BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Social Current - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Social Current 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/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:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York 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:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250608T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250612T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20240717T152629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T193606Z UID:10000423-1749340800-1749772799@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:2025 Executive Leadership Institute DESCRIPTION:The deadline to register was May 9. Share your email to stay in the loop for 2026. \nPricing: \nImpact Partners and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation: $4750\nOther Organizations: $5250 \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n About ELI\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Loyola University Partnership\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sessions\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Schedule\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Location\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n About ELI \n \n\n \n \n \n The Executive Leadership Institute (ELI)\, offered in partnership with Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business\, equips senior-level managers and executives with the knowledge and skills to oversee day-to-day operations\, and prepare for the future and greater systems change. Transactional meets transformational for this influential experience. \nIn addition to the weeklong in-person event\, students participate in a full year of online learning\, which includes interactive presentations\, small-group discussions\, experiential learning tours of community-based organizations\, personal reflection and journaling\, and more. To help students reinforce and apply their learning\, they also complete self-designed projects that addresses an organizational challenge. The presentations are given before the assembly of participants and faculty. \nELI assembles a wide variety of faculty from the nonprofit and for-profit sectors\, as well as academia. Social Current’s partnership with Quinlan means access to first-class faculty and specialized expertise\, as well as the flexibility to create a program to transform students’ leadership skills. The curriculum will not only challenge\, but offers a rare opportunity to focus on excellence\, impact\, and systems change. \nAn additional benefit of the program is that students receive mentoring from ELI alumni. Mentors and mentees are matched according to personal and professional leadership attributes. Hundreds of human and social services leaders have graduated from the institute and they continue to engage through alumni opportunities. \nWho Should Attend\n\nExecutives\nManagers\nDirectors\n\nHear from Alumni\nIn this video\, Dr. Cha-Tanya Lankford\, director of Delaware programs at Pressley Ridge shares how the ELI curriculum continues to shape her as a professional and leader. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cancellation Policy\nAll cancellation requests must be made in writing and are subject to a $500 processing fee. Cancellation requests received after May 1 will not be refunded. Credit toward future Social Current events is not currently possible. Notice of written cancellation must be emailed directly to Trudy Gregory\, lead operations associate at Social Current. \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Loyola University Partnership \n \n\n \n \n \n Social Current’s partnership with Loyola University Chicago\, allows access to world-class faculty and academic rigor of a top-rated national university. Social Current and Loyola co-create the program for the in-person institute\, and half of the instruction is provided by their faculty. \nThe Executive Leadership Institute takes an interdisciplinary approach to human and social services leadership\, engaging faculty from Loyola’s Quinlan School of Business and School of Social Work. U.S. News & World Report nationally ranks Loyola’s online bachelor’s business program #8 and undergraduate business program #94. Its social work program is ranked #28. \nLead Program Developers\nRobena Spangler\nSenior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current\nRobena Spangler is an innovative senior executive with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health\, human services\, and advancing equity and inclusion work. Most 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. \nRobena on the Partnership: “Social Current is thrilled with our partnership with Loyola University Chicago. We work closely with their staff and faculty to design a leadership program that benefits both our students and their staff. Together\, Social Current and Loyola deliver a top-tier experience for public and private social sector leaders\, driving meaningful change. We are especially grateful for Kayla Gustafson’s professionalism in elevating the Executive Leadership Institute’s program to meet the needs of next-generation leaders in the human services sector.” \nKayla Gustafson\nProgram Manager of Executive and Professional Education Center\nLoyola University Chicago\nAs program manager for the Executive and Professional Education Center at Loyola University Chicago\, Kayla Gustafson collaborates with Quinlan School of Business faculty experts to develop high-quality professional development opportunities for individuals and supports customized business and management training programs for organizational partners. \nA lifelong believer in the transformational power of education\, Kayla began her career as a preschool teacher in an urban Montessori school. In 2021\, after nearly a decade working with young children and families\, she turned her focus to engaging adult learners. She brings a deep understanding of learning styles\, lesson planning\, and course design to her role. \nKayla on the Partnership: “The Social Current team brings such warmth and genuine collaboration to everything we do together for the Executive Leadership Institute. They’re not just partners – they’re passionate advocates who are constantly pushing the field forward with new ideas and resources. Together\, we’ve built something special that helps social service leaders grow and thrive. This partnership embodies Loyola University Chicago’s core values of social justice and service to others – we’re helping develop compassionate leaders who will create positive change in their communities. It’s more than just a program – it’s about living our mission of being people in service to others.” \n  \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sessions \n \n\n \n \n \n View and download the schedule with session descriptions as a PDF. \nLeading in This Moment\nIn this opening session\, the CEO and President of Social Current will provide an inspiring introduction to the leadership journey ahead\, offering insights into the current landscape of leadership and the unique challenges and opportunities of leading in today’s world. This session will set the tone for the program\, emphasizing the importance of adaptive leadership and the impact leaders can have in shaping the future. \nPresenter: Jody Levison-Johnson\, president and CEO\, Social Current \nCreating Brain-Friendly Work Environments: Strategies for Cognitive Flexibility & Well-Being\nWorkforce trends show that employees expect leaders to go beyond top-down recognition and self-care initiatives to actively improve engagement\, retention\, equity\, and communication. Leaders are encouraged to practice empathy\, inclusivity\, psychological safety\, and gratitude—but where should we focus first? The answer lies in understanding the brain and stress response system to create brain-friendly workplaces. This interactive session explores strategies to enhance cognitive flexibility\, emotional regulation\, and decision making. Participants will gain research-backed tools to foster executive functioning\, psychological safety\, and self-regulation while promoting adaptability\, collaboration\, and well-being. By aligning workplaces with how the brain thrives\, organizations can drive both personal and organizational success. \nPresenters: Karen Johnson\, senior director of Change in Mind\, and Kelly Martin\, director of practice excellence\, Social Current \nAI in the Social Services: Tools for Resilient Organizations\nThis session will provide an executive-level overview of how artificial intelligence (AI) can be strategically leveraged to strengthen organizational resilience and effectiveness. Participants will explore key AI tools and how they can be applied to in streamline operations\, enhance service delivery\, and address critical challenges faced by human and social services organizations. \nPresenter: Jonathan Singer\, professor\, Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work \nAI in the Social Services: Panel Discussion\nFor this session a panel of experts and executives will discuss the strategic integration of AI into human and social services organizations. The session will address opportunities for innovation\, potential risks\, and long-term implications of AI adoption in a rapidly evolving landscape. \nExcellence: An Introduction to MYSI\nIn this panel discussion\, leaders from MYSI will share how values-based leadership has shaped the organization’s mission to strengthen lives\, provide help\, and create hope for youth and their families. As MYSI celebrates its 60th anniversary\, the panel will explore the agency’s recent transformation—including strategic planning\, re-accreditation\, and program enhancements—highlighting how intentional leadership\, data-driven decision-making\, and community partnerships have fueled impact. Participants will gain insights into how MYSI’s leadership team is fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration to equip young people with the tools\, skills\, and resources needed to thrive in adulthood. \nPresenter: Andrea “Drea” Hall\, president & CEO\, MYSI Corporation \nStrengthening Families\, Transforming Systems: The Brightpoint Approach\nJoin an engaging conversation about leading with purpose in a complex human services landscape with Executive Leadership Institute alumnus Mike Shaver. Formerly known as Children’s Home & Aid\, Brightpoint has reimagined its mission to center families’ strengths\, prioritize prevention\, and pursue bold\, data-driven solutions that create lasting change. Mike will share insights on transformational leadership\, organizational evolution\, and the role of equity and partnership in building systems that truly support children and families. \nPresenter: Mike Shaver\, president & CEO\, Brightpoint \nEthical Leadership in High-Stakes Decision Making\nExecutives and those in leadership positions frequently face ethical dilemmas that require balancing organizational goals\, stakeholders’ interests\, and social responsibility. Ethics are a bedrock of the social\nresponsibility and the integrity of the organization on behalf of the clients they serve. Codes of ethics are the operationalization of ethical principles. Without setting the Codes of Ethics in the context of an ethical framework\, they can be performative and seemingly malleable. This presentation will posit that the ethics of organizations and their leadership are directly situated in the structure and mission of the organization and using real world examples illustrate how organizations can navigate this complexity in high-stakes decision-making. \nPresenter: Jeanne Sokolec\, BSW Director and clinical associate professor\, Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work \nLeveraging Generative Partnerships for Next Generation Leadership\nThis session will focus on building and leveraging generative partnerships by using a collaborative process model and applying leadership competencies for the next generation of social sector leaders. \nPresenter: Robena Spangler\, senior director of leadership and organizational development\, Social Current \nWednesday Lunch and Learn Sessions\n\nFor Managers and Directors: Leading Change Using an Equity Lens. This Lunch and Learn will feature a discussion focused on communication\, collaboration\, and commitment strategies to align leaders and change efforts.\nLunch and Learn for Executives: Values-Based Leadership. Participants will explore how values-driven leadership can shape the strategic direction of organizations and enhance decision making at the highest levels. This session will provide actionable insights around aligning organizational values with leadership practices to drive sustainable impact.\n\nDriving Nonprofit Impact\nThis interactive session will equip participants with practical approaches to harness data for strategic advantage\, from leveraging public data sources to understand community needs to connecting operational metrics with customer outcomes. Participants will explore methods to move beyond activity/output tracking and funder-required measurements toward business-driven impact measurement and data strategies. At the end of the session\, participants will leave with actionable frameworks to integrate data-driven approaches that advance their organization’s strategy and purpose. \nPresenter: Katelyn Jones\, vice president of impact insights and analytics\, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago\n \nAdvancing a New Leadership Paradigm: Strategic Stewardship in EHR Governance and Change\nAs health care organizations face evolving technologies\, compliance requirements\, and funding constraints\, leadership must adopt a proactive approach—one in which data governance and organizational change management (OCM) are viewed as core priorities. This session challenges traditional leadership roles\, exploring how leaders can drive lasting transformation by embedding governance and OCM into the organization’s foundation. Participants will walk away with actionable strategies to elevate their leadership approach and ensure long-term EHR and enterprise resilience. \nPresenters: Chris Parry\, CEO\, Theresa Yera\, director of EHR strategy & customer success\, and Tina Kirkpatrick\, director of EHR strategy & customer success\, EHR Edge \nStrategic Leadership Reflection: A Personal SWOT Analysis\nAs a culmination of the week’s learning\, this reflective session will guide participants through a personal SWOT analysis\, helping them assess their leadership strengths\, areas for growth\, opportunities\, and potential challenges. By reflecting on the knowledge and insights gained throughout the week\, leaders will identify strategic areas to enhance their leadership impact and align their development with the goals and challenges of their organizations. This session encourages both introspection and actionable planning to ensure continued growth beyond the program. \nPresenter: Brandon Pendleton\, adjunct professor\, Loyola University Chicago Quinlan School of Business \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Schedule \n \n\n \n \n \n View and download the schedule as a PDF. \nSunday\, June 8\n7 p.m. – Networking Dinner \nMonday\, June 9\n8 a.m. – Morning Motivations\n8:30 a.m. – Group 1 ELI Project Presentations\n9:30 a.m. – Leading in the Moment\n10:30 a.m. – Break\n11 a.m. – Group 2 ELI Project Presentations\n12:30 p.m. – Lunch\n1:30 p.m. – Creating Brain-Friendly Work Environments: Strategies for Cognitive Flexibility & Well-Being (Part 1)\n3 p.m. – Break\n3:30 p.m. – Creating Brain-Friendly Work Environments: Strategies for Cognitive Flexibility & Well-Being (Part 2) \nTuesday\, June 10\n8 a.m. – Morning Motivations\n8:30 a.m. – AI in Social Services: Tools for Resilient Organizations\n10 a.m. – Break\n10:30 a.m. – AI in Social Services: Panel Discussion\nNoon – Lunch\n1:30 p.m. – Excellence: An Introduction to MYSI\n3:30 p.m. – Break\n4 p.m. – Strengthening Families\, Transforming Systems: The Brightpoint Approach\n7 p.m. – Networking Dinners (Offsite) \nWednesday\, June 11\n8 a.m. – Morning Motivations\n8:30 a.m. – Ethical Leadership in High-Stakes Decision-Making\n10 a.m. – Break\n10:30 a.m. – Leveraging Generative Partnerships for Next-Generation Leadership\nNoon \n\nLunch and Learn for Managers and Directors: Leading Change Using an Equity Lens\nLunch and Learn for Executives: Values-Based Leadership\n\n1:30 p.m. – Driving Non-Profit Impact\n3 p.m. – Break\n3:30 p.m. – Advancing a New Leadership Paradigm: Strategic Stewardship in EHR Governance and Change \nThursday\, June 12\n8 a.m. – Morning Motivations\n8:30 a.m. – Strategic Leadership Reflection: A Personal SWOT Analysis\n10 a.m. – Break\n10:30 a.m. – ELI Project – Overview and Q&A\nNoon – Celebration Luncheon & Farewell \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Location \n \n\n \n \n \n Quinlan School of Business\nLoyola University Chicago\n820 N Michigan Ave.\nChicago IL\, 60611 \nThe Executive Leadership Institute takes place on Loyola’s Water Tower Campus. \nLodging\nThe Drake Hotel\n140 East Walton Place\nChicago\, IL 60611 \n \n \n \n \n \nLoyola University Chicago Water Tower Campus URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/2025-eli/ LOCATION:Loyola University Chicago Quinlan School of Business\, 16 E. Pearson St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60611\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/iStock-1049828098-e1692910735163.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250604T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250604T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250505T153538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T153924Z UID:10000480-1749042000-1749045600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Meeting the Complex Needs of Young People DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Across the U.S. and Canada\, child and family serving organization are challenged to meet the complex needs of young people\, including those with severe behavioral health needs\, with co-occurring behavioral health and intellectual/developmental disabilities\, and who are involved with multiple state systems. \nThis webinar with Strategic Industry Partner Public Consulting Group will provide an overview of the needs of these young people\, the challenges in effectively serving them\, and examples of promising practices. Participants will be encouraged to share success stories and lessons learned. \nTakeaways\n\nUnderstand the landscape of state and local needs and challenges\nIdentify promising practices\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nProgram leaders and managers\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jennifer MacBlane\n \n Manager\nPublic Consulting Group \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jennifer MacBlane\n Manager\nPublic Consulting Group \n \n Jennifer MacBlane has over 25 years of experience in human services\, government\, and government consulting. She has been employed by PCG for more than 18 years\, and she specializes in helping jurisdictions develop effective systems of care for children\, families\, and individuals\, including program design\, payment and contracting strategies\, and program evaluation. She has led service array assessments\, rate studies\, and evaluations in dozens of states across the nation addressing substance use\, behavioral health\, and child welfare issues. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/meeting-the-complex-needs-of-young-people/ CATEGORIES:Child and Family Well-Being ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PCG_Webinar-June4_2025-web.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250527T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250527T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20250520T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250520T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250317T221056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T204903Z UID:10000477-1747749600-1747753200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Amplifying Community Voices to Transform Data Collection DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Join Social Current and Strategic Industry Partner CCNY for an insightful session on how restorative practices can transform qualitative data collection\, fostering trust\, collaboration\, and meaningful community engagement.  \nIn this webinar\, you will hear from experts on how to amplify community voices\, strengthen relationships\, and empower participants to speak openly.   \nCCNY utilizes restorative practices and focus groups to better understand the challenges faced by organizations and communities. The underlying premise of restorative practices rests with the belief that people will make positive changes when those in positions of authority do things with them rather than to them or for them. \nThe field of evaluation stands to benefit from considering the utilization of restorative practices within certain qualitative data collection opportunities because it further enhances participants’ abilities to be active listeners\, allows for self-expression\, fosters stronger relationships with one another\, and establishes high control and high support in participants\, leaving them empowered to respond to focus group questions openly.   \nThe approaches and tools shared in this session will allow your organization to move beyond traditional engagement methods while fostering relationships\, increasing social justice\, amplifying voices\, and creating lasting change.  \nTakeaways\n\nUnderstanding restorative practices \nHow to apply restorative practices in everyday work  \nHow to integrate restorative practices with focus group methodology \nLessons learned from challenges and setbacks \nAbility to incorporate tools into your continuous improvement practice  \n\nWho Should Participate\n\nBoard members and executive level staff (i.e.\, vice presidents\, chiefs\, etc.) \nDirector-level staff (i.e.\, program director\, etc.) \nManagement/supervisor level staff \nPerformance quality improvement staff \nProfessional/clinical services staff \n\n  \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Elyse Fuerst\, LMSW\n \n Evaluation Associate \nCCNY \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Elyse Fuerst\, LMSW\n Evaluation Associate \nCCNY \n \n Elyse Fuerst\, evaluation associate\, has a master’s in social work from the University at Buffalo (UB). During her time at UB\, Elyse became certified in restorative justice. She actively participated in the Racial Justice Network\, a group aiming to cultivate racial equity within the UB School of Social Work’s academic programs\, research agendas\, administrative policies\, and informal culture. Most recently\, Elyse worked with Our Lady of Victory Human Services as a behavioral health specialist\, working with high-risk adolescents in an inpatient mental health setting. Elyse has a passion for working with children and families\, specifically advocating for racial justice and mental health.  URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/amplifying-community-voices-to-transform-data-collection/ CATEGORIES:Brain Science,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Org-Excellence_Data_3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250505T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250501T193429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T202310Z UID:10000479-1746403200-1746489599@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:On the Road: NatCon25 DESCRIPTION:See You in Philadelphia \nJoin us in Philadelphia at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing Conference (NatCon25) May 5-7.  \nAre you attending this event? \nJoe Perrow and Dylan Graham-Vannais from our network engagement and growth team look forward to meeting you at the Social Current exhibition booth. Get the details on our impact areas and range of solutions and pick up some Social Current goodies to bring home.  \nJody Levison-Johnson\, president and CEO of Social Current\, will share her pathway to leadership as part of a panel for session G1 – How Did We Get Here? Six Leaders Riff About Their Journeys.  \nRobena Spangler\, senior director of leadership and organizational development at Social Current\, will co-present with Trinka Landry-Bourne of the American Public Human Services Association. They will share actionable strategies that foster belonging\, connection and inclusion in session K12 – Ready for the Future: Leading with Resilience Through Uncertainty and Change.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Event\nThe National Council for Mental Wellbeing Conference brings together nearly 6\,000 peers for three days of learning\, strategizing\, and exploring advancements in behavioral health. With hundreds of sessions on topics like crisis response\, rural health\, and workforce development\, #NatCon25 is a chance to strengthen your skills\, expand your network\, and bring fresh ideas back to your organization. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/on-the-road-natcon25/ CATEGORIES:On the Road ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/On-the-Road.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250306T142306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T134622Z UID:10000469-1745931600-1745935200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Brain-Friendly Practices and Boundaries: Keys to Empathy and Staying Well in Disruptive Times DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n We are living in challenging times\, and many are feeling increased frustration and exhaustion in our daily work. What’s a first step we can take to decrease this tension? Use brain-aware strategies to build healthy and realistic boundaries. Join this session to discuss concrete approaches to reduce toxic stress\, prevent burnout\, boost productivity\, and enhance teamwork. \nDiscussion topics include: \n\nWhat boundaries are and how they allow us to say “yes” to the things that really matter\nWhy setting realistic and healthy boundaries requires us to regulate\, so we can be in our “thinking brains”\nHow healthy and realistic boundaries lead to increased empathy and resilience at work\n\nTakeaways\n\nThe three steps in the sequence of engagement – regulate\, relate\, reason\nThe basic components of healthy and realistic expectations\nBoundaries that are critical for a healthy workplace culture\nCritical steps for setting healthy and realistic boundaries\nPractice setting healthy and realistic boundaries\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. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/brain-friendly-practices-and-boundaries-keys-to-empathy-and-staying-well-in-disruptive-times/ CATEGORIES:Brain Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Challenge-Series-BrainScience.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250226T173718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T204355Z UID:10000460-1745712000-1745798399@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:On the Road: NJHSA PowerNET DESCRIPTION:PowerNET 2025: Thriving in a Changing World!\n \n See You in Denver \nJoin us in Denver at PowerNet 2025 April 27 -30. \nAre you attending this event? Stop by the Social Current booth to pick up some cool swag and visit with Marisa Collins\, director of strategic partnerships and partner communications\, to learn more about our wide range of solutions including COA Accreditation\, Impact Partnerships\, consulting\, and more! \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Event\nPowerNET is a four-day event where human service professionals\, leaders from member agencies\, and partner organizations come together to share ideas and experiences from around the world. This conference is a chance for attendees to learn useful insights\, make new connections\, and collaborate with professional peers. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/on-the-road-njhsa-powernet-2/ CATEGORIES:On the Road ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/On-the-Road.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250306T143129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T174858Z UID:10000471-1745503200-1745506800@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Navigating Leadership: Finding Purpose in Disruption DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This session will focus on how to leverage disruption for change and navigate uncertainty with resilience\, clarity\, and adaptability for collective progress. Participants will explore strategies to reframe challenges as opportunities\, strengthen leadership agility\, and cultivate trust and courage. \nTakeaways\n\nStrategies to reframe disruption as an opportunity\, enhance resilience and adaptability\, and lead with purpose during periods of uncertainty\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 Development and Organizational 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 Robena Spangler\n Senior Director of Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence\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 excellence portfolio. Spangler holds a bachelor’s in sociology and human services along with a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. \n  URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/navigating-leadership-finding-purpose-in-disruption/ CATEGORIES:Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Challenge-Series-Lead.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20250417T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250310T202027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T202033Z UID:10000473-1744894800-1744898400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Closing the Gap: Training Your Way Out of the Workforce Crisis DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Human services organizations are facing growing challenges in maintaining their mental health workforce\, but investing in clinicians can help you attract and retain top talent. Join Social Current Strategic Industry Partner Triad for this webinar to explore creative strategies\, like covering exam fees\, providing exam preparation support\, and expanding continuing education and certification opportunities. \nStrengthening educational benefits not only empowers your team but also promotes fairness and boosts long-term retention. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how targeted support can position you as an employer of choice and help you navigate the workforce crisis with confidence. \nTakeaways\n\nStatistics on the acute and sustained clinician shortage the nation is facing\nGenerational changes and changing needs in the workforce\nOpportunities for employers to invest in career advancement and development to attract and retain staff\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nMental health supervisors\nLicensure track therapists\nTraining and professional development staff\nHuman resources staff\nHigher education staff\n\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 Brandon Jones\n \n CEO\nTriad \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brandon Jones\n CEO\nTriad \n \n Brandon Jones has over 20 years of experience in education/edtech\, business leadership\, and people development. He spent nearly two decades at Kaplan Test Prep He started his career as an SAT instructor and then advanced through a series of roles in academics\, operations\, sales management\, and executive management\, with the last several spent as the president of the largest business unit at Kaplan. Jones is passionate about the transformative power of education\, and as an advocate of grit and growth mindset\, he believes that just about anyone can do just about anything. Jones has a bachelor’s in English and American Literature and Language from Harvard University\, and lives in New York City with his wife and daughter. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/closing-the-gap-training-your-way-out-of-the-workforce-crisis/ CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/EDI_2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20250409T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T133000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20241028T151715Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T193409Z UID:10000439-1744203600-1744205400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Introduction to COA Accreditation DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This free 30-minute webinar provides an introduction to Social Current and COA Accreditation. It is perfect for anyone seeking accreditation for the first time\, interested in what is required to become accredited\, or mandated to become accredited by state or federal legislation. Participants will gain an understanding of the key concepts that define COA Accreditation\, the steps toward becoming accredited\, and the benefits of accreditation. There will also be a Q&A portion for us to answer any questions you might have. \nTakeaways\n\nWhat is the value of accreditation\nWhat is the accreditation process\nHow to become accredited\n\nWho Should Participate\nAnyone who is interested in learning more about accreditation for their organization\, whether it be first-time accreditation or reaccreditation. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Perrow\n \n Network Growth Manager\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Perrow\n Network Growth Manager\nSocial Current \n \n Joe Perrow is the network growth manager for accreditation services at Social Current. His role allows him to work closely with organizations that are seeking accreditation for the first time by helping them to navigate standards\, establish a timeline\, and proactively prepare for the process. Perrow has a master’s in business administration from Campbell University and more than eight years’ experience in business development\, marketing\, and partner management. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/introduction-to-coa-accreditation-33/ CATEGORIES:COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250226T173603Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T204000Z UID:10000457-1744156800-1744243199@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:On the Road: CWLA 2025 National Conference DESCRIPTION:Inspiring Change\, Igniting Progress\n \n See You in Washington\, D.C. \nJoin us in Washington\, D.C. at CWLA’s 2025 Conference April 9-11\, 2025. \nAre you attending this event? Romero Davis\, Social Current’s director of practice excellence\, will be representing our work in the exhibit hall—make sure to stop by and say hello! \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Event\nThe CWLA 2025 Conference\, with the theme “Inspiring Change\, Igniting Progress\,” will take place April 9-11. This conference intends to create services that are easier to access\, culturally aware\, and work together to help families and communities thrive. Learn more about the conference. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/on-the-road-cwla-2025-national-conference/ CATEGORIES:On the Road ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/On-the-Road.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T163000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20240923T192506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T160856Z UID:10000433-1744032600-1744043400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) — SOLD OUT DESCRIPTION:This session has sold out. Visit our COA Accreditation Trainings page to view and register for future sessions. \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. This training covers logic models and outcome statements\, as well as demonstrating how quality improvement is a catalyst for successful achievement of strategic goals and program outcomes. \nCOA Accreditation is offered as a service of Social Current. Learn more about COA Accreditation and how to get started online. \nTakeaways\n\nWhat it means to be outcomes focused\nHow to develop strong outcome statements\nHow to use logic models to outline program goals and client outcomes\nMain components of a PQI process\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nStaff at organizations pursuing first-time accreditation and new primary contacts\nPQI directors\, coordinators\, and staff with PQI responsibilities\nThose needing assistance to create a PQI program\nOther staff involved in an organization’s accreditation process\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Darrell Woodliff\n \n Director of Volunteer Engagement\nSocial Current \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 Additional COA Accreditation Trainings \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 10:00 am – 1:00 pm EST \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm EST \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n View Calendar URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/performance-and-quality-improvement-pqi-8/ CATEGORIES:Training,COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T130000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20240923T190409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T155724Z UID:10000430-1744020000-1744030800@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) — SOLD OUT DESCRIPTION:This session has sold out. Visit our COA Accreditation Trainings page to view and register for future sessions. \nThe Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare new and incoming organizations to get the most out of their COA Accreditation experience. Topics discussed in this training include: \n\nAn in-depth overview of the COA Accreditation process\, including key milestones\nAn overview of accreditation standards and the relationship between standards\, evidence\, and the rating indicators\nHow ratings are assigned by the volunteer review team and insight on the accreditation decision-making process\nTips on how to get organized and manage the work\nHow to prepare for the site visit\n\nCOA Accreditation is offered as a service of Social Current. Learn more about COA Accreditation and how to get started online. \nTakeaways\n\nAn in-depth overview of the COA Accreditation process\, including key milestones\nAn overview of accreditation standards and the relationship between standards\, evidence\, and the rating indicators\nHow ratings are assigned by the volunteer review team and insight on the accreditation decision-making process\nTips on how to get organized and manage the work\nHow to prepare for the site visit\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nOrganization primary contacts\nSenior leaders at organizations seeking COA Accreditation\nOther staff involved in an organization’s accreditation process\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Darrell Woodliff\n \n Director of Volunteer Engagement\nSocial Current \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 Additional COA Accreditation Trainings \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 10:00 am – 1:00 pm EST \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm EST \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n View Calendar URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/intensive-accreditation-training-iat-9/ CATEGORIES:Training,COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250403T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250403T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250306T142809Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T174103Z UID:10000468-1743692400-1743696000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:What's Hope Got to Do With It? The Power of Hope During Times of Uncertainty DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n In an era of heightened uncertainty and shifting landscapes\, nonprofit and social sector leaders face increasing challenges. This session will discuss hope science\, an evidence-based framework that strengthens resilience and well-being\, to help leaders strategically navigate obstacles\, maintain focus on their goals\, and cultivate innovative pathways for sustainability. Participants will explore how goal setting\, adaptive problem solving\, and willpower can serve as powerful tools to drive organizational success\, inspire teams\, and build a future that remains mission-driven\, even in turbulent times. \nPre-Session Activity\nBefore the session\, please complete the free strengths finder survey through VIA Institute on Character. This survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. After completing the survey\, just access the free report. It isn’t necessary to purchase the long report. \nResource for Further Reading\nHope and resilience as protective factors linked to lower burnout among child welfare workers\nBy Angela B. Pharris \, Ricky T. Munoz \, Chan M. Hellman\nChildren and Youth Services Review; 2022 \nTakeaways\n\nHow to apply hope science principles—goal-setting\, adaptive problem-solving\, and willpower—to navigate uncertainty\, sustain their mission\, and strengthen organizational resilience\nThe difference between hope and a wish\nHow to assess you own hope and use question prompts to critically examine how the loss of hope may impact workforce\, client\, and community outcomes\nStrategies for nurturing hope\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 and Family Well-Being \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 Child and Family Well-Being \nSocial Current \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. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/whats-hope-got-to-do-with-it-the-power-of-hope-during-times-of-uncertainty/ CATEGORIES:Child and Family Well-Being ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Brain-Science_4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20260411T115622 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:20250326T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T151500 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20241206T160821Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250314T210707Z UID:10000444-1742997600-1743002100@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Workforce Well-Being and Resilience During Times of Change DESCRIPTION:Four-part virtual learning series: March 26\, April 23\, May 28\, and June 25 from 2-3:15 p.m. \nPricing: \n\nImpact Partners:\n\nUp to five staff members are eligible for free registration\n$200 for additional staff members\n\n\nOrganizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation and Other Organizations:\n\n$200\n\n\n\nSocial Current Impact Partners can contact us for the free registration code. Learn more about Impact Partnerships online. \n \n\n \n Register \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Staff at nonprofit organizations are facing change\, stress\, and conflict on multiple levels. Political polarization\, isolation\, and vicarious trauma are contributing to staff feeling drained and disengaged. \nThis four-part webinar series will equip leaders and supervisors with foundational knowledge and skills to help their teams manage uncertainty and interpersonal conflict so they can create a healthy and resilient organizational culture. To empower their staff\, participants will learn about core strategies and tactics that are based in brain science research and trauma-informed approaches. \nPresenters will address topics including increasing accountability\, managing conflict\, having crucial conversations\, nurturing relationships\, embracing equity\, and achieving excellence. \nSessions in this Series\n\nCreate Brain-Friendly Environments: March 26 from 2-3:15 p.m. ET\nBuild Psychological Safety: April 23 from 2-3:15 p.m. ET\nPrioritize Staff Culture: May 28 from 2-3:15 p.m. ET\nIntegrate Connection and Community: June 25 from 2-3:15 p.m. ET\n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Create Brain-Friendly Environments \n \n \n \n \n \n March 26\, 2025\, 2-3:15 p.m. ET \nTo be well at work\, especially in stressful and uncertain environments\, it is important to understand basic brain concepts and embrace practices that enhance its functioning. Stress\, distress\, and trauma can trigger a “fight or flight” response\, which makes it difficult to think and problem solve. However\, brain science offers tools for managing this response. \nThe first session in this series focuses on the importance of embracing brain science awareness at work. We explore the neurobiology of stress\, distress and trauma; the arousal continuum; and daily regulation activities to practice at work. \nLearning Objectives\n\nBrain science concepts and strategies to increase resilience in the workplace\nState dependent functioning and the arousal continuum\, and their application to daily work\nPractical tools and strategies for increasing regulation\nStrategies for building a brain friendly culture that enhances our optimal functioning at work\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Build Psychological Safety \n \n \n \n \n \n April 23\, 2025\, 2-3:15 p.m. ET \nDirect service staff face pressure from many different people and are often afraid of making a mistake that might harm those they serve\, negatively impact others’ perception of them\, or disappoint their supervisors or colleagues. \nPrioritizing psychological safety is essential to reduce this worry and allow staff to speak and act freely. It involves creating an environment where staff feel safe to take risks and speak candidly without the fear of retribution. When we foster psychological safety\, It leads to authentic conversations\, trust\, and innovation. \nThe second session in this series explores how to foster psychological safety in the workplace to support courage and vulnerability. It discusses strategies for leaders to respond to staff challenges by modeling authenticity\, accountability\, and compassion\, all which promote safe risk taking and trust. \nLearning Objectives\n\nComponents of psychological safety and the critical need to build it at work\nThe impact of courage and vulnerability in the workplace\nLeadership strategies for increasing psychological safety in the workplace\nStrategies for having crucial conversations\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Prioritize Positive Staff Culture \n \n \n \n \n \n May 28\, 2025\, 2-3:15 p.m. ET \nYou’ve heard the adage\, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” It’s true. If our organizational culture is unhealthy\, we will struggle to get our work done. So\, we must intentionally build a positive staff culture that reflects our organization’s stated values and beliefs and aligns with our strategy. \nThe third session in this series explores the ingredients of a positive staff culture and the steps needed to achieve it. Learn strategies for bringing your organizational values into daily interactions\, set clear and realistic boundaries and expectations and align culture and strategy to build resilience and success. \nLearning Objectives\n\nDefine organizational culture\nHow to realize organizational values in daily interactions\nHow to promote boundaries and expectations that support the organization’s mission and staff well-being\nSteps for aligning organizational culture and strategy\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Integrate Connection and Community \n \n \n \n \n \n June 25\, 2025\, 2-3:15 p.m. ET \nNow\, more than ever\, employees are looking for a sense of community at work. Our brains are hardwired for connection\, and we crave belonging. When we build healthy connections with people at work\, we are more equipped to tolerate differing perspectives\, actively listen\, demonstrate empathy\, and have difficult conversations. In essence\, a strong work community can hold an organization together\, especially during challenging and uncertain times. \nThe fourth session in this series explores the components of healthy connections in the workplace and strategies for intentionally integrating connection and community across the range of employee experiences. \nLearning Objectives\n\nHow connection is critical to feeling calm and regulated\nStrategies for increasing connection in the virtual and hybrid workplace\nStrategies for building community among employees with a range of experiences and preferences for ways to connect\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n   \nWho Should Participate\n\n\n\nExecutives and senior leaders\nMiddle managers\nHuman resource staff\nStaff with responsibility for equity\, diversity\, and inclusion\n\n\n\nIndividuals who are champions for strengthening the workforce culture\, regardless of their title\, will also benefit. This guidance is relevant for all workforces that serve children\, adults\, and families\, including at the community\, systems\, government\, and policy levels. \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 Karen Johnson\n \n Senior Director\, Change in Mind Institute \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\, Change in Mind Institute \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 28 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 Social Current’s 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 and equity 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 strengthen their workforce and advance trauma-informed\, resilience-oriented approaches. She worked in various roles in the treatment foster care department and led and developed community-based programs during her 19 years at Wellpoint Care Network in Milwaukee. Johnson combines the newest advances around adversity\, relational health\, and resilience to infuse hope and connection into our work. \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\, Leadership Development/Organizational 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 Robena Spangler\n Senior Director\, Leadership Development/Organizational Excellence\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 excellence portfolio. Spangler holds a bachelor’s in sociology and human services along with a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/workforce-well-being-and-resilience-during-times-of-change/ CATEGORIES:Webinar,Workforce Resilience ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Workforce-Resilience_1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250226T173422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T203913Z UID:10000459-1742774400-1742860799@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:On the Road: ACRC Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:Intentional Practice: Aligning Innovation and Expertise to Meet the Holistic Needs of Children\n \n See You in Boston \nJoin us in Boston at the ACRC’s 69th Annual Conference March 24-27. \nAre you attending this event? Make sure to meet Rachael Rucker\, manager of network engagement and growth\, at our exhibit booth to learn all about Social Current’s complete range of solutions. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Event\nThe ACRC’s 69th Annual Conference\, “Intentional Practice: Aligning Innovation and Expertise to Meet the Holistic Needs of Children\,” will take place March 24-27. ACRC seeks to improve how children receive care and take steps to make the health care system better for young people. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/on-the-road-acrc-annual-conference-2/ CATEGORIES:On the Road ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/On-the-Road.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T130000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20241018T195118Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T153419Z UID:10000436-1742403600-1742562000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:2025 Convening for Chief Executives DESCRIPTION:About\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sessions & Speakers\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Schedule\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Location\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Planning Team\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n About \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Register Now \n \n \n \n This event is open only to the CEO or executive director of a human/social services organization. \nRegistration must be received on or before March 3 to receive the early bird rate. After that date\, regular rates apply. \nImpact Partners and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation: \n\nEarly Bird Registration $595\nRegular Registration $745\n\nOther Organizations: \n\nEarly Bird Registration $695\nRegular Registration $845\n\nAbout the Event\nThis event will offer learning and networking tailored to CEOs and executive directors of human and social services organizations. By bringing together leaders who truly understand each other’s day to day\, it will help you develop relationships\, share challenges\, find solutions\, and build community. \nWith facilitated sessions\, the event’s programming will emphasize dialogue and collaboration to identify solutions. This year’s session topics include: \n\nNavigating insurance and risk mitigation\nLeadership for resilience and sustainability in uncertain times\nAdvancing organizational readiness for artificial intelligence\nA new operating paradigm for human services leaders\n\nChief executives and executive directors are invited to make new connections\, deepen relationships\, and grow their network of go-to colleagues. \nWho Should Participate\n\nThis event is reserved for only the CEO or executive director of  a human/social services organization\n\nCancellation Policies\nCancellation by Participant: All cancellation requests must be made in writing. Conference cancellations are subject to a $100 processing fee. Cancellation requests received after March 3 will not be refunded\, including the optional tour. Credit toward future Social Current events is not currently possible. Notice of written cancellation must be emailed directly to Social Current. \nCancellation by Social Current: If Social Current cancels this conference\, all registration fees will be refunded in full. \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sessions & Speakers \n \n\n \n \n \n CEO Think Tank: Navigating Insurance and Risk Mitigation in 2025\nThis session will engage CEOs in a focused discussion on the evolving landscape of insurance and risk management in human services. Participants will analyze complex challenges within the insurance industry\, exchange knowledge and strategies\, and generate actionable insights to strengthen organizational resilience and leadership decision-making. \nPresenter: Eric Beck\, senior vice president and national nonprofit practice leader\, Marsh McLennan Agency \nPolicy Briefing\nGiven the current and ever-changing political landscape\, this convening will include a policy briefing from Blair Abelle-Kiser\, senior director of government affairs at Social Current. She will share relevant updates and answer participant questions regarding the current policy environment. \nPresenter: Blair Abelle-Kiser\, senior director of government affairs\, Social Current \nSuccess During Uncertain Times: Strategies for Positive Outcomes at the Individual\, Team\, and Organizational Levels\nNonprofits are facing uncertainty unlike any in recent history. On the horizon are seismic changes at the federal\, state\, and local levels that will result in significant changes to the nonprofit industry. Nonprofit organizations will be challenged over the next few years in ways that were previously unimaginable. How will we manage to persevere? What steps can CEOs take to ensure that their organizations stay mission focused and successful? How can I prepare my organization to remain on top? \nThis high-energy discussion will highlight strategies to leverage your leadership practice\, your team’s efficacy\, and your organization’s resilience. Participants will come away from this interactive and dynamic session with at least three concrete steps to support their leadership practice and continue their organizations’ success. \nPresenter: Paul L. Dann\, president and CEO\, North American Family Institute \nNetworking Activity: Funny Bus Charlotte\nGet ready for a unique and entertaining experience with Funny Bus Comedy City Tour. This 90-minute bus tour of Charlotte\, featuring a local comedian as our tour guide\, will be filled with laughter and learning. This rolling comedy show promises to be a memorable journey. Be sure to dress for the weather\, as the bus is open air. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure! \nAI and the Social Services Sector: Advancing Organizational Readiness\nIn this session CEOs will take a strategic look at the stages of AI readiness and frameworks for the safe\, ethical\, and effective design\, development\, and deployment of AI tools. Participants will engage in a collaborative effort to develop an AI readiness assessment rubric—an actionable resource designed to support organizational preparedness and implementation. Through this session\, participants will explore how AI can be integrated responsibly into the human services sector. \nPresenter: Lauri Goldkind\, professor\, Fordham University \nA New Operating Paradigm for Human Service Leaders\nThis session will explore a strategic framework for human services leadership\, emphasizing skills and strategies essential for navigating today’s complex landscape. Drawing insights from the Equip the Flip initiative\, a collaboration between Social Current and the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA)\, participants will examine practical approaches to centering community voice\, building generative partnerships\, supporting people with lived experience\, enhancing political literacy\, and implementing participatory design. The session will also discuss strategies for fostering shared vision and achieving sustainable\, systemic impact in the human services sector. \nPresenters: Eric Schindler\, president and chief executive officer\, Child & Family Resources; and Robena Spangler\, senior director of leadership and organizational development\, Social Current \nSpeakers\nEric Beck\nSenior Vice President\, National Nonprofit Practice Leader\nMarsh McLennan \nEric joined Bouchard Insurance in 2003 and was invited into the ownership group in 2007. He became one of the majority shareholders and a board member. In February of 2019\, Bouchard was acquired by Marsh & Mclennan Agency where he is a senior vice president and national nonprofit practice leader. Prior to joining Bouchard Insurance\, he worked in many social service settings\, including residential group homes and as a teacher for middle school children with mental and behavioral health challenges. \nBeck is active in many nonprofit associations and has served on numerous boards. He is the endorsed insurance agent for the Florida Association of Community Health Centers and does a lot of work with the Florida Coalition for Children. He is a graduate of Leadership Pinellas and CEO Direct. He spends a lot of time working with clients to help defend their interests and funding sources. He regularly speaks at nonprofit seminars on ways to reduce insurance costs and how to develop a sound risk management program. \nIn 2016 and 2017\, Beck was recognized as a top 100 insurance agent in the country by Business Insurance magazine. He obtained his bachelor’s in psychology from the University of Mississippi in 1996. He currently lives in Clearwater\, Florida\, with his wife and their three children. \nPaul L. Dann\, PhD\nPresident and CEO\nNorth American Family Institute \nPaul Dann is the president and CEO of North American Family Institute (NAFI). The multiservice nonprofit organization has an annual budget of $130 million and provides 128 services to individuals across the lifespan in nine states. Prior to stepping into the president and CEO role he worked for 31 years to develop one of NAFI’s subsidiaries\, NFI North\, from a single program with an annual budget of $400\,000 and four employees in 1993 to the organization it is today\, with more than 28 services and annual budget more than $54 million and more than 400 employees. \nDann has published two books\, Introduction to Human Services: Policy and Practice\, 2019\, Pearson Publishing and Managing and Leading Nonprofit Organizations: A Framework for Success\, 2022\, Wiley and Sons Publishing. In 2022\, he received the NH Business Excellence Award. He serves as a core faculty in public administration in the Carsey School at the University of New Hampshire and provides consultation and training nationally in organizational culture\, change management\, and leadership development. Dann also serves on multiple nonprofit boards. \nIn his free time\, he is the frontman for a regionally recognized blues band\, The Brothers Blues Band. \nBlair 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\, she 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. \nLauri Goldkind\, PhD\, LMSW\nProfessor\nFordham University \nDr. Lauri Goldkind\, PhD\, LMSW is an associate professor at Fordham University and the editor of the Journal of Technology in Human Services. Her current research focuses on artificial intelligence in social work practice and data ecosystems in nonprofit organizations. She is a network co-lead for the Grand Challenges in Social Work Harnessing Technology for the Social Good. \nEric Schindler\, PhD\nPresident and CEO\nChild & Family Resources \nSince 2005\, Eric Schindler has been the president and CEO of Child & Family Resources (CFR)\, a statewide community organization based in Tucson. CFR works in communities across 13 Arizona cities to promote strong\, healthy families and ensure high-quality early childhood education so children can reach their full potential. CFR also partners with teens to prevent pregnancy\, drug use\, and suicide. \nSchindler received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Arizona in 1982. After postdoctoral studies in child and family psychology at U.C. Davis and pediatric psychology in Chicago\, he has spent the last 43 years working in Tucson community settings as an administrator\, director\, teacher\, and practitioner. A licensed clinical psychologist since 1984\, he had a private practice focused on marriage and family therapy and substance abuse. Schindler was an adjunct faculty in the Family Studies and Human Development Department at the University of Arizona for many years. \nSchindler and his wife\, a family practice physician\, have two adult sons. They enjoy scuba diving\, travel adventures to different countries\, yoga\, hiking\, and cycling in their spare time. \nRobena Spangler\nSenior Director of Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence\nSocial Current \nRobena 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 equity\, diversity\, and inclusion 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\, as well as a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Schedule \n \n\n \n \n \n Schedule\nWednesday\, March 19\n5-6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception at 204 North Kitchen and Cocktails \nThank you to Thompson Child and Family Focus for sponsoring this reception. \nThursday\, March 20\n8:15-9 a.m. Networking Breakfast \n9-9:45 a.m. Welcome and Introductions \n9:45-10 a.m. Break \n10-11:45 a.m. CEO Think Tank: Navigating Insurance and Risk Mitigation in 2025 \n11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Policy Briefing \n12:30-1:30 p.m. Networking Lunch \n1:30-3 p.m. Success during Uncertain Times: Strategies for Positive Outcomes at the Individual\, Team\, and Organizational Levels \n3-3:15 p.m. Break \n3:15-5 p.m. Networking Activity: Funny Bus Charlotte \nDine with Your Peers or Evening on Your Own \nFriday\, March 21\n8-8:45 a.m. Networking Breakfast \n8:45-11:15 a.m. AI and the Social Services Sector: Advancing Organizational Readiness \n11:15-11:30 a.m. Break \n11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A New Operating Paradigm for Human Services Leaders \n12:30-1 p.m. Closing and Evaluation \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Location \n \n\n \n \n \n Welcome Reception\n204 North Kitchen and Cocktails\n204 North Tryon Street\nCharlotte\, NC 28202 \nMeeting Location\nThe Duke Endowment\n800 E Morehead St.\nCharlotte\, NC 28202 \nParticipants will be responsible for their own transportation to and from The Duke Endowment. \nLodging\nParticipants are welcome to stay at the hotel of their choice. The Duke Endowment recommends: \nFairfield Inn & Suites Charlotte Uptown\n201 South McDowell St.\nCharlotte\, NC 28204\n*approximately 0.7 miles from The Duke Endowment \nHoliday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte – South End\n1617 South Tryon St.\nCharlotte\, NC 28203\n*approximately 1.0 miles from The Duke Endowment \nExplore Charlotte\nPlaces to Eat\nThere is a plethora of places to enjoy a bite to eat in Charlotte. Here are just a few suggestions: \nThe Market at 7th Street\nThis nonprofit food hall is a bustling urban food destination in the heart of Charlotte’s Center City! The Market’s mission is to celebrate the food culture of the Carolinas and promote local and regional farmers\, food artisans\, and entrepreneurs. \nHaymaker\nHaymaker is known for using southern cuisine and ingredients in a fine dining setting. Locally sourced ingredients and a seasonal menu make dining at Haymaker a uniquely Carolina experience. \nMac’s Speed Shop\nMac’s Speed Shop has won numerous barbecue awards for its signature style and recipes. Pull up a stool and grab a cold one\, just don’t forget the extra napkins when your meal arrives. \nAmélie’s French Bakery & Café Uptown\nAmélie’s French Bakery & Café Uptown focuses on French-inspired pastries\, soups\, salads\, and sandwiches\, creating a place of community\, comfort\, and nourishment. \nMcNinch House Restaurant\nPerfect for special occasions\, McNinch House offers three daily menu options for guests to pick their culinary experience. It is the city’s only AAA Four Diamond dining spot. \nThings to Do\nSpending a little extra time in Charlotte? There’s lots to do in Charlotte\, but here are a few highlights. \nHarvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture\nThe Gantt Center serves as a reflective prism to present\, preserve\, and promote African-American art\, culture and history for the enlightenment of all. \nTour Charlotte’s Public Art\nLarge and small\, loud and subtle\, Charlotte’s public art is reflective of the city’s vibrant\, diverse culture. \nBirkdale Golf Club\nLocated on rolling terrain\, Birkdale Golf Club is a Championship golf course carved between tall pines and natural streams. It is Charlotte’s only Arnold Palmer signature design course. Check out Charlotte Golf for information on other courses. \nNASCAR Hall of Fame\nLocated in Uptown Charlotte\, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. \n  \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Planning Team \n \n\n \n \n \n Planning Team\nMike Bertrand\nPresident & CEO\nLutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois \nTom Campbell\nPresident and CEO\nFamily Service of the Piedmont \nMary Garr\nPresident & CEO\nFamily Service Association of San Antonio \nAndrea Hall\nPresident/CEO\nMYSI Corporation \nBeverly Hardin\nChief Executive Officer\nCarolina Youth Development Center \nLenora Hardy-Foster\nPresident & CEO\nJudson Center\, Inc. \nDesiree Jennings\nPresident & CEO\nThe Children’s Center of Wayne County \nWill Jones\nPresident/CEO\nThompson Child and Family Focus \nJenny Livelli\nPresident & CEO\nThe Children’s Guild \nMichelle Murray\nPresident & CEO\nNexus Family Healing  \nKirsten Olson\nChief Executive Officer\nChildren & Families First \nAnita Paukovits\nExecutive Director/President\nThe Children’s Home of Easton \nEric Schindler\nChief Executive Officer\nChild & Family Resources \nMichael Sexauer\nPresident\nHoly Family Institute \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sponsors \n \n\n \n \n \n Thank You to Our Sponsors\n  \n  \n \n  \n  \n  \nNetworking Reception Sponsor\n\n  URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/2025-ceo-convening/ CATEGORIES:Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/successful-business-professionals-presenting-analytical-report-working-together-in-corporate.jpg_s1024x1024wisk20cpDVuc5F8NK6Dv0eRoDZ4DB1t9LTCZGIK-QHm8uWO1Js.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250306T141802Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T141806Z UID:10000467-1742389200-1742392800@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Philanthropy Meeting the Moment: Navigating Donor Conversations DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n The first few months of 2025 have been difficult for the social sector. This session will focus on key questions and the latest information about how institutional donors and individual donors are addressing the challenges to the sector from the administration. Participants will discuss how to have conversations with funders and donors about the potential impact of cuts. \nTakeaways\n\nHow institutional donors and individual donors are addressing current challenges\nHow to have conversations with donors about potential impact of cuts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sarah Beth Lardie\, MPA\, MSW\n \n Chief Development Officer\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sarah Beth Lardie\, MPA\, MSW\n Chief Development Officer\nSocial Current \n \n Sarah Beth Lardie is the chief development officer at Social Current. With nearly two decades of experience in advancing the missions\, visions\, and goals of nonprofit organizations\, Sarah Beth has helped to lead the growth and sustainability of a wide range of successful organizations\, raising more than $20 million dollars annually for civil society actors ranging from United Nations to local food banks. She began her career as a social worker\, working with children and families\, before transitioning to a career in development. \n“Building civil society\, bringing more people and resources to the critical work being done is fulfilling. Nonprofit organizations are where innovations to solve society’s most difficult problems are happening – I love being part of that. That’s what drew me to Social Current.” \nAs a member of the founding leadership team of Joshua Venture\, a fellowship program for social entrepreneurs\, she was responsible for providing fellowships for 16 entrepreneurs across the U.S. She has also been a mentor with MIT’s LaunchX program and an advisor to the African Venture Philanthropy Network. \nBorn and raised in Detroit\, Sarah Beth has lived and worked in places around the globe including London; San Francisco; Washington\, D.C.; Kampala; and Johannesburg but always finds her way back to New York City to get great bagels! URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/philanthropy-meeting-the-moment-navigating-donor-conversations/ CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Philanthropy-Challenge-Series.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250309T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250309T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250226T173857Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T145918Z UID:10000456-1741478400-1741564799@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:On the Road: National Afterschool Association Convention DESCRIPTION:See You in Nashville\n \n Join us in Nashville at the National Afterschool Association 2025 (NAA25) convention on March 9-12. \nAre you attending this event? Come say hello to our Accreditation Coordinator\, JeRae’ Sommersell\, at the Social Current booth in the exhibit hall. Learn all about COA Accreditation\, Social Current’s network\, and grab some swag when you stop by. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Event\n#NAA2025 brings together afterschool professionals across the country to celebrate their work and share the latest thought leadership in the field. Every learning session powers human connection\, inspired learning\, and professional advancement for participants. Learn more about the conference here. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/on-the-road-national-afterschool-association-convention/ CATEGORIES:On the Road ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/On-the-Road.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20250226T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20241220T181205Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250304T191119Z UID:10000451-1740582000-1740585600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Social Impact Campaign Community Pilots Informational Session DESCRIPTION:Watch the Recording \n \n Social Current\, in collaboration with the team of filmmakers and social innovators behind the film UnCharitable\, is launching a bold new initiative to change how the social sector creates impact and funds innovation. We are seeking organizations and communities to join a nationwide movement aimed at dismantling obstacles\, co-creating community-driven solutions\, and innovating new strategies for social change. The application process is now open\, and the deadline to submit is March 17. \nThis webinar will include information about the social impact campaign and pilot site selection process. We’re looking for organizations to incubate and test new strategies\, collaborate with the philanthropic community on new funding prototypes\, and make lasting impact in communities across the U.S. and Canada. Register for this webinar to learn more about how you can be part of this exciting opportunity. \nTakeaways\n\nOverview of the social impact campaign\nAbout the community pilot program and application process\nTime for Q&A\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutives of social sector organizations\n\nContact Stephanie Pacinella\, senior director of strategy and growth\, with questions or for more information. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/social-impact-campaign-community-pilots-informational-session/ CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SC-Uncharitable-web.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250220T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250220T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20250113T171151Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T183350Z UID:10000453-1740060000-1740063600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:An Executive Leadership Institute for Organizational Impact DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n To be successful\, nonprofit leaders must oversee day-to-day operations\, leverage community and staff strengths\, anticipate trends\, and drive systems change. So\, how do you equip your executives and directors to have transformative impact in your organization and community? \nAttend a live dialogue with Jody Levison-Johnson\, president and CEO\, and Robena Spangler\, senior director of leadership and organizational development\, to learn how Social Current’s Executive Leadership Institute builds leadership capacity and creates a return on investment for organizations. This session will feature an overview of the program and include ample time for Q&A. Join Robena to learn about unique aspects of the institute\, including the full year of learning opportunities\, mentoring program\, alumni network\, and self-design projects that address an organizational challenge. \nTakeaways\n\nAbout the Executive Leadership Institute\nBenefits and return on investment for organizations\nBenefits for leaders\nTime for Q&A\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nChief Executive Officers\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jody Levison-Johnson\n \n President and CEO\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jody Levison-Johnson\n President and CEO\nSocial Current \n \n Jody Levison-Johnson is a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 30 years of experience in the field of human services. \nJody is a longstanding champion for systems change that results in the ability for individuals and communities to thrive. She is deeply committed to advancing policy that ensures equitable access to quality services and supports. Previously\, Jody served as the Assistant Vice President of Practice Improvement at the National Council for Behavioral Health\, where she oversaw the organization’s consulting portfolio and a large\, privately funded adolescent mental health initiative. \nShe has also served as the Chief Clinical Officer for a multi-state children’s care management organization\, as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Louisiana Office of Behavioral Health\, and as the Vice President of Coordinated Care Services\, Inc. (CCSI)\, a non-profit management and consulting services organization where she was responsible for all of CCSI’s service quality\, system development\, and evaluation activities including oversight of the county administered children’s mental health system. Her experiences leading system reform efforts across the country prompted her interest in the environmental contexts that surround deep change in social and public systems. \nJody holds a Master of Social Work degree from Syracuse University and a Master of Arts and PhD in Leadership and Change from Antioch University. \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 excellence portfolio. Spangler holds a bachelor’s in sociology and human services along with a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/an-executive-leadership-institute-for-organizational-impact/ CATEGORIES:Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/iStock-1252882997-1-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 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:20250213T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250213T153000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20241028T151504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T193644Z UID:10000438-1739458800-1739460600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Introduction to COA Accreditation DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This free 30-minute webinar provides an introduction to Social Current and COA Accreditation. It is perfect for anyone seeking accreditation for the first time\, interested in what is required to become accredited\, or mandated to become accredited by state or federal legislation. Participants will gain an understanding of the key concepts that define COA Accreditation\, the steps toward becoming accredited\, and the benefits of accreditation. There will also be a Q&A portion for us to answer any questions you might have. \nTakeaways\n\nWhat is the value of accreditation\nWhat is the accreditation process\nHow to become accredited\n\nWho Should Participate\nAnyone who is interested in learning more about accreditation for their organization\, whether it be first-time accreditation or reaccreditation. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Perrow\n \n Network Growth Manager\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Perrow\n Network Growth Manager\nSocial Current \n \n Joe Perrow is the network growth manager for accreditation services at Social Current. His role allows him to work closely with organizations that are seeking accreditation for the first time by helping them to navigate standards\, establish a timeline\, and proactively prepare for the process. Perrow has a master’s in business administration from Campbell University and more than eight years’ experience in business development\, marketing\, and partner management. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/introduction-to-coa-accreditation-32/ CATEGORIES:COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T163000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20240923T191130Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240923T192340Z UID:10000432-1738589400-1738600200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n This 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. This training covers logic models and outcome statements\, as well as demonstrating how quality improvement is a catalyst for successful achievement of strategic goals and program outcomes. \nCOA Accreditation is offered as a service of Social Current. Learn more about COA Accreditation and how to get started online. \nTakeaways\n\nWhat it means to be outcomes focused\nHow to develop strong outcome statements\nHow to use logic models to outline program goals and client outcomes\nMain components of a PQI process\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nStaff at organizations pursuing first-time accreditation and new primary contacts\nPQI directors\, coordinators\, and staff with PQI responsibilities\nThose needing assistance to create a PQI program\nOther staff involved in an organization’s accreditation process\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Darrell Woodliff\n \n Director of Volunteer Engagement\nSocial Current \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 Additional COA Accreditation Trainings \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 10:00 am – 1:00 pm EST \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm EST \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n View Calendar URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/performance-and-quality-improvement-pqi-7/ CATEGORIES:Training,COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T130000 DTSTAMP:20260411T115622 CREATED:20240923T185931Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240923T191502Z UID:10000429-1738576800-1738587600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n The Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare new and incoming organizations to get the most out of their COA Accreditation experience. Topics discussed in this training include: \n\nAn in-depth overview of the COA Accreditation process\, including key milestones\nAn overview of accreditation standards and the relationship between standards\, evidence\, and the rating indicators\nHow ratings are assigned by the volunteer review team and insight on the accreditation decision-making process\nTips on how to get organized and manage the work\nHow to prepare for the site visit\n\nCOA Accreditation is offered as a service of Social Current. Learn more about COA Accreditation and how to get started online. \nTakeaways\n\nAn in-depth overview of the COA Accreditation process\, including key milestones\nAn overview of accreditation standards and the relationship between standards\, evidence\, and the rating indicators\nHow ratings are assigned by the volunteer review team and insight on the accreditation decision-making process\nTips on how to get organized and manage the work\nHow to prepare for the site visit\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nOrganization primary contacts\nSenior leaders at organizations seeking COA Accreditation\nOther staff involved in an organization’s accreditation process\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Darrell Woodliff\n \n Director of Volunteer Engagement\nSocial Current \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 Additional COA Accreditation Trainings \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Oct \n \n 5 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm EDT \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 10:00 am – 1:00 pm EST \n \n \n \n Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n Dec \n \n 1 \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm EST \n \n \n \n Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n View Calendar URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/intensive-accreditation-training-iat-8/ CATEGORIES:Training,COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/COA-Accredited-Webinar-Catalog-Image.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR