BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Social Current - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.social-current.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Social Current REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/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/Denver BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20250309T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20251102T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20260308T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20261101T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251001T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251001T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000121 CREATED:20250811T194333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T184946Z UID:10000516-1759323600-1759327200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Scenario Planning for Nonprofits: Building Resilience and Sustaining Impact DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Social Current Strategic Industry Partner Your Part-Time Controller will lead this presentation as part of its “Managing Through Uncertainty” series\, which introduces nonprofit leaders to scenario planning as a strategic tool for navigating financial uncertainty and sustaining mission impact. It will outline a structured\, step-by-step process for identifying risks\, developing multiple financial scenarios\, and assigning actionable strategies to prepare for a range of possible futures. \nThe session will emphasize the importance of revenue diversification\, including using contributed and earned income strategies to strengthen financial resilience. Through practical examples\, planning templates\, and real-world considerations\, the presentation will equip nonprofit professionals with tools to make informed decisions in times of crisis and opportunity. \nTakeaways\n\nHow scenario planning helps nonprofits anticipate risks and prepare for multiple financial outcomes\, not just a single forecast\nA five-step process that includes: Assessing risks\, identifying top uncertainties\, creating scenarios\, assigning actions\, and implementing/monitoring\nWhy revenue diversification is essential and strategies\, including donor cultivation\, monetizing assets\, and expanding earned income streams\nDiscuss tools that can help with scenario planning\nWhy clear timelines\, responsibilities\, and key performance indicators are critical for executing scenario-based action plans effectively\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutive directors and CEOs looking to lead their organizations through financial uncertainty\nFinance and accounting professionals responsible for budgeting\, forecasting\, and risk management\nDevelopment and fundraising teams looking to diversify revenue streams and strengthen donor engagement\nBoard members involved in strategic planning and financial oversight\nProgram and operations leaders who need to assess and adapt service delivery under different financial scenarios\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 Eric Johnson\n \n Manager\nYour Part-Time Controller \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eric Johnson\n Manager\nYour Part-Time Controller \n \n Eric Johnson started his nonprofit accounting work with a national association management company in Chicago. He has nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit accounting. Over the last decade\, he has worked as a director of finance for a museum\, theater\, workforce development agency\, and social service agency. He helped all the nonprofits work toward operational excellence by achieving best practices in accounting and financial reporting. He has overseen IT and human resources in addition to his accounting work\, which included several software transitions of donor databases and payroll processing conversions. He’s a manager in Remote Services Operations-Elite (Midwest) and is part of YPTC’s Social Services specialization. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sandra Magri\n \n Director\nYour Part-Time Controller \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sandra Magri\n Director\nYour Part-Time Controller \n \n Sandra Magri is a Director at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC)\, bringing over 20 years of experience working with nonprofit organizations. She first joined YPTC in 2015 as an associate in New York. Driven by her strong connection to her New England roots\, Sandra relocated to Massachusetts in 2016\, temporarily leaving YPTC. When the opportunity arose to help establish YPTC’s New England presence in 2021\, Sandra eagerly rejoined the team\, reaffirming her commitment to the organization’s mission and values. Throughout her career\, Sandra has served nonprofits as an auditor\, controller\, and dedicated volunteer. She is passionate about leveraging her expertise to strengthen nonprofit organizations\, specifically in the social services sector\, enabling them to expand their mission and maximize their impact in the communities they serve. Sandra is a licensed CPA in Massachusetts and holds a bachelor’s from Merrimack College. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/scenario-planning-for-nonprofits-building-resilience-and-sustaining-impact/ CATEGORIES:Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Org-Excellence_Data_5.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251009T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251009T153000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000121 CREATED:20241028T153003Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T193944Z UID:10000442-1760022000-1760023800@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-36/ 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/Chicago:20251019T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000121 CREATED:20250509T182634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T005319Z UID:10000482-1760864400-1760889600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) and Performance Quality Improvement (PQI) at SPARK 2025 DESCRIPTION:Register Now \n \n These in-person trainings are pre-conference sessions at our SPARK 2025 conference in Chicago\, but registration is separate from the conference. \nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT) (9 a.m.-Noon CT)\nPrice: $400  \nThe Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare 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\n\n  \n \n\n \n Register Now \n \n These in-person trainings are pre-conference sessions at our SPARK 2025 conference in Chicago\, but registration is separate from the conference. \nPerformance and Quality Improvement (PQI) (1-4 p.m. CT)\nPrice: $400 \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 will demonstrate how quality improvement is a catalyst for successful achievement of strategic goals and program outcomes. \nWho Should Participate\n\nOrganization primary contacts\nSenior leaders at organizations seeking COA Accreditation\nOther staff involved in an organization’s accreditation process\n\nSpecial thanks to our PQI training sponsor QI Folio. \nLearn more about COA Accreditation\, a service of Social Current\, and how to get started online. \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 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 2023 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-and-performance-quality-improvement-pqi-at-spark-2025/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:COA Accreditation Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SPARK2025-PreCon-IAT_PQI.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250509T181314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T183954Z UID:10000481-1760878800-1760889600@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape DESCRIPTION:Register for this pre-conference session by registering for SPARK 2025. \nAs federal priorities shift\, nonprofit leaders must be prepared to respond swiftly and strategically. This condensed version of Social Current’s Advocacy Amplified training equips participants with the essential tools to navigate today’s policy environment\, which includes increasing threats to equity; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion programs; and core social services funding. \nParticipants will gain practical skills in policy analysis\, narrative framing\, and grassroots mobilization. With a focus on low-cost\, high-impact strategies\, this session is designed for organizations operating with limited capacity but high stakes. Whether you’re preparing for the annual Advocacy Amplified full summer training and Hill Day or need an urgent tune-up on federal advocacy\, this pre-conference experience offers the insight and readiness you need now. \nTakeaways\n\nHow to transform expertise\, lived experience\, and passions into impactful advocacy\nFundamental advocacy skills and advanced advocacy strategies needed for successful campaigns\nRelationships with engaged and informed advocates from around the country\n\nWho Should Participate\nAny staff from community-based organizations. No prior experience or skills are required. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n Presenter\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as director of government relations & advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring her time in public service\, she served as a professional staff member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. She led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, she worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)\, where she served as a health policy fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, she led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, she worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. She earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-amplified-rapid-response-readiness-in-a-shifting-policy-landscape/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Training,Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SPARK2025-PreCon-Advocacy.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T170000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250602T212614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T134251Z UID:10000507-1760878800-1760893200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Executive Leadership Institute: Unlocking Potential Because You Matter DESCRIPTION:Register Now \n \n This discounted rate is made possible through our sponsor Marsh McLennan Agency. \nThis convening is a pre-conference event of our SPARK 2025 conference in Chicago\, but registration is separate from the conference. \nFor over 20 years\, the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) has established an incredible reputation for providing a quality peer learning experience that positively impacts the development of social sector leaders. We count on input and feedback from our current and past peer cohorts to advise and guide the program’s success. This pre-conference convening is the first of its kind! \nWe invite past\, present\, and future ELI participants to join us to catch up with fellow alumni\, network with those who are interested in learning more about ELI\, and discuss its transformative impact on both the individual and the organization. Come prepared to learn about the game-changing impact of ELI and engage in motivational storytelling about what’s shaped you as a leader. \nELI alumni Shannon Fisch and Kiera McGillivray\, co-directors of the Brain Science Training Institute at Children & Families First Delaware\, will share their leadership journeys and how ELI benefitted them and their organization. Developing the Brain Science Training Institute was the focus of their ELI projects and\, in 2024\, it was recognized as Social Current’s Innovative Impact Award winner. \nOne of ELI’s popular presenters\, Brandon Pendleton\, adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago\, will engage participants in a session about activating the power of the sector through leadership development and ELI. \nIn addition\, Eric Beck\, senior vice president and National Non-Profit Practice leader at Marsh McLennan Agency\, will lead an interactive session on the power of connection and networking. Networking and building centers of influence are vital to building your personal brand and your organization\, but many people don’t know where or how to start. Participants will learn tricks and tips for becoming a successful networker and brand builder.\n \nWho Should Participate\n\nELI alumni\nCurrent ELI participants\nProspective participants interested in learning more about ELI\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 Robena Spangler\n \n Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brandon Pendleton\n \n Adjunct Professor at Loyola University Chicago\nOwner/Managing Director of 4 Jewels HR \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eric Beck\n \n SVP\, National Non-Profit Practice Leader\nMarsh McLennan Agency URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/eli-alumni-unlocking-potential-because-you-matter/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/eli-2025-convening.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T190000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250509T183828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T184935Z UID:10000483-1760895000-1760900400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Volunteer Appreciation Celebration at SPARK 2025 DESCRIPTION:We could not do what we do without our COA Accreditation volunteers. All active COA Accreditation volunteers are invited to join us as we gather and celebrate all that you do. Catch up with colleagues\, share site visit stories from the road\, and get ready for the start of SPARK 2024. There will be food\, drinks\, prizes\, and a host of swag – so you will not want to miss this event. \nRegistration for the Volunteer Appreciation Celebration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. To register\, email Darrell Woodliff\, director of volunteer engagement at Social Current. \nThis reception is a pre-conference event of the SPARK 2025 conference. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/volunteer-appreciation-celebration-at-spark-2025/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SPARK2025-PreCon-Volunteer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251020T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251021T235959 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20241020T230000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T172855Z UID:10000437-1760918400-1761091199@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:SPARK 2025 DESCRIPTION:About\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Pre- and Post-Conference Sessions\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Workshops\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Keynotes\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Consultations\n \n\n \n \n \n \n Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n About \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Register Now \n \n When registering\, you’ll be prompted to log in. If you do not have an account\, create one for free by clicking: Create an Account. \nSPARK 2025 will unite practice excellence\, innovation\, and federal policy advocacy to advance our sector’s impact and help all families and communities thrive. This in-person event will elevate important conversations around our most vexing challenges and showcase insight and expertise from the field. \nThis event is designed for leaders who are fueled by a commitment to improve the well-being of all people. Together\, we will share inspiration and practical tools for implementing innovative practice\, policy\, and research. Our keynote speakers and breakout sessions will address new insight and promising approaches related to: \n\nBrain-friendly and trauma-informed approaches\nChild\, family\, and community well-being\nCOA Accreditation and data-driven strategies\nEquity\, diversity\, and inclusion\nGovernment affairs and advocacy\nLeadership and organizational development\n\nJustification Letter for Travel Request \nThis draft letter outlines the benefits of attending the SPARK 2025 conference\, key dates\, and expected travel costs. Use this template to communicate the return on investment with your supervisor: \n\nDownload the letter template\nDownload the letter template for COA Accreditation primary contacts\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nExecutives\nDirector-level staff\nBoard members\nPerformance quality improvement staff\nProfessional and clinical services\n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Pricing \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration must be received on or before Sept. 26 to receive the early bird rate. After that date\, regular rates apply. \nImpact Partners and/or Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation\nEarly Bird Registration $625\nRegular Registration $825 \nOther Organizations\nEarly Bird Registration $725\nRegular Registration $925 \nMultiperson Registration Discount\nRegister two (2) full conference participants from the same organization and receive $50 off all subsequent full conference registrations from the same organization. Only one discount per person; no other discounts apply. Once two conference participants are registered\, contact Social Current to receive the discount code for all subsequent full conference registrations. \nComplimentary Trainings for SPARK 2025 Registrants\nSocial Current is including two additional trainings with SPARK 2025 registration. \nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\nSunday\, Oct. 19 from 1-4 p.m. CT\nAdd this training when you register for the conference. \nBuilding Healthy Workplace Cultures in Challenging Times\nWednesday\, Oct. 21-Thursday\, Oct. 22\nOnce you register for SPARK 2025\, you will receive your discount code to register for this session on the registration confirmation screen and follow up email. \nCancellation by Participant\nAll cancellation requests must be made in writing. Conference cancellations are subject to a $100 processing fee. Cancellation requests received after Oct. 1 will not be refunded. Credit toward future Social Current events is not currently possible. Participants unable to attend the conference may send an alternate participant. Notice of written cancellation or alternate participant requests must be emailed directly to Social Current. \nCancellation by Social Current\nIf Social Current cancels this conference\, all registration fees will be refunded in full. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Location & Lodging \n \n \n \n \n \n Hilton Chicago\n720 S Michigan Ave.\nChicago\, IL 60605 \nHotel Reservations\nSocial Current has arranged a special room rate of $259 for single or double occupancy\, plus applicable taxes. To receive the discounted rate\, book online or call the hotel at 877-865-5320 by Sept. 26 and mention the group name: Social Current SPARK 2025. \nThis rate is available for stays up to three days prior to and after the conference\, but it is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nSunday\, Oct. 19\n\n\n9 a.m.-Noon\nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\n\n\n12:30-4 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nPerformance and Quality Improvement (PQI) Training\n\n\n1-4 p.m.\nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\n\n\n1-5 p.m.\nELI Alumni: Unlocking Potential Because You Matter!\n\n\n5:30-7 p.m.\nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nMonday\, Oct. 20\n\n\n8 a.m.-3:45 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n8-9 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n9-10:30 a.m.\nOpening General Session\n\n\n10:30-11 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.\nSession A Workshops\n\n\n12:30-2 p.m.\nNetworking Lunch\n\n\n1:15-1:45 p.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n2-3:30 p.m.\nSession B Workshops\n\n\n3:45-4:15 p.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n4:30-5:30 p.m.\nNetworking Reception\n\n\n\n  \n  \n\n\n\nTuesday\, Oct. 21\n\n\n7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.\nRegistration Desk Open\n\n\n7:30-8:30 a.m.\nBreakfast with Exhibitors\n\n\n7:45-8:15 a.m.\nOne-on-One Consultations\n\n\n8:30-10 a.m.\nSession C Workshops\n\n\n10-10:30 a.m.\nBreak with Exhibitors\n\n\n10:30 a.m.-Noon\nSession D Workshops\n\n\nNoon-1:45 p.m.\nLunch and Closing General Session\n\n\n2-4 p.m.\nThe Intersection of Trauma-Informed Approaches and Quality Improvement\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Sponsor & Exhibit \n \n \n \n \n \n Social Current’s robust network of organizations and individuals across the country provides a unique opportunity for sponsors to reach C-suite decisionmakers in their target demographics. Simultaneously\, sponsorship will allow brands to assess challenges unique to the sector\, collaborate\, and access network expertise. \nThrough our network\, we can reach more than 12\,000 human services professionals representing more than 1\,800 organizations that serve nearly 11 million individuals. \nView the SPARK 2025 sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities. Contact us to learn more. \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Pre- and Post-Conference Sessions \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Pre-Conference Sessions\nIntensive Accreditation Training (IAT)\nOct. 19 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.\nThe Intensive Accreditation Training (IAT) is designed to prepare organizations to get the most out of their COA Accreditation experience. It provides an overview of the COA Accreditation process and standards\, tips on how to manage the work\, and advice for preparing for the site visit. Registration for IAT is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nPerformance and Quality Improvement Training (PQI)\nOct. 19 from 1-4 p.m.\nThis performance and quality improvement (PQI) training is designed to help organizations pursuing COA Accreditation develop a comprehensive approach to a quality improvement process that will advance an efficient and effective service delivery system and enhance organizational capacity to deliver quality services. Registration for PQI is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nAdvocacy Amplified: Rapid Response & Readiness in a Shifting Policy Landscape\nOct. 19 from 1-4 p.m.\nAs federal priorities shift\, nonprofit leaders must be prepared to respond swiftly and strategically. This condensed version of Social Current’s Advocacy Amplified training equips participants with the essential tools to navigate today’s policy environment\, which includes increasing threats to equity; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion programs; and core social services funding. Participants will gain practical skills in policy analysis\, narrative framing\, and grassroots mobilization. Registration is free for SPARK 2025 participants. \nExecutive Leadership Institute: Unlocking Potential Because You Matter\nOct. 19 from 1-5 p.m. CT\nFor over 20 years\, the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) has established an incredible reputation for providing a quality peer learning experience that positively impacts the development of social sector leaders. This pre-conference convening is the first of its kind! We invite past\, present\, and future ELI participants to network with each other\, engage in motivational storytelling about what’s shaped you as a leader\, and discuss ELI’s transformative impact on both individuals and organizations. Registration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. \nVolunteer Appreciation Celebration\nOct. 19 from 5:30-7 p.m.\nWe could not do what we do without our COA Accreditation volunteers. All active COA Accreditation volunteers are invited to join us as we gather and celebrate all that you do. Catch up with colleagues\, share site visit stories from the road\, and get ready for the start of SPARK 2025. There will be food\, drinks\, prizes\, and a host of swag – so you will not want to miss this event. Registration for the Volunteer Appreciation Celebration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. To register\, email Darrell Woodliff\, director of volunteer engagement at Social Current. \nPost-Conference Sessions\nThe Intersection of Trauma-Informed Approaches and Quality Improvement\nOct. 21 from 2-4 p.m. CT\nBy applying a trauma-informed perspective\, we can reframe the conversation around quality improvement—from asking\, “Why aren’t you embracing continuous quality improvement?” to “What’s happening that’s preventing you from engaging?” Quality improvement in human services organizations is a centralized function that relies on data to drive meaningful outcomes. The way data teams collaborate with clinical and program staff is crucial in breaking down barriers\, fostering trust\, and using data technology to create positive\, lasting change. Registration is separate from the SPARK 2025 registration. SPARK 2025 participants receive a discount code to join for free. \nBuilding Healthy Workplace Cultures in Challenging Times\nOct. 22-23 from 9-4 p.m. CT\nThis two-day workshop will equip leaders and supervisors with foundational knowledge and skills to help their teams manage uncertainty\, stress\, and interpersonal conflict so they can create a healthy and resilient organizational culture. Presenters will address topics including increasing accountability\, having crucial conversations\, nurturing relationships\, embracing equity\, and achieving excellence. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Workshops \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Each workshop is identified as a “learner” or “doer” session: \n\nLearner Sessions: For those with limited knowledge on the topic who are looking for an introduction\nDoer: For those with prior knowledge and experience with a topic who are looking to advance their skill and mastery\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sort By:\n Session Groups\n Area of Focus\n \n \n \n A (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) \n B (2-3:30 p.m.) \n C (8:30-10 a.m.) \n D (10:30 a.m.-Noon p.m.) \n \n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Keynotes \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \nOpening Keynote: Nonprofit 2.0: Navigating the Road Ahead\nToday’s nonprofit leaders are navigating a landscape full of detours—AI\, funding shifts\, burnout\, and declining trust. In this opening keynote\, Suzanne Smith invites you to zoom out\, re-center your mission\, and rethink the map entirely. The road ahead won’t be paved with yesterday’s strategies—but with bold mindsets and adaptive systems designed for what’s next. \nSuzanne also will present workshop D6: Better Together: Rethinking the Way Nonprofits Collaborate for the Greater Good. \nSuzanne Smith\nFounder and CEO\nSocial Impact Architects\n \nSuzanne Smith has a deep belief that everyone is a changemaker. As a serial social entrepreneur\, she strives to harness the powerful force of organizations\, including nonprofits\, foundations and socially responsible businesses\, and individuals\, to maximize the potential of the social sector to create real\, scalable impact. \nIn 2009\, Suzanne founded Social Impact Architects\, a registered Benefit Corporation\, to reshape the business of social change. She combines her MBA know-how with two decades of experience as a nonprofit innovator to serve as a consultant\, advisor\, and thought partner. She is also a highly sought-after public speaker at conferences nationwide\, including TEDxTurtleCreekWomen. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Arlington. In this work\, she has pioneered open-source frameworks for the creation of better social solutions\, including layered logic models\, ecosystem mapping\, and social alchemy. For her outstanding work as a leading thinker\, she was recognized with the Next Generation Social Entrepreneur Award by the Social Enterprise Alliance. Since 2015\, Social Impact Architects was recognized as one of the “Best for the World” small businesses by B Corp. \nSuzanne also authors Social TrendSpotter\, one of the sector’s top blogs according to The Huffington Post. She is frequently interviewed by regional and national media on social entrepreneurship and has published articles in Forbes\, The Chronicle of Philanthropy\, See Change\, Nonprofit Business Advisor\, Upstart\, and Grantmakers in Health. \nSuzanne has been at the epicenter of game-changing social solutions for more than two decades as a social intrapreneur. Her first jobs at the City of Garland and Texas Municipal League taught her the power and potential of local government to impact change. Later\, she worked for Phoenix House to scale evidence-based prevention and treatment programs and for the American Heart Association to build a national state advocacy strategy. One of her greatest achievements was co-founding the Alliance for a Healthier Generation – one of the country’s first movements focused on combating childhood obesity – with a team from the William J. Clinton Foundation. She also co-founded Flywheel: Social Enterprise Hub in Cincinnati to help nonprofits build meaningful and sustainable social enterprises. \nSuzanne holds a master’s in business administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business\, where she was selected as the CASE (Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship) Scholar. Nationally\, she was selected as a member of Peter Senge’s Society of Organizational Learning and has served on the national board of the Social Enterprise Alliance. She has advised many federal agencies on their efforts on social entrepreneurship and system change. \n  \n\n  \n \n \n Closing Keynote: The Business of Impact: How Purpose Powers Prosperity\n \nJoin Dorri McWhorter for a dynamic conversation on how purpose-driven leaders can make bold money moves — building business models that uplift communities\, unlock new funding streams\, and expand resources beyond traditional philanthropy. It’s about staying rooted in your mission while reimagining what’s possible for impact\, equity\, and enterprise. \nDorri C. McWhorter\nPresident & Chief Executive Officer\nExecutives’ Club of Chicago\n \nDorri McWhorter is renowned for her social enterprise business leadership. Crain’s Chicago Business lauded her as a “nonprofit disrupter” who turned around a major organization “by leading as if it’s a startup.” She is a 2019 Inductee into the Chicago Innovation Hall of Fame\, and her work to create a new paradigm for the social impact sector is featured in the documentary Uncharitable. \nMost recently\, Dorri served as president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. Under her leadership\, the YMCA modernized membership offerings and created partnerships with Nike and Peloton. She also worked to bring a new YMCA to Chicago’s west side as part of a new development to include a wellness center with health care\, grocery store\, and business incubator. Previously\, Dorri served as CEO of the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago\, transforming it from a traditional social service organization to a “21st century social enterprise.” She added 10 service locations\, increased the operating budget by 300%\, and established a retirement plan with options for child care providers and small business owners. She led the effort to develop an exchange-traded fund (ETF) for women’s empowerment (NYSE: WOMN) in partnership with Impact Shares. \nDorri prides herself on being a humanity-centered business leader and is committed to creating an inclusive marketplace by leveraging a cross-sector approach of engaging business\, civic\, and community partners. Dorri’s professional experience spans a variety of businesses and industries. Prior to taking on leadership roles in the social enterprise sector\, she was a partner at Crowe LLP\, one of the largest accounting firms in the U.S. Dorri serves on the board of directors for several companies including\, LanzaTech Global\, Lifeway Foods\, William Blair Funds\, NexPoint Capital\, and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway). Dorri is also active in the accounting profession and serves on the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council and has served as a member of the board of directors of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and a past chairperson of the board of directors for the Illinois CPA Society. Dorri also serves as co-chair of the First Women’s Bank Advisory Board. \nDorri’s civic and philanthropic leadership includes the board of directors for Common Impact\, Chicago Council on Global Affairs\, Civic Consulting Alliance\, Civic Federation\, Chicago Center for Arts and Technology\, and Forefront. Dorri received a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of Wisconsin–Madison\, a master’s in business administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management\, and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lake Forest College. \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Consultations \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Enhance your SPARK 2025 experience by booking a one-on-one consultation with Social Current. Our leaders offer subject matter expertise and have extensive experience in partnering with human and social services organizations to achieve meaningful change. \nWe have opened bookings for the free consultations. Register for SPARK 2025 to receive a follow up email with the link to book your timeslot. Please only reserve one consult per registrant. \nChild\, Family\, and Community Well-Being\nRomero Davis\, Senior Director of Practice Excellence \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nIntentional community collaboration\nSustainability planning\nPoverty/neglect conflation\nChild welfare challenges\n\nGovernment Affairs and Advocacy\nBlair Abelle-Kiser\, Senior Director of Government Affairs \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nStrategic policy navigation to understand\, respond to\, and influence complex federal and state policy environments impacting human services\nBuilding grassroots capacity\, engaging stakeholders\, and advancing policy agendas aligned with each organization’s mission and community needs\nRisk and resilience planning that assesses systemic threats\, such as insurance instability or funding volatility\, and through proactive strategies\n\nLeadership and Organizational Development\nRobena Spangler\, Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development \nMonday – 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nLeadership development opportunities for frontline managers and executive leadership (on-site and virtual)\nCustomized leadership and organizational assessment\nBoard improvement strategies\nStrategic planning\n\nWorkforce Resilience\nKaren Johnson\, Senior Director of Change in Mind \nMonday – 1:15-1:45 p.m. and 3:45-4:15 p.m.\nTuesday – 7:45-8:15 a.m. \nSuggested topics: \n\nCreating brain-friendly work environments\nBuilding psychological safety\nPromoting positive staff culture\nCreating connection and community at work\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet Our Consultants\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n \n Senior Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Romero Davis\n Senior Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Romero Davis is a senior director of practice excellence at Social Current. A mentor for professional development and community justice champion\, Davis has worked nationally with agencies in areas such as poly-victimization; trauma in families; equity\, diversity\, and inclusion; juvenile justice; and domestic violence. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the nonprofit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as director of government relations & advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring her time in public service\, she served as a professional staff member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. She led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, she worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)\, where she served as a health policy fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, she led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, she worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Her work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. She earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Robena Spangler\n \n Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Robena Spangler\n Senior Director of Leadership and Organizational Development\nSocial Current \n \n Robena Spangler is an innovative senior executive with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health\, human services\, and advancing equity and inclusion work. The majority of her career has been dedicated to systems improvement within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Spangler held several leadership roles in the public and private sectors. She has provided professional coaching and leadership development for teams and individuals on a national level. \nIn addition to her public and private sector work\, she is an adjunct instructor at Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS)\, responsible for facilitating accelerated programs in human services for adult learners. Her current role\, as an EDI and leadership strategist\, is to design and manage all aspects of Social Current’s leadership and organizational development portfolio. Spangler holds a bachelor’s in sociology and human services along with a master’s in leadership and professional advancement. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Karen Johnson\n \n Senior Director of Change in Mind\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Karen Johnson\n Senior Director of Change in Mind\nSocial Current \n \n Karen Johnson brings knowledge of the advancing science around resilience\, brain development\, adversity\, toxic stress\, equity\, and trauma-informed approaches to the complex challenges we face. This expertise\, coupled with her 27 years of experience in child welfare\, behavioral health\, and community services\, enables her to successfully partner with leaders\, staff\, community members\, and participants across numerous settings to promote individual and organizational resilience. \nJohnson leads the development of the Social Current Change in Mind Institute\, leveraging the latest advances in neurosciences and trauma-informed approaches across sectors and at the practice\, policy\, and systems levels. She oversees the Texas Change in Mind Learning Collaborative\, through which 10 organizations from multiple sectors across Southeast Texas are working to embed brain science principles with the goal of improving outcomes for children and families\, as well as their organizational cultures and ability to collaborate with partners. \nDuring her five-and-a-half years on the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s trauma-informed services team\, and year-and-a-half as an independent consultant\, Johnson trained and consulted with organizations\, systems\, and communities striving to advance trauma-informed\, resilience-oriented approaches. She also led and developed community-based programs during her 19 years at SaintA in Milwaukee. Johnson combines the newest advances around adversity\, relational health\, and resilience to infuse hope and connection into our work. \nJohnson is a licensed clinical social worker certified in Dr. Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead and Daring Way and trained in Dr. Bruce Perry’s Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n Sponsors \n \n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Gold Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Silver Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Supporting Sponsors\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Exhibitors URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/spark2025/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:EDI,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence,Policy,Event,Brain Science,Child and Family Well-Being ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SPARK2025-Website-Preview_Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251021T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251021T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250603T010856Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T163708Z UID:10000504-1761055200-1761062400@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:The Intersection of Trauma-Informed Approaches and Quality Improvement DESCRIPTION:Register Now \n \n This workshop is a post-conference session of SPARK 2025 in Chicago\, but registration is separate from the conference. \nWe know that data-informed decision making and continuous quality improvement (CQI) are critical to the success of any change initiative—including our trauma-informed efforts. However\, two key barriers often hinder our ability to integrate a trauma-informed lens into data collection: \n\nEmotional Resistance to Data Work– Clinical and program staff often avoid data collection because it can activate a survival response\, making it difficult to stay engaged in the process.\nUncertainty About What to Measure – Organizations struggle to identify the right data that truly captures the essence and impact of trauma-informed approaches.\n\nJoin us for this workshop\, where we will explore strategies to overcome both barriers. \nBy applying a trauma-informed perspective\, we can reframe the conversation around quality improvement—from asking\, “Why aren’t you embracing CQI?” to “What’s happening that’s preventing you from engaging?” Quality improvement in human services organizations is a centralized function that relies on data to drive meaningful outcomes. The way data teams collaborate with clinical and program staff is crucial in breaking down barriers\, fostering trust\, and using data technology to create positive\, lasting change. \nWe also need to determine what data best measures the impact of our trauma-informed efforts and consider: \n\nHow do we quantify whether staff are consistently using trauma-informed approaches?\nAre we effectively including all voices in our initiatives?\nAre our staff development processes leading to meaningful organizational culture change?\nDo staff and clients experience our environments as safe and supportive?\n\nBy using a trauma-informed approach with clinical staff who are charged with data processes\, and by leveraging the right data\, we can move beyond assumptions and ensure that our trauma-informed strategies are making a tangible difference. \nJoin us to be a part of this essential conversation and take your data collection and trauma-informed efforts to the next level. \nTakeaways\n\nCommon triggers associated with data and quality improvement for clinical staff\nThe brain science behind the “window of tolerance”\nHow to use the “window of tolerance” as a guide for keeping clinical teams in optimal creative problem solving\nHow to identify and select the right metrics to effectively measure the impact of their trauma-informed efforts\nSteps to encourage buy-in and develop shared language to add the “human” aspect into data collection\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nQuality improvement professionals looking to increase collaboration with program staff\nQuality improvement supervisors\nQuality improvement staff who feel they are spinning their wheels\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 Tristan Keelan\n \n Founder & CEO\nQI Folio \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 URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/the-intersection-of-trauma-informed-approaches-and-quality-improvement/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Brain Science ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SPARK2025-PostCon-Data.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251022T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251023T160000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250610T220528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T174744Z UID:10000509-1761123600-1761235200@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Building Healthy Workplace Cultures in Challenging Times DESCRIPTION:Register Now \n \n This workshop is a post-conference event of our SPARK 2025 conference in Chicago\, but registration is separate from the conference. \n\nImpact Partners and Organizations that Have Achieved COA Accreditation: $120\n\nThis discounted rate is made possible through support from an anonymous sponsor.\n\n\nOther Organizations: $650\nSPARK 2025 Participants: Free\n\nRegister for SPARK 2025 to receive you discount code to register for this post-conference session for free. The code will be included on the registration confirmation screen and in a follow-up email.\n\n\n\nStaff 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 workshop 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. \n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Create Brain Friendly Environments \n \n \n \n \n \n To 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 part of this workshop 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 Direct 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 part of this workshop 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 Staff Culture \n \n \n \n \n \n You’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 part of this workshop 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 Now\, 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 part of this workshop 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 Related COA Accreditation standards:  \n\nHuman Resources (HR)\nTraining and Supervision (TS)\n\nLearning Objectives\n\nBrain science concepts\, strategies\, and tools to increase resilience in the workplace\nLeadership strategies for increasing psychological safety in the workplace\nHow to align organizational culture\, strategy\, and staff well-being\nStrategies for building connection and community\n\nWho Should Participate\n\nManagers and supervisors\nExecutives and senior leaders\nDirect service staff\nHuman resource staff\nStaff with responsibility for equity\, diversity\, and inclusion\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. \nLocation\, Lodging\, and Meals\nHilton Chicago\n720 S Michigan Ave.\nChicago\, IL 60605 \nSocial Current has arranged a limited number of rooms at a special rate of $259 for single or double occupancy\, plus applicable taxes. To receive the discounted rate\, book online or call the hotel at 877-865-5320 by Sept. 22 and mention the group name: Social Current SPARK 2025. This rate is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. \nBreakfast and lunch will be on your own\, and break refreshments will be provided. \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 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 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 Kelly Martin\n \n Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kelly Martin\n Director of Practice Excellence\nSocial Current \n \n Kelly Martin is the director of practice excellence at Social Current\, with an emphasis on applied developmental psychology\, healing-centered approaches\, educational success\, antiracism\, workforce well-being\, policy\, and advocacy. In this role\, she collaborates with stakeholders across the network to advance systems change through policy and advocacy efforts\, and to build the capacities of leaders through networking\, knowledge\, and solutions. She has experience facilitating design sessions and learning opportunities with a wide variety of human service and education stakeholders which includes classroom teachers to frontline staff to executive leaders. \nPrior to this role\, Kelly was with the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities (Alliance)\, supporting internal and external efforts to advance equity\, leading evaluation and research projects\, and working closely with educational success stakeholders. Before joining the Alliance in 2016\, Kelly was a researcher in the Developmental and Educational Psychology Departments at the University of Pittsburgh. She spent her time connecting with young people\, families\, and educators across the city of Pittsburgh\, as well as collaborating with multi-sector leaders to infuse developmental theory\, research\, and best practices into local and state initiatives.  She was an adjunct instructor during her years at Pitt\, teaching a graduate course in developmental psychology. \nKelly holds a master’s in applied developmental psychology\, and a bachelor’s in psychology and sociology from the University of Pittsburgh. She is currently working toward the completion of Yoga Roots on Location® Certified Yoga Teacher Training\, an anti-racist and social justice Raja Yoga teacher training offered through the Yoga Alliance’s 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) Certification. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/2025-wfr-training/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605\, United States CATEGORIES:Brain Science,Leadership Development and Organizational Excellence,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:20251028T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251028T140000 DTSTAMP:20260411T000122 CREATED:20250822T194506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T151009Z UID:10000520-1761656400-1761660000@www.social-current.org SUMMARY:Advocacy Isn’t a Horror Movie – But It Sometimes Feels Like One!  DESCRIPTION:Register \n \n Advocacy is one of the social sector’s greatest powers\, but lobbying restrictions and common misconceptions can make it challenging to know when and how to advocate. This webinar will support organizations in engaging in responsive and strategic advocacy by reviewing the responsibilities of 501(c)(3) organizations. We will review case studies to outline key differences between lobbying and advocacy. We will also discuss 501(h) elections and considerations for nonprofit organizations should they elect to file. \nTakeaways\n\nReview key distinctions of advocacy and lobbying\nDiscuss responsibilities nonprofits hold because of their 501(c)(3) status\nStrategies to support responsive\, strategic advocacy\n\nWho Should Attend\n\nMembers of the Social Current Grassroots Advocacy Network: Join online\nExecutive Directors and Senior Management: Leaders responsible for setting organizational strategy and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders\nAdvocacy and Policy Directors: Individuals who develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage in policy analysis and outreach\nCommunications and Public Relations Managers: Professionals focused on crafting and disseminating the organization’s message to the public and media\nProgram Managers and Coordinators: Staff who oversee program implementation and need to align program goals with advocacy efforts\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n\n\n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n \n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Biography\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Blair Abelle-Kiser\, PhD\n Senior Director of Government Affairs\nSocial Current \n \n Blair Kiser\, Ph.D.\, joined Social Current in 2022 after working in health policy on Capitol Hill\, the non-profit sector\, and as a biomedical researcher. Most recently\, Blair served as Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for NephCure Kidney International. \nDuring their time in public service\, they served as a Professional Staff Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. They led a corporate investigation regarding insider trading and financial improprieties\, conflicts of interest associated with Operation Warp Speed’s leadership\, and scientific information politicization. Prior to joining the Select Subcommittee\, they worked for Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH)\, where they served as a Health Policy Fellow. In Senator Brown’s office\, they led a range of legislative and oversight efforts involving public health and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, they worked with several community hospice advocacy organizations and a Republican office to help craft the bipartisan COVID-19 Hospice Respite Care Relief Act of 2020. \nPrior to public service\, Blair spent several years as a medical research scientist on several industry and NIH-funded projects. Their work focused on developing research projects and clinical trials to improve the lives of African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease. They earned a doctorate in Biomedical Science from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky in 2011. URL:https://www.social-current.org/event/advocacy-isnt-a-horror-movie-but-it-sometimes-feels-like-one/ CATEGORIES:Policy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.social-current.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Policy-Advocacy_4.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR