New York State Children's Alliance Leadership Conference

The New York State Children's Alliance Leadership Conference is an essential gathering for professionals dedicated to child advocacy and multidisciplinary teamwork. This year's event, taking place at the Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs, promises to build upon the successes of previous conferences, including the notable 2025 Leadership Conference. That event was held at the Crowne Plaza Desmond in Albany, where over 200 attendees from eight states and one international guest participated, marking it as the largest gathering to date. It provided a dynamic platform for multidisciplinary team members and child advocacy professionals to connect, learn, and enhance their work in support of children and families.The conference features a strong lineup of speakers, including the inspiring Derek Clark, known as The Rapping Dad, whose keynote address on resilience, purpose, and leadership deeply resonated with attendees from various Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) and Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs). With more than 25 sessions available, participants have the opportunity to delve into a variety of topics crucial to the field, from best practices in collaboration to tools for strengthening casework. The closing session, led by Jen Henry, emphasized the importance of adaptable communication, reinforcing that effective collaboration within MDTs and CACs requires flexibility, awareness, and the ability to connect across different professional perspectives. This conference not only fosters learning but also celebrates the collective efforts of attendees, speakers, and sponsors in making the event a resounding success. As the conference heads back to Saratoga Springs, NY, it invites all CAC and MDT professionals to mark their calendars for another enriching experience.