Panel of community experts. Insights from local teens. Focused breakout sessions. Dynamic keynote speaker.
Brought to you in part by
- Monday, March 10th
- Frederik Meijer Gardens
- 8:30am-4:00pm
Discover the best ways to support today’s youth at the annual State of the Child conference. 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.
SCHECHs and CEUs Available (pending approval)
Panelist & breakout session information to be announced soon!
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Angela Pharris, PhD, MSW
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. Dr. Pharris also leads projects like the Child Welfare Professional Enhancement Program, simulation-based training adaptations, and grants implementing hope in human service practices.
The Panel
Local experts who are leading the discussion
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.
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Panic Attacks 101
- – Understanding & Overcoming Digital Addiction
- – The Truth About Vaping
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Dating: Then vs. Now
- – Changing the Views and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
- – Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Youth Mental Health
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Dating: Then vs. Now
- – Changing the Views and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
- – Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Youth Mental Health
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Dating: Then vs. Now
- – Changing the Views and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
- – Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Youth Mental Health
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Dating: Then vs. Now
- – Changing the Views and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
- – Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Youth Mental Health
Your choice between these 3 topics:
- – Dating: Then vs. Now
- – Changing the Views and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
- – Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Youth Mental Health
Ross Szabo is the author of “Behind Happy Faces” and an award-winning mental health speaker with a refreshingly honest, relatable and humorous approach.
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Photos From Last Year's Conference
Don't miss out on this important discussion!
The Panel
Local experts who are leading the discussion
Maranda
Moderating
Melissa Austin
Wedgwood's VP of Counseling Services
Nathan Baar
Founder & CEO of HealthBar & DecentraCare
The Honorable Kathleen Feeney
Michigan Court of Appeals
Kali Jackson
Wedgwood Therapist
Jessica Knoth
Zeeland Public Schools Principal