Little People of America (LPA) is a nonprofit organization that provides support and information to people of short stature and to their families. The organization was created in 1957 by Billy Barty and friends.

The national organization is divided into regional districts and local chapters. District 12 covers the local LPA chapters in the region of California and Nevada. Each local chapter is a group of families, friends, acquaintances, and professionals who are connected by experience with short stature.

On this site you will find information about our district, national organization, local chapters, contacts for more information about dwarfism, available resources, and how you can participate with us. You are welcome to contact us for more information, for support, or to join with everyone at the regional activities we hold during Spring and Autumn every year.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of California. You are invited to the LPA District 12 Spring Regional from May 3rd to May 5th, 2024! Located at the luxurious DoubleTree in Fresno, it is just a stone's throw away from most corners of California and easily accessible from the lights of Las Vegas!

Reconnect and Revel: Dive into a weekend of cherished reunions and new connections that promise the camaraderie and warmth of our community. From Friday evening until Sunday morning, soak up the joy of our friends. Enjoy FREE medical consultations, a thrilling game night extravaganza, a dedicated kids' room, a festive Cinco de Mayo Fiesta banquet, and dance the night away with DJ Hollywood Julio!

Hotel and location information:

• Double Tree by Hilton - Fresno
• 2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, CA 93721
• Hotel phone: (559) 268-1000
• Breakfast for two is included with your room
• $189/night

Early registration fees, which include the Saturday night banquet:

• Single individual fee: $110.00
• Additional family members: $100.00
• Kids 12 and under: $40.00
• Kids under 2 are free
• Deadline for early rate: April 19, 2024, at 11:59 pm

We eagerly anticipate the joy of reconnecting with everyone in District 12. We are especially looking forward to seeing our members in the greater Fresno area, whom we don't get to see as often.

Register for the D12 Regional Conference!

The Painted Turtle is a year-round medical specialty camp for children who have serious medical conditions. All campers attend free of charge. Each summer, one session is for children with skeletal dysplasias.

Campers will find a cabin village, equestrian center with a horse barn and trail rides, fishing and boating on a private lake, archery field, gymnasium, Shamu-shaped pool, rock-climbing wall, adventure ropes course (wheelchair accessible!), woodshop center, organic farm, and new friends who understand their experiences of serious illness.

Painted Turtle Camp website
17000 Elizabeth Lake Road
P.O. Box 455
Lake Hughes, CA 93532 map
Phone Number: (661) 724-1550
Fax Number: (661) 724-1340

To learn about the Painted Turtle camp and find out camper requirements, please see the FAQ and the application information webpages. The 2017 camper application will be available in early February. You may apply online or request a paper copy to be sent to you by contacting the Camper Admissions Office.

LPA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with dwarfism throughout their lives while celebrating with great pride Little People’s contribution to social diversity. LPA strives to bring solutions and global awareness to the prominent issues affecting individuals of short stature and their families.