LT to Host the 6th Annual FREE Building Inclusive Community Conference
Bridget Machalinski
Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lyons Township High School - South Campus
The 6th Annual FREE Building Inclusive Community Conference will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lyons Township High School - South Campus, 4900 Willow Springs Rd, Western Springs, IL 60558.
The Keynote Speaker will be Víctor Gómez, Illinois Teacher of the Year. One highlight will be a panel discussion on accessibility featuring six organizations and Ms. Wheelchair Illinois: Dr. Carrie Mulderink (LTHS Class of 2009). NEW this year is our collective action project, where we will be collecting donations and items benefitting BEDS Plus and the La Grange Public Library’s Care Pantry. Essential personal items to be donated on the day of the conference are: undergarments and socks of all sizes/types, and personal hygiene items (any size), such as deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash, bodywash, razors, feminine hygiene products, disposable adult underwear, and similar items.
The conference’s goal is to encourage a welcoming and inclusive culture in our community by developing understanding and empathy through learning about issues and resources within our community. Two rounds of workshops with 11+ diverse sessions have been developed by and for the community touching on a broad spectrum of topics to support this goal.
There will be additional opportunities to connect over a pizza/salad lunch sponsored by Joan Smothers of Smothers Group /Compass Real Estate. Finally, a community resource fair will enable attendees to learn about various organizations and support available in our community. Teachers in attendance will be able to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs), and ASL as well as Spanish-language interpretation will be made available.
Schedule:
- 8:30 a.m. Doors Open/Check In
- 9:00 a.m.: Welcome; Keynote; Performances
- 10:15 and 11:30 a.m.: Two Rounds of Workshops
- 12:30 p.m.: Lunch and Conversation
View Video of last year's event
BICC Overview and Impact Report