Five Things to Know About the JA Conference
As we prepare for the
2017 National Juvenile Arthritis Conferences
, here are five things to know from our Conference Chair, Katy Carter, if you’re getting ready to join us this summer!
With the theme of the 2017 JA Conference being JA Warriors , we want to know how YOU are #StrongerThanJA! We are JA Warriors. Every day, we deal with the challenges of juvenile arthritis. While our situations are unique, we’re in this together. Bold, brave and bright. Battling whatever gets in our way and celebrating our victories. As JA Warriors, we stick together, determined to win the fight against JA.
Download a JA Warrior shield or tell us what makes you and your family JA Warriors , take a picture, send it to us or share it on social media using #StrongerThanJA . You may see it featured on Arthritis Foundation social media or at the JA Conference!
During each day, kids and teens will be in their own separate program, while parents and caregivers attend breakout sessions.
Breakout sessions do not need pre-registration – information about each session will be available so you can choose your own schedule on topics that interest you. If you are coming with someone, you are welcome to attend together or attend as many different sessions as possible!
Kids and teens will partake in their own activities throughout the day. Dress them appropriately in play clothes, pack a small bag with their name and include anything they will need throughout the day. Please note, medication will not be administered by program staff, so please make sure to schedule time to visit your child if they need medication throughout the day.
Let your social butterfly fly! The JA Conference is a great opportunity to meet other families and connect with people that have gone through similar experiences. Talk to someone new, or find someone in your state or with a bead of the same diagnosis.
While we definitely encourage engaging on social media, be sure to “be present” during the weekend.
Relax and enjoy this time away with your family and friends and take in this experience of a lifetime. From educational sessions, networking opportunities, family nights and more – we are excited to have you with us in Houston and Indianapolis!
Related Resources:
Calling All JA Warriors!
With the theme of the 2017 JA Conference being JA Warriors , we want to know how YOU are #StrongerThanJA! We are JA Warriors. Every day, we deal with the challenges of juvenile arthritis. While our situations are unique, we’re in this together. Bold, brave and bright. Battling whatever gets in our way and celebrating our victories. As JA Warriors, we stick together, determined to win the fight against JA.
Download a JA Warrior shield or tell us what makes you and your family JA Warriors , take a picture, send it to us or share it on social media using #StrongerThanJA . You may see it featured on Arthritis Foundation social media or at the JA Conference!
Theme Days
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Thursday: State Day
Show your spirit and wear something that represents the state you live in – from your favorite sports team to a popular state attraction to wherever your imagination takes you. Anything goes! -
Friday: Conference Day
Wear your JA Conference shirt and show your JA Warrior spirit! Don't forget to stop by the Photo Booth and take a picture with your family and friends! -
Sunday: Team Day
Show your team spirit and put on your favorite Walk to Cure Arthritis or Jingle Bell Run team or event t-shirts!
Structure of the Conference
During each day, kids and teens will be in their own separate program, while parents and caregivers attend breakout sessions.
Breakout sessions do not need pre-registration – information about each session will be available so you can choose your own schedule on topics that interest you. If you are coming with someone, you are welcome to attend together or attend as many different sessions as possible!
Kids and teens will partake in their own activities throughout the day. Dress them appropriately in play clothes, pack a small bag with their name and include anything they will need throughout the day. Please note, medication will not be administered by program staff, so please make sure to schedule time to visit your child if they need medication throughout the day.
Network and Connect
Let your social butterfly fly! The JA Conference is a great opportunity to meet other families and connect with people that have gone through similar experiences. Talk to someone new, or find someone in your state or with a bead of the same diagnosis.
While we definitely encourage engaging on social media, be sure to “be present” during the weekend.
Relax and Enjoy!
Relax and enjoy this time away with your family and friends and take in this experience of a lifetime. From educational sessions, networking opportunities, family nights and more – we are excited to have you with us in Houston and Indianapolis!
Related Resources:
