CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

Long Beach, California. For the first time in its thirty –four years of existence, BACW went west for it’s 2009 Conference. “Bridging the Gap for Our Children...Our Legacy” brought together some of the brightest and best in the field from across the country. The Pre Conference Institute featured a panel of outstanding Deans of Schools of Social Work from across the country. This interactive sessions equipped attendees with information about the new child welfare legislation—Fostering Connections to Success Act. Attendees were entertained throughout the evening by the Hamilton High Jazz Band at our annual Village Celebration.

Encouraging words were received at the Opening Plenary by the Rev. Vanessa Mackenzie and Rev. T. Larry Kirkland., the newly appointed bishop of the fifth district of the AME church. Other conference highlights included: · Special Remarks by Christine James– Brown, CEO of Child Welfare League of America.· Musical Selection by Strachen Sisters.· Inspirational words by Jeff Penix, WE Foundation.· And a dynamic story of triumph from motivational speaker Sil Lai Abrams. Attendees also enjoyed over twenty five informative workshops and exhibitors. See you in Chicago in 2010!