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2009
Joint Council Adult Adoptee Institute,
Medical Institute and Conference
"From Baby Steps to Giant
Leaps: Embracing Change to Find Families for Vulnerable Children"
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - Saturday, March 28, 2009
Greetings Adoption
Professionals, Medical Doctors, Students and Child Welfare Colleagues:
Whether talking politics, the economy or the issues that compel each of
us to do the work we do, there is no doubt that we are in the midst of
global change. Even those who argue that “change is constant” will
agree that there is a palpable sense of transition in the field of child
advocacy.
As a result of this
shifting landscape, Joint Council has chosen to dedicate its 2009
Conference to “Embracing Change to Find Families for Vulnerable
Children.” This emphasis has naturally resulted in some unique changes
of our own surrounding next year’s Indianapolis-based event.
First and foremost, we
have expanded our agenda to include workshops on viable permanency
solutions, including but not limited to intercountry adoption. This
shift reiterates Joint Council’s ongoing mission to find all children
safe, loving and permanent homes by acknowledging the current global
climate, as well as the multiple advocates who seek to help children in
need.
For example, we are
pleased to offer unique sessions on Foster Care, Human Trafficking and
Developing Multiple Income Streams to keep service providers solvent
during difficult times. The Annual Conference schedule will also include
a “post-adoption track” to address the myriad issues that occur after a
child is placed with a loving family. Even our Medical Institute has
expanded to address the psychological issues impacting vulnerable
children, both in institutions and in the homes of their forever
families.
Joint Council is also
thrilled to offer our first Adult Adoptee Institute, a daylong forum
geared toward adoption professionals. We anticipate that this event,
moderated and presented exclusively by adult adoptees, will provide
information from the compelling and unique perspective of those who have
experienced adoption firsthand.
We are also meeting in
a new city: Indianapolis, Indiana. Referred to as the “Crossroads of
America,” this Midwest location will ensure that attendees can fly or
drive to join us next March. The newly renovated Hyatt Regency
Indianapolis will provide all the amenities of a first-rate conference
hotel, including close proximity to area attractions, shopping and
restaurants. Make plans to attend and bring your family for a great
weekend of kid-friendly fun!
Despite our emphasis on
change, Joint Council remains committed to bringing together
professionals from multiple disciplines to share their expertise and
insight. We look forward to a wide variety of programs and speakers,
including practitioners, adoptive parents and government
representatives.
More information on our Adult Adoptee Institute, Medical Institute and
Conference will be available on our website at
http://www.jcics.org/Conference.htm.
You may also contact Joelle Ruben, Director of Education & Research, at
(703) 535-8045 or
joeller@jcics.org.
Sincerely,
Tom DiFilipo
President & CEO |
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