By Kara Pasqua
The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) Conference, held from March 30 to April 2, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, was an incredible opportunity to gather with over 1,800 professionals, advocates, and experts working to strengthen tribal communities. This annual conference serves as a powerful forum to highlight the work being done in child advocacy, with a special focus on the welfare of Native children and families.
We are thrilled to share that our NCARC consultant, Jade Carela from the Tulalip Tribe, and NCARC TTA Specialist, Kara Pasqua, were selected to present a vital training session at this year’s conference. Their session, “Empowering Families in Community Utilizing a Trauma-Informed Approach,” provided an insightful overview of the Trauma-Informed approach and its practical application. Using examples from the Tulalip Tribe’s Family Advocacy Division, they showcased how this approach supports healing and empowerment for families, especially those impacted by trauma.
This conference wasn’t just an educational experience but also a chance to reconnect with current colleagues, make new connections, and recharge our collective commitment to child and family protection. It’s a time to reset, refocus, and be re-energized for the work we do every day to support and uplift our communities.
Looking ahead, NICWA 2026 will be held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and we are already excited to see what the next conference will bring. Stay tuned for more announcements on next year’s event, as we continue to advance the important work of protecting Native children and families.