We had an incredible time at the 48th Annual Teaching-Family Association Conference, held this year in Salt Lake City, Utah! It was a week filled with learning and celebration. We’re proud to share that two of our very own staff members were recognized for their outstanding work at the conference this year!

Piper Mali, one of our amazing Behavioral Specialists, received the Distinguished Practitioner of the Year Award. Karen Adair, one of our wonderful Foster Care Case Managers, was honored with the Distinguished Consultant of the Year Award. These awards are presented to one practitioner and one consultant from each accredited agency and honors individuals who exemplify excellence in implementing the Teaching-Family Model. Both Piper’s and Karen’s passion for trauma-informed care and their ability to build meaningful connections with the children they serve make them a shining example of the values these awards represent.

We are so proud of both of our staff members for being recognized for the work they do at our agency, and we feel so lucky to have them as part of our CHA team!

What Is the Teaching-Family Association?

The Teaching-Family Association (TFA) is the accrediting body that supports agencies like ours in delivering high-quality, trauma-informed care using the Teaching-Family Model. TFA ensures that organizations maintain fidelity to the model and provides training, resources, and a community of professionals dedicated to helping children and families thrive.

What Is the Teaching-Family Model?

The Teaching-Family Model is an evidence-based approach designed to help children and youth, especially those who have experienced trauma, develop essential life skills in a supportive, family-like environment. It emphasizes positive relationships, individualized teaching, and consistent reinforcement to help children grow emotionally, socially, and behaviorally. At CHA, we use this model across our programs to create safe, nurturing spaces where children can heal and succeed.

A Wonderful Week at The Conference

The conference also offered our team valuable insights and strategies to help us better serve the children and families in our care. There were multiple learning opportunities and the ability to connect with other professionals who are also involved in the arenas of human and social services, education, and mental health areas. In addition to the learning, our staff had a great time exploring Salt Lake City and the beautiful mountains! The trip was a wonderful opportunity for our staff to bond through dinners and adventures.

We’re already looking ahead to next year’s conference in Nashville, Tennessee, and we can’t wait to continue learning and connecting with others who share our mission!