HOPE OF SOUTH TEXAS, INC. PRESENTS: Hope for Children: A Day of Action Against Child Abuse

Sponsored by H-E-B Helping Here

Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Location: Emerging Technology Building 7403 Lone Tree Rd, Victoria, TX 77905
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Lunch Provided

Keynote Speakers:

Dr. Free N. Hess, Also Known as PediMom
https://pedimom.com/

A board-certified Pediatrician with 15 years of experience in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, a child safety expert, and a Mother whose life mission is to do everything she can to keep children as safe as possible in this ever-changing, and sometimes scary world.

Katherine Barner

https://www.katherinebarner.org/

A respected grief and trauma expert, author, and speaker whose life mission is to help Christian women heal from emotional and spiritual wounds. With degrees in psychology, counseling, and biblical studies, along with extensive professional training, Katherine offers a unique, holistic approach that blends spiritual wisdom with practical mental health strategies. As someone who has walked the path of grief and trauma herself, she speaks authentically and compassionately from personal experience.

Conference Topics:

Strategies of Child Safety and Children Services Professionals Dr Free N Hess, Pediatrician and Child Safety Expert
Cyber Crimes and Children Aaron Smalley, Victoria Police Department Cyber Security Expert
Investigation/Community Policing and the Culture of African American Communities Katherine Barner
Internet Safety Texas Attorney General's Office
Case Study Analysis -Constance Filley-Johnson, DA
- A detailed case review and discussion on intervention strategies and outcomes.

More Information to Come!

Who Should Attend?

Educators, counselors, and school administrators
Law enforcement and child protective services
Medical and mental health professionals
Advocates, nonprofit workers, and community leaders

2nd Annual Hope For Children Conference

A Day of Action Against Child Abuse