Multnomah County announced on April 23 that it will host a free Information and Resource Fair for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and caregivers on Thursday, May 21. The event will take place from noon to 4:30 p.m. at the Oregon Department of Human Services Training and Conference Center in Portland.
The fair aims to provide a central opportunity for residents in the intellectual and developmental disabilities community to connect with local services. Organizers say the event is designed as a one-stop resource where attendees can meet with more than 65 community partners and service providers.
“Since we started this journey in 2018, our Information and Resource Fair has grown into something truly special — a cornerstone for the families and individuals we serve,” said Tammorra Barnes, Interim Division Director. “As the largest developmental and intellectual disability county-affiliated program in Oregon, we take great pride in creating a space where over 65 community partners and service providers come together under one roof. Our goal is simple: to ensure every individual and caregiver walks away feeling empowered, supported and ready to lead the way in their own lives. I am so excited to see everyone on May 21 as we continue building this vibrant community together.”
Attendees will have access to representatives from programs such as Vocational Rehabilitation, brokerage agencies, attendant care providers, as well as information about services including in-home support, day activities, voter registration assistance, employment resources, transportation options, housing or rent help. The event also features games with prizes.
Parking at the venue is free; public transit options are nearby; no advance registration is required.
According to Multnomah County officials cited in the release, more than eight million people nationwide live with intellectual or developmental disabilities. In Oregon alone over 40,000 receive related services through case management entities statewide. Within Multnomah County itself over 8,000 individuals are served by its Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services Division.
The division works directly with clients to determine eligibility for programs while providing case management that connects them with residential support programs or other essential resources like transportation or rent assistance throughout the year.
