Free Virtual Parent Advocacy Training Series Launches Winter 2026

Flyer for a virtual Parent Advocacy Training Series scheduled for Winter 2026. The design shows a smiling parent and child outdoors. Text highlights a free live virtual training held Thursdays from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on February 12, February 19, February 26, March 5, and March 12. Topics include communication, trust, advocacy, trauma-informed care, mental health, and systems and legislative understanding. Parents and caregivers receive a $100 gift card upon completion. Registration information lists contact details for Tammy McKittrick at Mercy Health. Logos for the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, Mercy Health, and the Ohio Children’s Trust Fund appear at the bottom.

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in shaping positive outcomes for children, families, and communities. This winter, a free Parent Advocacy Training Series will offer parents and professionals the opportunity to learn together, build leadership skills, and strengthen their ability to advocate effectively for children in a variety of settings.

Funded through the Ohio Children’s Trust Fund, this live virtual training series follows a train-the-trainer model, empowering participants to bring what they learn back into their communities. Each participating parent-professional team commits to training additional teams upon completion, helping expand advocacy skills across the region.

Training Details

  • Format: Live, virtual sessions

  • Dates: February 12, February 19, February 26, March 5, and March 12, 2026

  • Time: Thursdays from 9:00–11:00 a.m.

  • Cost: Free

  • Incentive: Parent and caregiver participants receive a $100 gift card upon completion

  • Availability: Limited; first come, first served

Topics Include

Participants will explore key skills and concepts such as:

  • Respect and effective communication

  • Relationship building, trust, and decision-making

  • Advocacy and communicating within the community

  • Trauma-informed care and mental health

  • Parenting competence and commitment

  • Understanding systems and legislative processes

Who Should Participate

This training is designed for parent and professional teams who want to grow as leaders, strengthen collaboration, and support children more effectively. No prior advocacy experience is required—just a willingness to learn and share knowledge with others.

How to Register

To learn more or register, contact:

Tammy McKittrick
📧 Tamara_McKittrick@Mercy.com
📞 419-251-2469