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University of Maryland School of Social Work, The Institute for Innovation and Implementation

CWA Resource Parent Conference


Saturday, April 15, 2023
8:45 am - 3:30 pm

The resource parent conference provides education, resources, and tools to help with complex situations or issues related to caring for children, youth, and teens in foster care.

You will experience:

  • motivational keynote speaker

  • opportunity to attend two of the four workshops offered connection with other resource parents support and celebration of all of our Maryland resource parents!

Resource Parent Conference registration is restricted. Only those approved for the resource parent program may attend. If you would like more information to access this conference, Please contact Laura Teetermoran, lteetermoran@ssw.umaryland.edu.

Please visit ideas@theinstitute for additional workshops!

Spring 2023 Conference Agenda

Saturday, April 15

8:45 - 10:00 a.m.

CWA Keynote Speaker 2023Welcome and Keynote: Charlie Appelstein, MSW, President of Appelstein Training Resources, LLC (ATR)
“No Such Thing As a Bad Kid!”
Understanding and Responding to Kids with Emotional & Behavioral Challenges Using a Positive, Trauma-informed, Strength-Based Approach

Strength-based practice is an emerging approach to guiding kids, and in particular - those with emotional & behavioral challenges - that is exceptionally positive and inspiring. Its focus is on strength-building rather than flaw-fixing. What kids do right vs. what they do wrong. It begins with the belief that every young person has or can develop strengths and utilize past successes to mitigate problem behavior and enhance functioning. This inspiring keynote address will highlight some of the key principles and techniques of this transforming way of understanding and responding to kids at risk.
10:00 - 10:30 a.m. CWA Speaker 2023Transition Break & Virtual Lobby Chat with Loney Nguyen, Foster Youth Ombuds, Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS)

The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) has hired a Foster Youth Ombudsman to protect your rights and address any concerns regarding your care, placement, or services. Loney Nguyen your new Foster Youth Ombudsman is dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard, and you are safe, comfortable, and healthy. Loney will keep your identity Confidential except when required by law (such as reports of child maltreatment or threats to harm oneself or others). Foster Youth Ombudsman PDF 
10:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m.

Morning Breakout Sessions (choose one of the following)

  • Finding the “I” in Storm | Carey Tompkins, LCSW-C
  • Creating Teachable Moments | Leslie Bishop-Joe, M.A.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Lunch Break/ Lobby Chat with James Craig, the President of the Maryland Resource Parent Association
1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Afternoon Breakout Sessions (choose one of the following)

  • Healing Childhood Trauma in Foster Care* | Kate Travers, MSW, LCSW-C
  • Sibling Separation and Healing Connections | Veronica Cruz, LCSW-C

Questions? Please contact The Institute at theinstitutehelp@ssw.umaryland.edu.
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