BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Social Current - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.social-current.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Social Current REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Denver BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20230312T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20231105T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20250309T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20251102T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20260308T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20261101T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251103T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251103T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20251028T211017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T211102Z UID:10000537-1762174800-1762178400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Millions at Risk: Understanding the Shutdown’s Impact on Children\, Families\, and Human Services DESCRIPTION:Register Now \n \n The federal government shutdown is creating immediate and escalating risks for essential human services. Programs like WIC\, SNAP\, and Head Start are operating on limited or contingency funding and face rapid disruption as reserves run out. Nonprofits are already experiencing funding freezes\, delayed reimbursements\, stalled grants\, and increased demand—all while operating without clear guidance from federal agencies. \nThis briefing will outline the current shutdown landscape\, its impacts on nutrition and early childhood programs\, and what community-based organizations should expect in the coming weeks. We will also cover practical and urgent advocacy steps organizations and individuals can take to protect children\, families\, and the social sector workforce. \nTakeaways\n\nHow the federal shutdown is impacting WIC\, SNAP\, Head Start\, and related human service programs\, including funding timelines\, operational risks\, and state-level variations\nThe real-world consequences for nonprofits and communities\, such as reimbursement delays\, suspended grants\, increased demand\, and workforce strain\nKey messages and advocacy strategies to mobilize communities\, communicate with policymakers\, and elevate front-line experiences\nHow to take action quickly\, including through direct outreach to Congress\, coalition engagement\, and mobilizing local voices to protect critical services\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nLeadership\, policy\, and advocacy staff from community-based organizations\nExecutives and program directors overseeing WIC\, SNAP\, food security\, housing\, child welfare\, or early childhood services\nCommunications and public policy professionals responsible for advocacy or mobilization\nFront-line staff interested in how the shutdown affects program operations and families\nCoalition partners and stakeholders supporting safety-net services\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/millions-at-risk-understanding-the-shutdowns-impact-on-children-families-and-human-services/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251028T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251028T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250822T194506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T151009Z UID:10000520-1761656400-1761660000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Isn’t a Horror Movie – But It Sometimes Feels Like One!  DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Advocacy is one of the social sector’s greatest powers\, but lobbying restrictions and common misconceptions can make it challenging to know when and how to advocate. This webinar will support organizations in engaging in responsive and strategic advocacy by reviewing the responsibilities of 501(c)(3) organizations. We will review case studies to outline key differences between lobbying and advocacy. We will also discuss 501(h) elections and considerations for nonprofit organizations should they elect to file. \nTakeaways\n\nReview key distinctions of advocacy and lobbying\nDiscuss responsibilities nonprofits hold because of their 501(c)(3) status\nStrategies to support responsive\, strategic advocacy\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-isnt-a-horror-movie-but-it-sometimes-feels-like-one/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251020T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251021T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20241020T230000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T172855Z UID:10000437-1760918400-1761091199@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:SPARK 2025 DESCRIPTION:About\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Pre- and Post-Conference Sessions\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Workshops\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Keynotes\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Consultations\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n About \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Register Now \n \n When registering\, you’ll be prompted to log in. If you do not have an account\, create one for free by clicking: Create an Account. \nSPARK 2025 will unite practice excellence\, innovation\, and federal policy advocacy to advance our sector’s impact and help all families and communities thrive. This in-person event will elevate important conversations around our most vexing challenges and showcase insight and expertise from the field. \nThis event is designed for leaders who are fueled by a commitment to improve the well-being of all people. Together\, we will share inspiration and practical tools for implementing innovative practice\, policy\, and research. Our keynote speakers and breakout sessions will address new insight and promising approaches related to: \n\nBrain-friendly and trauma-informed approaches\nChild\, family\, and community well-being\nCOA Accreditation and data-driven strategies\nEquity\, diversity\, and inclusion\nGovernment affairs and advocacy\nLeadership and organizational development\n\nJustification Letter for Travel Request \nThis draft letter outlines the benefits of attending the SPARK 2025 conference\, key dates\, and expected travel costs. Use this template to communicate the return on investment with your supervisor: \n\nDownload the letter template\nDownload the letter template for COA Accreditation primary contacts\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutives\nDirector-level staff\nBoard members\nPerformance quality improvement staff\nProfessional and clinical services\n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Pricing \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration must be received on or before Sept. 26 to receive the early bird rate. After that date\, regular rates apply. \nImpact Partners and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation\nEarly Bird Registration $625\nRegular Registration $825 \nOther Organizations\nEarly Bird Registration $725\nRegular Registration $925 \nMultiperson Registration Discount\nRegister two (2) full conference participants from the same organization and receive $50 off all subsequent full conference registrations from the same organization. Only one discount per person; no other discounts apply. Once two conference participants are registered\, contact Social Current to receive the discount code for all subsequent full conference registrations. \nComplimentary Trainings for SPARK 2025 Registrants\nSocial Current is including two additional trainings with SPARK 2025 registration. \nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\nSunday\, Oct. 19 from 1-4 p.m. CT\nAdd this training when you register for the conference. \nBuilding Healthy Workplace Cultures in Challenging Times\nWednesday\, Oct. 21-Thursday\, Oct. 22\nOnce you register for SPARK 2025\, you will receive your discount code to register for this session on the registration confirmation screen and follow up email. \nCancellation by Participant\nAll cancellation requests must be made in writing. Conference cancellations are subject to a $100 processing fee. Cancellation requests received after Oct. 1 will not be refunded. Credit toward future Social Current events is not currently possible. Participants unable to attend the conference may send an alternate participant. Notice of written cancellation or alternate participant requests must be emailed directly to Social Current. \nCancellation by Social Current\nIf Social Current cancels this conference\, all registration fees will be refunded in full. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Location & Lodging \n \n \n \n \n \n Hilton Chicago\n720 S Michigan Ave.\nChicago\, IL 60605 \nHotel Reservations\nSocial Current has arranged a special room rate of $259 for single or double occupancy\, plus applicable taxes. To receive the discounted rate\, book online or call the hotel at 877-865-5320 by Sept. 26 and mention the group name: Social Current SPARK 2025. \nThis rate is available for stays up to three days prior to and after the conference\, but it is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nSunday\, Oct. 19\n\n\n9 a.m.-Noon\nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\n\n\n12:30-4 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nPerformance and Quality Improvement (PQI) Training\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\n\n\n1-5 p.m.\nELI Alumni: Unlocking Potential Because You Matter!\n\n\n5:30-7 p.m.\nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nMonday\, Oct. 20\n\n\n8 a.m.-3:45 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n8-9 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n9-10:30 a.m.\nOpening General Session\n\n\n10:30-11 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.\nSession A Workshops\n\n\n12:30-2 p.m.\nNetworking Lunch\n\n\n1:15-1:45 p.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n2-3:30 p.m.\nSession B Workshops\n\n\n3:45-4:15 p.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n4:30-5:30 p.m.\nNetworking Reception\n\n\n\n  \n  \n\n\n\nTuesday\, Oct. 21\n\n\n7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n7:30-8:30 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n7:45-8:15 a.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n8:30-10 a.m.\nSession C Workshops\n\n\n10-10:30 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n10:30 a.m.-Noon\nSession D Workshops\n\n\nNoon-1:45 p.m.\nLunch and Closing General Session\n\n\n2-4 p.m.\nThe Intersection of Trauma-Informed Approaches and Quality Improvement\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Sponsor & Exhibit \n \n \n \n \n \n Social Current’s robust network of organizations and individuals across the country provides a unique opportunity for sponsors to reach C-suite decisionmakers in their target demographics. Simultaneously\, sponsorship will allow brands to assess challenges unique to the sector\, collaborate\, and access network expertise. \nThrough our network\, we can reach more than 12\,000 human services professionals representing more than 1\,800 organizations that serve nearly 11 million individuals. \nView the SPARK 2025 sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities. Contact us to learn more. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Pre- and Post-Conference Sessions \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Pre-Conference Sessions\nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\nOct. 19 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.\nThe Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare organizations to get the most out of their COA Accreditation experience. It provides an overview of the COA Accreditation process and standards\, tips on how to manage the work\, and advice for preparing for the site visit. Registration for IAT is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nPerformance and Quality Improvement Training (PQI)\nOct. 19 from 1-4 p.m.\nThis performance and quality improvement (PQI) training is designed to help organizations pursuing COA Accreditation develop a comprehensive approach to a quality improvement process that will advance an efficient and effective service delivery system and enhance organizational capacity to deliver quality services. Registration for PQI is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\nOct. 19 from 1-4 p.m.\nAs federal priorities shift\, nonprofit leaders must be prepared to respond swiftly and strategically. This condensed version of Social Current’s Advocacy Amplified training equips participants with the essential tools to navigate today’s policy environment\, which includes increasing threats to equity; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion programs; and core social services funding. Participants will gain practical skills in policy analysis\, narrative framing\, and grassroots mobilization. Registration is free for SPARK 2025 participants. \nExecutive Leadership Institute: Unlocking Potential Because You Matter\nOct. 19 from 1-5 p.m. CT\nFor over 20 years\, the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) has established an incredible reputation for providing a quality peer learning experience that positively impacts the development of social sector leaders. This pre-conference convening is the first of its kind! We invite past\, present\, and future ELI participants to network with each other\, engage in motivational storytelling about what’s shaped you as a leader\, and discuss ELI’s transformative impact on both individuals and organizations. Registration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\nOct. 19 from 5:30-7 p.m.\nWe could not do what we do without our COA Accreditation volunteers. All active COA Accreditation volunteers are invited to join us as we gather and celebrate all that you do. Catch up with colleagues\, share site visit stories from the road\, and get ready for the start of SPARK 2025. There will be food\, drinks\, prizes\, and a host of swag – so you will not want to miss this event. Registration for the Volunteer Appreciation Celebration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. To register\, email Darrell Woodliff\, director of volunteer engagement at Social Current. \nPost-Conference Sessions\nThe Intersection of Trauma-Informed Approaches and Quality Improvement\nOct. 21 from 2-4 p.m. CT\nBy applying a trauma-informed perspective\, we can reframe the conversation around quality improvement—from asking\, “Why aren’t you embracing continuous quality improvement?” to “What’s happening that’s preventing you from engaging?” Quality improvement in human services organizations is a centralized function that relies on data to drive meaningful outcomes. The way data teams collaborate with clinical and program staff is crucial in breaking down barriers\, fostering trust\, and using data technology to create positive\, lasting change. Registration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. SPARK 2025 participants receive a discount code to join for free. \nBuilding Healthy Workplace Cultures in Challenging Times\nOct. 22-23 from 9-4 p.m. CT\nThis two-day workshop will equip leaders and supervisors with foundational knowledge and skills to help their teams manage uncertainty\, stress\, and interpersonal conflict so they can create a healthy and resilient organizational culture. Presenters will address topics including increasing accountability\, having crucial conversations\, nurturing relationships\, embracing equity\, and achieving excellence. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Workshops \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Each workshop is identified as a “learner” or “doer” session: \n\nLearner Sessions: For those with limited knowledge on the topic who are looking for an introduction\nDoer: For those with prior knowledge and experience with a topic who are looking to advance their skill and mastery\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sort By:\n Session Groups\n Area of Focus\n \n \n \n A (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) \n B (2-3:30 p.m.) \n C (8:30-10 a.m.) \n D (10:30 a.m.-Noon p.m.) \n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Keynotes \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \nOpening Keynote: Nonprofit 2.0: Navigating the Road Ahead\nToday’s nonprofit leaders are navigating a landscape full of detours—AI\, funding shifts\, burnout\, and declining trust. In this opening keynote\, Suzanne Smith invites you to zoom out\, re-center your mission\, and rethink the map entirely. The road ahead won’t be paved with yesterday’s strategies—but with bold mindsets and adaptive systems designed for what’s next. \nSuzanne also will present workshop D6: Better Together: Rethinking the Way Nonprofits Collaborate for the Greater Good. \nSuzanne Smith\nFounder and CEO\nSocial Impact Architects\n \nSuzanne Smith has a deep belief that everyone is a changemaker. As a serial social entrepreneur\, she strives to harness the powerful force of organizations\, including nonprofits\, foundations and socially responsible businesses\, and individuals\, to maximize the potential of the social sector to create real\, scalable impact. \nIn 2009\, Suzanne founded Social Impact Architects\, a registered Benefit Corporation\, to reshape the business of social change. She combines her MBA know-how with two decades of experience as a nonprofit innovator to serve as a consultant\, advisor\, and thought partner. She is also a highly sought-after public speaker at conferences nationwide\, including TEDxTurtleCreekWomen. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Arlington. In this work\, she has pioneered open-source frameworks for the creation of better social solutions\, including layered logic models\, ecosystem mapping\, and social alchemy. For her outstanding work as a leading thinker\, she was recognized with the Next Generation Social Entrepreneur Award by the Social Enterprise Alliance. Since 2015\, Social Impact Architects was recognized as one of the “Best for the World” small businesses by B Corp. \nSuzanne also authors Social TrendSpotter\, one of the sector’s top blogs according to The Huffington Post. She is frequently interviewed by regional and national media on social entrepreneurship and has published articles in Forbes\, The Chronicle of Philanthropy\, See Change\, Nonprofit Business Advisor\, Upstart\, and Grantmakers in Health. \nSuzanne has been at the epicenter of game-changing social solutions for more than two decades as a social intrapreneur. Her first jobs at the City of Garland and Texas Municipal League taught her the power and potential of local government to impact change. Later\, she worked for Phoenix House to scale evidence-based prevention and treatment programs and for the American Heart Association to build a national state advocacy strategy. One of her greatest achievements was co-founding the Alliance for a Healthier Generation – one of the country’s first movements focused on combating childhood obesity – with a team from the William J. Clinton Foundation. She also co-founded Flywheel: Social Enterprise Hub in Cincinnati to help nonprofits build meaningful and sustainable social enterprises. \nSuzanne holds a master’s in business administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business\, where she was selected as the CASE (Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship) Scholar. Nationally\, she was selected as a member of Peter Senge’s Society of Organizational Learning and has served on the national board of the Social Enterprise Alliance. She has advised many federal agencies on their efforts on social entrepreneurship and system change. \n  \n\n  \n \n \n Closing Keynote: The Business of Impact: How Purpose Powers Prosperity\n \nJoin Dorri McWhorter for a dynamic conversation on how purpose-driven leaders can make bold money moves — building business models that uplift communities\, unlock new funding streams\, and expand resources beyond traditional philanthropy. It’s about staying rooted in your mission while reimagining what’s possible for impact\, equity\, and enterprise. \nDorri C. McWhorter\nPresident & Chief Executive Officer\nExecutives’ Club of Chicago\n \nDorri McWhorter is renowned for her social enterprise business leadership. Crain’s Chicago Business lauded her as a “nonprofit disrupter” who turned around a major organization “by leading as if it’s a startup.” She is a 2019 Inductee into the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame\, and her work to create a new paradigm for the social impact sector is featured in the documentary Uncharitable. \nMost recently\, Dorri served as president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. Under her leadership\, the YMCA modernized membership offerings and created partnerships with Nike and Peloton. She also worked to bring a new YMCA to Chicago’s west side as part of a new development to include a wellness center with health care\, grocery store\, and business incubator. Previously\, Dorri served as CEO of the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago\, transforming it from a traditional social service organization to a “21st century social enterprise.” She added 10 service locations\, increased the operating budget by 300%\, and established a retirement plan with options for child care providers and small business owners. She led the effort to develop an exchange-traded fund (ETF) for women’s empowerment (NYSE: WOMN) in partnership with Impact Shares. \nDorri prides herself on being a humanity-centered business leader and is committed to creating an inclusive marketplace by leveraging a cross-sector approach of engaging business\, civic\, and community partners. Dorri’s professional experience spans a variety of businesses and industries. Prior to taking on leadership roles in the social enterprise sector\, she was a partner at Crowe LLP\, one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S. Dorri serves on the board of directors for several companies including\, LanzaTech Global\, Lifeway Foods\, William Blair Funds\, NexPoint Capital\, and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway). Dorri is also active in the accounting profession and serves on the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council and has served as a member of the board of directors of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and a past chairperson of the board of directors for the Illinois CPA Society. Dorri also serves as co-chair of the First Women’s Bank Advisory Board. \nDorri’s civic and philanthropic leadership includes the board of directors for Common Impact\, Chicago Council on Global Affairs\, Civic Consulting Alliance\, Civic Federation\, Chicago Center for Arts and Technology\, and Forefront. Dorri received a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of Wisconsin–Madison\, a master’s in business administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management\, and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lake Forest College. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Consultations \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Enhance your SPARK 2025 experience by booking a one-on-one consultation with Social Current. Our leaders offer subject matter expertise and have extensive experience in partnering with human and social services organizations to achieve meaningful change. \nWe have opened bookings for the free consultations. Register for SPARK 2025 to receive a follow up email with the link to book your timeslot. Please only reserve one consult per registrant. \nChild\, Family\, and Community Well-Being\nRomero Davis\, Senior Director of Practice Excellence \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nIntentional community collaboration\nSustainability planning\nPoverty/neglect conflation\nChild welfare challenges\n\nGovernment Affairs and Advocacy\nBlair Abelle-Kiser\, Senior Director of Government Affairs \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nStrategic policy navigation to understand\, respond to\, and influence complex federal and state policy environments impacting human services\nBuilding grassroots capacity\, engaging stakeholders\, and advancing policy agendas aligned with each organization’s mission and community needs\nRisk and resilience planning that assesses systemic threats\, such as insurance instability or funding volatility\, and through proactive strategies\n\nLeadership and Organizational Development\nRobena Spangler\, Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development \nMonday – 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nLeadership development opportunities for frontline managers and executive leadership (on-site and virtual)\nCustomized leadership and organizational assessment\nBoard improvement strategies\nStrategic planning\n\nWorkforce Resilience\nKaren Johnson\, Senior Director of Change in Mind \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nCreating brain-friendly work environments\nBuilding psychological safety\nPromoting positive staff culture\nCreating connection and community at work\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet Our Consultants\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n \n Senior Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n Senior Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Romero Davis is a senior director of practice excellence at Social Current. A mentor for professional development and community justice champion\, Davis has worked nationally with agencies in areas such as poly-victimization; trauma in families; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion; juvenile justice; and domestic violence. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as director of government relations & advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring her time in public service\, she served as a professional staff member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. She led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, she worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)\, where she served as a health policy fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, she led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, she worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. She earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Robena Spangler\n \n Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Robena Spangler\n Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current \n \n Robena Spangler is an innovative senior executive with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health\, human services\, and advancing equity and inclusion work. The majority of her career has been dedicated to systems improvement within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Spangler held several leadership roles in the public and private sectors. She has provided professional coaching and leadership development for teams and individuals on a national level. \nIn addition to her public and private sector work\, she is an adjunct instructor at Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS)\, responsible for facilitating accelerated programs in human services for adult learners. Her current role\, as an EDI and leadership strategist\, is to design and manage all aspects of Social Current’s leadership and organizational development portfolio. Spangler holds a bachelor’s in sociology and human services along with a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Karen Johnson\n \n Senior Director of Change in Mind\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Karen Johnson\n Senior Director of Change in Mind\nSocial Current \n \n Karen Johnson brings knowledge of the advancing science around resilience\, brain development\, adversity\, toxic stress\, equity\, and trauma-informed approaches to the complex challenges we face. This expertise\, coupled with her 27 years of experience in child welfare\, behavioral health\, and community services\, enables her to successfully partner with leaders\, staff\, community members\, and participants across numerous settings to promote individual and organizational resilience. \nJohnson leads the development of the Social Current Change in Mind Institute\, leveraging the latest advances in neurosciences and trauma-informed approaches across sectors and at the practice\, policy\, and systems levels. She oversees the Texas Change in Mind Learning Collaborative\, through which 10 organizations from multiple sectors across Southeast Texas are working to embed brain science principles with the goal of improving outcomes for children and families\, as well as their organizational cultures and ability to collaborate with partners. \nDuring her five-and-a-half years on the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s trauma-informed services team\, and year-and-a-half as an independent consultant\, Johnson trained and consulted with organizations\, systems\, and communities striving to advance trauma-informed\, resilience-oriented approaches. She also led and developed community-based programs during her 19 years at SaintA in Milwaukee. Johnson combines the newest advances around adversity\, relational health\, and resilience to infuse hope and connection into our work. \nJohnson is a licensed clinical social worker certified in Dr. Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead and Daring Way and trained in Dr. Bruce Perry’s Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sponsors \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Gold Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Silver Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Supporting Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Exhibitors URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/spark2025/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Child and Family Well-Being,EDI,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence,Policy,Event,Brain Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SPARK2025-Website-Preview_Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250509T181314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T183954Z UID:10000481-1760878800-1760889600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape DESCRIPTION:Register for this pre-conference session by registering for SPARK 2025. \nAs federal priorities shift\, nonprofit leaders must be prepared to respond swiftly and strategically. This condensed version of Social Current’s Advocacy Amplified training equips participants with the essential tools to navigate today’s policy environment\, which includes increasing threats to equity; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion programs; and core social services funding. \nParticipants will gain practical skills in policy analysis\, narrative framing\, and grassroots mobilization. With a focus on low-cost\, high-impact strategies\, this session is designed for organizations operating with limited capacity but high stakes. Whether you’re preparing for the annual Advocacy Amplified full summer training and Hill Day or need an urgent tune-up on federal advocacy\, this pre-conference experience offers the insight and readiness you need now. \nTakeaways\n\nHow to transform expertise\, lived experience\, and passions into impactful advocacy\nFundamental advocacy skills and advanced advocacy strategies needed for successful campaigns\nRelationships with engaged and informed advocates from around the country\n\nWho Should Participate\nAny staff from community-based organizations. No prior experience or skills are required. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Presenter\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as director of government relations & advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring her time in public service\, she served as a professional staff member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. She led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, she worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)\, where she served as a health policy fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, she led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, she worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. She earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-amplified-rapid-response-readiness-in-a-shifting-policy-landscape/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Training,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SPARK2025-PreCon-Advocacy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250923T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250923T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250822T194458Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T150822Z UID:10000525-1758636000-1758639600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Fostering a Culture of Advocacy: Building Policy Competence Across Your Organization  DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Sustainable\, transformative advocacy requires policy engagement to be woven into the culture of an organization—not just housed in one department. This webinar will explore how to build advocacy knowledge and readiness at all levels of your organization\, from front–line staff to executive leadership. Through practical examples and implementation tips\, we’ll help you transform policy fluency from a siloed skill into a shared value.  \nTakeaways\n\nWhat policy competence looks like at all organizational levels\nStrategies for embedding advocacy into daily operations\nModels of organization-wide training and internal communication\nLeadership’s role in advocacy culture\nHow to distribute advocacy capacity and readiness\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/fostering-a-culture-of-advocacy-building-policy-competence-across-your-organization/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250922T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250922T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250828T172319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T151904Z UID:10000528-1758549600-1758553200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Kinship Care in Transition: Navigating through Changes and Centering Families  DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Kinship care continues to be a vital part of the child and family well-being system\, offering children safety\, stability\, and the comfort of familiar relationships. As federal policies evolve to better support kinship families\, agencies and organizations must adapt to shifting standards while maintaining their commitment to equity\, family voice\, and culturally responsive care. This webinar is designed to help participants understand recent federal rule changes impacting kinship care and relevant updates to COA Accreditation standards and how to translate those changes into meaningful\, family-centered practice.  \nThis interactive webinar will also provide practical tools and strategies for engaging and valuing kinship caregivers as true partners in the system. Whether you’re a frontline worker\, administrator\, or advocate\, you’ll leave with takeaways to strengthen kinship placements and elevate the voices of those caring for their own.  \nThe session will clarify what’s changing\, what remains consistent\, and how organizations can remain compliant while also honoring the lived experience of kinship families. Participants will have a clearer understanding of recent federal rule changes\, practical steps for organizational alignment\, and approaches to supporting and empowering kinship families across diverse communities.  \n  \nTakeaways\n\nParticipants will gain an understanding of federal rule changes to kinship care and the impacts.\nAttendees will gain clarity on updates to COA Accreditation standards and compliance expectations for agencies working with kinship families.\nParticipants will learn practical strategies organizations can use to adapt to the new regulations while remaining family-centered and culturally responsive.\nAttendees will identify actionable ways to engage\, support\, and value kinship caregivers as key partners in the care system.\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nCommunity-based organization staff\nCourt-appointed advocates and GALs\nFoster care and kinship care trainers\nKinship navigators and family support workers\nChild welfare agency staff and supervisors\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n \n Senior Director of Child & Family Well-Being \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n Senior Director of Child & Family Well-Being \n \n Romero Davis is the senior director of child and family well-being at Social Current. A mentor for professional development and community justice champion\, Davis has worked nationally with agencies in areas such as poly-victimization; trauma in families; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion; juvenile justice; and domestic violence. He is a member of the technical assistance team for Child Safety Forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jordan Reinwald\, LCSW\n \n Practice Excellence Standards Specialist \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jordan Reinwald\, LCSW\n Practice Excellence Standards Specialist \n \n Jordan Reinwald\, LCSW is a Practice Excellence Standards Specialist with Social Current providing research\, development\, and ongoing technical assistance and maintenance of the COA Accreditation Standards. Jordan brings a mix of direct practice and policy development experience in child welfare to her work in standards research.  Jordan has worked as a foster care social worker in Alabama and as a Clinical Specialist in the Massachusetts Office of the Child Advocate\, where she conducted reviews of critical incidents and recommended practice and policy changes to improve outcomes for children in foster care. She is passionate about promoting best practices in child welfare and human services to enhance the well-being of children and families. Jordan resides in West Hartford\, CT. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/kinship-care-in-transition-navigating-through-changes-and-centering-families/ CATEGORIES:Child and Family Well-Being,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Safety-Resilience_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250916T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250916T143000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250822T194143Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T151108Z UID:10000518-1758027600-1758033000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:September Grassroots Convening DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Human and social services professionals are invited to join Social Current’s monthly Grassroots Advocacy Network Convening. We will lead an interactive session to assist nonprofits in developing effective values-based messages that connect across ideological divides and resonate with diverse viewpoints. Through an interactive session\, participants will collaboratively develop language that captures attention\, builds bridges\, and motivates action. \nJoin the grassroots advocacy network online. \nSocial Current’s grassroots advocacy network is a rapid-response team for urgent policy and legislative issues that offers opportunities to exchange ideas\, share solutions\, and build lasting connections across the sector. By joining\, you’ll receive alerts\, advocacy opportunities\, and access to workshops and training to sharpen your strategies and tools. \nTakeaways\n\nOpportunities to work alongside likeminded advocates to develop a messaging framework that resonates across diverse audiences\nTechniques for values-based communication\nPractice in refining messages for stakeholders representing unique populations\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/september-grassroots-convening/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250826T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250826T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250521T191755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250612T162051Z UID:10000488-1756216800-1756220400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Ecosystems: Building Collective Power Across Sectors DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n To create sustainable\, lasting change\, we need to build on strong advocacy campaigns with strong ecosystems. This session will explore the conditions and factors needed for strategic advocacy infrastructure\, which connects individual voices to a broader movement. We’ll discuss the value of building coalitions\, cultivating shared narratives\, and coordinating action across sectors. \nTakeaways\n\nAbout an advocacy ecosystem and its components\nModels of cross-sector collaboration and coalition work\nMoving beyond single-issue advocacy toward long-term strategy\nTactics for integrating local\, state\, and federal action\nHow to think structurally\, not just reactively\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-ecosystems-building-collective-power-across-sectors/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250722T155946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250722T160602Z UID:10000513-1755003600-1755007200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:August Grassroots Advocacy Network Convening DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Human and social services professionals are invited to join Social Current’s monthly grassroots advocacy network virtual convenings. We will discuss key policy issues affecting our sector\, opportunities for advocacy\, and offer an opportunity to check-in with questions as the federal policy landscape continues to shift rapidly. \nOur August meeting will center forward movement in appropriations\, reductions-in-force\, and a lawsuit affecting the Johnson Amendment. We will also discuss opportunities for advocacy through August recess. \nJoin the grassroots advocacy network online. \nSocial Current’s grassroots advocacy network is a rapid-response team for urgent policy and legislative issues that offers opportunities to exchange ideas\, share solutions\, and build lasting connections across the sector. By joining\, you’ll receive alerts\, advocacy opportunities\, and access to workshops and training to sharpen your strategies and tools. \nTakeaways\n\nUnderstand key political events impacting our sector\nReview opportunities to engage in August recess\nOrganizations will also have the opportunity to engage in a discussion regarding the current challenges they are facing\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/august-grassroots-advocacy-network-convening/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250729T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250729T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250521T190946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T190952Z UID:10000487-1753797600-1753801200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Crafting a Powerful Story for Impactful Advocacy DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Your experiences are the foundation for powerful advocacy\, offering lawmakers a blueprint for change. In this interactive webinar\, you’ll learn how to tell your story in ways that are emotionally resonant\, strategically focused\, and aligned with current policy efforts. Through practical frameworks and peer engagement\, we’ll help you build a story that empowers—not just informs—and drives action at every level. \nTakeaways\n\nHow to link personal stories to policy change\nStructure and strategy for ethical storytelling\nHow to elevate voice and experience as tools for systemic influence\nGain confidence in using lived experience to engage lawmakers\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/crafting-a-powerful-story-for-impactful-advocacy/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250710T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250710T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250707T202830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T202835Z UID:10000512-1752152400-1752156000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:H.R. 1: Reviewing the Federal Budget and Expected Impact on the Social Sector DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n H.R. 1\, the federal appropriations bill\, is expected to have significant impacts across the social service sector. \nJoin us as we review key provisions of the bill\, including changes to Medicaid\, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program\, and student loan policies. We’ll also discuss opportunities for advocacy. \nTakeaways\n\nHow H.R. 1 will impact our sector\nOpportunities to support your organization through periods of uncertainty\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/h-r-1-reviewing-the-federal-budget-and-expected-impact-on-the-social-sector/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250708T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250708T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250521T184839Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250611T162156Z UID:10000486-1751983200-1751986800@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Following Advocacy Amplified: Strengthening Your Advocacy DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Join us as we review 2025 Advocacy Amplified\, Social Current’s annual summer training and Hill Day. We’ll recap the most powerful takeaways and share new tools and templates to inspire and engage key stakeholders as you continue your advocacy journey. This session is designed to help you catch up\, re-center\, and carry forward the momentum into the next phase of summer advocacy. Everyone is welcome\, especially if you couldn’t join us for this year’s event. \nTakeaways\n\nShowcase key takeaways and top tools from the training and Hill Day\nElevate participant stories and feedback\nProvide a summary of new action items\, strategies\, and resources\nRe-engage those who could not attend the full event\nBridge momentum from the conference into the July recess\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/following-advocacy-amplified-strengthening-your-advocacy/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250624T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250624T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250521T183650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T183656Z UID:10000485-1750773600-1750777200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Local Advocacy: Preparing for August Recess DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n With August recess fast approaching\, now is the perfect time to prepare for advocacy opportunities in your community. This webinar will offer tips to schedule and prepare for impactful in-district meetings\, elevate your voice through local media\, and activate your full network for recess season. We’ll share everything you need\, including talking points\, to engage in effective and impactful advocacy. \nTakeaways\n\nHow to launch August recess advocacy planning early\nScheduling tools\, templates\, and support\nAbout current legislative priorities and talking points\nHow to encourage and track grassroots engagement efforts\nHow to increase public visibility through social media and press\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/local-advocacy-preparing-for-august-recess/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250616T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250618T180000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250127T192511Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T193318Z UID:10000461-1750060800-1750269600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Amplified Training and Hill Day DESCRIPTION:Registration for this event has closed. Sign up for the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network to be informed of future opportunities. \nPricing: \n\nImpact Partners and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation: $400\nOther Organizations: $475\n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n About\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Presenter\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Locations & Lodging\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Agenda\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n About \n \n\n \n \n \n About the Event\nThe Advocacy Amplified Training and Hill Day is a comprehensive and interactive three-day event in Washington\, D.C.\, designed to empower individuals in the social sector with fundamental and advanced advocacy skills. Participants will learn how to transform their expertise into impactful strategies\, foster relationships\, and mobilize support around policy issues that are important to the sector. \nThe two-day training will equip attendees with the information and skills to effectively participate in Hill Day. Social Current facilitators and guest speakers will drive engagement throughout the event. \nOn day one\, participants will learn fundamental aspects of effective advocacy and develop a strong foundation for future advocacy efforts. The session will cover the following topics: \n\nIntroduction to Advocacy\nNavigating the Advocacy Landscape\nCrafting Powerful Advocacy Messages\nBuilding Relationships\nMobilizing Support\n\nOn day two\, participants will focus on advanced advocacy strategies\, equipping them with the skills to navigate policymaking and advocate for their causes. The session will cover the following topics: \n\nPolicy Analysis and Research\nInfluencing Legislation\nMedia and Communications\nAdvocacy Day Preparation\nEthical Considerations and Compliance\n\nOn day three\, participants will gain real-world experience through Capitol Hill visits. You will meet with legislators and staff to advocate for critical issues and deliver persuasive messages based on the training received the previous days. \nSocial Current will arrange these meetings with members of Congress on your behalf. Using the addresses you provide during registration\, we will schedule meetings with your respective legislators\, ensuring that you have meaningful interactions with key decision makers. \nParticipants must attend both days of training and Hill Day. \nTakeaways\n\nHow to transform expertise\, lived experience\, and passions into impactful advocacy\nFundamental advocacy skills and advanced advocacy strategies needed for successful campaigns\nHands-on experience meeting with legislators around a shared goal\nRelationships with engaged and informed advocates from around the country\n\nWho Should Participate\nAny staff or volunteer at a community-based organizations. No prior experience or skills are required. \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Presenter \n \n\n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\nSenior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as director of government relations & advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring her time in public service\, she served as a professional staff member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. She led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, she worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)\, where she served as a health policy fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, she led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, she worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. She earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Locations & Lodging \n \n\n \n \n \n Location\nDay 1 and 2 (Advocacy Amplified Training)\nMetro Offices – DuPont Circle\nL’Enfant Training Room\n1250 Connecticut Ave. NW\, 7th Floor\nWashington\, DC 20036 \nDay 3 (Hill Day)\nCapitol Hill\n1 First St NE\nWashington\, DC 20543 \nLodging\nParticipants are welcome to stay at the hotel of their choice. Nearby hotels include: \nCourtyard Washington\, DC DuPont Circle\n1733 N St NW\nWashington\, DC 20036 \nHotel Madera\n1310 New Hampshire Ave NW\nWashington\, DC 20036 \nEmbassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown\n1250 22nd St NW\nWashington\, DC 20037 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Agenda \n \n\n \n \n \n Day 1: June 16: Finding Power — Message\, Meaning\, and Systems\n8:30-9 a.m. | Breakfast and Welcome Table \n9-9:20 a.m. | Opening Plenary: Why Advocacy\, Why Now \nUnderstand the stakes for human services and the unique role of advocacy in advancing justice and equity. \n9:20-10:30 a.m. | Session 1: Take Back Your Narrative – Advocacy 101 \nLearn how to frame your personal and organizational story\, develop confidence in sharing your lived experience\, and make a focused policy ask \n10:30-10:45 a.m. | Break \n10:45-11:45 a.m.| Session 2: School House Rock for the Social Sector \nDevelop foundational understanding of how Congress works\, how committees impact social policy\, and how nonprofits can influence decision-makers. \n11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. | Networking Lunch \n12:45-2 p.m. | Session 3: Policy Analysis 101 – From Issue to Impact \nBuild skills in researching policy\, identifying key levers\, and turning community needs into a clear policy case. \n2-3 p.m. | Session 4: The Federal Budget – A Primer for Social Sector Advocates \nUnderstand the federal budget process and where advocacy fits in\, with a focus on funding streams that impact children\, families\, and communities. \n3-3:15 p.m. | Break \n3:15-4:15 p.m. | Session 5: Framing Messages That Break Through \nPractice crafting values-based messages that connect across ideological lines and resonate beyond the “choir.” \n4:15-5 p.m. | Session 6: Building and Sustaining Relationships with Policymakers \nLearn how to engage congressional offices\, follow up effectively\, and become a trusted advocate over time. \nDay 2: June 17: Moving Power — Tools\, Practice\, and Hill Day Prep\n8:30-9 a.m. | Breakfast and Day 1 Recap \n9-10 a.m. | Session 7: Policy Literacy\, Media\, and Message Discipline \nLearn how internal message alignment supports external advocacy success\, and build a plan to integrate media into your advocacy work. \n10-10:15 a.m. | Break \n10:15-11:30 a.m. | Session 8: Campaign Strategy – Lessons from Sectors That Win \nExplore why some sectors succeed politically and extract practical strategy lessons to apply in the social sector. \n11:30 a.m.-Noon | Session 9: Community Wide Advocacy \nExamine the benefits of joint advocacy campaigns and involving partner organizations. Learn strategies to build grassroots advocacy campaigns and develop coalitions. \nNoon-1 p.m. | Lunch: Policy Consultations with Blair Abelle-Kiser \nReceive direct feedback and support on your organization’s advocacy goals and Hill Day strategy. \n1-2 p.m. | Session 10: Constructing an Effective Policy Ask \nDevelop a clear\, compelling\, and concise ask tailored to your target legislator or staffer. \n2-3:30 p.m. | Session 11: Hill Day Roleplay – Sharpening the Ask \nPractice delivering your ask\, respond to tough questions\, and receive real-time coaching and peer feedback. \n3:30-4:15 p.m. | Session 12: Logistics\, Protocols\, and Office Dynamics \nUnderstand Hill Day logistics\, how to read the room\, and what to expect during meetings with congressional staff. \n4:15-5 p.m. | Closing Circle: Commitments\, Confidence\, and Capitol Hill Sendoff \nSolidify your strategy\, build collective confidence\, and leave equipped to make an impact. \n6 p.m. | Group Dinner \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n One of the best trainings I have ever participated in. Inspiring\, informative\, and equipping. I left D.C. more inspired to advocate than when I came.\n Derek Cortez\, Chief Executive Officer at Chileda \n \n The Advocacy Amplified training provided federal context on the state of nonprofits. This was important for our organization to understand how to best position ourselves for public funding grants and contracts.\n Mayra Salazar\, Senior Director of Public Policy & Advocacy at Hillsides \n \n There’s always an opportunity to become a better advocate. We have gained a pool of knowledge that we can provide to the families we service\, our leadership team\, and board.\n Jonathan Vasquez\, Government Relations and Advocacy Assistant at Children’s Institute URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-amplified-training-and-hill-day-2/ LOCATION:U.S. Capitol\, Washington\, DC\, 20004\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Training,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hill-Day-009-e1740588639888.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250527T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250527T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250512T183401Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T183406Z UID:10000484-1748354400-1748358000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Grassroots Onboarding Webinar: Your Voice\, Your Impact DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n New and returning advocates are encouraged to join this webinar to strengthen their advocacy skills. Participants will gain an understanding of the importance of advocacy\, pathways to become involved\, and available resources to support their journey. This session is ideal for those who wish to start advocating but aren’t sure where to begin\, as well as experienced advocates looking to reengage and strengthen their focus. \nTakeaways\n\nAbout the Social Current Grassroots Network and its purpose\nTools and engagement pathways\nA foundational understanding of nonprofit policy advocacy\nSpark long-term participation and action across the network\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/grassroots-onboarding-webinar-your-voice-your-impact/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Challenge-Series-Policy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20241219T184147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250303T185439Z UID:10000450-1745326800-1745330400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy in Action: Behavioral Health Integration and Systems Change DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This webinar will discuss behavioral health integration and systems change. Participants will learn about strategies to grow coalitions and navigate legislative processes to support behavioral health funding and integration within larger advocacy efforts. \nThis session is designed to empower organizations with the knowledge and resources needed to create actionable advocacy plans and best represent the needs of their communities. \nThe webinar will outline opportunities to join Social Current’s advocacy efforts\, as well as leverage our advocacy toolkit to further support positive social change. Interactive elements\, like crafting clear\, persuasive advocacy messaging and role playing meetings with policymakers\, will ensure participants leave prepared to act. \nThis is one session in the four-part Advocacy in Action webinar series: \n\nSocial Current’s Federal Policy Agenda: Jan. 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nStrategies for Workforce Sustainability and Insurance Accessibility: Feb. 19 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nFinancial Health and Equity-Focused Advocacy: March 27 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nBehavioral Health Integration and Systems Change: April 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\n\nTakeaways\n\nThe overarching vision and priorities of the 2025-2027 Federal Public Policy Agenda\nBasics of effective advocacy\, including crafting clear\, persuasive messages\nAbout Social Current’s advocacy toolkit and how to use it for impactful engagement\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-in-action-behavioral-health-integration-and-systems-change/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250306T142531Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T174802Z UID:10000470-1744812000-1744815600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Policy Shifts: Sector Opportunities and Hazards for 2025 and Beyond DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n In 2025 and beyond\, the social sector will need to adapt to significant policy shifts. This briefing will highlight the importance of government contracting and grantmaking reforms to strengthen the sector’s resilience. Additionally\, it will underscore the necessity for innovative strategies to navigate challenges\, such as potential reductions in equity\, diversity\, and inclusion programs and social services funding. \nTakeaways\n\nStrategies to navigate policy shifts\, funding changes\, and regulatory challenges under a second Trump administration\nWays to sustain equity\, diversity\, and inclusion initiatives and essential social services\, adapt to evolving government contracting opportunities\, and strengthen advocacy efforts to ensure organizational resilience\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/policy-shifts-sector-opportunities-and-hazards-for-2025-and-beyond/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Challenge-Series-Policy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250317T220825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T141720Z UID:10000476-1743598800-1743602400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Take Back Your Narrative: Advocacy 101 DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This interactive virtual training will equip members of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network and other social sector professionals and advocates with the tools to effectively share their stories in support of policy change. Led by Social Current’s Government Affairs and Advocacy team\, this session will explore the power of personal narratives in advocacy\, guiding participants through the process of crafting compelling messages and making targeted policy asks. Whether you are new to advocacy or looking to refine your approach\, this training will provide practical strategies to engage decision makers with confidence and clarity.  \nParticipants will learn how to transform lived experiences into impactful advocacy tools\, navigate conversations with policymakers\, and translate their asks into actionable outcomes. The training will emphasize the importance of direct\, specific\, and strategic communication\, ensuring that every advocacy effort contributes to systemic change. By the end of the session\, attendees will have a stronger understanding of how to effectively advocate for their communities and organizations—ready to take back their narratives and amplify their voices where it matters most.  \nAll human and social services staff are invited to join the Social Current Grassroots Network.   \nThe grassroots advocacy network is a rapid-response team for urgent policy and legislative issues that offers opportunities to exchange ideas\, share solutions\, and build lasting connections across the sector. By joining\, you’ll receive alerts\, advocacy opportunities\, and access to workshops and training to sharpen your strategies and tools.  \nTakeaways\n\nCraft and Communicate a Compelling Narrative: Learn how to effectively share your lived experience and organizational mission in a way that resonates with policymakers\, emphasizing clarity\, brevity\, and impact. \nDevelop and Deliver a Strategic Advocacy Ask: Gain the skills to translate personal and organizational challenges into specific\, actionable policy requests that drive meaningful change. \nNavigate Advocacy Interactions with Confidence: Understand how to engage with policymakers and their staff\, follow up strategically\, and build long-term relationships to strengthen your advocacy efforts.\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online \n\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders \n\n\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach \n\n\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media \n\n\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Presenters\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D. (She/Her)\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D. (She/Her)\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser is the senior director of government affairs at Social Current. She joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Before public service\, Abelle-Kiser spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. \nShe earned a doctorate in biomedical science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/take-back-your-narrative-advocacy-101/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20241219T183430Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250303T184617Z UID:10000449-1743080400-1743084000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy in Action: Financial Health and Equity-Focused Advocacy DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This webinar will discuss financial health and equity-focused advocacy. The webinar will offer tailored strategies to advocate for a financial environment that allows organizations to direct resources toward impactful services and effectively serve their communities. It is designed to empower organizations with the knowledge and resources needed to create actionable advocacy plans and best represent the needs of the communities you serve. \nThe webinar will outline opportunities to join Social Current’s advocacy efforts\, as well as leverage our advocacy toolkit to further support positive social change. Interactive elements\, like crafting clear\, persuasive advocacy messaging and role-playing meetings with policymakers\, will ensure participants leave prepared to act. \nThis is one session in the four-part Advocacy in Action webinar series: \n\nSocial Current’s Federal Policy Agenda: Jan. 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nStrategies for Workforce Sustainability and Insurance Accessibility: Feb. 19 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nFinancial Health and Equity-Focused Advocacy: March 27 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nBehavioral Health Integration and Systems Change: April 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\n\nTakeaways\n\nThe overarching vision and priorities of the 2025-2027 Federal Public Policy Agenda\nBasics of effective advocacy\, including crafting clear\, persuasive messages\nAbout Social Current’s advocacy toolkit and how to use it for impactful engagement\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-in-action-financial-health-and-equity-focused-advocacy/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20250227T195950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T204825Z UID:10000465-1741179600-1741183200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Social Current Grassroots Network Convening DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Human and social services professionals are invited to join this convening of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network. We will discuss our network offerings\, key political issues affecting our sector\, and trainings to support and strengthen your organization’s advocacy. \nJoin the grassroots advocacy network online. \nSocial Current’s grassroots advocacy network is a rapid-response team for urgent policy and legislative issues that offers opportunities to exchange ideas\, share solutions\, and build lasting connections across the sector. By joining\, you’ll receive alerts\, advocacy opportunities\, and access to workshops and training to sharpen your strategies and tools. \nTakeaways\n\nA comprehensive overview and facilitated access to Social Current’s advocacy resources and opportunities to enhance organizational effectiveness\, capacity building\, and community engagement\nShare feedback to enable Social Current’s Government Affairs and Advocacy team to adapt resources and offerings to ensure they are best aligned with the field’s priorities and concerns\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/social-current-grassroots-network-convening/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20241219T182602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T164221Z UID:10000447-1739970000-1739973600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy in Action: Strategies for Workforce Sustainability and Insurance Accessibility DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This webinar will discuss critical workforce and insurance challenges affecting the human services sector. It will offer tailored strategies to advocate for workforce and insurance solutions\, including how to use data and storytelling to build compelling advocacy messages. This session is designed to empower organizations with the knowledge and resources needed to create actionable advocacy plans and best represent the needs of their communities. \nThe webinar will outline opportunities to join Social Current’s advocacy efforts\, as well as leverage our advocacy toolkit to further support positive social change. Interactive elements\, like crafting clear\, persuasive advocacy messaging and role playing meetings with policymakers\, will ensure participants leave prepared to act. \nThis is one session in the four-part Advocacy in Action webinar series: \n\nSocial Current’s Federal Policy Agenda: Jan. 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nStrategies for Workforce Sustainability and Insurance Accessibility: Feb. 19 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nFinancial Health and Equity-Focused Advocacy: March 27 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nBehavioral Health Integration and Systems Change: April 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\n\nTakeaways\n\nThe overarching vision and priorities of the 2025-2027 Federal Public Policy Agenda\nBasics of effective advocacy\, including crafting clear\, persuasive messages\nAbout Social Current’s advocacy toolkit and how to use it for impactful engagement\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-in-action-strategies-for-workforce-sustainability-and-insurance-accessibility/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20241219T181721Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250117T162241Z UID:10000445-1737550800-1737554400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy in Action: Social Current’s Federal Policy Agenda DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Social Current’s 2025-2027 Federal Public Policy Agenda will be released in January. Join this free webinar to learn about our key areas of focus and vision for the 119th Congress. Participants will gain knowledge and resources needed to create actionable advocacy plans and best represent the needs of their communities. \nThe webinar will outline opportunities to join Social Current’s advocacy efforts\, as well as leverage our advocacy toolkit to further support positive social change. Interactive elements\, like crafting clear\, persuasive advocacy messaging and role playing meetings with policymakers\, will ensure participants leave prepared to act. \nThis is one session in the four-part Advocacy in Action webinar series: \n\nSocial Current’s Federal Policy Agenda: Jan. 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nStrategies for Workforce Sustainability and Insurance Accessibility: Feb. 19 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nFinancial Health and Equity-Focused Advocacy: March 27 from 1-2 p.m. ET\nBehavioral Health Integration and Systems Change: April 22 from 1-2 p.m. ET\n\nTakeaways\n\nThe overarching vision and priorities of the 2025-2027 Federal Public Policy Agenda\nBasics of effective advocacy\, including crafting clear\, persuasive messages\nAbout Social Current’s advocacy toolkit and how to use it for impactful engagement\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph.D.\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-in-action-social-currents-federal-policy-agenda/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Policy-Advocacy_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241204T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241204T143000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20240816T175824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241120T150051Z UID:10000428-1733317200-1733322600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Strengthening Community Impact Through Advocacy DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n We recognize organizations and communities may be experiencing unease and uncertainty following the results of the 2024 election. \nTo assist in navigating changing political landscapes\, this free webinar is designed to empower nonprofits with the knowledge and tools for effective advocacy and policy engagement. It offers an opportunity to grow your organization’s expertise in policy and advocacy through strategies to channel concerns into actionable advocacy plans. Interactive sessions will detail key tactics to advance organizations’ missions and strengthen the communities served. \nParticipants will gain a comprehensive understanding of building policy literacy\, crafting compelling narratives\, engaging in coalition building\, and developing disciplined messaging strategies. \nWho Should Attend\nThis webinar is designed for nonprofit professionals who are involved in advocacy\, policy engagement\, and strategic communications. The following specific roles will benefit the most from the session: \n\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\nLearning Objectives\n\nEnhance Policy Literacy: A clear understanding of policy literacy\, including the ability to articulate the organization’s mission\, importance of the work\, and the impact on communities\nCraft Effective Advocacy Strategies: How to design and implement actionable advocacy plans that align with organizational goals and policy objectives\, enabling more effective policy influence\nStrengthen Media and Policymaker Relationships: How to build and maintain strong relationships with media and elected officials\, using strategic communication to amplify the message\nDevelop Disciplined Messaging: Concrete strategies for creating disciplined\, consistent messaging that highlights organizational successes\, reinforces community importance\, and engages coalition partners effectively\n\n  \n  \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/strengthening-community-impact-through-advocacy/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Policy-Advocacy_4-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20241021T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20241022T170000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20231017T140000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241217T165759Z UID:10000337-1729497600-1729616400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:SPARK 2024 DESCRIPTION:About SPARK 2024\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Pre-Conference Sessions\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Workshops\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Keynotes\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sponsors and Exhibitors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n About SPARK 2024 \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Register Now for SPARK 2024: Oct. 21-22\, with pre-conference sessions Oct. 20. \n \n \n\n \n Register Now \n \n Registration must be received on or before Sept. 27 to receive the early bird rate. \nSPARK 2024 will unite practice excellence\, innovation\, and federal policy advocacy to advance our sector’s impact and help all families and communities thrive. This in-person event will elevate important conversations around our most vexing challenges and showcase insight and expertise from the field. \nThis event is designed for leaders who are fueled by a commitment to advance equity and improve the well-being of all people. Together\, we will share inspiration and practical tools for implementing innovative practice\, policy\, and research. Our keynote speakers and breakout sessions will address new insight and promising approaches related to: \n\nBrain science and trauma-informed approaches\nChild\, family\, and community well-being\nCOA Accreditation\nEquity\, diversity\, and inclusion\nGovernment affairs and advocacy\nLeadership and organizational development\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutives\nDirector-level staff\nBoard members\nPerformance quality improvement staff\nProfessional and clinical services\n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Pricing \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration must be received on or before Sept. 27 to receive the early bird rate. After that date\, regular rates apply. \nImpact Partners (Formerly Engagement Packages) and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation\nEarly Bird Registration $595\nRegular Registration $745 \nOther Organizations\nEarly Bird Registration $695\nRegular Registration $845 \nMultiperson Registration Discount\nRegister five (5) full conference participants from the same organization and receive $50 off all subsequent full conference registrations from the same organization. Only one discount per person; no other discounts apply. Once all five full conference participants are registered\, contact Social Current to receive the discount code for all subsequent full conference registrations. \nCancellation by Participant\nAll cancellation requests must be made in writing. Conference cancellations are subject to a $100 processing fee. Cancellation requests received after Oct. 1 will not be refunded. Credit toward future Social Current events is not currently possible. Participants unable to attend the conference may send an alternate participant. Notice of written cancellation or alternate participant requests must be emailed directly to Social Current. \nCancellation by Social Current\nIf Social Current cancels this conference\, all registration fees will be refunded in full. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Location & Lodging \n \n \n \n \n \n SPARK 2024 participants will convene in downtown Denver. The conference hotel is centrally located along the 16th Street Mall. \nBook now: The final day to book your hotel room at the special conference rate is Oct. 4. There is limited availability for Sunday and Monday nights. \nOur discounted rate is available at the conference hotel for Sunday and Monday nights. Please note\, our room block is sold out for Tuesday night. \nSheraton Denver Downtown Hotel\n1550 Court Place\nDenver\, CO 80202 \nHotel Reservations\nSocial Current has arranged a special room rate of $239 for single or double occupancy\, plus applicable taxes. Reserve your room by booking online or calling the hotel at 303-893-3333 by Oct. 4 and mentioning the group name Social Current SPARK 2024 to receive the discounted rate. This rate is available for stays up to three days prior to and after the conference\, but it is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. \nAirport Train (A Line)\nThe airport train (known as the A line) from Denver International Airport to Union Station in downtown Denver costs only $10 for a one-way trip and takes 37 minutes. View full details online\, including the schedule\, stops\, and where to buy a ticket. \n \n \n \n High Altitude and Weather Tips\nDenver really is a mile high\, but most people don’t even notice the altitude difference. The air is just thinner and dryer. VISIT DENVER recommends these tips to stay happy and healthy. \nDrink plenty of water: Before your trip to Denver\, and while you are here\, drinking plenty of water is the number one way to help your body adjust easily to the higher altitude. The low humidity in Colorado keeps the air dry\, so you need about twice as much water as you would drink at home. \nMonitor your alcohol intake: Golf balls go 10% farther… and so do cocktails. Alcoholic drinks pack more of a wallop than at sea level. \nEat food high in potassium: Foods such as broccoli\, bananas\, avocado\, cantaloupe\, celery\, greens\, bran\, chocolate\, granola\, dates\, dried fruit\, potatoes\, and tomatoes will help replenish electrolytes by balancing salt intake. \nWatch your physical activity: The effects of exercise are more intense here. If you normally run five miles a day at home\, you might try three miles in Denver. \nPack for sun: With less water vapor in the air at this altitude\, the sky really is bluer in Colorado. But there’s 25% less protection from the sun\, so sunscreen is a must. Even in October\, you’ll want to bring sunglasses\, a hat\, sunscreen\, and lip balm. \nDress in layers: Denver is known for a year-round mild climate\, but conditions can change rapidly\, particularly in the fall. Before you leave home\, check the weather forecast and pack appropriately. Because the sun is especially powerful in Denver\, it can feel much warmer than the actual temperature during the day\, but then can become chilly after sundown. Dressing in layers is the best way to make sure you’re always prepared. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nSunday\, Oct. 20\n\n\n9 a.m.-Noon\nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\n\n\n12:30-4 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nPerformance and Quality Improvement (PQI) Training\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nEDI and Leadership Practices for the Long Haul\n\n\n4-6 p.m.\nConvening for Chief Executives\n\n\n5:30-7 p.m.\nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\n\n\n7:15-9 p.m.\nUnCharitable Movie Screening\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nMonday\, Oct. 21\n\n\n8 a.m.-5 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n8-9 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n9-10:30 a.m.\nOpening General Session\n\n\n10:30-11 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.\nSession A Workshops\n\n\n12:30-2 p.m.\nNetworking Lunch\n\n\n1:15-1:45 p.m.\nEDI Consultations\n\n\n2-3:30 p.m.\nSession B Workshops\n\n\n3:45-4:15 p.m.\nEDI Consultations\n\n\n4:30-5:30 p.m.\nNetworking Reception\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nTuesday\, Oct. 22\n\n\n8 a.m.-5 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n8-9 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n8:15-8:45 a.m.\nEDI Consultations\n\n\n9-10:30 a.m.\nSession C Workshops\n\n\n10:30-11 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.\nSession D Workshops\n\n\n12:30-2 p.m.\nNetworking Lunch\n\n\n1:15-1:45 p.m.\nEDI Consultations\n\n\n2-3:30 p.m.\nSession E Workshops\n\n\n3:45-5 p.m.\nClosing General Session\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Sponsor & Exhibit \n \n \n \n \n \n Social Current’s robust network of organizations and individuals across the country provides a unique opportunity for sponsors to reach C-suite decisionmakers in their target demographics. Simultaneously\, sponsorship will allow brands to assess challenges unique to the sector\, collaborate\, and access network expertise. \nThrough our network\, we can reach more than 12\,000 human services professionals representing more than 1\,800 organizations that serve nearly 11 million individuals. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Pre-Conference Sessions \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\nOct. 20 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.\nThe Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare organizations to get the most out of their COA Accreditation experience. It provides an overview of the COA Accreditation process and standards\, tips on how to manage the work\, and advice for preparing for the site visit. \nPerformance and Quality Improvement Training (PQI)\nOct. 20 from 1-4 p.m.\nThis performance and quality improvement (PQI) training is designed to help organizations pursuing COA Accreditation develop a comprehensive approach to a quality improvement process that will advance an efficient and effective service delivery system and enhance organizational capacity to deliver quality services. \nEquity\, Diversity\, Inclusion\, and Leadership: Practices for the Long Haul\nOct. 20 from 1-4 p.m.\nThis session will feature the latest insight on what organizations need to understand to successfully advance equity\, diversity\, and inclusion (EDI)\, as well as leadership principles and strategies to support organizational EDI journeys. It will look to support frank dialogue and include small-group discussions on what’s at stake for EDI and how leaders can continue to make progress in their organizational goals. Participants will hear insights from around the country on how to bridge divides and make shared commitments to EDI through strong leadership principles and trauma-informed care. \nConvening for CEOs and Executive Directors\nOct. 20 from 4-6 p.m.\nCost: $150\nThis convening will offer learning and networking tailored to chief executives of human services organizations. By bringing together sector leaders who truly understand each other’s day to day\, this CEO-only event will offer a safe space to develop relationships\, share challenges\, find solutions\, and build community. This event will emphasize dialogue and collaboration with ample time for informal networking over food and drink\, offering the opportunity to make new connections\, deepen relationships\, and grow your network of go-to colleagues. \nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\nOct. 20 from 5:30-7 p.m.\nCost: Free for active COA Accreditation volunteers\nWe could not do what we do without our COA Accreditation volunteers. All active COA Accreditation volunteers are invited to join us as we gather and celebrate all that you do. Catch up with colleagues\, share site visit stories from the road\, and get ready for the start of SPARK 2024. There will be food\, drinks\, prizes\, and a host of swag – so you will not want to miss this event. \nMovie Screening of UnCharitable\n7:15-9 p.m.\nCost: Free\nPrepare for the opening keynote session by joining this special screening of the movie UnCharitable. \nThank you to Your Part-Time Controller for sponsoring this screening. \nAbout the Movie\nAfter three successful U.S. charitable campaigns were attacked by charity watchdogs\, destroying lives and cutting off precious resources\, many of the top influencers in the field knew something had to be done to overhaul the nonprofit sector. \nLed by Dan Pallotta\, whose record-breaking TED Talk on the subject has inspired leading philanthropists and changemakers\, this feature-length documentary directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal exposes the dark side of philanthropy and introduces a radical new way of giving. In a powerful call to action\, Uncharitable demands that charities be freed from the traditional sackcloth-and-ashes constraints\, so that they can truly change the world. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Workshops \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Each workshop is identified as a “learner” or “doer” session: \n\nLearner Sessions: For those with limited knowledge on the topic who are looking for an introduction\nDoer: For those with prior knowledge and experience with a topic who are looking to advance their skill and mastery\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sort By:\n Session Groups\n Area of Focus\n \n \n \n A (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) \n B (2-3:30 p.m.) \n C (8:30-10 a.m.) \n D (10:30 a.m.-Noon p.m.) \n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Keynotes \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Opening Keynote\nImagining the Possibilities for the Social Sector and the World\nOur opening session will focus on Social Current’s New Narrative initiative. This effort\, inspired by the powerful film UnCharitable and our mission to advocate for and implement equitable solutions to society’s toughest challenges\, will use an inclusive\, participatory processes to empower communities to: \n\nLead change\nChallenge existing perceptions and redefine the nonprofit sector\nEstablish new approaches that result in profound and lasting impact\n\nJody Levison-Johnson\, president and CEO of Social Current\, will lead a discussion with the UnCharitable team\, including Dan Pallotta (virtual); Stephen Gyllenhaal\, director; and Meredith Blake (virtual)\, producer and lead for the film’s social impact campaign. They will discuss the collaboration with Social Current and our collective efforts to co-create\, with communities nationwide\, a future that frees the sector from constraint and allows us all to collectively solve our most complex social problems. \nSince this initiative was announced at last year’s SPARK conference\, we have been working with the UnCharitable team to chart a course for the social impact campaign that results in meaningful and sustainable change for the sector and for communities across the U.S. and Canada. \nTo prepare for this session\, please join us Sunday at 7:15 p.m. for a special screening of UnCharitable. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Panelists\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meredith Blake\n \n Producer\, Attorney\, and Social Entrepreneur \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meredith Blake\n Producer\, Attorney\, and Social Entrepreneur \n \n Meredith Blake is a producer\, attorney\, and social entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in creating social change. Under her banner\, Storied Nation\, she serves as a producer and executive producer on films and television shows that hold promise for moving the needle on critical social issues. Prior to that\, Meredith was the CEO of ProSocial\, the social impact agency she founded in 2007\, helping clients like Amazon Studios\, Sony Pictures Entertainment\, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation create deep impact philanthropic initiatives and social impact campaigns grounded in research with an eye toward sustainability. \nPrior to launching ProSocial\, Meredith worked as executive vice president at Participant Media\, where she built the studio’s social action department. One of the highlights was creating the social action campaign that accompanied the release of Vice President Al Gore’s Oscar-winning documentary\, “An Inconvenient Truth.” She started her career by founding Break the Cycle\, a widely recognized nonprofit organization to empower youth to end domestic violence\, which she ran for more than 10 years. \nMeredith has an extensive track record in raising production funding\, finishing funds\, and impact funds for filmmakers as well as providing critical strategic guidance and forging valuable partnerships for some of the most important films and shows of our times. Each year she chooses several films to contribute to as a producer\, executive producer\, or impact producer. As a public speaker\, Meredith has served as keynote\, panelist\, and moderator at numerous conferences and events such as the Sundance Producer’s Lab\, Media that Matters\, Illuminate Film Festival and the Producer’s Guild of America. She has also served on the boards of Healthy Child\, Healthy World and PS1 Pluralistic School and as an advisor to a number of nonprofit organizations going for second-stage funding and national scale. She is a member of Pleiades Network\, an organization that inspires\, recognizes\, and advances women’s leadership in creating a more sustainable world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gyllenhaal\n \n Director \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Stephen Gyllenhaal\n Director \n \n As an award-winning Hollywood director\, Stephen Gyllenhaal loves tackling challenging subjects through his movies\, TV shows\, and documentaries\, including “Twin Peaks\,” “Rectify\,” “Dangerous Woman\,” “Losing Isaiah\,” “Paris Trout\,” “Girl Fight\,” “Waterland\,” “Killing In a Small Town\,” “Leap of Faith\,” “Shattered Mind\,” and “In Utero.” \nHe has published a book of poetry\, Claptrap\, Notes from Hollywood; is writing two new books\, Enjoy it! and Liquid Motel and is a proud father and grandfather. \nAt the beginning of 2017 he embarked on two charitable projects – this movie and an educational Institute\, focusing on the impact of trauma from conception through pre-verbal development. From the perspective of these two latest ventures\, he’s come to understand and experience the profound dysfunction of the so-called “non-profit sector” and has made it his mission to do everything he can to unleash the charitable/mission driven sector to do what it was charged to do – make this a far better world. “Uncharitable” is step one. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dan Pallotta\n \n Activist\, Humanitarian\, Author\, and Builder of Movements \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dan Pallotta\n Activist\, Humanitarian\, Author\, and Builder of Movements \n \n Dan Pallotta is an activist\, humanitarian\, author\, and builder of movements. He is a pioneer in the national effort to transform the way our culture evaluates the character and impact of nonprofit organizations. His iconic TED Talk on philanthropy has been viewed more than five million times. It is the 16th most-commented TED talks of all time. It has been translated into 27 languages and continues to be viewed over 1\,000 times a day by people all over the world. His 2016 TED talk on being has been viewed more than 2 million times. He is one of the 100 most-viewed TED speakers of all time. \nHe is a founding thought partner for TED’s Audacious Project\, which has raised nearly $1 billion for disruptive entrepreneurial social initiatives across a variety of issues. \nHe invented the multi-day charitable event industry. He created the breast cancer 3-Day Walks and the multiday AIDS rides long-distance cycling journeys\, which raised in excess of half a billion dollars in nine years and were the subject of a Harvard Business School case study. The model and methods he created are now employed by dozens of charities and have raised in excess of $1.5 billion more for important causes from pediatric leukemia to AIDS to suicide prevention and many others. \nHe is the author of Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential\, the bestselling title in the history of Tufts University Press. The Stanford Social Innovation Review said that the book\, “deserves to become the nonprofit sector ’s new manifesto.” His newest book is\, The Everyday Philanthropist: A Better Way to Make a Better World\, a field guide for the average person who wants their life to matter. \nDan is the founder and president of the Charity Defense Council\, which is dedicated to transforming the way the public evaluates charities. He is the founder and President of Add Humanity\, a message and movement-building consultancy that helps super innovative humanitarian organizations dream and grow. \nDan is a William J. Clinton Distinguished Lecturer\, and has spoken at Stanford\, Wharton\, Harvard Business School\, Harvard’s Hauser Center for Nonprofits\, Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government\, Brown\, the United Nations\, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory\, the Council on Foundations\, and the Gates Foundation\, among others. \nDan been written about in feature and cover stories in the New York Times\, Wall Street Journal\, Forbes\, Los Angeles Times\, Washington Post\, Stanford Social Innovation Review\, and has appeared on The Today Show\, the BBC\, CNN\, CNBC\, American Public Media’s Marketplace\, and numerous NPR stations\, among others. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Closing Keynote\nJacob Harold\nSocial Sector Executive\, Advisor\, and Author\nThe Social Change Toolbox: Tapping the Full Range of Tools for Building a Better World\nSocial change is complex and difficult. Leaders often default to using the tools they know best\, or those that feel most readily available\, to pursue their goals. But to be effective\, leaders need to utilize a range of tools based on the context and moment in which they find themselves. Building on SPARK’s opening session and the profound social change imagined by the Social Current and UnCharitable teams\, this interactive session will draw on inspiring stories of leaders pushing successfully for a better world. \nJacob Harold will share key components of his new book\, The Toolbox: Strategies for Crafting Social Impact. This includes the hope it can bring when actively working to solve social problems and the criticality of using a variety of strategies — from storytelling to mathematical modeling to design thinking to community organizing — on our journey to change the narrative (and impact) of the sector. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jacob Harold\n \n Social Sector Executive\, Advisor\, and Author \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jacob Harold\n Social Sector Executive\, Advisor\, and Author \n \n Jacob Harold is a social sector executive\, advisor\, and author. He’s traveled from farm to monastery to jail to laboratory to boardroom\, all in search of the best ways to do good. From 2012 to 2021\, Harold served as president & CEO of GuideStar and co-founder of Candid. Fast Company called Candid “the definitive nonprofit transparency organization.” Each year\, more than 20 million people use its data on nonprofits\, grants\, and social sector practice. \nCandid was formed in 2019 by the merger of GuideStar and Foundation Center. Harold co-led the $45 million capital campaign to launch Candid\, wrote Candid’s guiding strategy document\, Candid 2030\, and served as executive vice president during post-merger integration. During his tenure leading GuideStar\, Harold oversaw a financial turnaround\, a tripling of GuideStar’s reach\, and major partnerships with organizations ranging from Google to the Gates Foundation. In 2013\, Harold launched the Overhead Myth campaign to shift attention from nonprofits’ financial ratios to their programmatic results. Since then\, GuideStar’s Profile Program has been used by more than 200\,000 nonprofits to tell their full story to the world. \nHarold joined GuideStar from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation\, where he led a $30 million grantmaking initiative to build a 21st-century infrastructure for smart giving. Before that\, he worked as a consultant to nonprofits and foundations at Bridgespan and as a climate change campaigner and strategist with the Packard Foundation\, Rainforest Action Network\, and Greenpeace USA. He began his career as a grassroots organizer with Green Corps. \nHarold earned a bachelor’s summa cum laude in ethics and intellectual history from Duke University and a master’s in business administration from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He was a term member at the Council on Foreign Relations and has further training from MIT\, Bain\, the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Santa Fe Institute\, and the SIT Tibetan Studies Program\, where he did the first translations of newly discovered poems by the Sixth Dalai Lama. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sponsors and Exhibitors \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Platinum Sponsor\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gold Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Silver Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Supporting Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Exhibitors URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/spark24/ LOCATION:Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel\, 1550 Court Place\, Denver\, 80202\, United States CATEGORIES:EDI,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence,Policy,Event,Brain Science,Child and Family Well-Being ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/SPARK2024-Website-Preview_Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240828T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240828T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20240716T133639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240807T202211Z UID:10000422-1724853600-1724857200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Roundtable Discussion on Social Current’s 2025-2027 Policy Agenda DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n As Social Current develops its 2025-2027 federal public policy agenda\, we look toward human services organizations to share central concerns and priorities. We are offering two virtual roundtables to better understand shared challenges and visions for change. Additional roundtable discussions will be held Aug. 19 from 11:30-12:30 p.m. ET and Aug. 21 from 1-2 p.m. ET. \nSocial Current’s Policy and Government Relations staff will lead a dialogue to better understand hardships organizations are facing internally and throughout their community. We also seek feedback on the current policy agenda to promote continuous improvement and ensure the process best supports the priorities and preferences of the sector. \nBy centering our network’s voices and lived experience\, we strive to align our policy priorities with the interests and needs of the human and social services sector. Your insight will guide the strategy for our upcoming agenda and ensure we fully capture the sector’s needs and desires. \nIntended Audience\n\nExecutives and directors\nPublic policy\, government relations\, and advocacy staff\nHuman services professionals\n\nLearning Objectives\n\nOutline issues most impacting the human service sector\nDetermine areas of focus for Social Current’s next policy agenda\nUnderstand the impact of the current policy agenda\n\nInstruction Methods\nThe conversation will follow guided questions but defer to participants in determining the issues and topics most of note. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Facilitators \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph. D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Abigail Levine\, MSW\n \n Field Mobilization and Policy Manager \nSocial Current URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/roundtable-discussion-on-social-currents-2025-2027-policy-agenda-2/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Policy-Roundtable.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240821T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240821T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20240807T201645Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240807T202009Z UID:10000426-1724245200-1724248800@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Roundtable Discussion on Social Current’s 2025-2027 Policy Agenda DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n As Social Current develops its 2025-2027 federal public policy agenda\, we look toward human services organizations to share central concerns and priorities. We are offering two virtual roundtables to better understand shared challenges and visions for change. Additional roundtable discussions will be held Aug. 19 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ET and Aug. 28 from 2-3 p.m. ET. \nSocial Current’s Policy and Government Relations staff will lead a dialogue to better understand hardships organizations are facing internally and throughout their community. We also seek feedback on the current policy agenda to promote continuous improvement and ensure the process best supports the priorities and preferences of the sector. \nBy centering our network’s voices and lived experience\, we strive to align our policy priorities with the interests and needs of the human and social services sector. Your insight will guide the strategy for our upcoming agenda and ensure we fully capture the sector’s needs and desires. \nIntended Audience\n\nExecutives and directors\nPublic policy\, government relations\, and advocacy staff\nHuman services professionals\n\nLearning Objectives\n\nOutline issues most impacting the human service sector\nDetermine areas of focus for Social Current’s next policy agenda\nUnderstand the impact of the current policy agenda\n\nInstruction Methods\nThe conversation will follow guided questions but defer to participants in determining the issues and topics most of note. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Facilitators \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph. D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Abigail Levine\, MSW\n \n Field Mobilization and Policy Manager \nSocial Current URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/roundtable-discussion-on-social-currents-2025-2027-policy-agenda-3/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Policy-Roundtable.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T123000 DTSTAMP:20260411T232102 CREATED:20240716T132755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240807T201852Z UID:10000421-1724067000-1724070600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Roundtable Discussion on Social Current’s 2025-2027 Policy Agenda DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n As Social Current develops its 2025-2027 federal public policy agenda\, we look toward human services organizations to share central concerns and priorities. We are offering two virtual roundtables to better understand shared challenges and visions for change. Additional roundtable discussions will be held Aug. 21 from 1-2 p.m. ET and Aug. 28 from 2-3 p.m. ET. \nSocial Current’s Policy and Government Relations staff will lead a dialogue to better understand hardships organizations are facing internally and throughout their community. We also seek feedback on the current policy agenda to promote continuous improvement and ensure the process best supports the priorities and preferences of the sector. \nBy centering our network’s voices and lived experience\, we strive to align our policy priorities with the interests and needs of the human and social services sector. Your insight will guide the strategy for our upcoming agenda and ensure we fully capture the sector’s needs and desires. \nIntended Audience\n\nExecutives and directors\nPublic policy\, government relations\, and advocacy staff\nHuman services professionals\n\nLearning Objectives\n\nOutline issues most impacting the human service sector\nDetermine areas of focus for Social Current’s next policy agenda\nUnderstand the impact of the current policy agenda\n\nInstruction Methods\nThe conversation will follow guided questions but defer to participants in determining the issues and topics most of note. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Facilitators \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, Ph. D.\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Abigail Levine\, MSW\n \n Field Mobilization and Policy Manager \nSocial Current URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/roundtable-discussion-on-social-currents-2025-2027-policy-agenda/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Policy-Roundtable.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR