Jump Start 2026

"This advanced leadership session connects strategic organizational communication with daily program management, focusing on how supervisors can empower front-line staff to build immediate trust with families. Led by a veteran communications director and a seasoned principal, this interactive workshop teaches leaders how to train their direct-care staff in clear, empathetic communication techniques that de-escalate parent concerns.

Attendees will leave equipped with a practical, three-step ""Bridge to Focus"" communication framework. This tool is designed to turn stressful daily interactions into positive, trusted connection points—proving that the little moments of deliberate, reframed communication yield big outcomes in staff retention and strategies for meaningful family engagement."

What do youth-serving adults across Utah say they need to develop confident youth leaders? This session shares findings from a statewide needs assessment of more than 225 professionals and volunteers working with youth, highlighting the greatest challenges they face, priority professional development needs, and the supports they believe would make the biggest difference. Learn what youth leaders across Utah identified as their biggest barriers, why ADHD and autism emerged as the highest training priorities, and how these findings can inform future staff development, programming, and resource planning. Whether you supervise staff, coordinate programs, or work directly with youth, this session will provide valuable insight into the evolving needs of Utah's youth-serving workforce.

What happens when we stop asking, “What’s wrong?” and start asking, “What’s possible?” Explore the power of Positive Youth Development (PYD) and discover practical ways to help young people build confidence, belonging, relationships, and a sense of purpose. Through engaging activities and real-world examples, you’ll leave with simple strategies you can put into practice right away to create programs where every young person has opportunities to thrive.