2026 Keynote Speakers
Dani Bowman
Assemblymember David Tangipa
Dani Bowman
Award-winning animator, entrepreneur, autism advocate, and star of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum U.S., Dani Bowman shares her journey of turning a passion for animation into a successful career and opportunities for others on the spectrum. Her keynote offers an inspiring message about self-advocacy, employment, inclusion, and believing in what is possible.
Abbey Romeo
Assemblymember David Tangipa
Dani Bowman
Entrepreneur, singer, advocate, and beloved star of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum U.S., Abbey Romeo brings warmth, honesty, and authenticity to the stage. Through her personal journey, Abbey celebrates individuality, meaningful relationships, greater independence, and the courage to share your voice with the world.
Assemblymember David Tangipa
Assemblymember David Tangipa
Assemblymember David Tangipa
Learn more about Assemblymember David Tangipa, his Central Valley roots, journey into public service, and role representing California’s 8th Assembly District.
2026 Bridge Builder Award Recipients
Nicole Vazquez
Kopi Sotiropulos
Kopi Sotiropulos
Nicole Vazquez, Chief Consultant to the California State Assembly Budget Committee, is recognized for her dedicated work on behalf of California’s intellectual and developmental disabilities community. Her public service and commitment to advancing meaningful support have helped strengthen the connection between community needs and state policy.
Kopi Sotiropulos
Kopi Sotiropulos
Kopi Sotiropulos
Retired news anchor Kopi Sotiropulos is honored for a remarkable career devoted to telling the stories of Central Valley communities. Through decades of trusted storytelling, Kopi has elevated local voices, celebrated community achievements, and helped bring greater awareness to the people and issues shaping the region.
Meagan Barrientos
CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program
CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program
Special education educator Meagan Barrientos is recognized for her dedication to students with disabilities and her commitment to helping every learner grow, succeed, and feel valued. Her compassionate work exemplifies the lasting difference educators make in the lives of students and families.
CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program
CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program
CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program
The CVRC Foster Grandparents and Companions Program is honored for its extraordinary commitment to service, connection, and community. Contributing more than 41,000 volunteer hours over the past year, its volunteers have built meaningful relationships and provided invaluable encouragement and companionship to individuals throughout the Central Valley.
Know Where You're Going!
Venue & Parking Map
Use this map to find the Fresno Convention Center, Valdez Hall, nearby parking, main entrances, and suggested walking paths. Free parking is available in the parking structure and flat parking lot. Oversized vehicles and day-program vans should use the flat parking lot. Please follow posted signs and use designated pedestrian crossings.
Fresno Convention Center First-Floor Map
Use this first-floor map to locate conference rooms, session spaces, restrooms, entrances, and other important areas throughout the Fresno Convention Center. Review the map before arriving and follow posted conference signage while onsite.
Fresno Convention Center Second-Floor Map
Use this second-floor map to locate conference rooms, training spaces, restrooms, elevators, stairs, and other important areas. Please follow posted conference signage and ask a team member if you need assistance.
Need a Place to Stay?
Stay close to all the conference activities at the Double Tree, conveniently located near the Fresno Convention Center.
Bridging Horizons 2026 attendees can reserve a room at a special conference rate through our limited room block.
Rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so book early to secure the discounted rate.
Welcome to Bridging Horizons Conference
What the conference is:
Bridging Horizons is a statewide HCBS conference centered on connection, collaboration, and action. It brings people together to learn, share, and strengthen the systems that support individuals and communities.
Who’s it for:
Bridging Horizons is for HCBS providers, professionals, advocates, individuals, and families working to improve services and systems across California.
Key features, goals, or highlights:
• Practical workshops and breakout sessions led by experienced professionals
• Opportunities to connect across roles, regions, and lived experience
• Space for honest conversation around challenges, growth, and innovation in HCBS
• Resources and tools that participants can take back to their organizationsKey features, goals, or highlights: • Practical workshops and breakout sessions led by experienced professionals
• Opportunities to connect across roles, regions, and lived ace for honest conversation around challenges, growth, and innovation in
Our Partners
