10/08/2026
📣 Exciting News for Texas Families, Self-Advocates, and Professionals!
We are excited to announce that the Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics and Autism and the Baylor Transition Medicine Clinic have received funding to launch the Texas Lifespan LEND Program!
Led by Dr. Ostermaier and Jennifer Cervantes, LCSW, this groundbreaking program is one of only a handful of programs nationwide dedicated to preparing future leaders to improve services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families across the lifespan.
Through partnerships with incredible organizations, professionals, self-advocates, and family leaders across Texas, trainees will gain hands-on experience in:
✅ Disability leadership
✅ Interdisciplinary collaboration
✅ Family-centered care
✅ Advocacy and systems change
✅ Community engagement
✅ Education, employment, recreation, and community inclusion
✅ Self-advocacy and family support
We are especially proud that this program brings together healthcare professionals, educators, therapists, social workers, self-advocates, family members, and other disability leaders to learn from one another and work toward more inclusive communities for all.
🎓 Upcoming Trainee Cohorts (Applications open November 1, 2026)
📅 January 8, 2027 – July 30, 2027
📅 September 10, 2027 – May 28, 2028
Participants will complete 300 hours of interdisciplinary leadership training through a combination of virtual and in-person experiences.
We welcome applications from self-advocates, family members, graduate students, professionals, and others committed to improving outcomes for individuals with disabilities and their families.
📧 Interested in learning more? Contact Jennifer Cervantes, LCSW at [email protected].
Together, we are building the next generation of leaders who will help create a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive Texas for people with disabilities and their families. 💙
