FAQ

We’ll be updating these Frequently Asked Questions on a regular basis to capture as much information as possible for a seamless On Our Own of Maryland 2025 Annual Conference experience.

What time does the conference start and end?

Please view the conference agenda for more information.

What health and safety protocals are being followed during the conference?

On Our Own of Maryland is continuing to follow the guidelines set by The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as it relates to COVID-19. Currently we are not requiring conference attendees to wear masks, but we ask that you respect the rights of others to do what they feel is appropriate. 

Are you offering Continue Education Units (CEUs) for attending?

Yes. All workshops will be eligible for CEUs for the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification. Further information is forthcoming. 

Can I record or share presenter materials?

Attendees may not record or distribute presentations, materials, or discussions without explicit permission from the respective owners.

Are there any safety and badge requirements?

For the security and safety of attendees, presenters, exhibitors, and guests, conference badges must be worn at all times. 

Is there a personal photography and social media policy?

On Our Own of Maryland welcomes you to share photos of your experience at the conference on your own social media.  Please note that, by doing so, you agree that OOOMD may utilize those photos/ videos, including resharing and reposting the material on our social media platforms.  

Is there an age restriction for attending the conference?

For safety reasons, conference attendees must be 18 or older. 

Can I register by fax or mailed form? Can the Eventbrite fee be removed?

All registrations need to be made through the online Eventbrite system, as each attendee will need to provide information about requested accommodations, dietary restrictions, and sign off on disclosures and waivers. We use Eventbrite because it has robust tools to manage our customized registration process, communication with 300+ attendees, collect and track payments, and other important administrative features that help our small team produce a big event. Unfortunately, the Eventbrite fee is an unavoidable part of using the system.

Importantly, choosing the "Pay by Check" option at checkout will eliminate credit card processing fees. Please note that check payments are due by April 30th.

Will I be able to purchase a ticket the week of the conference?

No tickets will be sold after May 14, 2025. No exceptions.

What if the hotel is sold out? What if I don’t want to stay at the hotel?

You may purchase a session-only ticket and secure accommodations elsewhere (if needed). Please note OOOMD is not partnering with any other area hotels nor providing recommendations for accommodations. 

What if I need to pay by check?

Payment by check is permitted only through April 30. To pay by check, please register using the Eventbrite system and follow the instructions provided. PLEASE NOTE: Registration(s) are not confirmed until payment has been received and processed.

Are there any scholarships available?

OOOMD is unfortunately not able to offer scholarship applications to the public at this time. Should opportunities arise, updates will be announced through our email mailing list and posted on the conference website.

Please note that OOOMD-affiliated WROs and certain youth-serving behavioral health programs may be invited to a separate, closed scholarship process. If your organization is eligible, it will receive direct outreach from OOOMD staff.

Are refunds allowed?

No, we do not provide refunds.  However, ticket transfers will be allowed through May 9, 2025. 

Is there a parking pass required?

A parking pass will be provided by the hotel during check-in. This parking pass is required to be displayed on the windshield no later than 6:30 p.m (before the Awards dinner). 

When is hotel check-in?

Check-in is on May 28th from 5:15-6:30 p.m. Early check-in will not be available.

When is hotel check-out?

All attendees must be checked out of their hotel room no later than 11:00 a.m. No exceptions. 

We strongly recommend attendees check-out before 9 a.m. when the program starts. 

There will be a break between 10:30-11 a.m. if unable to check-out earlier.

You will receive a raffle ticket when you check out!  Raffle prizes will be given out at the Awards Luncheon on May 29th between 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the conclusion of the conference.  

When can I store my luggage prior to checking into the hotel?  

There will be a luggage storage area in the Exhibit Hall (located close to conference registration).  You will be able to check into your sleeping rooms at 5:15. 

Is smoking allowed or is there a designated smoking area?

Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort is a smoke-free property. This means, per hotel policy, no smoking is allowed on the premises, including the hotel room balconies. 

There is a $500 fine for smoking in hotel rooms and on hotel balconies. 

Guests who wish to smoke can do so ONLY in the clearly marked area in front of the lobby.

What steps is OOOMD taking to ensure this is a safe, accessible, and equitable experience?

OOOMD is an inclusive community for all experiences and perspectives, including all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, religious practices, socioeconomic statuses, and any other demographic. We invite everyone attending to be their authentic self. Please see the conference guidelines for more information.

What accessibility measures and accommodations are available?

When you register for the event you will also be prompted to specify any accommodation or accessibility needs (need for ASL interpreter, dietary restrictions, accessible seating, etc.) Conference organizers will make reasonable efforts to fulfill accommodation requests in a timely and effective manner, based on the individual needs of attendees.

Reasonable accommodation refers to modifications or adjustments made to policies, practices, procedures, or physical spaces to enable individuals with disabilities to participate effectively in conferences and related events.

Per hotel policy, service animals are welcome. Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy dogs are not service animals under Title II and Title III of the ADA and are therefore not able to attend.

Is the hotel wheelchair accessible? What accessibility features does the hotel offer?

Please visit the hotel website at https://princessroyale.com/accessibility/  to learn about hotel accessibility during the conference.

A 360 video tour of the hotel can be viewed at https://princessroyale.com/maryland-beach-resort-info/virtual-tour/.

What food accommodations are available? What if I have food allergies?

OOOMD will attempt to accommodate dietary restrictions for meals provided during the event. Our offerings include, but are not restricted to, pescatarian, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. 

Please indicate food allergies and/or dietary needs during registration.  It is important we know this information as soon as possible. For questions or urgent updates, please email conference@onourownmd.org as soon as possible. 

All conference attendees will receive a table card listing food accommodations for every provided meal. Please notify an OOOMD staff member immediately if the information on your card is incorrect and/or a provided meal does not align with your needs.  

Are you helping to coordinate transportation to and from the conference?

OOOMD is NOT coordinating transportation, but your local wellness and recovery center may be. Please contact them for transportation questions and support. A list can be found at https://www.onourownmd.org/s/wellness-and-recovery-organizations.

What transportation options are available in Ocean City, MD during the conference?  

While OOOMD will not be providing carpooling or any other transportation services during the conference; Ocean City does offer public parking and many public transportation options. 

For information on public transportation options in Ocean City, MD visit https://www.ococean.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/getting-around.

For information on public parking options in Ocean City, MD visit https://www.ococean.com/plan-your-visit/transportation/parking