Welcome to the 27^th International Families and Fathers Conference

Theme: Next Generation

Join us in the heart of Los Angeles for a powerful four-day, in-person experience designed to inspire, equip, and connect parents, professionals, advocates, and leaders committed to strengthening families and shaping what comes next for our communities.

Location:
Hilton Los Angeles Airport – International Ballroom
5711 West Century Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90045

The 27th International Families and Fathers Conference offers a rich blend of professional development, wellness, networking, and celebration — all thoughtfully curated to deliver one of the highest returns on value of any national conference in our field.

Your conference experience includes a dedicated Specialty Training Day on Monday, April 13th, featuring advanced institutes and credential-based learning opportunities. Select Monday sessions will also offer a hybrid option for virtual participants.

Throughout the conference, attendees will have access to five General Sessions, dynamic concurrent workshops, and signature community-building experiences including Men2Men and Women2Women Café Sessions, designed to foster authentic dialogue, reflection, and connection.

This year also features exceptional networking and wellness opportunities, including Topgolf Tuesday Evening Networking in El Segundo, a Luncheon and Film Fest on Tuesday, April 14th, and a Bring-Your-Own-Lunch Tai Chi General Session on Wednesday, April 15th, led by Master Tai Chi Trainer Jordan Allen.

Our Wellness Oasis will be open Monday through Thursday, offering access to chair massage, Reiki, stretching, yoga, and other restorative practices designed to support your well-being throughout the conference.

As part of your conference registration, you are also invited to a memorable Closing Celebration that includes a hosted reception, Meet the Authors, a plated dinner, and a live comedy show featuring Anthony Fuentes from Chicago, Illinois — followed by live entertainment with Paris Escovedo’s Latin Jazz & R&B Band and an evening of networking and celebration.

Every element of this conference has been intentionally designed to balance learning, wellness, joy, and meaningful connection — because we believe that when people feel supported, inspired, and energized, they do their best work.

This is more than a conference — it is an investment in leadership, community, and the next generation.

Sunday, April 12, 2026 – Early Check-In & Expo Setup

Join us starting at 2:00 PM for early check-in and a warm welcome to the 27th International Families and Fathers Conference. Conference registration and the exhibitor check-in will take place in the Pacific Ballroom, First Floor at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport International.

From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, meet our dedicated team, explore the exhibit hall as vendors begin setting up their dynamic displays, and engage with colleagues from around the world. This is your first opportunity to connect with those overseeing the Expo, showcase tables, credential check-in, and overall operations.

You’ll also have the chance to meet our Executive Fellows:

• Dr. Alicia L. Jackson, Ph.D. – Counseling Department, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida

Additional team leaders supporting our Sunday launch include:

• Ms. Brenda Reponte – Volunteer Coordination Lead
• Our FFCA Board of Directors – Visionary Leaders and Trusted Advisors
• Mr. Eddie C. Baker – Audiovisual & Technical Operations

We encourage attendees and exhibitors alike to take part in this early welcome and be part of the foundation we’re building — together — for the week ahead.

Monday, April 13, 2026 – Pre-Conference Institute Leadership and Credentialing Day
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday, April 13, 2026 – Pre-Conference Institute & Credentialing Day

9:00 AM – 4:30 PM | Second Floor Registration Area

Launch your conference experience with a full day dedicated to advanced learning, leadership development, and credential-based professional growth. Monday’s Pre-Conference Institute is designed for practitioners, educators, supervisors, and executive leaders seeking meaningful skills, CEUs, and certificates that translate directly into impact.

All specialty trainings listed below are optional add-ons to the main conference registration and take place during the official conference week. These offerings reflect FFCA’s commitment to accessible, high-quality professional development across disciplines.

Credential & Certificate Programs – Monday, April 13, 2026

Training Program	Date	Fee
OAR Leadership Institute™	Monday, April 13	$129
Nurturing Fathers Curriculum Training	Monday, April 13	$129
AI-Led Family Engagement Practitioner Certificate	Monday, April 13	$97
Certified Fatherhood Facilitator Training (Deep Dive)	Monday, April 13	$100
One Heart, Two Homes™ — Co-Parenting Strategist Training	Monday, April 13	$159
First 5 California — Giving Our Children the Strongest Start (Deep Dive)	Monday, April 13	$0

Additional Specialty Experiences During Conference Week

Specialty Experience	Date & Time	Fee
Topgolf El Segundo — Off-Site Networking Experience	Tuesday, April 14 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM	$80
DiSC Course Certification Training	Wednesday, April 15	$100
QPR Suicide Prevention Training	Wednesday, April 15	$50

Important Note: Space for specialty trainings is limited. Some programs may sell out in advance. On-site registration and invoicing may be available for select Monday trainings, based on capacity.

This day is your launchpad — earn credentials, deepen expertise, and prepare to lead the next generation.

Exhibitor Check-In and Expo Hall Highlights

Exhibitor check-in begins at 8:00 AM on the first floor in the Pacific Ballroom. The Expo Hall officially opens from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, offering attendees opportunities to connect with thought leaders, discover new resources, and explore innovative solutions in family services, education, mental health, and fatherhood.

From 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, attendees are invited to explore the Expo, meet our valued exhibitors, and take advantage of the new Wellness Room located adjacent to the hall — a space designed to help you unwind, recharge, and reconnect.

Our exhibitors come from across the United States, bringing with them a diverse range of materials, books, curricula, and innovative tools designed to elevate your work. This is more than just an exhibit space — it’s a place to build relationships, discover new partnerships, and support organizations doing meaningful work. We encourage you to take time throughout the day to engage with these leaders, educators, authors, and changemakers.

The Expo Hall remains open throughout the day until 4:30 PM. Whether you're seeking new strategies, looking to build your professional network, or simply hoping to be inspired — the Pacific Ballroom is where those connections begin.

Why We Invest in Specialty Training & Leadership Development

The journey to excellence in service, leadership, and purpose begins with preparation. Our commitment to offering high-impact credentialing, curriculum, and executive coaching programs stems from a belief that greatness is cultivated through consistent learning and courageous leadership.

Success is never final; failure is never fatal. It's courage that counts.
— John R. Wooden

Whether you are stepping into a new leadership role or deepening your expertise in family services, the investment in specialized training is not just professional — it’s personal. It’s a declaration that you are ready to lead with vision, humility, and courage.

Leadership is not a title. It is a lifestyle of purpose. And courage — that counts most of all.

Pre-Conference Institute — Leadership, Credentialing & Specialty Training Day

On Monday, April 13, 2026, join us for a powerful full-day learning experience as part of the 27th International Families & Fathers Conference, hosted at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, 5711 West Century Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

This dedicated Pre-Conference Institute is designed for professionals, practitioners, supervisors, and executive leaders seeking hands-on skill development, certificates of completion, and industry-relevant credentials that strengthen leadership, family engagement, and community impact.

Featured specialty programs offered throughout the day include:
• OAR Leadership Institute™
• Nurturing Fathers Curriculum Training
• AI-Led Family Engagement Practitioner Certificate
• Certified Fatherhood Facilitator Training (Deep Dive)
• One Heart, Two Homes™ — Co-Parenting Strategist Training
• First 5 California — Giving Our Children the Strongest Start (Deep Dive)

These credential and certificate programs are intentionally priced to remain accessible and inclusive. Most offerings are available well below standard industry rates, with all specialty add-ons priced under $200, and select sessions offered at no cost thanks to our valued partners.

This day sets the tone for the entire conference — invest in your growth, expand your capacity, and prepare to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Credential Session 1: Nurturing Fathers Curriculum Facilitator Training

Transformative training for those who want to become certified Nurturing Fathers Program facilitators. Recognized by SAMHSA as an evidence-based curriculum, this program equips practitioners to foster empathy, healthy parenting, and resilience in fathers. Led by Mark and Corey Perlman.
Fee: $129 (Super Early Bird)

Credential Session 2: OAR Leadership Institute™ — I AM Going Anyways

A dynamic leadership development experience blending executive coaching, self-awareness, and applied leadership practices. Participants explore the Four Pillars of leadership and leave with strategies to lead with courage, vision, and clarity. Led by Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC.
Fee: $129 (Super Early Bird)

Credential Session 3: Certified Fatherhood Facilitator Training (Deep Dive)

Evidence-based hybrid curriculum created by The 100 Fathers, Inc.. Participants gain certification as fatherhood facilitators, strengthening custody outcomes, co-parenting skills, and family reunification practices. Presented by Dr. Franklyn Malone with Prince Hamn, Chris Beard, and Chris Thomas.
Fee: $129 (Super Early Bird)

Credential Session 4: AI-Led Family Engagement Practitioner Certificate

A first-of-its-kind credential integrating Artificial Intelligence into family engagement strategies. Learn to apply AI ethically to outreach, grant writing, reporting, and evaluation. Facilitated by Chandra Brooks.
Fee: $97 (Special Add-On Rate)

Credential Session 5: One Heart, Two Homes™ — Co-Parenting Strategist Training

A nationally respected co-parenting certification for professionals supporting families navigating separation, divorce, reunification, and blended family systems. Emphasizes child-centered outcomes, conflict reduction, and healthy communication across two households.
Fee: $159

Credential Session 6: First 5 California — Giving Our Children the Strongest Start (Deep Dive)

A complimentary deep dive focused on early childhood systems, parent engagement, and protective factors for families with children ages 0–5. Highlights best practices, policy alignment, and community strategies.
Sponsored by First 5 California
Fee: FREE

Special Event: Topgolf El Segundo — Off-Site Networking Experience

An evening of relaxed networking, fun, and connection with speakers, leaders, and attendees in a casual, high-energy environment.
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Fee: $80

Certification Training: DiSC Course Certification

Behavioral style certification focused on communication, leadership effectiveness, team development, and family engagement.
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Fee: $100

Certification Training: QPR Suicide Prevention

Evidence-based Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training equips professionals with life-saving skills to identify warning signs and connect individuals to care.
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Fee: $50

Welcome to the Grand Opening – Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Embrace and Evolve: A Day to Grow, Connect, and Transform Together

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 – Embrace and Evolve

Each year, the Fathers and Families Coalition of America builds a multi-year theme that reflects a deep progression of purpose. In 2023, we challenged ourselves to Be the Difference. In 2024, we leaned into Finding a Cause Bigger Than Self. In 2025, we focused on Building Bridges. And now, in 2026, our charge is The Next Generation.

To move forward as one, we must embrace one another and evolve together. Our day theme, Embrace and Evolve, invites you to let go of division, hold on to hope, and walk together toward healing and growth. This is a day to build new relationships, share ideas, and ignite change.

Program Schedule – Tuesday, April 14, 2026

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Registration Open (Second Floor Registration Area)
• 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Expo Hall Open (Pacific Ballroom)
  Closed during the 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM keynote and 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM luncheon
• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: General Session Opening Keynote
• 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Networking Break in the Expo Hall (Coffee, Tea, and Wellness Options)
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning Workshop Sessions
• 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Networking Luncheon with Film Fest Feature (Lunch Included with Registration)
• 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Registration Re-Opens (Second Floor)
• 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Afternoon Workshop Sessions

5:00 PM – Unwind, Connect, Explore

As our formal sessions close for the day, we encourage you to use this time to build meaningful connections and take time for yourself. Head downstairs to the Bistro or The Landing to share reflections over dinner. Stop by the Pacific Ballroom for informal games and social connection.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider visiting Topgolf, exploring local attractions, or taking a short Uber ride to the Pacific Ocean — just minutes away. Let this evening be your opportunity to refresh, recharge, and renew.

Embrace the moment. Evolve your impact. We are just getting started.

Embrace and Evolve – Reflections on Service and Community

Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.
— César Chávez

When we embrace one another in service, we evolve together. Let us build something greater — united in purpose, strengthened by compassion, and committed to the next generation.

Welcome to Our Second Day – Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Conference Theme: The Next Generation
Day Theme: This One Moment – Inspired by Ichigo Ichie (一期一会)

From 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, let us embrace the unrepeatable gift of this day — a time to grow, to share, to lead, and to transform. We invite you to make the most of this one moment, together.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 – This One Moment

The theme for this day, This One Moment, is inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Ichigo Ichie (一期一会) — a beautiful reminder that each encounter is unique and may never be repeated. We only get this one moment in time. So let us be fully present. Let us celebrate. Let us grow together.

If we truly only get this one moment, then let’s fill it with our best — the best training programs, the best personal development sessions, and the best energy we can bring as a community of change-makers and leaders. Let this moment be transformational.

Program Schedule – Wednesday, April 15, 2026

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Registration Open (Second Floor)
• 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Expo Hall Open (Pacific Ballroom)
• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: General Session Inspirational Speaker
• 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Networking Break in the Expo Hall
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning Workshop Sessions (Block 1)
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch on Your Own – But Join Us in the Expo Hall to Network and Connect
• 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM: Afternoon Workshops and Certification Programs (Block 2)
• 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Afternoon Workshops and Certification Programs (Block 3)

In addition to our core workshops, Wednesday offers special credentialing and certificate programs, including:

• QPR Suicide Prevention Certification – A life-saving course designed to empower leaders, parents, and professionals.
• FFCA Introduction to the DiSC Model – A dynamic, applied training on emotional communication and leadership awareness.
• Additional certification programs will also be offered — with many participants beginning their credential track on-site and continuing virtually after the conference.

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Evening Cafés for Reflection and Connection

We close the evening with two unforgettable experiences designed for personal reflection, connection, and community dialogue.

Women to Women Café will be led by featured speaker Dr. Kimberly Taylor , for an evening of momentum, inspiration, healing, and networking as presents “From Tragedy to Triumph: Turning Your Broken Pieces Into A Masterpiece.” Special Event: Wednesday, April 15, 2025 • Women2Women Café • 5:00–7:00 PM Building Bridges of Destiny

Men to Men Café will be guided by The Honorable Bishop Henry Hearns and Dr. Chacko Abraham, inviting participants into deep, meaningful conversations around purpose, legacy, and identity.

One moment can change everything. Let this one be a turning point.

Reflections on This One Moment – Honoring Voices Across Cultures

“All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the children of the earth.”
— Chief Seattle, Suquamish and Duwamish Leader

“In every generation, we are given a chance — not just to witness change, but to be the ones who shape it.”
— Helen Zia, Journalist and Civil Rights Advocate

“The future depends on what we do in the present.”
— Mahatma Gandhi

As we close this day, may we carry forward the wisdom of our ancestors, the courage of this moment, and the responsibility to build a world where every child and every voice matters.

The next generation begins with us — in this one moment.

Thursday, April 16, 2026 – The Beauty Within Practices

8:00 AM – 11:00 PM | A Full Day of Learning, Reflection, and Celebration

As we arrive at this final day, we pause to honor the beauty that lives within our practices — even when they are born out of pain, even when we ourselves are still healing. In the space between brokenness and wholeness, there is transformation.

Like the gentle wisdom in Lady Lee Andrews’ poem, Let Me Think of Life, we reflect on what it means to live fully, to grow gently, and to lead with light. Our practices are not just programs — they are seeds, stories, and sacred work.

Let us be leaders who choose the high road — the path of integrity, empathy, humility, and healing. As John C. Maxwell reminds us, “High road leaders make the decision to do the right thing, even when it’s hard.” And that decision shapes generations.

Today is more than a conclusion. It is a celebration — of our shared journey, of the people we’ve become, and the beauty we carry back into the world.

Program Schedule – Thursday, April 16, 2026

Theme: The Beauty Within Practices
Time: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM

The final day of our conference honors not only the practices we’ve shared, but the beauty we’ve discovered within ourselves and each other. This day reflects a shift in the FFCA experience — one that integrates over 20 years of closing galas and 16 years of author recognition into a unified, powerful day of training, celebration, and renewal.

Morning & Early Afternoon Schedule

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Registration Open (Second Floor)
• 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Expo Hall Open (Pacific Ballroom)
• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: General Session Keynote (International Ballroom)
• 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Networking Break in the Expo Hall
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning Workshop Sessions (Block 1)
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch on Your Own – Networking Space Open in Expo Hall
• 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM: Afternoon Workshops (Block 2)
• 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Conference Closing Keynote & Special Reflections (International Ballroom)

Grand Closing Celebration & Hosted Reception

Beginning at 4:30 PM, join us for an unforgettable closing experience that brings together the energy of our conference finale with a joyful space to honor our journey, authors, and one another.

• 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Transition Break – Expo Hall Remains Open
• 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Grand Reception & Hosted Closing Celebration (Pacific Ballroom + International Ballroom)
• 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Light Dinner Served (Included with Registration)
• 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Meet the Authors Showcase – Featured Book Presentations
• 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Live Entertainment & Networking
• 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Celebration Continues – Dancing, Connection, and Closing Blessings

The full ballroom will flow from the Pacific Ballroom to the International Ballroom — creating a vibrant, elegant atmosphere for us to come together. Dress as you are — whether casual, business, semi-formal, or elegant — all are welcome to celebrate.

Let this final day remind us: healing is beautiful, leadership is courageous, and unity is our legacy.

The Beauty Within Practices – A Celebration of Legacy and Leadership

"Let me think of life as one vast tapestry stitched together by grace — each thread holding sorrow, strength, and hope. Let me think of life not as a series of endings, but as a river that carries us home."
— Lady Lee Andrews, *Let Me Think of Life*

"High road leaders make the decision to do the right thing, even when it’s hard. That choice defines their influence and leaves a legacy far greater than success."
— John C. Maxwell

As we close this day and this journey, may we remember that every conversation, every session, every connection was part of something sacred. You are part of something greater. You are part of *The Next Generation*.

Carry the beauty within your practice forward — with courage, compassion, and purpose.