The 2009 Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC) was a tremendous success! Over 550 conference attendees, volunteers, workshop presenters and keynote speakers from across the nation gathered for this two-day event. Hosted by the Austin Travis County Integral Care (ATCIC), New Milestones Foundation, the Office for the Elimination of Health Disparities and other community sponsors, this year's conference theme “Empowering Families: Live, Learn Grow" came to life at the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark February 12-13, 2009.
Speakers and panelists moved and educated attendees, including Thursday’s keynote, Pastor A.J. Quinton who spoke passionately about family involvement and personal strength. Participants enjoyed 16 workshops that provided important and relevant community resources and information.
Friday’s youth panel and morning speaker Dashaun Jiwe Morris’ shared moving and chilling testimonials about the obstacles they have faced. Keynote speaker Terrie Williams inspired attendees, speaking candidly about her continued struggles with depression and the of impact mental illness on the African American community.
Inspirational songs by Sandra Houston, community awards and an array of exhibitors made this conference an exceptional place to learn, share and be inspired. Already, the CTAAFSC looks forward to celebrating its 10th anniversary next year. Thank you to each of you who so graciously participated in this year’s conference!
For photos of the 2009 conference, click here.
