TUPELO – Those committed to the well-being of today’s families can expand their knowledge and share their expertise Oct. 12 at the 13th annual Families and Communities Together Conference in Tupelo.

The FACT conference is sponsored by the Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi Department of Human Services, Mississippi School Attendance, Family Resource Center of Lee County and other family-assistance agencies. It is open to the public and will be held at the North Mississippi Medical Center on North Gloster Street.

Extension and state experts will present information on play therapy, Internet predators, childhood obesity, developmental delays, cultural diversity and mental health issues.

“FACT is for those who take a proactive role in aiding families in today’s society,” said Carla Stanford, Extension child and family development area agent in Pontotoc County. “The subject matter will speak to those who are directly involved in the health and safety of our children.”

Continuing education credit is available for social workers, foster parents, educators, licensed counselors and family therapists, and may be available for addiction professionals.

A $40 registration fee is required by Oct. 1. Contact Stanford at (662) 489-3910 or carlas@ext.msstate.edu for a registration form and program. Make checks payable to CREATE, and mail forms with payment to the FACT Conference, P.O. Box 1053, Tupelo, MS, 38802-1053.

Writer: Karen Templeton