VENTURA, Calif. — The County of Ventura will host the second annual Government and Disability Summit, taking place September 23–26, 2025, in Ventura. This statewide event builds on the success of last year’s inaugural summit, bringing together government representatives, community organizations, advocates, and accessibility experts to advance disability inclusion across California. Under the theme “Collaborate, Innovate, Activate: Disability Across the Lifespan,” this year’s summit will address critical topics such as emergency preparedness, transportation, voting access, employment, health, recreation, and technology, among other topics. The County of Ventura hosts this annual summit to lead the way in disability access. Inspired by the County of Ventura’s 2023–26 Office of Disability Access Strategic Plan, the summit is part of the County’s broader efforts to enhance accessibility across transportation, digital platforms, infrastructure, and emergency preparedness while sparking statewide conversation and opportunities for partnership.
This year’s conference offers a robust program of twenty breakout sessions addressing some of the most pressing issues in access, accessibility, programs, and services. Attendees will explore ways to expand voting access for people with disabilities, strengthen peer mentorship programs for youth, improve emergency planning for neurodivergent individuals, and enhance public transit accessibility. Each session is designed to share practical strategies, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire collaborative problem-solving.
“We’re honored to continue hosting this statewide summit,” said Mike Pettit, Assistant County Executive Officer. “Building on last year’s momentum, we remain deeply committed to creating an inclusive community locally and across the state where everyone can thrive. Accessibility work is vitally important and too often overlooked—yet it touches all of us, as each of us will experience disability at some point in our lives. This event provides an essential platform for leaders and community members to share ideas and work together on lasting solutions.”
Beyond the sessions, conference participants will benefit from rich networking opportunities, including resource tables, interactive plenaries, and an exciting keynote dinner aimed at fostering connection and collaboration.
“This summit is a powerful example of Ventura County’s commitment to increased disability access—and our role as a catalyst for practical, community-driven solutions,” shared Dani Anderson, Disability Access Manager.
Registration for the summit is open until September 10. Attendees are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
This year’s summit is made possible through generous support from sponsors including the Ford Foundation, WSP USA Inc., Gold Coast Transit, RATP Dev USA, Montecito Bank & Trust, PG&E, Southern California Edison’s Disability Rights Program, Pacific Coast Business Times, Disability Rights California, and the Port of Hueneme, among others.
For more information or to register, visit www.govdisabilitysummit.org.
