Name: State of the Child Conference
Start: 2025-03-10T08:30:00-04:00
End: 2025-03-10T16:30:00-04:00
Location: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Discover the best ways to support today’s youth at our 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.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Dr. Angela Pharris, speaking on "The Science of Hope."
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.
SCHECHs and CEUs Available (pending approval)
Breakout session details & discussion panel to be announced soon!
EVENT TIMELINE:
8:30am-9:00am | Registration & Breakfast
9:00am-10:45am | Panel Conversation & Questions
10:45am-11:00am | Break & Networking
11:00am-12:00pm | Breakout Session A
12:00pm-1:00pm | Lunch & Networking
1:00pm-2:00pm | Breakout Session B
2:00pm-2:15pm | Break & Networking
2:15pm-3:15pm | Breakout Session C
3:15pm-3:30pm | Break & Networking
3:30pm-4:30pm | Keynote Speaker
Tickets available here: https://www.wedgwood.org/sotc/