2023 Conference

This year marks our 9th national gathering to highlight foster care innovation, honor lived experience leadership, and inspire investment in improving the well-being and life outcomes of the half-million children and young people living in foster care.

• Designed and led by foster alums — Re•Envisioning Foster Care Champions

• An opportunity to learn, inspire, and connect

• Workshops, breakout sessions, Author's Night book signing

• Open to all and including CE credits for students and professionals

Who comes to REFCA Conferences?

Social workers  |   Child welfare administrators
Foster care alumni  |  Educators and trainers
Policymakers and legislators  |  Foster youth and families
Foster parents and caregivers  |  Advocacy organizations
Researchers and academics  |  Community organization leaders
Counsel for Children

A few of the topics we'll cover:

• Creating Change from the Inside: working within a state agency
• Developing intentional community environments for those who’ve experienced trauma
• Integrating youth lived-experience in direct practice and advocacy
• Understanding equity in child welfare
• Post-secondary educational supports and structures for foster and adoptive youth
• Caring for brains in chaotic times
• Intersectional professionals in child welfare


Learn more about REFCA Champions on the Innovate! podcast