A View from All Sides 2026: National Thought Leaders Keynote Conference to Inspire the Family Support Workforce
A View from All Sides 2026: National Thought Leaders Keynote Conference to Inspire the Family Support Workforce
The family support workforce plays an integral role walking alongside families as they navigate challenges, build on their strengths, and access the supports they need to thrive. As the needs of families continue to evolve so too must the knowledge, skills, and wellbeing of those working to support families.
That is why the Children’s Trust convenes A View from All Sides every year. Bringing together family support staff from across Massachusetts, the conference offers evidence-informed learning, practical strategies, and opportunities to connect with peers and nationally recognized experts.
At the heart of this year’s conference are keynote speakers Maria Milagros Vazquez and Gaelin Elmore, nationally recognized speakers whose work reflects many of the issues shaping family support today. Through their keynote presentations, attendees will explore how resilience, belonging, and human connection strengthen families, support workforce wellbeing, and drive meaningful systems change.
Centering Families Through Hope and Resilience
Opening the conference, Maria Milagros Vazquez, a coach and author, will present “Rooted in Hope: Centering Families to Create Lasting Change.” Drawing on storytelling, neuroscience, and practical strategies, she invites attendees to explore how emotional regulation, connection, purpose, and community care create the foundation for stronger families and communities.
Her keynote highlights an essential principle of family support: professionals who are grounded and supported are better equipped to build trusting relationships with families and respond with compassion during times of challenge. By investing in workforce wellbeing, organizations strengthen their ability to create lasting change for children and families.
The Power of Belonging
On the second day, nationally recognized keynote speaker and trainer Gaelin Elmore will present “Be the Difference: How Belonging Unlocks and Redefines ‘Success.’” Through research, lived experience, and practical leadership strategies, he explores how environments built on trust, connection, and belonging improve wellbeing, resilience, and engagement.
His message reminds attendees that meaningful change is created through relationships. When professionals and families feel seen, valued, and supported, organizations are better positioned to foster resilience, strengthen communities, and prevent challenges from escalating into crisis.
Investing in the People Who Strengthen Families
A View from All Sides provides a space for professionals to deepen their skills, exchange ideas, and gain practical tools they can apply in their work with children and families.
Together, Maria Milagros Vazquez and Gaelin Elmore set the stage for two days of learning centered on resilience, belonging, and prevention. Their keynote sessions reflect the Children’s Trust’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality training, resources, and opportunities that strengthen the family support workforce and, ultimately, improve outcomes for children and families across Massachusetts.