WATCH
We are collecting input from people who work with or care for youth to create a report for next year’s conference. We are focusing on what parents and leaders in Michigan are seeing in youth mental, emotional, and behavioral health.
10 short questions and will take just a couple of minutes.
If you want to be registered to win a $300 gift card, please be sure to include your name and email address
Brought to you in part by
- February 23rd, 2026
- Frederik Meijer Gardens
- 7:30am-5:00pm
The State of the Child is a priority. evolving. up to you. complex. shaping tomorrow. hopeful. critical.
Discover the best ways to support today's youth.
This event is led by a team of local teenagers in collaboration with a panel of community experts. Together, they will address the distinct challenges faced by children and families today.
- Dynamic Keynote Speaker
- Focused Breakout Sessions
- Panel of Community Experts
- Insights from Local Teens
- Opportunity to Earn SCECH & CEU Credits
2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Orion Jean
2021 TIME Kid Of The Year
"What My Generation Needs From You."
In this powerful and thought-provoking talk, Orion Jean, TIME Kid of the Year, discusses what the next generation needs from adults to build a brighter future for all. Drawing from his experiences and insights as a young changemaker, Orion illuminates the next generation’s challenges. He offers practical insights and actionable steps to support their growth and development.
With a passionate and engaging speaking style, Orion invites the audience to reflect on their roles as individuals and as a society in shaping the future for the next generation. He highlight the importance of listening to young people, empowering them to become leaders, and providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
Meet The Panel
The local experts who will be leading the panel discussion.
Judge McNabb
Panelist
Jason Lheureux
panelist
Dr. Lisa Lowery
Panelist
Brina Tiemeyer
Panelist
Mark Washington
Panelist
Maranda
Moderating
Timeline
Connect with local organizations at their expo tables and learn about how they can support you
Pick up your name tag at our registration table and enjoy your cup of coffee, along with a delicious buffet styled breakfast to begin your morning.
Sit back & enjoy a panel styled discussion, comprised of West Michigan experts. Hear as they respond to insights from local teens as they transparently share what is really happening in todays schools.
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
Take a breather and enjoy some lunch, with networking opportunities!
Take a breather and enjoy some fun with our friends at Playground GR.
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
Take a few minutes to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and network.
In this powerful and thought-provoking talk, Orion Jean, TIME Kid of the Year, discusses what the next generation needs from adults to build a brighter future for all.
Cap off the conference on an uplifting and positive note. Dr. Angela Pharris, PhD, MSW will be delivering the keynote message on “The Science of Hope”.
Dr. Pharris’ research focuses on child welfare and human service organizations, applying a Hope-Centered and Trauma-Informed framework. This framework leverages hope as a psychological strength, buffering against stress, adversity, and burnout, while enhancing both organizational and individual outcomes.
Her work examines the impact of interventions aimed at improving program outcomes and client well-being, particularly for older youth aging out of foster care and support for the child welfare workforce.
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Photos From Last year
