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2025 – 2026 Florida’s Children First Training Series

January 21, 2026
Emancipation: of Children: Is Freedom Easy?

Speaker: Janine Rice

Many of us have been told by our clients “I want to be emancipated.” But often the reality does not meet expectations, whether those of our teenage clients, the adults who want to escape responsibility legally, or just society at large. By attending and participating in this 1.5 credit hour Florida CLE, you will learn what emancipation is, when the facts support it, whether other strategies can accomplish the same goals, and the “nuts and bolts” of the legal proceeding.

CLE Credits: 2.0 General        Certification Credits: 2.0 Juvenile Law

Produced in partnership between the Florida Legal ServicesFlorida’s Children First, and the Public Interest Law Section (PILS) of the Florida Bar

February 18, 2026
Enforcing Children’s Rights

Speaker: C. Christine Smith

CLE Pending

Produced in partnership between the Florida Legal ServicesFlorida’s Children First, and the Public Interest Law Section (PILS) of the Florida Bar

March 18, 2026
Disability Application Basics for Children & Youth

Speaker: Ericka S. Herring

CLE Pending

September 17, 2025
Children’s Rights: Transitions, Money, Normalcy, Siblings

Speaker: C. Christine Smith

This training will cover the rights of children and youth in the child welfare system, as established by the legislature to ensure their safety, dignity, and well-being. The training will outline the specific rights granted to children in out-of-home care, such as the right to a safe and stable living environment, access to education and healthcare, participation in age-appropriate activities, and involvement in case planning. It will also emphasize the responsibilities of child welfare professionals to uphold and advocate for these rights, ensure youth are informed of them, and support their voice in decisions affecting their lives. The training includes real-world scenarios, compliance expectations, and best practices to help professionals apply F.S. 39.4085 effectively in their work.

CLE Credits: 1.5 General                     Certification Credits: 1.5 Juvenile Law

October 15, 2025
Let the Sunshine In: Bringing the Hidden Foster Care System Into the Light

Speaker: Janine Rice 

Have you seen the term “hidden foster care” and wondered what it meant? Or maybe you know what it means but wonder what you can do about it? This session explains what the term means, and the benefits and consequences that flow from “hidden foster care.” You’ll learn how to empower clients and their families with that knowledge, so that they can make informed decisions about their family.

CLE Credits: 1.0 General                     Certification Credits: 1.0 Juvenile Law

November 19, 2025
The ABC’s of the Comprehensive Behavioral HealthAssessments
(CBHAs)

Speaker: Ericka S. Herring

Join us for an engaging and informative training designed to deepen your understanding of CBHAs—what they are, why they matter, and most importantly, how to turn those recommendations into action. This session will walk you through the legal foundations of CBHAs, discuss the current guiding documents, and provide a practical, step-by-step look at the referral, preparation and implementation process. 

CLE Credits: 2.0 General/2.0 Mental Health & Wellness        Certification Credits: 2.0 Juvenile Law

Produced in partnership between the Florida Legal ServicesFlorida’s Children First, and the Public Interest Law Section (PILS) of the Florida Bar

December 17, 2026
Follow the Money – Master Trust for Child Welfare Children & Youth

Speaker: Robin Rosenberg 

What happens to the funds that children in state care receive as Social Security, Veterans, or other benefits? Who does the money belong to, and how can it be spent? This webinar will talk about where the money comes from, where it goes, and how to make sure it’s saved and spent to meet the needs of children and youth. We’ll also look at income from allowance and employment.

CLE Credits: 1.5 General        Certification Credits: 1.5 Juvenile Law

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Mel

Mel De Miami

FYS Communications & Marketing Chair
(Miami)

Hi everyone!

My name is Mel and I’m 23. In the community support space, I’m known for strong communication, crisis navigation, and the ability to build trust with participants from diverse backgrounds. I consistently hold close partnerships with care coordinators, advocates, and local organizations to provide comprehensive and high-quality support. 

I specialize in creating structured tools such as educational guides, clear documentation, and life-skills resources that help youth better understand their needs, boundaries, and options.

Alongside my advocacy work, I have become an accomplished creative whose work spans digital design, visual content development, and storytelling. I design flyers, presentations, and multimedia pieces that bring clarity, culture, and visual impact to youth programming, community initiatives, and local events. My creative eye allows me to transform information into accessible and engaging visuals that resonate authentically with the communities I serve. 

I am proud to be a member of the 2025-26 Statewide Board as and lend my skills to Florida Youth SHINE in support of my peers and bringing changed for youth with homeless and foster care experience. 

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