The ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) is indeed a powerful symbol of resilience in Hawaii. This evergreen tree is native to the Hawaiian Islands and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, being one of the first plants to colonize and flourish on fresh lava flows. 

APIDC was created in 1999 as an informal coalition of individuals, community-based organizations, government agencies, parent organizations, and corporate executives who shared a common vision of wanting to address the specific needs of APIs with disabilities. Our first goal was to convene a two day statewide conference of consumers, families, and representatives from within and outside the API community to meet, share resources, identify information and service gaps, and formulate strategies on formulating solutions. Among the conference highlights was a panel featuring APIs with disabilities who were employed in various private and public positions, including elected officials and corporate executives. The conference culminated in a resolution to convene future conferences. APDIC has since sponsored statewide conferences in Oakland, Orange County, and Long Beach.