Tough economic times and a political environment focused on reducing government’s role have resulted in significant cuts in funding for human services organizations — and the need for such organizations to prove their value as key community economic drivers.
On Thursday, May 10, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., St. Ambrose University School of Social Work will present “Beyond Charity: Asserting the Value of Human Services in the Community,” this year’s Social Justice Conference. Intended for members of the social work, social service and non-profit communities, as well as all interested persons, the conference will take place at the Rogalski Center, located at the corner of Ripley and Lombard Streets, one block west of Harrison Street.
The cost for the conference is $35 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Those who wish to attend the morning lecture only may do so for $15 (includes breakfast). Continuing education units are available to Iowa and Illinois licensed social workers. Reservations must be made by Thursday, May 3 and participants may register online at www.sau.edu.
Presenters will provide business, legislative and social work perspectives on the history, accomplishments and challenges of human service organizations, and will include Iowa State Sen. Joe Bolkcom, HuSP (Human Service Partners) of the Quad Cities, and a keynote by Laura Zumdahl.
Zumdahl, who was named an Emerging Nonprofit Leadership Fellow by the Chicago Community Trust in 2010, is vice president for nonprofit services at Donors Forum where she provides leadership for capacity-building efforts to strengthen nonprofits. Previously, she worked with Cabrini Green Legal Aid. She also teaches undergraduate and graduate level courses in social work and nonprofit administration. Zumdahl earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, and her doctorate in leadership from Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, Wis.
For more information, contact Christie Holdridge at (563) 333-3911 or HoldridgeChristinaL@sau.edu.
