The World Institute on Disability would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that made this year’s Asset Learning Conference so extraordinary. Special thanks go out to Kim Pate at CFED (Corporation For Enterprise Development) and Kate Ryan, conference logistical organizer from Ryan Resource, Inc. For a conference of this magnitude, their superb organization and special attention to the needs of attendees with disabilities was incredible.

People with disabilities and numerous allies confirmed their interest and support of asset building programs at the largest asset building conference to date. The event was held in Phoenix, AZ September 19-21, 2006. Nearly fifty people from different disability organizations, governmental agencies, affiliated non-profit organizations and credit unions united with over 1,000 attendees to make this conference the most inclusive asset building convening ever. Issues important to the lives of people with disabilities were discussed at plenaries, numerous workshops, several roundtables, with lively networking throughout the three days.

For those of us from the disability community that were fortunate enough to attend this amazing event, we want to invite others--from all communities--to join us as we build on the momentum and look towards a bright future for people with disabilities and their opportunities to become economically empowered.