2026 Social Services Conference

This year's conference theme is as follows:

A Community-Based Approach to Elevating Family Voices, Strength-Based Practice, and Complex Systems is a global learning exchange designed to move practice beyond silos.

Chicago and Hamburg social workers, practitioners, scholars, and other helping professionals will examine how child welfare, mental health, human trafficking, social justice, substance use, and immigration systems intersect in the lives of families.

The conference invites participants to reimagine service delivery through trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and strength-based frameworks.

By centering community wisdom and cross-national collaboration, the gathering aims to spark innovation and shared responsibility. Attendees can expect meaningful dialogue, actionable strategies, and a renewed commitment to family-centered systems change.

Details:

• Thursday, July 16, 2026
• 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
• Kennedy-King College, U - Building, 740 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60621
• Lunch will be provided
• There will also be an opportunity for working professionals to obtain CEUs. The conference will offer 6 CEUs

Professional Ticket - $150

Invest in your professional growth while engaging in a meaningful international exchange of ideas and practice. This ticket includes 6.5 CEUs for all applicable professions, a delicious catered meal prepared by the venue's premier culinary team, and full access to a day of dynamic presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to connect with social work and human services professionals from both Chicago and Hamburg, Germany, explore vendor resources, and participate in all conference sessions and activities.

Included:

• 6.5 CEUs (for all applicable professions)
• Catered meal
• Access to all conference presentations and activities
• Networking opportunities with Chicago and Hamburg delegates
• Access to exhibitors and vendors
• International collaboration and learning opportunities

Student Ticket - $50

Designed for the next generation of leaders, advocates, and changemakers, the Student Ticket provides an affordable opportunity to engage with professionals, educators, and international delegates while exploring innovative approaches to social work and human services. Open to students currently enrolled in an academic program, this ticket includes a meal and full access to conference presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities.

Included:

• One meal
• Access to all conference presentations and activities
• Opportunities to connect with professionals and international delegates
• Access to exhibitors and vendors
• Exposure to emerging practices, leadership perspectives, and global collaboration

For Vendors and Sponsors:

• If you are a vendor looking to table at the conference, please purchase a Vendor Showcasing Ticket.
• If you are looking to sponsor, please view our sponsorship levels on our ticketing page.

For conference questions, email [email protected]