- Monday, March 10th
- Frederik Meijer Gardens
- 8:30am-4:00pm
The State of the Child is evolving. up to you. complex. shaping tomorrow. hopeful. critical.
Discover the best ways to support today's youth.
This event is led by a team of local teenagers in collaboration with a panel of community experts. Together, they will address the distinct challenges faced by children and families today.
- Dynamic Keynote Speaker
- Focused Breakout Sessions
- Panel of Community Experts
- Insights from Local Teens
- Opportunity to Earn Credits*
*SCHECHs and CEUs Available (pending approval)*
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Angela Pharris, PhD, MSW
"The Science of Hope"
Dr. Pharris’ research focuses on child welfare and human service organizations, applying a Hope-Centered and Trauma-Informed framework. This framework leverages hope as a psychological strength, buffering against stress, adversity, and burnout, while enhancing both organizational and individual outcomes.
Her work examines the impact of interventions aimed at improving program outcomes and client well-being, particularly for older youth aging out of foster care and support for the child welfare workforce.
Meet The Panel
The local experts who will be leading the panel discussion.
Judge McNabb
Panelist
Jason Lheureux
panelist
Dr. Lisa Lowery
Panelist
Brina Tiemeyer
Panelist
Mark Washington
Panelist
Maranda
Moderating
Timeline
Pick up your name tag at our registration table and enjoy your cup of coffee, along with a delicious buffet styled breakfast to begin your morning.
Sit back & enjoy a panel styled discussion, comprised of West Michigan experts. Hear as they respond to insights from local teens as they transparently share what is really happening in todays schools.
- Dr. Lisa Lowery, Adolescent Medicine Specialist, Corewell Health
- Judge Deborah McNabb, 17th Circuit Court
- Mark Washington, Director of Technology, Zeeland Public Schools
- Brina Tiemeyer, Director of Clinical Services, Wedgwood Christian Services
- Jason Lheureux, Associate Director of Residential Programs, Wedgwood Christian Services
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
Your choice between two topics:
- – Hidden in Plain Sight
- – Eating Disorders: The Importance of Interdisciplinary Team Treatment
Take a breather and enjoy some lunch, with networking opportunities!
Your choice between two topics:
- – Confronting the Loneliness Epidemic with Resiliency
- – Children & Digital Addiction
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
Your choice between two topics:
- – The Weight We Carry: A Healing Space for Caregivers
- – Play & the Brain Training: From a Mental Health Lens
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
Cap off the conference on an uplifting and positive note. Dr. Angela Pharris, PhD, MSW will be delivering the keynote message on “The Science of Hope”.
Dr. Pharris’ research focuses on child welfare and human service organizations, applying a Hope-Centered and Trauma-Informed framework. This framework leverages hope as a psychological strength, buffering against stress, adversity, and burnout, while enhancing both organizational and individual outcomes.
Her work examines the impact of interventions aimed at improving program outcomes and client well-being, particularly for older youth aging out of foster care and support for the child welfare workforce.
TITLE SPONSOR
MEDIA PARTNER
CHAMPION SPONSOR
Ambassador Sponsor
Advocate Sponsor
Partner Sponsor
Photos From Last Year's Conference
