About
About the Conference
The Strengthening Colorado Families and Communities Conference was started in 2014, takes place every two years, and is a joint collaboration across the family support continuum, from prevention and public health through restoration and child welfare. The 2022 conference was held September 19-21, 2022 in Pueblo, Colorado.
We are excited to have had such a diverse and multi-disciplinary group of professionals from all over the state join us. It is our sincerest hope that through active participation in workshop sessions, networking, and robust discussion that each conference participant will grow in their knowledge of effective child abuse prevention strategies and protective factors that strengthen families. Throughout the conference, we heard from national and statewide experts with talks focusing on one of these areas: Getting to Equitable and Anti-Racist Practice, Elevating Family and Youth Voice, Supporting Workforce Care, Collecting and Leveraging Data, Highlighting the Importance of Male Involvement, Working Together to Maximize Resources, Innovation Space, and Policy.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we approach and do our work, and it has left many of us tired for so many different reasons. We hope that this conference brought you new ideas and new energy for Flourishing in Times of Change.
The Strengthening Colorado Families and Communities Conference is brought to you in partnership by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, the Colorado Department of Human Services and Illuminate Colorado.
Featured Talks & Presenters
We are always excited to bring you a great line-up of presenters and topics! In 2022, we had breakout sessions in the following areas: Getting to Equitable and Anti-Racist Practice, Elevating Family and Youth Voice, Supporting Workforce Care, Collecting and Leveraging Data, Highlighting the Importance of Male Involvement, Working Together to Maximize Resources, Innovation Space, and Policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you have questions, and we have answers for you! If you have questions that aren't answered below, use the contact form at the bottom of this page and we'll get back to you shortly!
Is there a charge for the conference?
The registration cost for the conference is $50. You will need to secure your own transportation and hotel arrangements.
I'm presenting at the conference. How do I get my registration cost waived?
If you are presenting at the conference, please contact jvonarb@illuminatecolorado.org so we can provide you with the correct registration steps for presenters.
Where will the conference take place?
The conference will be held at the Pueblo Convention Center (320 Central Main St, Pueblo, CO 81003).
Do I need to book my hotel room?
Yes, you will need to book your hotel room. You can find information about group blocks for the conference and call to make your reservation here.
When should I book my hotel room?
Many of the hotels offering group rates for conference attendees will close these room blocks two weeks before the conference, so we recommend booking your hotel room early.
My organization is tax-exempt. How do I get the tax removed from my hotel room?
Please reach out to the hotel you are intending to book and ask for their tax-exempt process. Each hotel has a slightly different process.
Can I book an Airbnb instead?
State and federal funds cannot be used to book an Airbnb. If you are planning to use state or federal funds to pay the cost of your lodging while at the conference, you will need to book a hotel room.
My hotel is not within walking distance. Is there parking at the convention center?
Yes, there is ample parking at no charge for conference attendees at the convention center.
If the conference has to take place virtually, will my registration be refunded?
Yes! As the conference approaches, conference planners will review local, state and federal guidance related to COVID-19 and take appropriate safety precautions to protect the health and safety of conference attendees. If the conference has to take place virtually, the $50 registration cost will be refunded.
What meals will be provided at the conference?
The following meals will be provided:
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- Monday, September 19: Lunch
- Tuesday, September 20: Breakfast, Lunch
- Wednesday, September 21: Breakfast, Lunch
When you register, you will be able to indicate whether you need vegetarian meals, vegan meals, or have a food allergy so that we can accommodate dietary restrictions.
What is the schedule for each day?
- Monday, September 19: Sessions will begin in the mid-morning, around 10am, and will finish around 4pm. Lunch will be provided.
- Tuesday, September 20: Sessions will begin in the morning, around 9am, and will finish around 4pm. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.
- Wednesday, September 21: Sessions will begin in the morning, around 9am, and will finish in the early afternoon. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Where do I see the schedule of breakout sessions?
The schedule of breakout sessions is available here.
Do I get a certificate for attending the conference?
You will receive a certificate of attendance at the end of the conference.
Get Email Updates
Interested in attending the 2024 Strengthening Colorado Families and Communities Conference? Sign up to get email updates as soon as new information is available.