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Introduction to Strengthening Families Protective Factors

Family Support
Date April 21, 2026
Time 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location Virtual
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Training description

The Strengthening Families framework is an evidence-based approach that identifies five Protective Factors that, when present and robust in families, help increase family strengths, enhance child development, and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect. It is based on engaging families, programs, and communities in building five protective factors:

• Parental resilience
• Social connections
• Knowledge of parenting and child development
• Concrete support in times of need
• Social and emotional competence of children

The Protective Factors provide both a framework and an interrelated approach to serving families well, and to reducing incidences of child abuse and neglect. This workshop is considered a “101” or basic training for those who are not familiar with the Protective Factors framework. Participants in this course will understand the five Protective Factors and the Seven Key Strategies that support the presence of the Protective Factors. All participants will understand how the Strengthening Families framework supports the healthy emotional development of children and prevents incidences of child maltreatment.

Learning Objectives

  1. Describe the Strengthening Families Protective Factors Framework.
  2. Identify the Foundational Ideas of the Strengthening Families Framework.
  3. Define each of the 5 Protective Factors and how they positively impact families.

Presented By

  • Haley Riley

    Haley Riley
    MSW, LCSW

    Training Services Coordinator at the Children's Trust

    Haley Riley

    MSW, LCSWÏ

    Haley Riley, MSW, LCSW, is a social worker, trainer, and program leader dedicated to strengthening the well-being of children, youth, and families—and the systems that support them. She brings over a decade of experience supporting families through direct clinical work, workforce development, and statewide training initiatives focused on family support, parenting education, fatherhood, and child abuse prevention. Haley is passionate about translating research and lived experience into practical, relationship-centered strategies that help programs and staff build confidence, connection, and impact. Her work is rooted in equity, collaboration, and the belief that when we support those who support families, everyone thrives.
  • Niurka DeJesus

    Niurka DeJesus
    LICSW

    Contracted Trainer & Behavioral Health Therapist at the Children's Trust

    Niurka DeJesus

    LICSWÏ

    Niurka De Jesus, LICSW, is a graduate of the Boston College School of Social Work and she is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Work. Niurka has provided behavioral health support to children, adults, and families in the following settings: Boston Public Schools, Children’s Advocacy Center, community organizations, hospitals and in private practice.

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