Institute for Practice Improvement
The Washington Association for Children and Families (WACF) proudly introduces the Institute for Practice Improvement, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children, youth, and families. The Institute provides targeted technical assistance and training, equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools to foster best practices and drive systemic improvements. Through this initiative, WACF reaffirms its commitment to strengthening child and family services and creating lasting, positive change.
If you are interested in a training but require financial assistance please fill out our Training Scholarship Application.
UPCOMING TRAININGS
Trauma Informed Care- Understand & Reduce Trauma Reactions in Children
Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Presented by: Nathan LaChine
Cost: Free
Children who have experienced trauma often bring challenging behaviors to their environment. Caregivers and professionals often do not know what to do, which can lead to frustration, lack of care and even placement disruption. This training offers a trauma refresher overview and ideas into helping the child manage their reactions and behaviors. Developed by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN).
Date: Thursday, October 30th, 2025 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Presented by: Kenisha Coon, MS Child Welfare Advocate and Nationally Recognized Keynote Speaker on Antiracism and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Expert
Cost: Register by September 15th, 2025 for the Early Bird Registration Rate of $25.00. Registrations Purchased after September 15th, 2025 will increase to $40.
The Engagement of Family and Youth Training equips child welfare professionals, educators, and community leaders with culturally responsive strategies to strengthen family and youth partnerships. This interactive training focuses on reducing racial disproportionality, fostering trust, and implementing equitable, family-centered decision-making practices.
PAST TRAININGS
If you were in attendance at a past training and would like to access past trainings, handouts and materials please visit our training archive.
Empowering Supervisors: Coaching, Communication and Retention Hosted on June 11th, 2025
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Child and Family Services: Ethical and Risk Management Challenges Hosted on April 30th, 2025
Staying Mission-Focused during uncertainty: A key to workforce stability and wellness Hosted on April 9th, 2025
Motivational Interviewing: An Introduction Hosted on February 12th and 13th, 2025
Secondary Trauma & Self-Care Hosted on December 4th, 2024
TBRI- Trust-Based Relational Intervention Hosted on October 30th 2024
Discussing the Current Child Welfare Landscape: National and Federal Priorities, Requirements, and Trends Hosted on September 18th 2024
Investing in People: Equitable Approaches to Staff Development and Retention Hosted on August 13th 2024