A day focused on education, awareness, and hope is coming to Catoosa County this fall as the Empowered to Protect • Educate • Heal Conference 2026 brings nationally recognized speakers and experts together to address some of today’s most pressing community issues.
The conference will take place Tuesday, September 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Catoosa County Colonnade.
Featured guest speakers include kidnapping survivor and child safety advocate Elizabeth Smart, criminal justice reform advocate Kemba Smith Pradia, Capt. Adam Meyers, and actress and advocate Robin Givens.
Conference sessions will focus on:
- Domestic violence awareness and survivor support
- Human trafficking prevention and intervention
- Mental health education and community wellness
- Educational and employment pathways for foster youth
Attendees can also earn four continuing education units (CEUs) during the event.
Registration opens July 17, with space limited to the first 350 participants. Individual tickets are $175, corporate tables are $1,250, and half corporate tables are available for $625.
A limited VIP experience is also being offered for an additional $50. The first 100 VIP registrants will receive a meet-and-greet opportunity with Elizabeth Smart.
Organizers say the conference is designed to empower professionals, advocates, survivors, and community members with the knowledge and resources needed to protect, educate, and heal those affected by trauma and violence.