Building strong, supportive relationships with families is at the heart of effective prevention. This co-presented training begins by exploring how professionals can cultivate a culture of support with families, especially those experiencing adversity. Using a prevention-focused lens, participants will learn practical approaches for strengthening partnerships, reducing risk factors, and increasing protective factors through meaningful connection and early support.

The second part of the webinar addresses the difficult decision in calling the child abuse hotline. Representatives from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will walk participants through what to expect when making a hotline call and explain the multiple pathways that may follow. Attendees will also learn about the newly established Division of Prevention, Community Connection, and Intact Family Services, which offers support and service linkage to families — even when a report of abuse or neglect is not indicated. Join us to better understand how we can work together to support families in need, beyond a traditional child abuse or neglect investigation.