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/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/New_York:20250402T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250402T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250403T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250403T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250407T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T130000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250407T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T163000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250409T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250409T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250409T133000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250416T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250417T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250422T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250424T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250424T150000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250427T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250427T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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:20250429T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T182338 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 END:VCALENDAR