Kalico Forest, a Northeast Wisconsin-based nonprofit dedicated to community outreach, advocacy, education and support in addressing domestic violence, in partnership with Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, is announcing the free, first-of-its-kind Wisconsin Safe Care Summit on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, at the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley Hotel (map). This full-day training event for healthcare professionals, first responders and health system leaders will focus on how to better identify, respond to and support people affected by domestic violence.
“Healthcare professionals are often the first to see what no one else sees,” said Brian Randall, founder of Kalico Forest. “By bringing this group together in one location, we can strengthen the state’s coordinated response to domestic violence. While this is the first summit of its kind in the state, we strive to make it an annual event because the more awareness healthcare professionals have, the more people we can help.”
The inaugural summit unites clinical education, trauma-informed care, referral strategies and Continuing Medical Education (CME) opportunities in a single setting, giving frontline professionals practical tools they can put to work immediately. By coordinating a statewide response to a pressing public health and safety issue, the summit strengthens cross-sector collaboration and works to improve outcomes for survivors across Wisconsin.
"We've designed the summit to equip healthcare professionals with the tools to recognize warning signs, respond with trauma-informed care and connect patients to the right community resources," said Carly Hirsh, executive director at Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services. "Every step in that response matters. When providers know what to look for and where to refer, they can help change the outcome for survivors."
What Sessions will the Wisconsin Safe Care Summit offer?
The Wisconsin Safe Care Summit offers 12 sessions covering nine topics including:
Who should attend the Wisconsin Safe Care Summit?
The summit is designed for healthcare professionals, first responders and health system leaders across Wisconsin. Physicians, nurses and sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) nurses, advanced practice clinicians, behavioral health and social work staff, care coordinators, EMS, law enforcement, fire personnel and clinic and health system leadership are encouraged to attend.
How do I register for the summit?
Attendance is free, but registration is required and limited to 150 participants. To register, visit: https://www.eeds.com/live/735270. This event is funded in part by the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment.
Continuing Medical Education Credits Available
Healthcare professionals attending this domestic violence summit can earn valuable Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits while advancing their clinical expertise. Each qualifying session strengthens the ability to recognize, respond to and support patients affected by domestic violence, directly improving patient care and outcomes. By participating, healthcare professionals meet professional development requirements, stay current with best practices and reinforce commitment to safer, stronger communities.
To learn more about Kalico Forest, and its initiative to help victims of domestic violence, visit kalicoforest.org.
For more information about Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, visit christineann.net.
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About Kalico Forest
Kalico Forest is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, empowering and uplifting women and children affected by domestic violence, in memory of Kali Randall, Zeke Best and Freya Best. Through initiatives including Silver Roots, Zeke’s Light and Freya’s Bloom, Kalico Forest provides trauma-informed support, creative healing and advocacy to foster resilience and hope. For more information, visit www.kalicoforest.org.
About Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, Inc.
Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, Inc. empowers individuals and families by providing safety, shelter, and support to those affected by domestic abuse. Through prevention education, advocacy, and community partnerships, Christine Ann works to end domestic violence and promote safety for all. For more information, visit christineann.net.