The Area Health Education Center (AHEC), Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital, and the University of Texas at Austin Texas Center for Disability Studies will host the 2026 Genetics Conference & Resource Fair — a free, in-person event for families, caregivers, and advocates of children with developmental disabilities and autism.
Date: Friday, April 24, 2026 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Laredo Public Health Auditorium – 2600 Cedar
(Translation from English to Spanish will be available)
Since its founding in 2012, this conference has served as a regional cornerstone for connecting families to the latest in genetics research, screening, diagnosis, and condition management. Originally established through a collaboration between AHEC and Baylor College of Medicine, the conference continues to empower families with knowledge and support through expert-led presentations and a comprehensive resources fair.
This year’s conference features the following presentations:
• Navigating the Intervention Gap: From Initial Screening to Coordinated Care Arturo A. Hernandez, MD – Gateway Community Health Center
• ABA Beyond Therapy: Empowering Families After a Diagnosis Gabriela Winconek, M.S., BCBA, LBA, – Little Blooms ABA Workshops
• Navigating Health Care Transition: Writing Transition Goals Into the IEP Laura Buckner, M.Ed., L.P.C., Mom – University of Texas Center for Disability Studies
• Know When to Seek Testing Farah Ladha, MS, CGC – Baylor College of Medicine
Attendees can explore a variety of local and regional service and resource organizations, and have the opportunity to connect directly with experts and other families. A unique feature of this conference are speakers and specialists who will be available throughout the event to answer questions and engage with attendees. Spanish interpretation will be available throughout the conference.
The success of this event is made possible through a strong network of community partners dedicated to supporting families and improving lives.
There will be refreshments and door prizes for attendees.
Special thanks go to Laredo Public Health, Border Region Behavioral Health Center, City of Laredo Parks Randecreation, DHR Health, Down Syndrome Association of Laredo, Driscoll Health Plan, Early Childhood Intervention, Families for Autism Support and Awareness, Gateway Community Health Center, Laredo College, Laredo Independent School District, Laredo Rehabilitation Hospital, MHP Salud, Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, Molina Healthcare, Morgan’s MAC, SCAN, Inc., Texas A&M International University, Texas Department of State Health Services – Office of Border Public Health, Texas Star, and United Independent School District.
All families, advocates, and community members are encouraged to attend this free event.
“This conference is about making sure families have access to trusted information, resources, and experts in one place. Through collaboration we are helping families feel informed, supported and better informed and better prepared to navigate their child’s journey” said Dr. Julie Bazan, Executive Director, AHEC.
