BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
X-WR-CALNAME:2026bridgeconference
X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar
METHOD:PUBLISH
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
PRODID:-//Sched.com 2026 Bridge Conference//EN
X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T144500Z
DTEND:20261026T164500Z
SUMMARY:Registration & Breakfast
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:MEAL TIME
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:87b7d85768a0d83e11578228d50ca646
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/87b7d85768a0d83e11578228d50ca646
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T154500Z
DTEND:20261026T170000Z
SUMMARY:Opening Plenary with Keynote Speakers Sangita Kumar and the Belonging Resident Company
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b4b20d1d3fc089548791446ecd0c588f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/b4b20d1d3fc089548791446ecd0c588f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:All Bodies are Good Bodies: Building Weight-Inclusive Spaces to Protect Youth Development and Wellbeing
DESCRIPTION:Exposure to weight stigma\, especially during the delicate time of adolescence\, can have lifelong consequences. Youth today navigate relentless messages that their bodies are not “good enough”. This workshop helps youth-serving professionals to create safer\, more inclusive spaces that better align with their organizational values and where all young people can thrive. Beginning with the history of weight stigma and its roots in anti-Black racism\, participants will learn to identify the ways that youth encounter weight stigma day to day\, from casual comments between peers to social media influences\, and from health care to the locker room.
CATEGORIES:EMERGING ISSUES\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:823e6d533be0eec23dec6abc79858801
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/823e6d533be0eec23dec6abc79858801
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:From Compliance to Collaboration: Empowering Families\, Students\, and Staff Through Intentional Partnership
DESCRIPTION:Family engagement is often viewed as a compliance requirement—but what if it became a catalyst for equity\, belonging\, and student success? In this interactive session\, the Directors of Equity\, Family & Community Partnerships and Multilingual Education & Student Supports will share how cross-departmental collaboration is transforming family engagement in a mid-sized\, diverse school district. Through examples from Dual Language Education\, Title I Parent and Family Engagement\, and Refugee Family Engagement programming\, participants will explore strategies for building family leadership\, sharing decision-making\, and creating family-driven Open to a 1/2 hour slot opportunities that reflect community strengths and needs. Grounded in Dr. Karen Mapp’s Dual Capacity-Building Framework\, this session is most relevant for professionals serving K–12 youth and families.
CATEGORIES:MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Point Defiance\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6c7fd023b82acaccc5ba411ec472ab3f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/6c7fd023b82acaccc5ba411ec472ab3f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Belonging Before Leadership: Creating Communities Where Every Young Person Can Lead
DESCRIPTION:What becomes possible when adults and young people share leadership instead of simply sharing space? This interactive workshop explores how meaningful youth-adult partnerships strengthen belonging\, engagement\, and resilience for young people while helping organizations adapt and grow through change. Drawing from experiences in schools\, student leadership programs\, and statewide youth initiatives\, participants will examine what current research and practice tell us about adolescent development\, agency\, and connection. Together\, we will identify practical strategies for creating environments where youth and adults learn\, lead\, and make decisions together. Designed for professionals working with middle and high schoolaged youth\, this session offers tools that can be adapted across schools\, expanded learning programs\, and community organizations.
CATEGORIES:MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3f4e02244b0b7fbf2e2f88ebaa0f09a1
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/3f4e02244b0b7fbf2e2f88ebaa0f09a1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Reimagining Resilience: Understanding Trauma & Creating Safer Environments
DESCRIPTION:As our communities and education system are more stressed\, BELONG Partners \nsupports the critical need for us to come together and connect in ways that build resilience and \ncenter young peoples’ (and all peoples’) needs. Our time will be spent not only learning about the \nimpact of trauma on our developing brains and bodies but will also focus on restorative\, and \nantiracist strategies that create environments for young people to truly thrive.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,EMERGING ISSUES
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 1\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:61705a28317d953a88f49682f4e370d1
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/61705a28317d953a88f49682f4e370d1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Building Knowledge Together: Data Equity from Early Learning to Early Adulthood
DESCRIPTION:Practitioners are often asked to collect data for funders rather than to build \nknowledge for their own practice. This session reframes that relationship\, treating every measure \nas a mutually cultivated choice about what matters. We trace those choices across four phases of \nthe cycle of inquiry\, each grounded in a current program: a community co-designed wage pilot for \nengagement and co-design\, a holistic measurement effort for data collection\, a postsecondary \naccess program for mixed methods and learning cycles\, and a housing pilot for storytelling. \nTogether\, these examples surface what it takes to build data practices that hold rigor and humanity \nat once. Rather than offering a finished framework\, this session treats the room as a working \ngroup: practitioners will discuss these examples\, name what has strengthened trust and belonging \nfor the youth they serve\, and contribute approaches worth exploring. Participants leave with \npractical strategies and open questions to carry back into their own programs.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2dfa03e6f0a78fb094222909ba2c47e6
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/2dfa03e6f0a78fb094222909ba2c47e6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Belonging: The Impact of Difference
DESCRIPTION:It is human and deeply rooted in us all to want to belong. Not surprisingly then\, that when we first step into a new group\, it is our differences that often bubble to the surface\, sometimes manifesting difficult emotions and behaviors. Spotting this kind of pattern is part of how we show up fully for our students — as we support them with new vantage points that see\, embrace and celebrate differences.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Commencement I & II\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:96c90e080baf7004a244030c4d9b0fa4
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/96c90e080baf7004a244030c4d9b0fa4
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Serving Youth & Adolescents of Color Through Connection\, Cultural Awareness\, and Mental Health Support
DESCRIPTION:Black\, Brown\, and Indigenous youth often navigate layered stressors connected to \nidentity\, community experiences\, systemic inequities\, and emotional wellbeing. These experiences can\ndirectly impact behavior\, academic engagement\, relationships\, and mental health outcomes. This\nworkshop examines how professionals can better serve youth by building authentic connections\,\nrecognizing underlying stressors\, and responding with culturally aware and supportive practices.\nThrough discussion\, reflection\, and practical application\, participants will gain tools to\nstrengthen trust\, support emotional regulation\, and create environments where youth feel seen\,\nvalued\, and supported.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Stadium\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c8a28efee277cb0cd32216663977c20f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/c8a28efee277cb0cd32216663977c20f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Design Organizations Where Hope Thrives: Creating the Conditions for Belonging and Impact
DESCRIPTION:Hope is more than optimism. Research shows it is a powerful driver of motivation\, \nwell-being\, and goal attainment for both young people and adults. Yet\, hope does not emerge in \nisolation. It grows in environments where people experience belonging\, trust\, meaningful \nrelationships\, and pathways toward possibility. This interactive workshop explores how leaders can \nintentionally create organizational conditions that cultivate hope and support relationship-rich \nenvironments. Drawing on KBD Collaborative's 5 Key Drivers of Organizational Impact\, Hope \nscience\, and MENTOR Washington's Hope Rising collaboration\, participants will explore strategies \nthat strengthen team culture\, relational trust\, staff well-being\, and program effectiveness. \nAttendees will leave with practical ideas to foster hope\, belonging\, and impact for both young \npeople and adults.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:65201a7010cd4abd851ff1299ef3297b
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/65201a7010cd4abd851ff1299ef3297b
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Inspiring Action: Crafting Stories with Purpose
DESCRIPTION:Whether you're writing a grant proposal or sharing a social media post\, stories are one of the most effective ways to demonstrate your organization's mission and impact—but not all stories are created equal. While some stories inspire audiences to think or act differently\, others leave audiences unsatisfied\, unmoved\, or unsure of what to do next. In this workshop\, we'll go through a step-by-step process for creating stories that resonate\, build trust\, and compel your audience to act. Participants will define their own storytelling goals and opportunities\, explore ethical considerations\, and practice using the 3 C's of storytelling (Challenge\, Choice\, Change) to craft stories with purpose.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Union\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5080d908b45612a15a4d1f02ef502dbf
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/5080d908b45612a15a4d1f02ef502dbf
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Playworks Group Management
DESCRIPTION:Lay the foundation for creating a safe\, healthy\, and respectful environment. Utilize proactive group management strategies to set students up for successful group behavior\, focusing on building rapport\, attention getters and signals\, rules and consequences and more. Playworks supports K-5 students at recess. This session is directed toward recess staff\, and out of school time staff who support play at their site.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:a076fb1a0fb2025a2ec25d5f48544a37
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/a076fb1a0fb2025a2ec25d5f48544a37
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:LGBTQI+ Inclusive and Affirming Programs: Using an Intersectional Lens
DESCRIPTION:&nbsp\;LGBTQI+ people have always been here and come from all races\, religions\, geographies\, and lived experiences. Currently the LGBTQI+ community in all its diversity is experiencing backlash. Now is not the time to back away from creating welcoming and inclusive programs. This session will help youth workers and advocates understand how to support healthy youth development and resiliency with strategies that work. Content will include data sharing\, small \nand large group work\, and case studies to address the complexity of youths' lived experience and how to support them.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:d9ea5f1c0269468abca5533967a3901c
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/d9ea5f1c0269468abca5533967a3901c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T171500Z
DTEND:20261026T184500Z
SUMMARY:Fixing our Fixed-Math Mindsets!
DESCRIPTION:There is a trend in our society of having a negative\, fixed mindset surrounding mathematics. This view is prevalent in learners of all ages\, and is reinforced in how math is commonly discussed. When educators see themselves as ‘bad’ at math and vocalize that mindset (even with positive intentions)\, that negativity can add to students’ mathematical insecurity and impact their approach to the subject. We are passionate about empowering all learners to become problem solvers and to see themselves as mathematicians. To make this shift\, we need to reframe our language around math\, and utilize more accessible and engaging math activities. We are excited to share some evidence-based content and techniques that you can implement in your learning spaces to empower students\, staff\, and yourself to become confident mathematicians. With the right tools and mindset\, we can all be problem solvers!
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:738a0a7de65ac10aa94246867649e227
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/738a0a7de65ac10aa94246867649e227
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T184500Z
DTEND:20261026T194500Z
SUMMARY:Lunch & Exhibitor Showcase
DESCRIPTION:Lunch will be served buffet style in the Greater Tacoma Convention Center Ballroom Prefunction (3rd floor). \n\nCheck back the week before Bridge for the menu!
CATEGORIES:MEAL TIME
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e59d694091677c4e871f10f8736b362e
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/e59d694091677c4e871f10f8736b362e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T193000Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning Grantee Gathering (CLOSED SESSION)
DESCRIPTION:CLOSED SESSION for Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning Grantees.Facilitated by Public Profit and the BSK Expanded Learning TeamIn this closed session\, SOWA’s external evaluators\, Public Profit\, will share quantitative and qualitative data from Year 3 of the BSK Expanded Learning Initiative. Grantees will get the opportunity to connect\, reflect\, and engage in dialogue about what’s working and what can be improved
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 1\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7627029e64af4ae83532a60d09923976
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/7627029e64af4ae83532a60d09923976
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:OSPI 21st Century Community Learning Center Programs (21st CCLC) - CLOSED SESSION
DESCRIPTION:This is a closed session for OSPI 21st Century Community Learning Center Programs (21st CCLC) staff.
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Point Defiance\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9d214c4afc0a026ffa3e2168ec8a2136
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/9d214c4afc0a026ffa3e2168ec8a2136
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Weaving Without Erasing: Equitable Enculturation for Diverse Communities.
DESCRIPTION:What does it look like when a community truly makes room for everyone — not just at the edges\, but at the center? This session explores the principles and practices of equitable enculturation: the intentional work of forming communities where diverse peoples are not merely welcomed but genuinely woven into the fabric of shared life.\n\nWe'll examine how power\, identity\, and belonging intersect in community formation\, and offer practical frameworks for leaders navigating the complexity of cultural integration without succumbing to assimilation. Participants will leave with concrete tools for fostering dignity-centered community cultures that honor difference while building genuine cohesion.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:24464eb3e68be6ef68b2fb42efed2053
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/24464eb3e68be6ef68b2fb42efed2053
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:KC CONNECT: Restorative Responses to Harm
DESCRIPTION:Step into a Peace Circle and experience how restorative practices transform the way we respond to harm. In this interactive session\, you will sit in circle\, hold the talking piece\, and practice the core elements of circle keeping so you can keep circles in your own school or program. Through a hands-on activity\, you will examine the difference between accountability and punishment and rethink what it means to repair harm rather than simply punish. You will leave with \npractical circle keeping tools\, a framework you can apply immediately\, and a felt sense of how circles work. Designed for educators and youth-serving professionals who want restorative options that build community\, strengthen relationships\, and keep young people connected.
CATEGORIES:SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9b8bee74ff4f18ffbb205da888d80a7e
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/9b8bee74ff4f18ffbb205da888d80a7e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:From Staff Learning to Youth Impact: Building a Community of Practice for Continuous Improvement
DESCRIPTION:Young people thrive when they experience belonging\, supportive relationships\, meaningful engagement\, and opportunities to grow. These experiences are created by adults who also need opportunities to connect\, reflect\, learn\, and improve together. Drawing from Associated Recreation Council’s Community of Practice\, presenters will share lessons learned from developing and sustaining a year-long workforce development strategy focused on youth \ndevelopment practices and continuous quality improvement. Participants will explore how trust\, shared learning\, responsive practices\, and staff voice can strengthen organizational culture and program quality. Through discussion and reflection\, attendees will identify practical strategies for supporting staff growth\, strengthening continuous improvement efforts\, and creating the conditions that help both adults and young people thrive.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:29aba5aed074ad4a364444ccfc69dc22
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/29aba5aed074ad4a364444ccfc69dc22
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:On the Same Page: A Positive Coaching System with Ready-to-Use Tools for Staff & Volunteer Success
DESCRIPTION:What happens when your whole team knows exactly how conflict flows? In alignment with "The Art of Being Water\," this session moves beyond "discipline" to embrace a coaching-centered flow for staff and volunteers. We introduce a transparent\, HR-approved system rooted in the experiential education cycle: What happened? What did we learn? Now what?. This approach treats challenging behaviors as opportunities for career-long learning facilitation rather than simple violations. Participants will explore a toolkit designed for clarity and safety—including behavioral matrices\, decision trees\, and follow-up letter templates—that gets everyone on the same page. By establishing a shared "story" and safety before dialogue\, we reduce the stress of unmanaged conflict that drains time and strains relationships. Attendees will practice using scripts and forms to move from reactive improvisation to predictable\, values-based coaching that fosters dignity and growth.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c36ff5c81e2b7e82ceb82ba40d84cb5d
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/c36ff5c81e2b7e82ceb82ba40d84cb5d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:The Wild Current: Moving with Purpose in Work That Asks So Much
DESCRIPTION:In youth development\, we are often pulled by urgent needs\, competing demands\, and the expectation to do more with less. Over time\, these currents can shape not only our individual experiences but also the culture of our programs and \norganizations. Like water\, we have the capacity to move with intention rather than simply react to every obstacle in our path. This interactive session invites participants to examine how time\, energy\, attention\, and leadership are flowing within their work. Together\, we will explore a powerful question: What systems\, norms\, or assumptions are directing our energy—and do they still serve our purpose?\n\nThrough reflection\, discussion\, and practical application\, participants will identify opportunities to align their daily choices\, program practices\, and organizational culture with the values and impact they most want to create. Participants will leave with renewed clarity about where to focus their energy\, how to cultivate greater sustainability and joy\, and how intentional leadership can create ripples of positive change throughout their teams\, programs\, and communities.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:520bc594ff5fd2643cb856c842dc8aaa
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/520bc594ff5fd2643cb856c842dc8aaa
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Inclusive Facilitation: Creating Spaces Where Everyone Can Participate and Thrive
DESCRIPTION:A highly practical session for facilitators and direct service staff\, this training focuses on inclusive facilitation strategies that support diverse learners\, encourage youth voice\, and respond skillfully to moments of disconnection or harm.\n\nSession Objectives\nUse practical strategies to encourage participation from all learners.Learn how to use experiential activities and discussions to bridge engagement and participation.&nbsp\;Support youth voice and give participants meaningful opportunities to contribute.\n
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c558acc283aef54966e6fddfbd6ff0d7
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/c558acc283aef54966e6fddfbd6ff0d7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Mindsets Matter: exploring fixed\, growth and benefit mindsets
DESCRIPTION:Why does mindset matter?\nJoin us for this dynamic workshop to discover three different mindset frameworks. Explore how to help youth and your team develop a sense of purpose\, and how to cultivate a positive and supportive environment that fosters growth and learning. Examining our mindsets allows us to support young people\, and your team to center non-judgmental and strengths-based perspectives towards growth supports. Leave with practical tools for supporting youth success in all areas of their lives.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Stadium\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4fc0e8197b5ad1761efc98f72e6ba4bc
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/4fc0e8197b5ad1761efc98f72e6ba4bc
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Skills for Theatre\, Skills for Life: incorporating social and emotional learning into the classroom through drama games and activities
DESCRIPTION:Theatre is for everyone! In this hands-on workshop\, we will be using the transformative power of the arts to bring fun into the classroom. Through theatre games with a focus on Social Emotional Learning (SEL) we will explore concepts while doing! By intentionally incorporating SEL into the classroom we offer students an opportunity to cultivate empathy and \nexamine their self-awareness. SEL studies have shown positive outcomes that tie socialization to the promotion of emotional understanding and empathy. These activities are suitable for ALL educators and classrooms/afterschool programs\, and will provide tools and activities to:\n• Cultivate empathy and community care within the classroom.\n• Incorporate practices that support humanity.\n• Foster student engagement and a brave space.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Union\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0e13bfa2eb56c4398842f4832ef5a073
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/0e13bfa2eb56c4398842f4832ef5a073
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Youth Power in Practice: How Young People Are Leading Social Change Across Washington
DESCRIPTION:In 2025\, Allen Family Philanthropies awarded grants to 10 organizations across Washington that are working to mobilize young leaders across Washington to support their work to strengthen youth leadership\, civic engagement\, and youth organizing in communities from Thurston County\, to Seattle\, to Spokane. In this session\, you'll hear directly from a few of them about their different approaches\, shaped by the communities they serve and the issues their young people care about. Together\, they're answering the same core questions through their work: what does youth power actually look like in practice\, and what does it take to build it with young people?\nCome hear what's worked\, what hasn't\, and what these organizations have learned along the way.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,EMERGING ISSUES
LOCATION:Commencement I & II\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4f5958d7dceb627a3ff912ef7385771c
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/4f5958d7dceb627a3ff912ef7385771c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T194500Z
DTEND:20261026T211500Z
SUMMARY:Creating Ripples of Opportunity: Financial Aid Strategies that Advance Equity and Access
DESCRIPTION:In this workshop presented by the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC)\, we will discuss Washington state financial aid programs\, statewide efforts\, and how to support students applying for state financial aid. We will give you a sneak peek into the new Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). In addition\, we will explore systemic \nbarriers to financial aid equity and present strategies for facilitating student access. Participants will leave with free customizable resources they can use to develop their own financial aid access strategies.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ad53cf716b7b3484631bcb72faa77c7e
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/ad53cf716b7b3484631bcb72faa77c7e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Refugee School Impact Program Grantee Gathering (CLOSED SESSION)
DESCRIPTION:This is a closed session for grantees of the Refugee School Impact Program.&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 1\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ce267fc21d19d820de33b21e3391be81
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/ce267fc21d19d820de33b21e3391be81
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Advocacy 101: Creating Your Advocacy Toolkit
DESCRIPTION:Gain an in-depth understanding of what advocating in Olympia looks like and how to build up your advocacy toolkit through empowerment\, storytelling\, and ideas for accessible action. Through this workshop\, participants can apply what they learn for advocating on issues such as and outside of youth development.
CATEGORIES:EMERGING ISSUES\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Stadium\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5242648928751b34d0d53445f95aa285
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/5242648928751b34d0d53445f95aa285
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Supervision for Growth: Inclusive Leadership for Effective Employee Development
DESCRIPTION:Designed for supervisors and managers\, this session explores how inclusive supervision builds trust\, clarity\, and accountability while supporting staff development without relying on shame or compliance-based approaches.\n\nSession Objectives\nLearn Be the Change Consulting’s Arc of Staff Development\, a framework to mentor and coach employees to become independent\, proactive team membersExplore a spectrum of strategies to develop staff from supervision towards thought partnershipCreate a process to identify opportunities for growth and build a customized professional development plan\n
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0f77bbf2927339d2ea2ffb12e4764e17
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/0f77bbf2927339d2ea2ffb12e4764e17
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Flowing Together: Coalition Clinics for Building Collective Power
DESCRIPTION:Young people thrive when organizations\, families\, schools\, and community partners work together with shared purpose. Building authentic partnerships requires trust\, shared leadership\, and practical strategies for navigating change. \n\nDrawing on 12+ years of coalition-building at the Southeast Seattle Education Coalition (SESEC)\, this interactive workshop uses Coalition Clinics—small-group problem-solving sessions based on real partnership challenges. Participants will explore scenarios focused on building trust\, sharing power\, sustaining engagement\, navigating conflict\, and aligning diverse partners around common goals. \n\nUsing practical coalition-building tools\, they will map stakeholders\, examine power dynamics\, and develop strategies to strengthen collaboration. Participants will leave with adaptable frameworks for building resilient\, equitable partnerships that center youth\, families\, and community voice.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Commencement I & II\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:178bafb418d840e217a50e07d2e76f80
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/178bafb418d840e217a50e07d2e76f80
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Flow by Design: Creating the Conditions Where People and Teams Thrive
DESCRIPTION:What if thriving teams aren't built by changing people\, but by creating the conditions where people can do their best work? This interactive workshop introduces a practical\, researchinformed framework for designing environments where trust\, psychological safety\, shared purpose\, meaningful participation\, and collective intelligence can emerge. Drawing on insights from organizational psychology\, systems thinking\, leadership\, and real-world experience in communitybased organizations\, participants will explore how the conditions surrounding a team shape learning\, collaboration\, innovation\, and well-being. Through reflection and practical tools\, participants will leave with actionable strategies to cultivate belonging\, strengthen collaboration\, and create environments where people—and the communities they serve—can thrive.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ec429a88f8474949f78e49f348d5cd64
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/ec429a88f8474949f78e49f348d5cd64
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Riding Upstream: Showing Up When the Current Gets Strong
DESCRIPTION:There are seasons in our work when the current feels stronger than ever—organizational change\, staffing shortages\, shifting priorities\, and uncertainty can leave us feeling overwhelmed while we continue showing up for young people and our communities. Inspired by The Art of Being Water\, this workshop explores what it means to ride upstream with intention: acknowledging challenges\, adapting with resilience\, and finding strength through connection rather than navigating change alone. \n\nThrough interactive activities\, reflection\, and practical wellness strategies\, participants will gain tools to manage stress\, maintain perspective\, and cultivate a mindset that supports both personal well-being and collective success during times of transition.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:a975dae015d3396898e7831753630308
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/a975dae015d3396898e7831753630308
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Tuning In: Building Feedback Loops and Amplifying Youth Voice
DESCRIPTION:In this session\, teaching artists and ensemble directors from Yakima Music en Acción (YAMA) will share practices that build belonging and leadership: student-led feedback loops that shape program design\, assistant teacher roles\, and community agreements. Participants will reflect on how these strategies can translate to their own expanded learning programs\, regardless of content area. Focused on school-age youth in grades 3–12. YAMA is an after-school orchestra program serving youth in the Yakima Valley fosters cognitive and social development through high-intensity ensemble-based music training\, widening access to the arts\, and growing confident leaders throughout their community. By centering youth voices and designing intentional structures that invite students into leadership\, YAMA creates a space where young people feel genuinely seen\, heard\, and in charge of their own experiences.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Union\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:faddc7f9befa21b01a32efd8e4f91286
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/faddc7f9befa21b01a32efd8e4f91286
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Engage IRL: Building Student Belonging Through Meaningful Engagement
DESCRIPTION:Strong student engagement does not happen by accident. It is built through intentional relationships\, equitable access\, meaningful opportunities\, and strong school-community partnerships. This session will showcase Spokane Public Schools' approach to increasing engagement by connecting students with extracurricular activities\, clubs\, athletics\, leadership experiences\, and community organizations through the EngageIRL initiative. Participants will explore how student voice\, engagement data\, and cross-sector partnerships guide programming that increases belonging while reducing barriers for historically underrepresented students.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8ed3e026ff6890c99eff32ecce43575f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/8ed3e026ff6890c99eff32ecce43575f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Art With\, Not About: Building Ethical Art-Making and Storytelling Practices
DESCRIPTION:This workshop equips educators (arts and non-arts alike) with strategies for sociallyconscious art-making and storytelling for high-school aged youth. Through examining ethical considerations in place-based art\, we'll explore how to respectfully engage with subject-matter and break down the power dynamic that can exist when creating artwork about others or subject matter outside the artist’s personal experience. During the workshop\, participants will engage with challenging topics like cultural appropriation and power and privilege and consider activities for youth to learn and shape the narrative of what makes an "ethical" artist or storyteller. Participants will leave this session with activities that honor the humanity and dignity of an artist's subjectmatter and the confidence to support youth in shaping their own narratives and applying an ethical lens to their storytelling.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:52fc85a7b278e6fb52aa6f08a4cbe8fb
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/52fc85a7b278e6fb52aa6f08a4cbe8fb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Beyond Four Walls: Mapping Multidimensional Ecosystems and Black Girl-Led Geographies of Belonging
DESCRIPTION:Drawing on doctoral research with high school Black girls (ages 13–18) in Worcester\, MA\, this interactive workshop explores how Black girls act as architects of their own belonging across out-of-school-time (OST) programs and city spaces. Participants will examine "underground geographies of belonging" such as the informal networks of care\, safety\, and community Black girls create beyond institutional boundaries. Using a Black girl-centered mapping tool\, attendees will analyze how belonging is shaped across micro (relationships)\, meso (organizations)\, and macro (city systems) levels. Rather than introducing a new model of belonging\, this workshop centers the methods Black girls already use to create it and explores how organizational design\, evaluation practices\, and belonging metrics can be grounded in Black girls' existing ways of knowing\, being\, and building community. Participants will leave with a framework for rethinking how organizations define\, measure\, and cultivate belonging from the ground up.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9ec90a0029fc04ee6066f7dc43b94086
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/9ec90a0029fc04ee6066f7dc43b94086
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T213000Z
DTEND:20261026T230000Z
SUMMARY:Designing Our Own Learning (DOOL): Building Belonging\, Invigorating Student Voice and Practicing Shared Power
DESCRIPTION:Join middle school youth and educators\, as they share insights from DOOL\, a schoolbased program that builds inclusive communities\, shifts power-dynamics and inspires communitycentered change. This is an engaging\, interactive\, and inspiring workshop that models shared power and youth leadership. Prepare to leave with new tools that can help you to transform your youth program communities and systems for the better.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7cd095cdc2ffa3eca0d3d3f9aaf65f34
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/7cd095cdc2ffa3eca0d3d3f9aaf65f34
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261026T230000Z
DTEND:20261027T010000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibitor Showcase & Happy Hour
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:BRIDGE ACTIVITY
LOCATION:Prefunction\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7b5501879f67ff38832c322f2cd01cc8
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/7b5501879f67ff38832c322f2cd01cc8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T150000Z
DTEND:20261027T170000Z
SUMMARY:Breakfast & Registration
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:MEAL TIME
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:cfd78a70bdd0e1345629937162d20d93
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/cfd78a70bdd0e1345629937162d20d93
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T160000Z
DTEND:20261027T163000Z
SUMMARY:Plenary Session
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:681e3dd255e47f4dd4fa158b14a021c6
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/681e3dd255e47f4dd4fa158b14a021c6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T163000Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Table Talks
DESCRIPTION:Want to take advantage of this rare opportunity to connect with fellow Bridge attendees around critical topics impacting the Washington Expanded Learning community? \n\nParticipants will have the chance to do just that during Table Talks\, a 45-minute\, unfacilitated group discussions for those seeking connection around a specific topic of interest. Topics will be determined by Bridge attendees through an online voting process. \n\nTable Talks is an opportunity to share ideas\, successes\, challenges\, and connect with others across the state who may be navigating similar experiences.\n\nNot quite ready to dive into a group conversation? Consider joining one of the 30-minute sessions happening from 9:45 - 10:15 AM instead.
CATEGORIES:BRIDGE ACTIVITY
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8ab9da2521ffe7dec011975c0163fbfb
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/8ab9da2521ffe7dec011975c0163fbfb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:A Global Perspective on Aftershool and Democracy
DESCRIPTION:In June\, 2026\, Extended Education researchers\, policy-makers and practitioners from at least 15 countries convened at the Global Extended Learning and Youth Development (GELYDA) International Conference in Seoul\, South Korea to discuss projects\, activities\, and experiences focused on democracy and civil engagement in the out-of-school hours. In this session\, I will share some of the key insights from this convening\, as well as links to the research and other resources that were shared.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:646b7f4d33b59331e70c563a644c79ae
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/646b7f4d33b59331e70c563a644c79ae
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Developing Evaluation Frameworks: Youth-led Community-wide Impacts of Out-of-School STEM Programs
DESCRIPTION:This workshop brings together funders and evaluators with out-of-school time (OST) program leadership to collaborate on a vision for designing\, funding\, and evaluating youth-led projects that bring wide-ranging impacts to their broader communities - expanding the focus of program efficacy from the individual learner to the communities and places they are situated within.\n\nThis session will workshop possibilities for evaluating community-wide impacts of youth-led OST STEM programs. We will begin with an introduction of our own research from a nationwide look at OST STEM programs pursuing community-level outcomes. In this overview\, we will provide examples of programs from across the United States describing their projects as pursuing goals at community-scale. A goal of this session will be to connect like-minded programs\, funders\, and evaluators that are doing\, or seeking to do\, more work at community scale. We will ask participants (e.g.\, funders\, evaluators\, program providers) how their own work falls within preliminary categories our research team has developed\, and if existing themes are sufficient or require expansion and/or refinement. Participants will co-develop a draft evaluation framework to elevate this kind of work and assist programs with describing their impacts that move beyond the individual learner.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:340a25bb006ae92d4ffb99bb764836ec
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/340a25bb006ae92d4ffb99bb764836ec
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:A Kinder Inner Voice: Self-talk Strategies for Self-Care
DESCRIPTION:Has negative self-talk sabotaged how you feel about yourself and impacted how much self-care you engage in? How can we notice and change how we speak to ourselves? Together we will explore some strategies to create healthier self-talk habits. We will also look how stress responses such as fight\, flight and freeze impact how we think and feel and respond in the moment. We will use reflection and large group imagining to connect these concepts to sustainable self-care practices for youth workers.
CATEGORIES:SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8d8fe63f1d89aed20fc9c9d8c6126ca4
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/8d8fe63f1d89aed20fc9c9d8c6126ca4
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Meditation & Stretches
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a 30-minute meditation and stretch session to ease into the 2nd day of Bridge. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing.&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1086e312a17b2d384151705d4f6d6171
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/1086e312a17b2d384151705d4f6d6171
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Walking Hart’s Ladder: Strengthening Authentic Youth and Adult Partnerships for Lasting Engagement
DESCRIPTION:Youth-adult partnership is often treated as the ultimate goal—but is it always the most appropriate way to work with youth? In alignment with the theme "The Art of Being Water\," this interactive session invites participants to explore the fluidity of Hart’s Ladder of Youth Engagement. We will move beyond the rhetoric of "youth voice" to examine the full continuum of involvement\, from adult-led to shared leadership. Through an experiential "gallery walk\," participants will physically navigate the eight rungs of the ladder\, identifying where their programs currently sit and how to move intentionally toward more authentic engagement. Drawing on field examples from Tacoma to the Pacific Islands\, we will explore how to match challenge and responsibility to developmental readiness. Attendees will leave with a toolkit of reflective exercises and action plans to reduce tokenism and foster equitable\, high-impact partnerships in their programs.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:87bdee4d94e488411ae7667d9f0636b1
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/87bdee4d94e488411ae7667d9f0636b1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Bingo\, But Different
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an untraditional game of Bingo! Together\, we’ll explore the benefits of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and put it into practice through a fun\, hands-on activity. Get ready to learn\, connect\, and discover new ways to support yourself and others!
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c145ee081125edfbc0cad0d4ebbe38fa
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/c145ee081125edfbc0cad0d4ebbe38fa
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T164500Z
DTEND:20261027T171500Z
SUMMARY:Make Belonging a Daily Practice: Simple\, Off-Screen Games for Busy Programs
DESCRIPTION:In busy after-school programs\, belonging cannot depend on long planning time or highly trained staff. This hands-on workshop will show how simple\, off-screen games can become daily belonging practices for elementary and middle school students\, especially grades 1–8. Participants will explore practical ways to use short\, low-prep activities to build connection\, curiosity\, teamwork\, and appreciation for differences. Together\, we will look at how games can support staff who are juggling limited prep time\, changing schedules\, and mixed-age groups\, while still creating joyful\, inclusive moments for young people. Attendees will leave with activity design principles and ready-to-use ideas they can adapt for their own programs.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:a1f541230e9aebde1f27085e7cdbee7d
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/a1f541230e9aebde1f27085e7cdbee7d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Stronger Together: Building Strategic Partnerships to Support School Behavioral Health – The Kids Mental Health Pierce County Approach
DESCRIPTION:Children and youth behavioral health needs continue to grow in complexity\, requiring coordinated\, cross-system responses that extend beyond the school setting. This session highlights how Kids Mental Health Pierce County is leading a community-driven approach to strengthen school behavioral health through strategic partnerships.\nParticipants will explore how schools\, healthcare providers\, community-based organizations\, and other key partners can move from siloed efforts to aligned\, system-wide collaboration. Using realworld examples\, this session will illustrate practical strategies for building relationships\, improving access to services\, and advancing a “no wrong door” approach for youth and families.
CATEGORIES:MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6255a95016ab494f03d8a6e03511ccb3
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/6255a95016ab494f03d8a6e03511ccb3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:The Art of Facilitation: Leading through Emotions in Discourse about Race
DESCRIPTION:Schools are not neutral spaces. Every day\, educators are asked to lead\, mediate\, and hold space for conversations that carry the weight of generations. The current political context contributes to heightened emotions and racial tensions. And you\, no matter how experienced\, bring your own history too. When a student says something harmful\, a colleague dismisses a lived experience\, or a systemic issue needs examining\, the most powerful thing you can do is to know yourself well enough to stay present and grounded\, even when every instinct tells you to fight\, flee\, or freeze. Through honest storytelling\, self-reflection\, and hands-on practice\, you'll learn to recognize what activates you\, strategies to respond instead of react\, and ways to hold space for the emotional responses of others.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9f3850cf404500f7ab6101c7f1d212e1
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/9f3850cf404500f7ab6101c7f1d212e1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:The Journey of Transcreation: SOWA Case Study - Adapting the School Age Basic Training into Spanish
DESCRIPTION:This session shares the journey of transcreating the School Age Basic Training into Spanish\, from the initial needs assessment to the development of the final product launching in Fall 2026. Presenters will offer an honest look at the multilingual collaborative process\, highlighting the successes\, challenges\, detours\, and key realizations that shaped the work. Participants will learn how decisions were made\, how diverse perspectives informed the adaptation\, and why transcreation was chosen over direct translation. Through this case study\, attendees will gain insight into the complexities and opportunities of adapting training content across languages and cultures\, as well as the commitments made to support inclusiveness\, cultural responsiveness\, and racial equity throughout the project.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4a2648f4e29c3ebd31c30d34bf0fdea2
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/4a2648f4e29c3ebd31c30d34bf0fdea2
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Being Water in Practice: Supporting Newcomer Students & Families Through Adaptability\, Access\, and Belonging
DESCRIPTION:This workshop explores how school and expanded learning systems can better support newcomer students and families through adaptability\, language access\, and intentional relationship-building. Grounded in real experience as a Newcomer Student Family Liaison\, the session highlights practical strategies for removing barriers\, strengthening family engagement\, and creating systems that foster belonging. Participants will examine how youth development principles \nand culturally responsive practices can be applied to improve communication\, trust\, and collaboration with multilingual families. The content focuses on K–12 students\, with an emphasis on newcomer and multilingual youth across elementary and secondary levels. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to create more equitable\, responsive\, and human-centered systems.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Stadium\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:36c211c9dd7b7610573b1f09b18a7d18
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/36c211c9dd7b7610573b1f09b18a7d18
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Finding the Current: How Black Male Mentor-Educators Build Trust\, Brotherhood & Belonging
DESCRIPTION:Educators and case managers know that shared racial or cultural identity alone does not guarantee a strong mentoring relationship. What turns a classroom into a space of trust and brotherhood is something more specific\, and it shows up in small\, repeatable practices. This session draws on a multi-year\, mixed-methods evaluation of a culturally responsive Black studies elective and mentorship program\, including a collaborative program evaluation and an in-press\, peer-reviewed qualitative study\, to name those practices. Findings identify the relational and programmatic elements\, including individualized care coordination\, identity-affirming curriculum\, and consistent relational routines\, that young people and their mentor-educators credit with building trust\, brotherhood\, and engagement\, along with the conditions of school and district leadership required to sustain this work. Participants will leave with evidence-based strategies they can adapt within their own culturally responsive mentoring programs.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Point Defiance\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:98e75941cf3b58870ded958711205539
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/98e75941cf3b58870ded958711205539
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Moving Beyond Labels
DESCRIPTION:Young people engaged in high-risk or harmful behaviors are often defined by labels rather than understood through the lens of trauma\, attachment\, and missed developmental experiences. As an educator and social worker\, I recognized a gap in mental health programming for adolescents who were struggling and created a curriculum to respond to their needs. Rather than viewing behaviors as problems to control\, I learned to see them as communication and opportunities for connection.\n\nThis interactive workshop focuses primarily on adolescents (ages 12–18) and explores how our own experiences\, assumptions\, and biases influence the way we show up for youth. Participants will learn how adaptive\, trauma-informed practices can transform programming\, strengthen relationships\, and create spaces where young people feel seen\, supported\, and empowered. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for responding to emerging needs and building programs that honor the humanity of both youth and staff.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bc488ba9d9534d754f97396a63e71c19
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/bc488ba9d9534d754f97396a63e71c19
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Who Taught Us That? Unpacking the Messages That Shape Us
DESCRIPTION:Every day\, youth development professionals make decisions shaped by beliefs about respect\, success\, leadership\, behavior\, belonging\, and care. But where did those beliefs come from?\n\nThrough reflection\, dialogue\, and interactive activities\, participants will explore how socialization influences the way we see ourselves\, one another\, and the young people we serve. Together\, we will examine the messages we inherited from family\, schools\, communities\, media\, and society\, and consider how those messages show up in our programs\, policies\, and practices today. This session invites participants to move beyond judgment and toward curiosity as we explore what it means to learn\, unlearn\, and intentionally create environments where both young people and youth workers can thrive.
CATEGORIES:SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bd8914bff9cd6dcb853d8a7fabc90251
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/bd8914bff9cd6dcb853d8a7fabc90251
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Human-Centered Transitions: Rethinking Layoffs\, Firings\, and Organizational Change
DESCRIPTION:What actually happens inside an organization when someone is let go? And more importantly—what happens to the people who stay? In many workplaces\, transitions such as layoffs or leadership exits are handled with a focus on risk\, privacy\, and the organization's protection. But in the process\, what often gets missed are the real human questions staff are carrying:&nbsp\;Was this fair? Could this happen to me? What does this mean for our future?&nbsp\;Whether you are a senior leader\, manager\, or team member\, this session offers space to reflect on your own experiences and share perspective.\n\nSession Objectives\nUnpack the hidden dynamics of organizational transitions.&nbsp\;Explore how these moments are experienced differently by line staff\, managers\, and senior leaders—and why misalignment between those perspectives can erode trust\, stability\, and culture.&nbsp\;Gain practical tools for navigating change with greater clarity\, accountability\, and care.\n
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e66095bf7e8132e21cf0eae86e09e92d
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/e66095bf7e8132e21cf0eae86e09e92d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:Why Grief Matters and how we might respond
DESCRIPTION:Understanding why grief matters helps inform how we support young people who are grieving. This interactive workshop explores the impact grief can have on youth and examines ways professionals can move beyond discomfort to engage in meaningful\, supportive conversations. Participants will gain practical\, creative\, and accessible tools that foster connection\, helping young people feel seen\, understood\, and supported in their grief experiences. Through hands-on activities and discussion\, participants will learn strategies that can increase youth self-awareness\, build resilience\, and help them identify strengths they can draw upon when facing adversity. The workshop will also provide tools and approaches that can be shared with caregivers to strengthen support beyond professional settings. \n\nDesigned to be engaging\, experiential\, and immediately applicable\, this workshop emphasizes both the how and the why behind each activity. Participants will learn the purpose and intention of the tools presented\, enabling them to adapt activities to meet the unique needs of the youth and families they serve. While especially relevant for direct service professionals\, managers and organizational leaders will also gain valuable insight into supporting grieving children and strengthening griefinformed practices within their programs and organizations.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 1\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2fa36f2cfabbb173efdaa6348bd93613
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/2fa36f2cfabbb173efdaa6348bd93613
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:The Water We Don't See: Building Belonging Across Race\, Culture\, Ability\, and Identity
DESCRIPTION:Many youth-serving organizations serve increasingly diverse communities\, yet not every young person experiences the same sense of belonging. When young people feel seen\, valued\, and included\, outcomes improve across engagement\, well-being\, leadership\, and learning. This interactive workshop explores how race\, culture\, disability\, language\, socioeconomic status\, and lived experience shape belonging. Drawing on experiences working with youth in the United States and Nigeria\, participants will learn to identify barriers to belonging\, conduct a belonging audit\, and implement equitable\, inclusive practices. Through case studies and reflection\, attendees will leave with practical tools to create environments where every young person can participate\, contribute\, and thrive.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Union\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c8defe329bd30aee40bd81113f4d16a8
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/c8defe329bd30aee40bd81113f4d16a8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T173000Z
DTEND:20261027T190000Z
SUMMARY:De-escalation Strategies: Return to Baseline
DESCRIPTION:Every group of humans has moments when they are regulated and moving forward together\, and moments when some or all of them are dysregulated for whatever reason and just "can't even!" Intended for all student ages\, this workshop will lead participants through:\n* Defining and recognizing regulated behavior in students\n* Pre-emptive and classroom management strategies to maintain regulated behavior\n* De-escalation strategies for when students begin to become dysregulated\n* Follow-up processes to allow student community to move forward\n\nThrough small-group and full group activities and discussions\, we will demonstrate strategies in action to help you keep your students be their most successful selves.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5921c1adcbd65b011ae2008abbebe2c1
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/5921c1adcbd65b011ae2008abbebe2c1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T193000Z
DTEND:20261027T203000Z
SUMMARY:Lunch
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:MEAL TIME
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:52c3b2dcdfea35e91fb184fb993f2d70
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/52c3b2dcdfea35e91fb184fb993f2d70
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T201500Z
DTEND:20261027T211500Z
SUMMARY:Closing Plenary
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4c79b3116f97d98f62d64029e68f11a3
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/4c79b3116f97d98f62d64029e68f11a3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:School-Community Partnerships: A Blueprint to Improve Youth & Family Food Security
DESCRIPTION:Kaiser Permanente has been supporting community and school-based interventions to respond to food access and nutrition needs\, in the places people need them. Through $1.78 million school-community partnership grants between 2022 and 2025\, more than 50\,000 food-insecure youth and families had improved access to out of school-time food\, directly in their school communities.\n\nSeattle Public Schools joined forces with FamilyWorks to implement a new family resource center model\, providing tailored resource navigation and a mobile food bank at convenient locations throughout the district’s footprint. Bethel School District worked with Feeding Feasible Feasts to offer food through free school-based care closets and launch a school food recovery program allowing students to take healthy food home for at-home meals. FEED 7 Generations collaborated with Muckleshoot Tribal School to implement a Tend\, Gather\, Grow Curriculum focused on food sovereignty principles. And The Farm at Franklin Pierce Schools operationalized free farm produce distribution through district fridges\, school meals\, and summer meal sites.\n\nThe collaboration between school districts and trusted local community-based organizations built an infrastructure designed to ensure access to nutritious food for years to come. Incorporating youth and family voices into these food access solutions helped reduce stigma and increase feelings of belonging. These partnerships also supported families with enrollment in the federal supplemental nutrition assistance program and connection to other resources that improve purchasing power to buy healthy food.\n\nThis workshop is designed to share insights from these pilot projects\, and a resulting toolkit that Kaiser Permanente has assembled\, to support replication of school-community partnerships that improve youth and family food security in other communities. Insights are applicable to community-based organizations\, school districts\, funders\, and systems stakeholders.
CATEGORIES:MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Room 317\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:38b4d0d60e98ee9f4516926319b65f4f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/38b4d0d60e98ee9f4516926319b65f4f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:The River of Liberation: Connecting Past\, Present\, and Future Through Healing and Action
DESCRIPTION:What if liberation is not a destination—but a river?\n\nIn this interactive session\, participants will be introduced to The RISE to Liberation\, a framework that connects history\, wellness\, and systems navigation as tools for individual and collective transformation.\n\nThrough immersive storytelling\, shared visual experiences\, creative reflection\, dialogue\, and experiential activities\, participants will journey from past to present to future. They will explore how history can build action and resilience by learning from the knowledge\, choices\, and resistance of those who came before us\; how the Eight Dimensions of Wellness can support collective care and healing\; and how understanding the systems around us can help us thrive while navigating barriers.\n\nParticipants will engage in a shared immersive visual experience and interactive activities designed to spark reflection and action\, asking: How does what we see\, remember\, and imagine influence how we lead\, heal\, navigate systems\, and create change?\n\nTogether\, we will explore what it means to be like water—to adapt without losing ourselves\, move through barriers\, and create new pathways toward healing\, resilience\, and liberation.\n\nParticipants Will Leave With:An understanding of The RISE to Liberation framework and its three liberation tools.Historical knowledge and strategies for using the resilience of those who came before us to inform action in the present.Collective care and healing strategies grounded in the Eight Dimensions of Wellness.Systems-navigation tools to help identify barriers\, find pathways forward\, and thrive.Practical tools\, strategies\, and resources to use personally and professionally.Ideas and resources to share with their communities\, extending the impact beyond the workshop.A vision for action toward more liberated and thriving communities.\n
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Room 318\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2883f70f453d86f29a49d4bb696ca83f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/2883f70f453d86f29a49d4bb696ca83f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Community Data in Practice: Who Owns Your Story?
DESCRIPTION:Data sovereignty — the right of communities to control data about themselves — is not just a concept. It’s a practice. \n\nDrawing on the work of the Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) in Portland\, OR\, this workshop introduces participants to a framework for assessing and strengthening community data stewardship practices in their own organizations. Who currently controls your data? Who benefits from it? And how can youth\, parents\, and community members become genuine co-owners of the stories data tells? Participants will work through a guided framework to map their current data sovereignty model and develop a concrete action plan for shifting power back toward the community. This session is for leaders and staff ready to move beyond data compliance and toward data self-determination.
CATEGORIES:RACIAL EQUITY\,WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Union\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:924b80a4034ac5d3fee9d1e5e3c1fc64
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/924b80a4034ac5d3fee9d1e5e3c1fc64
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Soothing the Nervous System Sound Bath Meditation
DESCRIPTION:Crystal quartz and metal bowls are musical instruments that emit vibrations and frequencies attuned to brain waves that calm the mind and the central nervous system. The body replenishes and regenerates cells and organs when it is given an environment of deep rest\, sleep\, and nourishment. \n\nWear comfortable clothing\, you may end up laying on the floor during the session. If you are able to\, bring a small pillow to make your session comfortable. You are also welcome to sit in a chair or on the floor\, whichever is the most relaxing for you.
CATEGORIES:SELF AND COMMUNITY CARE
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 1\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:871647e96f2daa9792f2743bc46345ad
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/871647e96f2daa9792f2743bc46345ad
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Build the Village: Circle Practices That Grow Belonging\, Resilience\, and Youth Leadership
DESCRIPTION:Young people today are growing up in a crisis of disconnection - loneliness\, anxiety\, and a hunger to belong that no app\, curriculum\, or well-meaning program has been able to fix. The problem isn't the young people. It's that the village around them has quietly eroded. Research on adolescent development is clear: young people thrive when they feel known\, \nchallenged\, and expected to contribute within a real community. But knowing that doesn't tell us what to do Monday morning.\n\nThis hands-on workshop introduces the circle practice - a research-aligned tool for building belonging\, resilience\, and leadership in any youth-serving setting. Participants won't just learn about circles. They'll be in one. Drawing from work now implemented school-wide at O'Dea High School (500 students) and piloting across Bethel School District\, facilitators will guide attendees through a live circle and share practical tools for immediate use.
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Room 407\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ed26b2347b211211fc49844bbba5197e
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/ed26b2347b211211fc49844bbba5197e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Building a Dream Team
DESCRIPTION:A collective vision and strong organizational systems create teams poised to work effectively and efficiently. Through experiential learning\, organizational development theory\, and strong facilitation\, your team will deepen relationships\, develop collective agreements about how to use limited resources\, and infuse your team with shared values to create a strong climate that supports accountability\, minimizes conflict\, and maximizes productivity.\n\nSession Objectives\nLearn strategies to identify core values and use them to design processesTo reflect on what creates teams that are poised to succeedTo understand the work styles of team members\n
CATEGORIES:WORKFORCE AND SYSTEMS BUILDING
LOCATION:Point Defiance\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3c2fc85f12fc8a1ee5bf4352e34e06c0
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/3c2fc85f12fc8a1ee5bf4352e34e06c0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:All Means All: Using Differentiation to Increase Access & Inclusion
DESCRIPTION:Through play and peer learning\, educators will be empowered with strategies to differentiate instruction and build inclusive environments where each and every TK-8 grade student thrives. Explore growth mindset\, apply strategies to real-world scenarios\, and engage in “Pause & Play” activities that model inclusion. Leave with practical tools and resources to support staff and students\, ensuring all learners are seen\, supported\, and set up for success.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 2\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:372e4f5f1c0dab02dbea5461b7f60575
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/372e4f5f1c0dab02dbea5461b7f60575
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Ask\, Listen\, Empower: Shifting from Control to Connection
DESCRIPTION:Join Mizzen Education for an interactive workshop that invites participants to move beyond directive\, compliance-based communication and embrace the power of leading with facilitative communication with youth. Participants will explore how small shifts in intentional language can strengthen relationships\, amplify youth voice\, and create environments where young people feel seen\, heard\, and empowered to contribute. \n\nThrough ideation\, reflection\, discussion\, and practice\, participants will learn to listen deeply\, collaborate boldly\, and design interactions with intention that nurtures connection\, adaptability\, and shared ownership with youth. Leave with simple\, effective\, and immediately implementable tools and frameworks designed to create more responsive\, engaging\, and youth-centered experiences\, just by shifting communication.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Room 316\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8fe8e06bf8dc731cba7201cf677efd1f
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/8fe8e06bf8dc731cba7201cf677efd1f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Beyond the Circle: Expanding Your Multi-Modal Toolkit for Deeper Reflection and Debriefing
DESCRIPTION:Reflection is the bridge between an event and a developmental milestone\, yet many programs rely solely on verbal discussions that can exclude certain learners. In alignment with "The Art of Being Water\," this session provides a fluid\, multi-modal toolkit designed to reach every participant through artistic\, tactile\, and movement-based debriefing. Participants will explore the WSU 6-Step Activity Framework—from framing to real-world transfer—to ensure learning is a deliberate\, repeatable outcome. We will dive into a curated "toolbox" featuring activities like Play Dough Sculptures\, Group Poems\, and Slam Dunk Suggestions. Attendees will learn to scaffold sharing and use brief "micro-debriefs" to maintain a group’s pulse. Every participant will receive a physical Toolkit containing reflection cards\, object bags\, and the WSU 103 activity guide to immediately elevate their program’s impact.
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING
LOCATION:Chambers Bay 3\, Marriott (3rd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:46fd34c39337f9dc312f9224f2430ac6
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/46fd34c39337f9dc312f9224f2430ac6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:The Power of Home\, How Place-Based Programs Build Upon the Strengths of Youth\, Family\, and Community
DESCRIPTION:Affordable housing is a platform for education\, equity\, and community resilience. Mercy Scholars is a place-based program that works alongside families and youth by providing resources and support that will help students succeed. An essential piece of our work is in collaboration with schools and community partners\; building a web of support that allows students to explore their identities and passions. This empowers youth to shape their own futures\, allowing for generational transformation. \n\nIn this session\, we will cover three Mercy Scholars program areas\, including student support\, parent engagement\, and community partnerships. \n\nStudent Support: How to create a historically responsive lesson plan \n\nParent Engagement: How to incorporate and celebrate family brilliance \n\nCommunity Partnerships: How to leverage the experts around you
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,MULTI-SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
LOCATION:Stadium\, Marriott (2nd Floor)\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6fcfda4ba0474f23e5a3ef729d90ed03
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/6fcfda4ba0474f23e5a3ef729d90ed03
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260904T190222Z
DTSTART:20261027T213000Z
DTEND:20261027T230000Z
SUMMARY:Flow Forward: Help Youth Build Identity\, Belonging\, and Career Pathways
DESCRIPTION:Young people do not begin preparing for their future when it is time to fill out a job application. It starts much earlier. It starts with helping them understand who they are\, where they belong\, what they are capable of\, and what possibilities exist beyond what they may see around them every day.\n\nFlow Forward is an interactive workshop focused on helping middle and high school youth connect identity\, belonging\, life skills\, and career exposure to their future. We will explore practical ways youth development professionals can help young people recognize their strengths\, build confidence\, expand what they believe is possible\, and begin connecting everyday experiences to education\, leadership\, training\, and career pathways.\n\nParticipants will also take part in reflection\, small-group discussion\, and a hands-on pathway-mapping activity that can be adapted and used with the young people they serve. My goal is for participants to leave with more than information. I want them to leave with practical strategies and tools they can actually take back to their programs and use.\n\n
CATEGORIES:YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING\,RACIAL EQUITY
LOCATION:Room 315\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center\, Greater Tacoma Convention Center; Marriott Tacoma Downtown\, Tacoma\, WA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:013f1b3f54281dce3b327775527550b5
URL:http://2026bridgeconference.sched.com/event/013f1b3f54281dce3b327775527550b5
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR