The 3rd Annual Proof Alliance Caregiver Conference
Join us for the Proof Alliance Caregiver Conference in person on May 15 and 16, 2025.
At this year’s conference, Navigating the Journey Together: A Roadmap for FASD Caregivers, Proof Alliance and renowned experts will share the latest information, education, and resources to support caregivers of individuals impacted by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow caregivers in a welcoming environment at the beautiful Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center. This event is designed for adoptive, biological, kinship and foster parents, as well as anyone who knows, loves or supports an individual with a known or suspected FASD. We encourage you to attend this conference and be part of the community. Professionals who support and care for individuals on the FASD spectrum are also encouraged to attend.
Day 1 Schedule: Thursday, May 15, 2025
8 a.m.–4 p.m. Registration/check-in open
8–9 a.m. Breakfast, networking
9–9:15 a.m. Welcome announcements
9:15–10:15 a.m. Keynote
10:15–10:35 a.m. Break and exhibit tables
10:35–11:35 a.m. Breakout sessions 1–3
11:35–11:50 a.m. Break and exhibit tables
11:50 a.m.–12:50 p.m. Breakout sessions 4–6
12:50–1:50 p.m. Lunch and announcements
1:50–2:35 p.m. Facilitated discussions
2:35–2:50 p.m. Break and exhibit tables
2:50–3:50 p.m. Keynote
3:50–4 p.m. Day 1 wrap-up
Day 2 Schedule: Friday, May 16, 2025
8:30–9:30 a.m. Hot breakfast
9:30–9:50 a.m. Announcements and Proof programming
9:50–10 a.m. Break
10–11 a.m. Breakout sessions 7–9
11–11:15 a.m. Break
11:15–11:25 a.m. Caregiver Spotlight Video
11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Keynote
12:45–1:00 p.m. Day 2 wrap-up
Keynote: Blocked Care - Attending to the Caregiver's Needs
About the Presentation:
Chronic stress, feelings of helplessness and isolation can take a toll on caregivers, making it difficult to provide the compassionate, nurturing, and consistent care their children need. Over time, these pressures can push caregivers into a state of emotional exhaustion known as blocked care—where survival mode takes over, and connection becomes difficult.
In this training, we will explore blocked care: how it develops, how it impacts both caregivers and children and most importantly, how to help caregivers move beyond it. By understanding and addressing blocked care, we can foster healing for the entire family system and create an environment where both children and caregivers can thrive.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Jana Hunsley is a psychologist dedicated to supporting foster and adoptive families through consulting, training, coaching, and counseling. Her work is centered on understanding and addressing the unique needs of every family member, ensuring a holistic approach to healing and stability.
With extensive experience in counseling, research, teaching, and resource development, Jana has created a proven model that improves the well-being and quality of life for foster and adoptive families. She earned her doctorate in experimental psychology from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development at Texas Christian University, where she focused on developing post-adoption support services.
Jana has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including residential treatment, institutional care, schools, child welfare, and juvenile detention, providing therapy for children and youth who have experienced trauma. Her passion for this work is deeply personal—shaped by her own experience as a teenager when her family adopted her siblings.
Keynote: From Struggles to Strength - A Family's FASD Story
About the Presentation:
Join the engaging mother-and-son duo, Barb and Zeke Clark, as they share their family’s transformative journey in supporting their daughter and sister, who lives with FASD. Through heartfelt storytelling, infused with humor and authenticity, Barb and Zeke will recount the highs and lows of their experiences, including their successes, mistakes and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.
This workshop offers a unique and personal perspective on navigating the complexities of family dynamics when raising and supporting an individual with FASD. From practical strategies to epic missteps, Barb and Zeke will highlight what worked for their family, what they would change in hindsight and how they built a foundation of resilience and understanding.
About the Presenters:
Barb Clark is the Director of Training at Families Rising and the proud adoptive parent of five adult children. With a passion for turning her parenting challenges into valuable lessons, Barb openly shares her experiences to help others avoid common pitfalls. She uses humor and real-life stories to inspire professionals and caregivers to question traditional approaches and embrace innovative strategies. A University of Minnesota Youth Development graduate, she credits her greatest learning to raising children affected by prenatal alcohol, drug exposure, and trauma. Zeke Clark is a college track athlete set to graduate from Minnesota State University-Mankato in June 2025 with a degree in Criminal Justice and Policing Studies. As the youngest of five siblings and the brother of a young woman with FASD, he is a dedicated advocate for FASD awareness. Zeke is passionate about educating others on the challenges faced by individuals with FASD and their families, working to promote greater understanding and support within communities.
Keynote: FASD Roundtable of Resilience
About the Presentation:
Hear directly from individuals with FASD as they share their journeys, challenges and successes. This dynamic panel will highlight a wide range of individuals who offer invaluable firsthand perspectives and practical insights for caregivers and professionals.
Explore Our Breakout Sessions
This presentation explores the unique challenges young people with FASD face in building and maintaining friendships, offering insights from their perspective and highlighting therapeutic strategies that can be applied both in clinical settings and at home.
Presenter Kimber Mork is a clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in therapy and support for neurodiverse youth including those with autism, FASD and ADHD.
This presentation offers practical, real-life strategies for navigating the complex challenges of parenting children with FASD, empowering caregivers with tools to foster connection, reduce stress, and support their child’s unique path to success.
Presenter Juli Geske-Peer is the founder of Peer Performance Solutions, a leadership expert with over 25 years of experience, specializing in executive coaching, emotional intelligence and conflict resolution, while also drawing from her personal experiences parenting children with FASD to empower others.
This presentation will provide an overview of Minnesota’s Medical Assistance programs, including service options, eligibility criteria, and advocacy strategies, while equipping participants with tools to navigate the system and appeal decisions related to disability support services.
Presenters Dalaine Remes and Chad Wilson are experienced disability advocates, with Dalaine specializing in legal support for system navigation and accommodations, and Chad leading community services integration and legal representation for disability rights.
This session will explore the impact of FASD on siblings, providing research-based insights and effective communication strategies that support both siblings and the entire family, helping to reduce stress and foster stronger connections.
Presenter Dr. Jana Hunsley is a psychologist with expertise in consulting, training, and counseling for foster and adoptive families, specializing in trauma-informed care and post-adoption support services, with a background in clinical settings and a focus on the needs of children and youth who have experienced trauma.
This presentation will explore the legal rights families and guardians have under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) from birth to age 21, highlighting challenges and opportunities in navigating education and laying the groundwork for long-term success for individuals with disabilities.
Presenter Julene Powell Zizza is a special education teacher with 39 years of experience and a Master's in Special Education and Rehabilitation. She is an advocate for individuals with FASD and substance use disorders during pregnancy. Julene has been a national speaker for ACOG Grand Rounds and an active member of the FASD United Birth Mother's Circle of Hope for 24 years.
This presentation offers practical tips and strategies from an experienced caregiver to help navigate everyday challenges, set healthy boundaries, and maintain a sense of humor while fostering a positive caregiving experience.
Presenter Melissa Fredin is a co-owner of Engaged 360 Parent Coaching, a Master Level Trainer for childcare providers, and a contractor with Proof Alliance, with over 20 years of experience in foster care, family support, and community education.
This presentation will explore strategies for preparing individuals with FASD and their caregivers for the transition into adulthood, focusing on essential resources, supports, and approaches to create a smoother and more peaceful transition.
Presenter Sara Swan is the founder and executive director of Looking Forward Life Coaching, a nonprofit supporting neurodivergent adults, including those with FASD and autism, and brings 30 years of experience as a guardian and advocate for her uncle and neurodiverse daughter.
This presentation will provide kinship caregivers with an understanding of available resources, benefits, and supports, including financial, legal, and medical assistance, to help them navigate foster care and informal caregiving.
Presenter Janet Salo is a Kinship Navigator with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, bringing over 25 years of experience in advocacy, educational support, and training for kinship caregivers and individuals with unique abilities, along with various certifications in caregiving and mediation.
Meet Our Exhibitors
We’re excited to welcome a variety of exhibitors who will be sharing valuable information and resources to support families and communities.
Visit these booths on Thursday, May 15, to connect with organizations dedicated to making a difference for children and families.
- Adoption Changes
- Adoption Medicine Clinic
- Families Rising Minnesota
- Family Voices of Minnesota
- Foster Adopt Minnesota
- Grace, Inc.
- High Fidelity Wraparound/Volunteers of America – Minnesota
- Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota
- Looking Forward Life Coaching
- Minnesota Inclusive Higher Education Consortium (MIHEC)
- Our Children Are Sacred, a program of Proof Alliance
- Proof Alliance
- Schromen Law, LLC
- Special Olympics Minnesota
- Starfish Agency
- Toneworks MN
- True Friends
- University of Minnesota FASD Research Group (MIDB)
- We Can Ride
Thank You to Our Event Sponsors
We are deeply grateful to the following organizations for their generous support:
- Adoption Medicine Clinic
- Looking Forward Life Coaching
- Starfish Agency
- True Friends
- University of Minnesota FASD Research Group (MIDB)
Your partnership makes a meaningful impact on our work and the success of our event. Thank you for your continued support!
This event is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Health.
Copyright © 2025 by Proof Alliance. These materials are the intellectual property of Proof Alliance. No portion may be reproduced without written consent from Proof Alliance.
What can we help
you with today?
I want:
