No
The Together for Indigenous Families Conference will strengthen relationships among stakeholders within state and tribal systems to improve safety and well-being outcomes for Native American children and families
The 2026 Conference will be held June 3-4 at the Cornhusker Marriott in Lincoln, NE. This year's theme, “Stronger Together: Centering Culture, Building Community" celebrates how tribes, families, and communities come together to:
- Protect Indigenous children,
- Strengthen youth and well-being,
- Honor tribal sovereignty and
- Build strong connections through culture and community.
This year's art was designed by Ava Sheffield (Navajo Nation). Ava is a 17 year old living in western Nebraska.
Misty (Thomas) Flowers 
Sheldon Spotted Elk
Heart for the Work Award
The Heart for the Work Award is presented to an individual whose actions consistently reflect a deep commitment to the principles and spirit of the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Act. This award honors work that goes beyond compliance; someone whose work strengthens government-to-government relationships, supports prevention focused approaches, and improves outcomes for Indigenous children and families by honoring culture, connection, and Tribal sovereignty.
Recipients of this award lead with integrity and compassion. Through their advocacy, partnership, and persistence, they help ensure that Native children remain connected to their families, communities, and cultural identities. The Heart for the Work Award recognizes those who do this work with intention, care, and an unwavering belief that culture, connection, and community are essential to a child's best interests.
Submit a Nominee
Frequently Asked Questions
The Together for Indigenous Families Conference takes a holistic approach to child welfare, so anyone who works with Native American children or families is encouraged to attend. Keynote speakers and breakout presentations will include topics related to:
- Indigenous Children's Mental and Behavioral Health
- Indigenous Family-centered Prevention Service Practices
- Indigenous Child Welfare, Foster Care, and Adoption Services Practices
- Indigenous Judicial and Legal Affairs, including both Tribal and state systems
- Indigenous Youth and Family Engagement
The full conference agenda will be available on this website in late April 2026! For preliminary planning purposes, each day will run from 8:00am to 4:30pm with a Keynote speaker each day as well as several breakouts. Lunch and Breakfast will be provided each day. On June 3 there will be a Networking dinner provided from 5:00-7:00pm.
- The conference planning committee is seeking the below credits for all keynote and breakout presentations:
- Continuing Legal Education (CLE),
- Continuing Mediation Education (CME) and
- Continuing Education Unit (CEU).
- Presentations eligible for credit will be designated on the final agenda. If you need credits outside of these three designations, please reach out to dhhs.icwa@nebraska.gov and someone will connect with you to get additional information.