27th International Families and Fathers Conference

April 13–16, 2026 • Hilton LAX Hotel • 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045

Theme: Next Generation – A Live In-Person Global Gathering

Introducing the Trent Love Innovation Series

Igniting Family Engagement Through Technology & AI

“You can make a difference in the world now.” – Dr. Myles Munroe

Igniting Family Engagement Through Technology & AI

At the 27th International Families and Fathers Conference (April 13–17, 2026, Los Angeles), we launch the Trent Love Innovation Series—a transformative pre-conference and workshop track honoring the legacy of U.S. Army Retired Captain Trent Love.

This series is not just a tribute. It’s a bold leap forward: a centerpiece for innovation, learning, and impact.

Captain Love was among the first to help FFCA bridge technology and connection. In his honor, we are now reimagining the role of artificial intelligence, edtech, and digital platforms in fatherhood, parenting, social equity, early childhood development, and mental health.

This is not just a conference track.
This is a movement toward limitless learning and next-generation family engagement.

FFCA’s Next-Level Vision: Toward a Global Standard of Innovation in Family Empowerment

My colleague and friend, Dr. Carolyn Rich Curtis, PhD, LMFT, said something that struck a deep chord:

“Dr. Rodríguez, you always reinvent yourself. What you did with the Kintsugi trauma-informed practice—integrating Eastern and Western philosophies—was truly remarkable.”

Her words reminded me of another quiet force who helped me shape what FFCA could become: Captain Trent Love, Retired U.S. Army. A man who suffered the aftershocks of 9/11 but found his way back through service, purpose, and technology.

In 2010, before most of the world embraced virtual platforms, Trent Love helped us launch our first virtual sessions. He saw technology not as a tool, but as a bridge for healing. He taught me not just to have vision—but to envision. His quiet work behind the scenes was as essential as that of Eddie Baker, Director of Technology—two men who preferred no spotlight but helped us build the stage.

Now, as we look toward the 27th International Families and Fathers Conference, it’s time to take everything we’ve learned—and launch something bold.

Integrating AI, Technology, and Innovation into FFCA’s Work and the International Conference

Purpose

To elevate the global impact of the Fathers and Families Coalition of America (FFCA) by incorporating cutting-edge technology—especially artificial intelligence (AI), emerging tech startups, and applied research—to strengthen families, empower communities, and support practitioners working with parents, children, and systems of care.

Core Themes & Research-Driven Integration

AI as a Human Services Partner
Use AI not to replace human touch, but to amplify it—enhancing therapeutic tools, data analysis, wellness tracking, and service delivery for families and professionals.
Example: Integrating tools like AI-based journaling, chat support for trauma processing, or behavioral coaching prompts into FFCA’s credential programs.

Global Tech Collaboration
Invite global tech companies and AI startups (California-based and international) to present or co-create solutions.
Establish a Tech + Humanity Showcase at the conference to feature: sessions that are parent-centered, family engagement, leadership development, and more..

• Assistive AI for parents with disabilities
• Language translation for multilingual families
• VR/AR tools for trauma-informed training
• Customize ChatGPT and AI in your voice
• Improve your efficiency within your organization with AI
• Update your marketing and brand through AI
• Enhance your parent-education curriculum through AI

Applied Ethics and Equity
Emphasize ethical, equitable, and culturally responsive use of technology.
Sessions and panels should include diverse voices, especially from marginalized communities, to shape inclusive tech solutions.

FFCA’s Living Lab Approach
Present FFCA’s programs (like Advanced Practitioner Credential™, OAR Leadership Institute™, DiSC FFCA™, etc.) as case studies for how innovative tech is embedded in mental health, fatherhood engagement, and trauma-informed practices.
Highlight your concepts of 'No Borders, No Boxes'—using AI to dismantle silos in education, mental health, juvenile justice, and social work.

Purpose of the Call for Proposals & Credential Submissions

We invite presenters to submit proposals for the Trent Love Innovation Series with a focus on integrating technology, artificial intelligence, and hands-on tools that support families, practitioners, and communities.

Benefits of Participation

• Expand Your Impact: Share your expertise on an international platform
• Grow Your Brand: Connect with early adopters, decision-makers, and potential clients
• Collaborate Globally: Join an ecosystem of educators, clinicians, leaders, and tech innovators
• Hands-On Innovation: Be part of a learning environment that’s immersive, experiential, and practical
• Legacy in Action: Help shape the future of family engagement through emerging tech

Credential Certificate Proposal Partners (5 Available Slots)

We are curating a limited number of credential-based trainings aligned with the Trent Love Innovation Series. Each selected proposal will deliver a 4-hour intensive pre-conference institute on Monday, April 13, 2026.

We invite proposals from organizations offering structured certification or credential programs related to:

• AI for Parenting or Mental Health
• Trauma-Informed Tech Strategies
• Digital Tools for Family Coaching
• Motivational Interviewing Enhanced by AI
• Resilience-Based, Peer-Led Online Engagement Models

In addition to the credential-based institutes, we welcome proposals for hands-on workshops, interactive lectures, and tech-enhanced learning experiences tailored for:

• Early Childhood Education and Digital Literacy
• AI in Parent Leadership and School Readiness
• Faith-Based Family Engagement with Emerging Technologies
• Technology-Focused Fatherhood Programs and Responsible Parenting
• Using AI and VR to Train Family Practitioners and Social Workers
• Tech-Integrated Workforce Development for Young Fathers and Parents
• Digital Equity and Access Tools for Rural or Underserved Families
• Coaching and Counseling through Secure Digital Platforms
• Behavioral and Mental Health Applications Supported by AI

These sessions will provide transformative value to our audience of clinicians, educators, mentors, therapists, social workers, nonprofit leaders, researchers, and advocates—all committed to elevating families and children through innovation.

How to Submit a Credential Proposal

We are excited to invite your organization to participate in the Trent Love Innovation Series at the 27th International Families and Fathers Conference. If you offer a credential, certificate, or intensive training that integrates technology, AI, or innovative approaches in parenting, education, wellness, or mental health—this is your moment to shine.

Selected programs will be featured as 4-hour pre-conference institutes on April 13, 2026. This is an opportunity to showcase your work to a global audience of practitioners, educators, clinicians, and agency leaders seeking forward-thinking solutions. Proposals should clearly outline your training structure, learning outcomes, and how participants will engage hands-on with your tools or framework.

Submit Your Credential Proposal Now

Deadline: February 1, 2026 – Limited slots available. Help shape the future of family engagement and innovation.

Benefits of Participation

• Expand Your Impact: Share your expertise on an international platform
• Grow Your Brand: Connect with early adopters, decision-makers, and potential clients
• Collaborate Globally: Join an ecosystem of educators, clinicians, leaders, and tech innovators
• Hands-On Innovation: Be part of a learning environment that’s immersive, experiential, and practical
• Legacy in Action: Help shape the future of family engagement through emerging tech

Who Should Apply?

The Trent Love Innovation Series welcomes a wide spectrum of thought leaders and change agents who are using technology to elevate families and communities. We’re seeking submissions from individuals, teams, and organizations who bring unique perspectives, real-world innovation, and a commitment to equity in tech-driven family engagement.

Category	Examples
Family Tech Startups	Apps, platforms, and tools supporting parenting, mental health, and youth well-being
EdTech Leaders	Innovators in digital education, early learning, and family literacy integration
Academic Labs	University-based teams researching AI in child development or social-emotional learning
Public Sector Innovators	Government programs leveraging tech for service delivery, equity, or wellness
Community-Based Providers	Nonprofits using creative tools for outreach, case management, or program delivery
Cross-Industry Professionals	Therapists, coaches, youth workers, and educators integrating AI with family support
AI Consultants	Experts designing responsible, ethical AI solutions for community-based or social impact programs

Key Focus Areas

Focus Area	Description
Parent Engagement & Tech	Tools that help parents support children’s learning, growth, and emotional well-being through apps, platforms, and digital practices.
Early Childhood Innovation	AI tools and edtech for developmental screening, early literacy, or family communication in ECE settings.
Digital Wellness & Mental Health	Mobile platforms, AI chat, or VR-based wellness tools for fathers, youth, and family systems.
Justice-Involved Fathers	Tech-based coaching and support for returning citizens or justice-impacted parents.
Cultural Fluency in Tech	Approaches that bridge digital equity, cultural context, and family tech access.
Evidence-Based Curriculum Integration	How to enhance your program’s reach using AI and tech—without losing the heart of human connection.

Submission Guidelines

We are seeking forward-thinking proposals aligned with the Trent Love Innovation Series. Whether you're submitting a workshop or credential-based training, your proposal should include:

• Title & track area (choose: Workshop or Credential Proposal)
• Workshop Description (max 300 words)
• Learning Objectives (3 minimum)
• Target Audience(s)
• Description of Technology Used (tools, platforms, or AI features)
• Hands-on Activities (how attendees will actively engage)

Important Dates

Proposal submissions open: Now
Deadline for all Innovation Series submissions: February 1, 2026

Closing Reflection

“We’re not just streaming workshops. We’re reimagining global connection.”

With your help, we can make the Trent Love Innovation Series a launchpad for transforming how the world sees family systems, equity, and healing—through technology and truth.