KAK Orlando Conference Recap
Written by katie test davis
The Forthright team just got back from sunny Orlando, Florida, for the annual Krimes Against Kids conference.
It’s a powerful event that brings together everyone from law enforcement and child protective services to survivor advocates.
Honestly, being in a room with so many people dedicated to protecting children was just incredible. As a firm that only works with organizations that help kids and families, we left feeling totally inspired.
Niki and I even had the chance to present on a topic we're incredibly passionate about: Reaching Families Without Internet Access.
In a world that’s so online, it’s crucial to remember that not everyone has the same level of connectivity.
We shared practical, data-backed strategies to make sure vital information and resources reach every family — from using local community partners to good old-fashioned phone calls and direct mail.
We also sat in on a great session about how Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) are using social media to advance their missions. It was fascinating to see how these organizations are navigating the digital world to raise awareness and share their stories.
Here are a couple of things we learned:
Facebook remains the most-used platform for CACs.
It’s followed by LinkedIn, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), respectively.
But here’s what really stood out to us.
We learned about the creative ways CACs personalize their stories while protecting the privacy of the children they serve.
Many use artwork, handwritten notes and chalkboard art in their social media posts to show the human side of their work without revealing sensitive details. It’s such a smart, thoughtful way to share compelling narratives that resonate with their audiences — all while fiercely protecting the kids they serve.
Another key insight? Most CACs have a partial staff member dedicated to marketing.
This is huge. It highlights the growing recognition that strategic communications aren't just a "nice-to-have," but an essential part of a successful organization.
Our time at the Krimes Against Kids conference was a powerful reminder of the incredible work being done in Florida and across the country to protect children. We are more committed than ever to supporting these efforts and providing organizations with the tools and strategies they need to make a difference.
If your organization is looking to boost its communications and outreach, especially when it comes to reaching underserved communities in Florida, we'd love to connect.
