It would be an understatement to say that these are not good times for vulnerable children and families in this country.  We have a political envirnonment that is driven by extreme philosophical perspectives and concerns about money.

The spring of 2014 will be a critical time for Congress as it heads toward another election. For the first time in a half decade, Congress will operate under an agreed to budget ceiling so we will have a chance to highlight to appropriators the need to start funding child welfare services at a level that begins to recognize the unmet need.  There is now vastly different child welfare financing proposals being debated inside and out of Congress. In addition, related and vital children's programs such as universal pre-K and home visiting proposals will need to be expanded and extended.

On May 6-8, CWLA members, colleagues, and partners will come together in Washington, DC to focus solely on child welfare policy with an opportunity to help direct the organization,and more important influence federal policies on children and families.  The voice and leadership of organizations working on the ground with these populations has never been more needed.  It is very clear that the people who make the laws in this country continue to be influenced most by the people that sit in front of them and share their needs and concerns. Unfortunately, the most vulnerable among us cannot do that, and so we must speak out on their behalf.

Join us and your colleagues at the 2014 CWLA Advocacy Summit for a policy-focused discussion, a special public/private leadership convening, and a chance to make a difference in the lives of America’s most vulnerable children and their families.

Schedule

Tuesday, May 6

11:00 am - 12:15 pm

Opening Plenary

Child Welfare Funding: Stop the Erosion!

The battle over the budget continues unabated. While in many areas there has been serious erosion of federal funding for child welfare programs, in other areas there is reason for optimism. This plenary will dive into the details of the President’s budget and the status of the debate in the Appropriations Committees. We will review the decisions to come, the implications for child welfare, and focus on key players in the debate.

12:30 pm - 2:45 pm

Lunch Plenary

Child Welfare Policy: What's Moving on the Hill? 

Many changes are on the horizon in federal child welfare policy and Title IV-E.  These include new limits on congregate care, new "prudent parent" policies, additional data requirements and other requirements related to sex trafficking, and changes in policies and practice regarding youth in care.  Other federal children’s policies are under review including home visiting, adoption, kinship care, and child care.

This plenary will provide an in-depth briefing on the changes in the works in Washington.  Many of these changes are being crafted now in Congress and by the Administration. This plenary will focus on key legislation with particular emphasis on those issues and decisions which can be shaped through our advocacy.

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Prepare to "Take the Hill"

Hot topics, talking points, and logistics will be provided as we get ready to go to Capitol Hill. The emphasis of this session is on carrying an effective message to Capitol Hill and how best to advocate for strengthening child welfare policies and funding.

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Networking Reception

Wednesday, May 7

7:00 am - 8:30 am

Continental Breakfast

8:00 am - 12:30 pm

Capitol Hill Visits

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Lunch Plenary

Report back, craft next steps, and plan for continuing advocacy.

2:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Looking Ahead in Child Welfare

The upcoming elections promise to feature a lively debate on the role of government in the lives of the poor and vulnerable. In the next few years, the federal budget for child welfare could be unrecognizable from today. At the same time, the new National Commission to Eliminate Child Deaths Due to Child Abuse and Neglect has begun their work to develop recommendations to Congress. This closing plenary will examine our responses to these opportunities and others, and how we make our case to build support for children and families who come in contact with the child welfare system.

Public/Private Leadership Convening

(separate registration fee)

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Dinner

Public/Private Collaboration for Better Outcomes for Children and Families

Enjoy a panel of individuals from the public, private non-profit, and corporate sectors to discuss what is necessary to advance improved outcomes for children and families.  The panel presentation will be followed by a discussion on the importance of and barriers to cross-sector collaboration on behalf of children and families.

Thursday, May 8

9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Leadership Breakfast

Leaders will discuss the impact that today’s challenges have on them, their agencies, and communities. The discussion will address how professionals can best respond to and manage this current environment; engage and leverage boards, employees and communities; and work with the media and legislative officials. Sharing what concerns, what works, and what we have learned from our experiences can be beneficial to developing strategies to address challenges.

Registration Fees

Advocacy Summit:

CWLA Member - $225  Non-member - $295

Public/Private Leadership Convening:

CWLA Member - $99    Non-member - $150

Hotel and Travel

Event Location and Accommodations

Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC / U.S. Capitol

1225 First Street, NE

Washington, DC 20002

Room Rate:  $239 (single/double)

Hotel reservation must be made directly with the hotel.  You can make reservations by calling 1-877-STAY-HGI and referencing group code “CWLA” or online at HGI Reservations.  Room availability and special rates are guaranteed only until April 11, 2104, or until the space is filled.

Travel
The closest airport is the Reagan National Airport (DCA). Ground transportation options and information about the local area are available at Hilton Garden Inn US Capitol.

Complete Your Online Registration Today!