Newfoundland and Labrador Hosts First Ever Child and Youth Care World Conference

The Child and Youth Care Association of Newfoundland and Labrador in collaboration with the International Child and Youth Care Network, are hosting the first ever Child and Youth Care World Conference from June 26-28 in St. John’s. The theme of the conference, Connecting at the Crossroads, is bringing together child and youth care professionals from around the world for educational, training and networking opportunities.

“Our government is honoured to support and participate in the first ever Child and Youth Care World Conference,” said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Child, Youth and Family Services. “As I indicated in my remarks at this morning’s opening ceremonies, we are delighted to welcome conference attendees, keynote speakers and special guests from around the world to our province, as well as join them in the global effort for the advancement of children and youth.”

In support of the conference, the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services is a platinum sponsor. Staff and executive from the department will be in attendance and will be presenting on the overall transition and transformation of child, youth and family services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Connecting at the Crossroads aims to not only connect across geography, but also across disciplines, generations, and practice domains. Conference participants will include child and youth care workers, social workers, foster parents, teachers, guidance counselors, therapists, outreach workers, administrators, psychiatrists, researchers and related child welfare, mental health, and juvenile justice practitioners and those who support them, as well as elders, current leaders and new practitioners, along with front-line workers, educators, managers, trainers, and researchers.

“This conference is an opportunity for child and youth care practitioners to begin a global connection,” said Heather Modlin, Co-chair, Child and Youth Care World Conference. “One of the conference’s key goals is that we are able to create a more unified and united effort in the care, education and treatment provided to vulnerable children, youth and families throughout the world.”

Through Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador remains committed to enhancing program and service delivery to children and youth with focused investments totalling $185.3 million for the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services.

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2013 06 26             10:20 a.m.