Family service providers begin professional development Thursday in Baton Rouge

Parent educators, child care providers, and health care and other family service professionals from across the state are gathering later this week at the Baton Rouge Marriott to gain professional skills, learn methods of evaluating programs, and develop emergency preparedness plans during the Southern University Ag Center's Family and Health Conference.

The conference, “Building Healthy Foundations for Families,” explores best practices, new strategies, and effective approaches to addressing the challenges Louisiana families face, said Southern University Ag Center chancellor Leodrey Williams. “In order for our state to improve, we have to continue creating, implementing, and sustaining programs that strengthen families and empower healthier lifestyles,” Williams said.

Presenters include representatives from Southern University Ag Center, Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Louisiana Department of Social Services, LSU AgCenter, Prairie View A&M University, Woman’s Center for Wellness, Office of Public Health, and Louisiana Spirit. Read more on the family and health conference at www.suagcenter.com.