Parking for Thursday Evening: The Summit begins at 4:00. You can use the Adams Center parking lot (LOT P on the map). The Passport app system is available to pay for short-term parking. If you are arriving at 5:00 or later, parking on campus is Free.
4/17 Friday Sessions: All Friday sessions will be held in the PJW College of Education, except for two held in adjacent buildings (signage will be displayed). Breakfast will begin at 8:00, and sessions will start promptly at 8:30.
4/18 Saturday Sessions: All Saturday sessions will take place in the PJW College of Education. Breakfast and registration will be available as early as 7:30 am. Sessions will begin at 8:15. Parking for Saturday Sessions: All parking is FREE. You may park anywhere on campus!
Travel: For those traveling from outside Missoula, book your hotel early! A limited number of discounted hotel rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown. You can use this link to book your rooms.Please usethe code ECE or call the hotel at 406-721-8550 and mention the code and ECE 4th Annual Summit.
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This panel showcases community-driven efforts across Montana that support families before and during times of stress. Participants will learn how statewide prevention initiatives, crisis care models, and inclusive community spaces work together to strengthen families and promote safe, nurturing environments for children.
Facilitator: Brianne Moline, National Association for Family Child Care, Professional Development Specialist
1. From Prevention to Partnership: Strengthening Families and Protecting Montana’s Children Montana Children's Trust Fund 2. Strengthening Families through Crisis Child Care: Prevention, Support, and Statewide Impact Toby's House Crisis Nursery Participants will learn about Montana’s statewide approach to strengthening families and preventing child abuse and neglect through community partnerships and practical supports. Attendees will gain (1) an understanding of the Montana Children’s Trust Fund and its role in supporting prevention efforts and family well-being across the state, (2) insight into current initiatives and projects that build community capacity and promote protective factors for families, and (3) a deeper understanding of crisis care models—including crisis nurseries and related family supports—and how communities can collaborate to address gaps, provide essential resources, and help families navigate challenging times.
3. Play, Belonging, and Community: Creating Safe Spaces for Children and Families Missoula Food Bank and Empower Place Community Center Participants will explore how a community-centered play space connected to a food bank can serve as a model for belonging and inclusion. Attendees will learn (1) strategies for building community within nonprofit settings by creating spaces where families naturally gather and connect, (2) approaches for designing safe, welcoming environments that support children and families from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, and (3) ways organizations can listen, adapt, and evolve their programs in response to the changing needs of the communities they serve.
