia Peterson Self-Advocacy Award in her honor, to recognize an Iowan with a disability who embodies Mia’s legacy and works to advocate for the rights of all people with disabilities.

RIK SHANNON DISABILITY CHAMPION AWARD

Rik Shannon dedicated his professional life to improving the lives of Iowans with disabilities during his 23 years as the Public Policy Manager at the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council.

After starting his retirement adventure, Rik enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, and of course cycling. Rik unfortunately passed away in 2025. The Iowa DD Council wants to honor Rik’s legacy by recognizing disability champions who have devoted their careers to creating a more inclusive environment for people with disabilities by raising awareness, implementing positive changes, and advocating for equal opportunities.