Annually, KCSL presents the most comprehensive conference in Kansas about the prevention of child maltreatment. The Governor’s Conference focuses on education, networking, recognition and addressing key issues regarding child abuse and neglect. KCSL is committed to featuring the best speakers the field has to offer and addressing current topics and issues throughout the conference. The Call for Proposals opens Feb. 16!
50th Annual Governor’s Conference for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
Oct. 20–22, 2026 | Hyatt Regency Wichita
Kansas’ leading prevention conference returns for a milestone year, the 50th anniversary of the Governor’s Conference for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect! Join professionals from across the state for three days of learning, inspiration and connection. This year’s event features keynote speakers along with in-depth institute sessions, engaging workshops, networking opportunities and recognition of outstanding work in the field.
Be part of this historic event as we honor 50 years of progress and look ahead to the future of prevention. Registration opens in August—check back for updates.
Opens: February 16, 2026
Deadline: April 17, 2026
KCSL will accept proposals for the 2026 Governor’s Conference on Monday, Feb. 16.
Presented by KCSL in partnership with more than 20 co-sponsoring organizations, this milestone conference is an annual event that brings together professionals, leaders and experts from diverse fields for three days of education, connection and recognition. The 50th annual conference will feature top speakers and timely topics focused on preventing child abuse and neglect while celebrating five decades of impact. The conference delivers a high-impact experience for more than 500 attendees from across Kansas and beyond.
KCSL is seeking dynamic, engaging sessions that move beyond traditional lectures. Strong proposals will build skills, share practical tools and actively involve participants. Interactive formats and fresh perspectives are especially valued.
We welcome proposals that reflect prevention frameworks such as the Protective Factors and the CDC’s Essentials for Childhood, as well as strategies aligned with Kansas Department for Children and Families.
We accept proposals for:
Submit your proposal by April 17.
Support strong families and safe kids by sponsoring or exhibiting at the Governor’s Conference for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect! Your support helps KCSL provide high-quality professional development to those working with and on behalf of the 700,000+ children growing up in Kansas. Showcase your brand, build meaningful relationships and join the movement to give every child a safe, healthy future. Complete the contact form below to get started.
We’re here to help! A member of our conference team will get back to you soon.
Fifty years ago, child abuse prevention leaders in Kansas established Prevent Child Abuse Kansas (PCA Kansas) and held the first state conference on child abuse prevention. In the early 1970s, the Family Life Achievement Center in Chicago decided to focus on the prevention of child abuse and formed a fifty-state, nonprofit organization known as Prevent Child Abuse America today. Kansas became the first chapter, with the inaugural Governor’s Conference held in 1976. The Governor’s Conference ensures professionals working with children have proper training in the field of child abuse and neglect. KCSL has served as the PCA Kansas chapter since 1993 and continues to host the annual conference.
