2012 Faith Symposium

Guest
Speakers

"Our Children, Our Future: Restoring Hope," brings together leaders of faith, child welfare, juvenile justice, and others to talk about how we work together to empower Florida's children and families and set them on a path to success. Hosted by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and Florida Department of Children and Families, the Symposium will present several opportunities for meaningful collaboration that can truly change lives and strengthen communities.

Daily Overview

Wed. October 24, 2012

Secretary David Wilkins and Secretary Wansley Walters kickoff this year’s Symposium. Derrick Brooks of Derrick Brooks Charities will join the Secretaries in welcoming you to this year’s star-studded and information packed Symposium. Followed by a variety of enriching workshops that will provide thorough training on topics to include: Empowering Parents-Transforming Teens, Foster Parent Recruitment/Establishing Orphan ministries, and Serving Children with Disabilities.

Thurs. October 25, 2012

Don't miss a truly insightful and awakening opening session with guest speaker Jaiya John. This will be followed by workshops and later, take a break from training and join us for lunch with legendary coach, and New York Best Seller author, Tony Dungy. Tony will share his story of how faith and discipline brought unparalleled success. Lunch will be followed by further training to cover topics such as: Education and Mentoring, and Taking Good Care of Ourselves So We Can Take Care of Others.

Fri. October 26, 2012

Breakfast begins with Rhodes Scholar Myron Rolle, during which signed books and memorabilia from guest speakers will be raffled. After breakfast, attend the “Let’s Get to Work” Community action forums where you can brainstorm with attendees and organizations to develop action plans for positive change in your community! This is the perfect time to complete your commitment cards and make a promise to your community for a better future! Then a surprise guest speaker you won’t want to miss!

Featured Workshops

Foster Parent Recruitment & How to Establish Orphan Ministries

Tanya Wilkins, Advocate for Foster Care and Adoption, Governor's Office of Adoption and Child Protection
Christie O’Brien, Foster and Adoptive Parent
Pastor Chris Johnson, Liberty Baptist Church

A dynamic trio of speakers will touch your heart as they discuss lives transformed by caring homes and foster parents. These are respected parents who nurture children, support families and strengthen our communities.

Human Trafficking

Gilda P. Ferradaz, Regional Operations Manager, Department of Children and Families
Tyson Elliott, Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinator, Department of Children and Families

This workshop will introduce participants to the issue of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking and to the Florida Safe Harbor Act. Participants will learn about the relationship between the pimp/trafficker and the victim, and the psychological dynamics used by pimps/traffickers.

Bridging the Gap - Bringing the Church and State Together for Children and Families

Thomas L Lukasik, Executive Director - 4KIDS of South Florida, Inc.

This workshop provides a comprehensive overview of how to develop and maintain a working relationship with government entities. This workshop will demonstrate principles transferable to your organization.

Reversing the Trend of Over Representation

Marcus Smith, DMC Coordinator - DJJ Office of Prevention and Victim Services

Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) is the overrepresentation of minority youth contacts and referrals with the justice system relative to the population. Learn what you can do to reduce the number of youth reaching the juvenile justice system.

Operation Strong Families

Rae Pike, Florida Military Family and Community Covenant Director

The Governor’s Office of Adoption and Child Protection in partnership with the Florida Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council, the Department of Children and Families, and Prevent Child Abuse Florida are answering the call to action by joining forces with Florida Military Family and Community Covenant Inc., other agencies and organizations statewide to build and sustain a network of connections to strengthen families.

See All Workshops

Who Should Participate:
Faith Leaders, Faith and Community-Based Organization Professionals and Volunteers, Chaplains, Leaders in Juvenile Justice and Child Welfare, and others interested in serving youth at risk. Our projected conference attendee goal is between 500- 700 participants from around the state.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Cost:
A modest fee of $75.00 will allow you to register for a variety of inspirational workshops including a luncheon plenary with renowned speaker Papa Joe Bradford of Elijah's Heart Ministry, and New York Best Seller/legendary coach Tony Dungy. Speakers will share their stories of hope and courage of how they faced and overcame difficult challenges.