We are thrilled to announce Tennessee’s first Strengthening Tennessee Families Conference, an exciting gathering of experts, practitioners, and advocates dedicated to prevention for Tennessee families.
The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) and the University of Tennessee College of Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS) are excited to introduce “Strengthening Tennessee Families,” a dynamic conference dedicated to advancing prevention practices across the state. This event is designed to inspire, educate, and foster collaboration among professionals, building a powerful team statewide committed to better serving Tennessee’s families.
Join us as we explore innovative strategies and build stronger communities together.
There are 8,904 children in DCS custody as of August 2024.
www.tn.gov
In July of 2024, the TN Child Abuse Hotline received over 6,800 calls.
www.tn.gov
For every dollar spent on prevention programs, states can save between $4 to $9 in foster care and related costs, according to the RAND Corporation.
www.rand.org
A study by Casey Family Programs found that states investing in prevention services saw a 27% reduction in foster care entries over five years.
www.casey.org
Data from the National Family Preservation Network shows that over 90% of families who receive intensive family preservation services remain intact, avoiding foster care placement.
www.nfpn.org
Why Attend?
Engage with leading voices in the field.
Share and gain insights on leading innovations in prevention practices with a focus on family-centered apporaches and protective factors.
Network with peers and build lasting connections.
Free registration and complimentary lodging provided by the conference host.
How to Register?
Registration is now closed. If you would like to join the waitlist, please email sworpsevents@utk.edu.
Day One – Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025
8:45am – Registration and Breakfast
9:30am – Opening Remarks and Keynote Address, Peter Watson
10:45am – Break
11:15am – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
12:30pm – Lunch
1:30pm – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
2:45pm – Break
3:00pm – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
4:15pm – Break: Quiet work rooms available
5:00pm – 7:00pm – Cocktails, Mocktails and Conversations with heavy hors d’oeuvres, UT Conference Center
Day Two – Thursday, April 3rd, 2025
8:30am – Breakfast
9:00am – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
10:15am – Coffee Break & Networking
10:45am – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
12:00pm – Lunch
1:00pm – Group Activity
2:15pm – Breakout Sessions/Workshops
3:30pm – Break: Quiet work rooms available, shuttles on routes to shops and sightseeing provided
5:30pm – Dinner, UT Conference Center
Day Three – Friday, April 4th, 2025
9:00am – Breakfast
9:30am – Networking Event
10:30am – Closing Keynote Address, DCS Commissioner Margie Quin
11:45am – Adjourn, boxed lunch pickup
