Annual Protecting Our Children National American Indian Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect

The Annual Protecting Our Children National American Indian Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect is a premier event focused on enhancing the skills and knowledge of professionals working with Native children and families. This conference is organized by NICWA, offering cost-effective professional development led by Tribal child welfare experts. It aims to re-indigenize child welfare practices and provides an opportunity for attendees to acquire practical tools and culturally based strategies for child welfare, family support, and community well-being. Participants can engage in immersive multi-day sessions, which are available in-person at the Hilton Portland Downtown or virtually, ensuring accessibility for all professionals, regardless of their location.The training sessions are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the child welfare field. Participants will have access to Continuing Education Units (CEUs) accredited by the National Association of Social Workers-Washington State. NICWA’s offerings include self-paced online courses that allow for flexible learning, covering essential topics such as the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) of 1978, substance abuse issues, and culturally responsive parenting practices. Notably, the Positive Indian Parenting curriculum reconnects families with traditional child-rearing practices while addressing modern challenges, empowering future generations. Additionally, the conference includes specialized workshops on Child Protection Teams in Indian Country, Cross-Cultural Skills in Indian Child Welfare, and strategies for working with substance-abusing families.The NICWA training options are designed to foster collaboration among child welfare professionals, with insights into effective engagement strategies and best practices for serving Native families. The conference also provides comprehensive resources available for purchase through NICWA’s online store, aimed at social services agencies, educators, and community leaders. On-site trainings can be conducted by experienced NICWA instructors, allowing for larger groups to gain essential skills efficiently. Each training session is customizable and designed to inspire meaningful change within communities. This event is an invaluable opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of culturally relevant practices and policies, enhancing their ability to effectively support Native children and families within the child welfare system.