Community Seminar Series
The FGCU GIDDI Community Education Seminar Series is dedicated to providing the community with essential information to help individuals and their families thrive in Southwest Florida, particularly those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We invite guest speakers to enhance the community's understanding of available resources and to answer commonly asked questions.
Upcoming Community Seminar
Working Together: Increasing Opportunities for Physical Activity for Individuals With IDD

Physical activity plays an important role in health, confidence, independence, social connection, and overall quality of life for people of all ages and abilities. For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, however, finding accessible, welcoming, and sustainable opportunities for exercise and recreation can still be difficult.
This seminar will explore practical approaches to expanding physical activity through adaptive fitness, recreation, movement-based programming, and community participation. Families, educators, service providers, and community partners will learn about local opportunities, consider common barriers to participation, and discuss ways to create programs that are engaging, supportive, and responsive to individual needs.
The conversation will also examine how physical activity can strengthen communication, social interaction, confidence, and independence while providing meaningful opportunities for connection among individuals, families, caregivers, and the broader community. Together, participants will identify service gaps, share effective approaches, and explore how stronger partnerships can create more consistent and sustainable pathways to active living throughout Southwest Florida.
Event Details:
Date and Time :
Saturday, October 31 (Halloween!), 2026
Registration opens at 8:30 a.m.
9:00 a.m.— 11:00 a.m.
Location:
Florida Gulf Coast University
11098 FGCU Blvd N
Fort Myers, FL 33965
Academic Building 9 — The Water School
Room: 138
Coming Up at GIDDI!
The GIDDI Community Seminar Series continues this fall with programs focused on practical strategies, community resources, and stronger support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Each seminar brings together community members, families, professionals, and advocates to share experience, exchange ideas, and explore meaningful ways to improve opportunities and quality of life for individuals with IDD throughout Southwest Florida.
Our next seminar following the October 31 program will be held November 21. Additional program and speaker information will be added as it becomes available.
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Working Together: Improving Supportive Living Environments for Individuals with IDD — November 21, 2026
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