CoAction Hosts 2025 Reimagine Conference at Valparaiso University 

CoAction is proud to announce the 2025 Reimagine Conference, taking place on Friday, October 11, 2025, at Valparaiso University. The conference brings together professionals from education, first response, social services, and community development to explore practical strategies for building stronger, trauma-informed communities. 

This year’s theme, Hope in Action: Mobilizing Communities to Respond and Build Collective Strength, reflects CoAction’s commitment to turning knowledge into actionable solutions that foster resilience, healing, and community well-being. Attendees will gain insights into addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences, reducing burnout among service providers, and supporting the mental and emotional health of individuals and families across Northwest Indiana. 

The conference will feature a keynote address by Dr. Angela Pharris, titled “The Science and Power of Hope.” In her keynote, Dr. Pharris will explore the science behind hope and its profound impact on individuals and organizations. Participants will gain insights into the core tenets of hope , goals, pathways, and agency thinking. Learn how cultivating a hopeful mindset can serve as a buffer against stress, adversity, and burnout. This session will provide practical strategies to inspire hope and drive meaningful change within our communities. 

As a Community Action Agency, CoAction works directly with families and individuals facing poverty, trauma, and other challenges. Hosting the Reimagine Conference aligns with CoAction’s mission to strengthen communities by equipping professionals with tools to understand and respond to trauma. Building trauma-informed communities is essential to breaking cycles of adversity, improving public health, and ensuring that educators, first responders, social workers, and other community professionals can provide effective support to those in need. 

“Trauma touches every corner of our community. The Reimagine Conference is an opportunity for educators, first responders, and social workers to come together, learn practical strategies, and leave equipped to make a real difference,” said Jen Trowbridge, CEO of CoAction. “By building trauma-informed communities, we can create safer, healthier, and more resilient spaces for everyone.” 

“The Reimagine Conference is a unique opportunity to bring together professionals from across sectors to share knowledge, build connections, and develop practical solutions that strengthen our communities,” said Claudia Pena, Communications Manager at CoAction. “Attendees will leave with actionable tools they can apply immediately to support individuals and families affected by trauma while also caring for their own well-being.” 

Registration is now open. Professionals interested in attending can register online at https://coaction.care/reimagine-conference/reimagine-conference-2025/ . Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.