BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 X-WR-CALNAME:nationaladoptionassociation X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar METHOD:PUBLISH CALSCALE:GREGORIAN PRODID:-//Sched.com National Adoption Association (NAA) 2026 National Conference - Boston//EN X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T113000Z DTEND:20260427T123000Z SUMMARY:Continental Breakfast and Exhibits Open DESCRIPTION:\n CATEGORIES:NETWORKING LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:a4b78307150def8a11f9c6ed036495e0 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/a4b78307150def8a11f9c6ed036495e0 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T123000Z DTEND:20260427T131500Z SUMMARY:Welcome to NAA 2026 National Conference; Welcome to Boston\, New England Priorities and Opening Keynote Speaker DESCRIPTION:Featuring NAA Leadership\, Recognizing Mashpee Wampanoag Leaders\, New England Commissioners and Directors and a Keynote by Anthony Barrows\, Executive Director of LIFT – New York\n\nOpening Remarks:\n“When we know better\, we do better”\nKamilah Bunn CEO\, National Adoption Association\n\nThe exciting welcome message will be delivered by the leadership of The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families\, Commissioner Staverne Miller\, LCSW. This inspiring place-based morning message will help attendees generate goals\, strategies\, and take action to strengthen permanency outcomes in their jurisdictions. CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:03a687068314d54e2263cc87c6ff9cf9 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/03a687068314d54e2263cc87c6ff9cf9 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T131500Z DTEND:20260427T133500Z SUMMARY:New England Priorities and Progress DESCRIPTION:“New England Priorities and Progress\, in partnership with the New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors”\, facilitated by Executive Director Maria Gagnon\n\nThe New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors (NEACWCD) Executive Director\, Maria Gagnon\, will then facilitate a panel discussion including Staverne Miller\, LCSW Commissioner Massachusetts Department of Children and Families and her colleagues:\nSusan Hamilton\, Interim Commissioner\, Connecticut Department of Children and Families\nBobbi Johnson\, Director Maine Office of Children and Family Services\nMarie Noonan\, Director\, Division of Children\, Youth and Families\, New Hampshire Dept of Health & Human Services\nAryka Radke\, Deputy Commissioner\, Department of Children and Families Vermont\nBrandi Di Dino\, Deputy Director\, Division of Children\, Youth and Families Rhode Island\n \; \;  \;[SK1]Brandi Title to be confirmed CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:d8393bc93134c169fca8ebca7e369131 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/d8393bc93134c169fca8ebca7e369131 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T134000Z DTEND:20260427T142000Z SUMMARY:Opening Keynote: “Making the Leap toward Economic Justice: A Social Worker and Former Youth in Foster Care’s Journey to Address the Root Cause of Separation” DESCRIPTION:Anthony Barrows will share his experience in the foster care system as an anchor for why he searches for the root cause of family separation. This search led Anthony to become a powerful advocate within the anti-poverty movement.  \;\nThis riveting keynote is part lecture and part call-to-action to members of the NAA community. Anthony will offer a rationale for why we must build partnerships across silos to truly improve outcomes within the systems where we work. As a person who has dedicated his professional career to improving outcomes for marginalized communities and as someone with personal experience in public systems like foster care\, public housing\, safety net programs\, and juvenile justice\, Anthony shares how he is living the experience. Attendees will understand why we must all take the leap to expand our sphere of influence– as Anthony did\, to truly change and improve systems for children\, youth and families. CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:df87a890adb8ebac730c42863f3431d1 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/df87a890adb8ebac730c42863f3431d1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T150000Z DTEND:20260427T161500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A3: Preparing Youth for Permanency Through Meaningful Relationships (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers- NASW)) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)  \;  \;\n\nToo often\, permanency preparation with youth begins only once a family has been identified\, which may not fully address the unique needs of youth who have experienced significant trauma. Trauma can profoundly affect a youth’s ability to trust and form stable attachments\, and years spent in out-of-home care can leave youth “out of practice” in developing healthy interpersonal relationships.\nOur approach emphasizes the importance of starting permanency preparation early and involving supportive adults who can play a vital role in helping the youth relearn social and emotional skills\, such as how to build and maintain relationships\, communicate effectively\, and navigate family and community dynamics. By focusing on individualized strategies that align with each youth’s cognitive\, developmental\, and emotional needs\, we can tailor the process to build trust\, resilience\, and ultimately\, readiness for permanency.\nThis approach is not just about finding a family for the youth\, but about empowering them to enter a stable and loving environment\, fully prepared to thrive. Engaging supportive adults throughout this process further strengthens the foundation for long-term success and well-being.  \; \; CATEGORIES:COMPLEX NEEDS LOCATION:Adrienne Salon\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:1cfa5cc09f880a0330dad9d42dde5adc URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/1cfa5cc09f880a0330dad9d42dde5adc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T150000Z DTEND:20260427T161500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A2: Rooted in Family: Transforming Permanency Outcomes with Kin (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)\n\nThis training explores effective permanency practices that prioritize kinship care within child welfare systems. Participants will learn how to implement a kin-first culture\, apply diligent recruitment strategies\, and leverage successful state-level initiatives to improve outcomes for children placed with relatives. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples\, the session will equip professionals with tools to enhance relational and legal permanency for youth in care. CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Nantucket\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:392148443e977450d00d1d4330d00fdb URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/392148443e977450d00d1d4330d00fdb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T150000Z DTEND:20260427T161500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A1: Play Together Stay Together- Building Bonds Through Play to Support Adoption & Kinship Families DESCRIPTION:This interactive workshop introduces Play Together Stay Together\, a vital component of the Adopt America Network’s Ongoing Adoption and Kinship Support Program. Designed to strengthen family connections through intentional play\, this program helps adoptive\, kinship\, and resource families build trust\, foster attachment\, and develop meaningful relationships.  \;Participants will gain an overview of how play is used as a powerful therapeutic and relational tool and explore the benefits of shared activities for both children and caregivers. Participants will also be introduced to how this program offers a community of other resources for adoptive and resource families\, creating pathways for support\, connection\, and collaboration beyond the session.  \;Ideal for professionals looking for creative ways to reinforce family unity and cultivate lasting ties to better ensure permanency for youth in resource or adoptive families.  \;  \; \; CATEGORIES:POST ADOPT LOCATION:Concord\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:3b45f5f68e013d7a5aaf062a23a322dc URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/3b45f5f68e013d7a5aaf062a23a322dc END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T163000Z DTEND:20260427T173000Z SUMMARY:AdoptUSKids Lunch & Learn: “Centering Lived Experience in Adoption Practice” DESCRIPTION:Join the AdoptUSKids team for a special Lunch & Learn featuring the premiere screening of the AdoptUSKids’ video: “When We Have Each Other: Teen Adoption Stories.” The video highlights the voices of youth and families who are living the experience of adoption from foster care.\nThis interactive session will introduce a new discussion guide designed for facilitators to support thoughtful\, trauma-informed conversations with pre-adoptive families\, foster families\, child welfare professionals\, and youth. Following the screening\, participants will engage in a table discussion and share feedback that will help inform future dissemination and use of the guide and video resource across the country.\nA boxed lunch will be provided. Pre-registration is required. CATEGORIES:PRE-REGISTER LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:58f17ecb8401d4d6fe31361071fa80ca URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/58f17ecb8401d4d6fe31361071fa80ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T163000Z DTEND:20260427T173000Z SUMMARY:Ujima Collective Lunch & Learn: “Increasing Economic Opportunity and Connections for System-Involved Youth and Caregivers” DESCRIPTION:Learn from the Ujima Collective how to successfully work across silos and systems. This session will help adoption professionals reenvision their role beyond permanency to wellbeing. Professionals will discuss ways to lend their talent to the movement for economic mobility and the preservation of connections for communities most impacted by the foster care system.\nMembers of the Ujima Leadership Council and Ujima Collective leaders\, allies and proteges will highlight initiatives that bring together business industry partners and child welfare leaders to create more economic opportunities for system-impacted youth and caregivers. Join us and build your skills in system navigation for the youth you serve with interactive case studies\, polls\, and thought-provoking dialogue with peers.\nEach attendee will leave the session with preventive action steps to divert and deflect children and youth on their caseload from foster care towards thriving lives. The session will spark curiosity around what role adoption professionals can play in wellbeing.\nA boxed lunch will be provided. Pre-registration is required.  \; \; CATEGORIES:PRE-REGISTER LOCATION:Plymouth\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:cb47331d7b4151156f90a752f55c6648 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/cb47331d7b4151156f90a752f55c6648 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T174500Z DTEND:20260427T190000Z SUMMARY:Workshop A4: Beyond the Diagnosis: Building Lifelong Families for Children with Disabilities: Practical Tools for Cross-Agency Teams to Recruit\, Prepare\, and Support Prospective/Pre-Adoptive Families DESCRIPTION:According to Platt and Gephart (2022)\, children with disabilities in foster care spent an average of 915 days in foster care compared to 514 days for children without a disability. Once placed\, children with disabilities in foster care had a mean of 4.0 disruptions while the mean is 2.37 disruptions among those without a disability. It is clear that these numbers need to change. This workshop will explore common barriers to permanency for children with disabilities\, offer actionable strategies for recruitment and family preparation\, highlight how cross-agency teams can collaborate more effectively. This will be an interactive session with the opportunity to learn from families and youth who are living the experience post-permanency.  \; CATEGORIES:COMPLEX NEEDS LOCATION:Concord\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:0a0267da5bd7e8c26818b4d530ea378c URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/0a0267da5bd7e8c26818b4d530ea378c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T174500Z DTEND:20260427T190000Z SUMMARY:Workshop A6: Kinnect to Family (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW\n\nKinnect to Family (KTF) program was developed nearly 20 years ago and brought to Ohio where it was implemented by several counties in 2017. The program initiative\, process\, and values will be discussed. KTF program effectiveness and placement numbers will be highlighted.\nThis workshop will include the Kinnect to Family Specialist along with a relative who accepted placement through the KTF program. The relative will discuss her story of the successful placement and the difference KTF made on her life.  \;  \;\nKTF is an urgent\, diligent family search and engagement program to identify and connect youth with kin\, both biological and chosen-who can provide permanency and support. Through innovative tools and best practices\, KTF helps ensure that youth remain connected to the people who know and love them. CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Adrienne Salon\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:f0bad0cc30a9ba7b3f24f8bc7b868cc1 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/f0bad0cc30a9ba7b3f24f8bc7b868cc1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T174500Z DTEND:20260427T190000Z SUMMARY:Workshop A5: A Study of Adoption Disruption and Dissolution in Minnesota DESCRIPTION:​This workshop will provide an overview of an adoption disruption and dissolution study conducted by Wilder Research Foundation and the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families (DCYF). This study included surveys and interviews with adoption professionals\, families as well as youth. Also\, the study included a demographic analysis of adoption disruptions in Minnesota. We have concluded data collection and are currently working on data analysis as well as findings review. Our presentation will provide a background of the research study\, a literature review summary\, participant demographic information\, and methodology. In addition\, the presentation will provide an overview of preliminary findings and preliminary insights. Finally\, the presentation will provide an overview of successes and challenges for the project thus far as well as a discussion of potential areas of focus for recommendations. CATEGORIES:POST ADOPTION TRACK LOCATION:Nantucket\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:e9ca58a2040097a9a66f1d2b6542a921 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/e9ca58a2040097a9a66f1d2b6542a921 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T193000Z DTEND:20260427T204500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A8: In My Own Words: Centering Youth Voice in Placement and Permanency DESCRIPTION:Youth with complex needs generally experience an increased number of placement changes – with a direct correlation with an increased length of stay in care. During the placement search process\, prospective families receive relevant information about the youth\, which often is limited to a list of diagnoses and behaviors. Youth often have little to no voice in the process.\n \;\nNorthwest Adoption Exchange (NWAE) “In my own words\,” project aims to give youth a chance to give context to their “file”. Youth are empowered to create a video narrative project that allows them to share their hopes and goals for the future\, their interests\, and dive into some of the things they might be struggling with or working on. This approach ensures youth voice is central in any placement discussions about them.\n \;\nThis interactive session will review the “In My Own Words” project and its theory. Attendees will discuss actionable goals to elevate youth voice in a way that leads to placement stability and permanency in their jurisdictions CATEGORIES:COMPLEX NEEDS TRACK LOCATION:Nantucket\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:61cdc92120746cecfc86034b7f570a33 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/61cdc92120746cecfc86034b7f570a33 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T193000Z DTEND:20260427T204500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A7: Kinship Connections: Integrating Adoption and Guardianship Preparation Training (AGPT) into Oregon’s Work with Kin (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW\n\nWhile the Adoption and Guardianship Preparation Training (AGPT) equip caregivers with tools to navigate grief\, attachment\, identity and openness\, kinship families often face these challenges in deeply personal ways. This panel will explore how AGPT principles can be tailored to meet the needs of kinship families.\nThe presentation will discuss the challenges and successes Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has experienced in preparing families for permanency. Attendees will learn how customizing the AGPT curriculum can help bridge the gap in training and supporting kinship caregivers. CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Concord\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:314f891fb0e554aa327a15d9296020d1 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/314f891fb0e554aa327a15d9296020d1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T193000Z DTEND:20260427T204500Z SUMMARY:Workshop A9: Beyond the File: Reimagining Family Connections Through Family Finding (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)  \;  \;\n\nThis session will introduce professionals to Paths for Families Family Finding program\, the only initiative of its kind in the state\, built on a powerful public-private partnership that redefines how we engage\, reconnect\, and advocate for youth in foster care.  \;Participants will gain insight into the program’s history\, its measurable success\, and the collaborative model that bridges child welfare agencies with community-based services. At the heart of this work is a strength-based approach that prioritizes maintaining and repairing important relationships\, even in the face of complex histories and challenging behaviors. \;\nThrough real-world examples and interactive discussion\, attendees will explore: \;\nHow the program engages relatives and helps them see beyond a child’s behaviors to their underlying needs and strengths  \;Strategies for rebuilding trust between families and the child welfare system  \;The role of advocacy and case coordination in supporting sustainable reconnections  \;The Family Finding process\, including tools for identifying and involving extended family and kin networks  \;An overview of pre and post permanency supports in achieving and maintaining permanency \; CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Adrienne Salon\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:9d708b047109a509957348d6f5164071 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/9d708b047109a509957348d6f5164071 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260427T210000Z DTEND:20260427T223000Z SUMMARY:NAA 2026 Conference Welcome Reception and Silent Auction DESCRIPTION:Join us for an engaging and entertaining networking time for the Welcome Reception and Silent Auction sponsored by the NAA Board of Directors \; CATEGORIES:NETWORKING LOCATION:Ballroom AB and Terrace\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:6787d54079e71e929168e958badc53c3 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/6787d54079e71e929168e958badc53c3 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T113000Z DTEND:20260428T123000Z SUMMARY:Continental Breakfast & Exhibits Open DESCRIPTION:\n CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:9453c1ae8733e26e6eceeaf1e6485918 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/9453c1ae8733e26e6eceeaf1e6485918 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T123000Z DTEND:20260428T124000Z SUMMARY:Welcome General Session: Featuring NAA Leadership and Tribal Leaders\, Elders and Mothers in a Community Conversation DESCRIPTION:Welcome Students\, Welcome Back Professionals: \;\nSummary of Day One Learnings by Kamilah Bunn CEO from the National Adoption Association CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:0823b585b6c9ed3056de6175a36d603a URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/0823b585b6c9ed3056de6175a36d603a END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T124000Z DTEND:20260428T140000Z SUMMARY:Community Conversation “What are a People Without Roots”: Understanding Community Cultural Connections and Reconnections from Tribal Leaders\, Elders and Mothers (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION: \;1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)  \; \;\nSpeaker Panel: Susan Devan Harness\, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (Author\, Bitterroot: A Salish Memoir of Transracial Adoption)\,  \;Lorraine Brave\, MSW Mohawk of the Turtle Clan- people of the Flint (Founder\, Brave Transitions\, Taylor McClellan\, Sac and Fox\, Bahkhoje and Mvskole (Independent Consultant and a Member of AdoptUSKids Speakers Bureau)\, Misty Flowers\, Santee Sioux Nation and descendant of the Tlingit of Alaska from the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) and Melinda Kline\, MSW from AdoptUSKids.[KB1]\n\nJoin us for a meaningful dialogue led by Native American elders\, mothers\, community leaders\, and adoptees as they share their wisdom on the vital role of community cultural connections and reconnections. Through stories of mass separations\, generational loss\, resilience\, and reconnections\, we will explore what it means to rebuild community and identity in the face of historical trauma.\nThese sacred teachings from the Native Community will highlight important examples of ways to practice family connection work ethically and effectively today. Current\, emerging and new child welfare leaders are invited to listen\, learn\, and seek guidance from the esteemed speakers on how to improve permanency practices by tapping into the collective wisdom and strength of the first peoples of this land.\n\n CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:a797246017f1b756dc04792fd465b11c URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/a797246017f1b756dc04792fd465b11c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T143000Z DTEND:20260428T154500Z SUMMARY:Workshop B3: Blending Investigative and Social Work Skills for Effective Permanency Practices with Kin DESCRIPTION:This session highlights the unique partnership between a permanency recruiter and investigator as they bring together two very different professional lenses to strengthen permanency outcomes for children and youth. While it is not new to use investigative approaches in family search\, Louie offers a distinctive blend of former law enforcement expertise and deep empathy -- skills that both uncover hidden connections and build trust with relatives and fictive kin. Paired with Shannon's extensive background in family engagement\, the two demonstrate how complementary perspectives create a "special sauce" that goes beyond traditional recruitment.  \;  \;\nThrough their collaborative process\, participants will learn how investigative strategies can enhance kinship and birth family engagement\, particularly in navigating complex family dynamics. The presentation illustrates how professionals with different skill sets can learn from one another\, step forward at the right moments\, and ultimately maximize opportunities to connect children and youth with safe\, lasting family relationships. CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Adrienne Salon\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:00bd0dfcf23c56719778b40e0b4332e6 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/00bd0dfcf23c56719778b40e0b4332e6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T143000Z DTEND:20260428T154500Z SUMMARY:Workshop B1: Voices of Experience: Shaping Permanency through Lived Expertise (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)\n\nThis session will highlight the critical role of lived expertise in influencing permanency practices and outcomes. It will showcase real-world examples and best practices\, including strategies for effective message development and sharing from experts in the AdoptUSKids Speakers Bureau.\nThrough targeted training and support\, these voices can offer valuable insights that help child welfare professionals better partner with and support youth. Additionally\, the workshop will explore ways to create more opportunities for incorporating these lived experiences into the work of child welfare systems. CATEGORIES:POST ADOPT LOCATION:Plymouth\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:f80735228785aa2ffa3d672ef3f1256f URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/f80735228785aa2ffa3d672ef3f1256f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T143000Z DTEND:20260428T154500Z SUMMARY:Workshop B2: Building Bridges to Enhance Adoption Competence and Improve Mental Health Services for Children and Families Across Systems and Tribal Nations (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)  \;\n\nIn this interactive session presenters from the National Center for Adoption Competent Mental Health Services and NTI Training will explore strategies for recruiting\, preparing\, and retaining a child welfare-competent and culturally responsive workforce sharing examples from state and tribal work. Participants will learn how technical assistance can help systems and tribes implement effective models of cross-system collaboration\, develop local champions\, and sustain trauma-informed and child welfare-competent services for children and families with complex needs. CATEGORIES:POST ADOPT LOCATION:Concord\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:8d1768df40b96a3baebe4bb6cbb99949 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/8d1768df40b96a3baebe4bb6cbb99949 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T143000Z DTEND:20260428T154500Z SUMMARY:Workshop B4: Straight from the Mouth of a Social Worker (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)\n\nIn this workshop participants will be immersed in the 40-year journey of a social worker who navigated the landscape of multiple systems starting as a young inexperienced social worker and moving to being a leader in one of the largest child welfare systems in the country. The presentation will include examples of the challenges of living our social work values and some strategies for ensuring we hold to our vision of helping and not harming the people and communities we serve. CATEGORIES:STUDENT LOCATION:Sturbridge \, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:7017ec756a7a31b91579c077b3f1cc2c URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/7017ec756a7a31b91579c077b3f1cc2c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T160000Z DTEND:20260428T171000Z SUMMARY:Awards Luncheon with Keynote Speaker DESCRIPTION:Recognizing outstanding practice\, people and systems who are fulfilling the NAA philosophy\, “adoption is addition\, not subtraction. We will honor awardees\, enjoy lively table conversation with peers\, listen to emerging leader\, Rimy Morris from the Collective who will serve as our emcee and hear from nationally recognized speaker\, Jodi Hill-Lilly\, about how to transform systems with “steady hands and a bold vision.” Plated lunch is provided. You will not want to miss this time to connect and celebrate our work completed and what is to be done!  \;\n\nAwards Presentation Host: Rimy Morris\nLillian Lansberry Award Recipient: Name from the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families\nUjima Impact Award Recipient: Jacqueline Ford from the Connecticut Department of Children and Families\nLoperena Excellence in Mentorship Award Recipients:\nMaria Gagnon from the New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors\nRicardo Franco from the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange\nGenerosity of Spirit Award Recipient: Dr. Jacqueline Wilson\nFormer President\, National Adoption Association Board of Directors\, Former CEO\, TRAC Services for Families CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:e84a1bb49034c80b43198071dcebc763 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/e84a1bb49034c80b43198071dcebc763 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T171000Z DTEND:20260428T174500Z SUMMARY:Luncheon Keynote: “Steady Hands\, Bold Vision: Transformational Leadership in Changing Times” Jodi Hill- Lilly\, MSW from the Doris Duke Foundation DESCRIPTION:“Steady Hands\, Bold Vision: Transformational Leadership in Changing Times” Jodi Hill- Lilly\, MSW from the Doris Duke Foundation\nLead by former Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families who is now leading Child Well-Being efforts at the Doris Duke Foundation\, this interactive keynote invites the audience to consider how to identify one's personal mission and how to not stray from it during changing times. Elevating the tenets of implementation science\, Ms. Hill-Lilly will communicate how child welfare leaders should employ specific strategies to address barriers\, engage stakeholders\, and measure outcomes like feasibility\, adoption\, and sustainability. Using witty stories\, compelling lived experience narratives from her own life's journey\, Ms. Hill-Lilly will help attendees adapt to change and continue to transform systems on behalf of the children\, youth and families we all serve. \;\n \; \; CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Ballroom AB\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:fa6121b0e1b2b0dec4e5f177a654c3da URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/fa6121b0e1b2b0dec4e5f177a654c3da END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T181500Z DTEND:20260428T193000Z SUMMARY:B6: Adoption After 18: A Collaborative Approach to Permanency for Young Adults (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)\n\nYoung people who age out of the foster care system without a safe\, stable\, emotionally secure parenting relationship face an array of challenges that significantly affect all areas of their lives as they continue to emerge into young adulthood. In Massachusetts\, young people can sustain a connection with the state Department of Children and Families (DCF) between the ages of 18-22\, and at times through age 23. However\, there is no real expectation that young people involved with DCF during this time will achieve or are expected to achieve legal permanency. There are indeed young adults who want to be adopted and can be adopted\, even if the current practice norms and policy in our state are barriers.  \;  \;\nThe Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) and Plummer Youth Promise have partnered together to create an innovative solution that aims to assist transitional aged young adults in achieving permanency. This presentation will provide an overview of both agencies\; the genesis of the collaboration\; the role that each agency maintains\; and the specifics of the actual permanency practice and procedures delivered to young adults who express an interest in Permanency Through Adoption. Youth and Family Voice/actual program participants will be incorporated into this presentation through assisting with the design of the presentation in addition to contributing to the delivery of the presentation. CATEGORIES:COMPLEX NEEDS LOCATION:Concord\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:fedd59aec7870bfc5da5593305b450e6 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/fedd59aec7870bfc5da5593305b450e6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T181500Z DTEND:20260428T193000Z SUMMARY:Workshop B7: Wrap Around Supports for Families Through Multi-Agency Collaboration DESCRIPTION:For families and youth navigating the foster care system\, access to consistent\, holistic\, and community-centered support can be life-changing. This session will explore how the Treehouse Foundation leverages cross-actor collaboration with public agencies\, nonprofit partners\, educational consultants\, and arts organizations to create wrap-around supports that enhance stability\, belonging\, and opportunity for youth and families. \;\nThrough partnerships with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families\, Treehouse provides a supportive environment for youth in foster care and their families. Collaborations with arts organizations have expanded creative\, intergenerational programming that strengthens community bonds and nurtures identity. Partnerships with educational consultants ensure families receive no-cost\, expert guidance for children with IEPs or school challenges\, helping parents navigate complex education systems. In addition\, alliances with Cradles to Crayons ensure that children’s basic needs—from clothing to school supplies—are met\, while partnerships with Tickets for Kids provide enrichment opportunities that foster joy\, connection\, and new possibilities CATEGORIES:COMPLEX NEEDS TRACK LOCATION:Adrienne Salon\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:d6f144f7878c5e760e96063f646040b3 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/d6f144f7878c5e760e96063f646040b3 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T181500Z DTEND:20260428T193000Z SUMMARY:Workshop B5: Kinship and Like - Kin Services Development: Thrive (1.0 CE National Association of Social Workers) DESCRIPTION:1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)  \;\n\nLutheran Social Services of WI and Upper MI has provided adoption and foster care services for over 50 years.  \; As a provider in over 55 counties a need was identified around initial and ongoing support of Kinship and Like - Kin families.  \; The team did research\, surveyed partners\, and heard from families to create a service that is specific for Kinship and Like-kin families. \;\nHear about the process\, evaluation and development of LSS of WI and Upper MI went through to assure resources for families were available.  \;Data and tools related to kinship screening will be shared with attendees. A \;family will join the presentation to share their experiences.\n \;A key component in this shift of service provision is understanding the Child Welfare Transformational Change Wisconsin has been undergoing to assure families are the focus.  \;Attendees will learn how LSS supported the staff in this shift to better support kin and kin-like families.  \; CATEGORIES:KINSHIP TRACK LOCATION:Plymouth\, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:fd4a44479e4906f9f46cf3220cdba152 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/fd4a44479e4906f9f46cf3220cdba152 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T181500Z DTEND:20260428T193000Z SUMMARY:Workshop B8: Collective Healing Leads to Empowering Futures DESCRIPTION:This interactive training strengthens the capacity of child welfare professionals to uplift and partner with youth in foster care by centering their voices\, honoring their legal rights\, and cultivating healing‑centered practices. Participants will examine ways to amplify youth voice\, support young people in understanding and exercising their rights\, and co‑create opportunities for youth to bring fresh vision and momentum to long‑standing systems. The session highlights how NAA intentionally integrates protégés—young adults with lived experience in foster care who are entering the workforce—into the Ujima Collective. This innovative model offers a forward‑thinking blueprint for succession planning and sustainable systems‑change leadership. Through real‑world scenarios\, collaborative design activities\, and youth‑centered healing approaches\, professionals will gain practical methods for elevating young people as true partners in shaping their lives and transforming the systems designed to support them. CATEGORIES:STUDENT LOCATION:Sturbridge \, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:9289992e077122f66f9a58df0caa6dec URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/9289992e077122f66f9a58df0caa6dec END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260420T181419Z DTSTART:20260428T194500Z DTEND:20260428T203000Z SUMMARY:College to Career Networking DESCRIPTION:Welcome Students\, join us and learn about careers in the adoption and permanency field by networking with Executives and Professionals. Bring business cards!  \; CATEGORIES:STUDENT LOCATION:Sturbridge \, Hyatt Regency Boston SEQUENCE:0 UID:c78e6ac6eb690e8af1ddeb80e86571e0 URL:http://nationaladoptionassociation.sched.com/event/c78e6ac6eb690e8af1ddeb80e86571e0 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR