The final IRIS in Action session of 2026 will highlight community-driven strategies from a project dedicated to strengthening the well-being of families across eight rural southeast Kansas counties. Centering family voice, community expertise, and local relationships, the federally funded Family Strong program braids together multiple interventions to support families before challenges escalate into a crisis resulting in families placed in the child welfare system. Through this project, an inclusive network of community resources and providers integrated IRIS to help families access support earlier and more easily, regardless of where they first seek help.

Family Strong researchers and evaluators from the University of Kansas Center for Public Partnerships and Research (KU-CPPR) will share program outcomes, lessons learned, and replicable guidance. Hear how providers used IRIS to bolster collaboration and strengthen connections with new partners. Learn how the Family Strong program established new entry points in the community with wrap-around services and worked to build a culture where help seeking is accessible and supported.