Raleigh, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) will host an in-depth session on the state’s Olmstead Plan and its commitment to improving the lives of people with disabilities at the upcoming i2i Center for Integrative Health Spring 2025 Conference. The session, titled “Advancing Success”, will take place on Monday, June 9, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel.

The pre-conference session is designed to engage a wide spectrum of participants — including individuals with disabilities, family members, advocates, healthcare providers, and policymakers — in a collaborative discussion about advancing equity, independence, and community inclusion for people with disabilities across North Carolina.

Key focus areas will include:

• Transitioning individuals from institutional settings into integrated community environments
• Expanding choices regarding where people with disabilities live, work, and engage socially
• Enhancing access to community-based services and supports
• Increasing outreach and awareness about the Innovations Waiver and options available to those currently on the waitlist

The session will also highlight recent efforts by the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, showcasing initiatives that aim to close service gaps and promote long-term integration for individuals with complex support needs.

Several high-level NCDHHS leaders will participate in the session, including:

• Deb Goda, Director, Olmstead and Transitions to Community Living
• Ginger Yarbrough, Chief Clinical Officer for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Olmstead
• Dr. David Clapp, Deputy Director, Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, NC Medicaid
• Niki Ashmont, Acting Director, State Operated Healthcare Facilities
• Kenneth Bausell, Senior Director, Employment and Community Access
• Gregory Daniels, Associate Director, Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, NC Medicaid
• Steve Strom, Director, Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Project
• Dr. Tamara Smith, Associate Director, Olmstead and Transitions to Community Living
• Josh Walker, Olmstead Housing Director

In addition to presentations from NCDHHS leadership, the session will feature personal stories from individuals with disabilities who have successfully transitioned to community living, as well as insights from service providers who have navigated challenges in the implementation of supportive programs.

The event is open to credentialed members of the media, who are encouraged to attend. RSVPs can be sent to [email protected].

Event Details:

• What: Advancing Success – Olmstead Plan Session, i2i Center Spring 2025 Conference
• When: Monday, June 9 | 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
• Where: Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel, 3415 Wake Forest Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609

For more information about North Carolina’s Olmstead Plan, visit www.ncdhhs.gov.