The Annual Protecting Our Children Conference is the largest national event focused on Native child advocacy issues, drawing over 2,000 attendees. It addresses tribal child welfare and well-being through workshops, keynote sessions, and networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to engage with leaders in the field and explore topics such as child welfare, mental health, and legal affairs. The conference offers a comprehensive agenda with sessions on grant writing, family engagement, and culturally appropriate services.
Mental Health Conferences
Annual Protecting Our Children Conference
The 44th Annual Protecting Our Children Conference will take place in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, from March 29 to April 1, 2026. This event is the largest national gathering focused on Native child advocacy issues.
Conference Overview
Some quick details about this conference.
Time and Place
Maybe the most important details of the conference.
Conference Dates: March 29 to April 1, 2026
City/State: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Event Format: in-person
Conference Organizer
This organization is hosting this conference.
National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA)
NICWA is dedicated to the well-being of Native children and families, focusing on child advocacy and welfare through community-based solutions and support.
Email: info@nicwa.org
Phone: (503) 222-4044
Registration Fees
How much does this conference cost?
| Cost | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| $600.00 | Member registration rate | For current NICWA members |
| $675.00 | Non-member registration rate | Includes a one-year $75 Abalone membership beginning April 30, 2025 |
| $425.00 | Youth and elder rate | Youth 24 and younger and elders 65 and over |
| $425.00 | Foster and adopted person rate | Current foster and adoptive parents, adult adopters, and fostered individuals |
| $325.00 | Presenter rate | Up to 3 per workshop |
| $0.00 | Volunteers | Must volunteer 8 hours |
| $99.00 | Virtual rate | Only includes general sessions |
See the conference's actual website for more details around these fees, as sometimes they can be more complicated.
Schedule and Agenda
It's important to know what is planned.
The conference schedule includes registration, general sessions, workshops, and a banquet dinner. Workshops cover a range of topics, including child welfare, mental health, and legal affairs.
CEU Details
Here's information on Continuing Education Units (or CEUs).
In-person participants receive about 14 continuing education units (CEUs) from the National Association of Social Workers-Washington state upon request. The cost is included in the registration fee.
Hotel Information
You need somewhere to stay! (Unless you live relatively close.)
The conference will be hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando. Rooms are priced at $195/night plus tax, with discounted parking available. Additional nearby hotels include Holiday Inn & Suites and Clarion Inn & Suites, offering various amenities and price points.
Parking Information
Unless you're taking public transit.
Discounted parking is available at the host hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton, for $18.00. Nearby hotels also offer complimentary or discounted parking options.
Sponsorship, Exhibitor, and Advertising Opportunities
If you're an organization that wants to contribute to this event, here are some details.
Organizations can sponsor the conference to reach a unique audience and support tribal nations. Sponsorship opportunities are available from August to March. For more information, contact April Black at april@nicwa.org or (503) 222-4044.
Other Links and Information
The above information is from the conference or event webpage. Please review the organization's website for official information, as that will be more up-to-date.
Reminder: This is an overview of this conference, and you should consult the official website for details on registration, fees, deadlines, and other details. Quill Therapy Solutions is maintaining this information to make it more accessible to the therapist and mental health professional community.
If you noticed an issue with the above information, please send us an email: conferences@quilltherapynotes.com (Ideally, include a link to the conference and the details that need to be corrected. Thank you!)
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