The FASD Exchange Mini-Conference
A day of real conversations, lived experience and shared learning. Hear directly from moms, dads and adults with FASD, explore emerging research on the connection between the microbiome, brain and body health, and join professionals as they share insights from practice and research.
It’s an opportunity to listen, learn, connect and see FASD from different perspectives — all around the same table.
Contact Pam Groeneveld for more information
pam.groeneveld@foothillsfas.com
403-601-0862
Mark Your Calendar
Date:
September 28, 2026
Time
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location
Okotoks United Church
Okotoks, AB
The Day at a Glance
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Danna Ormstrup, Executive Director of the Foothills Fetal Alcohol Society will open The FASD Exchange with a warm welcome, setting the stage for a day of connection, conversation, shared experiences, and learning.
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Hear moms and a grandmother as they share their lived experiences - the challenges, lessons, successes, and moments that have shaped their journeys supporting someone with FASD.
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Teams implement solutions within a controlled scenario, testing decision pathways and measuring impact with immediate feedback.
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A candid conversation with dads about fatherhood, family, and navigating life alongside FASD. They’ll share their perspectives, what they’ve learned along the way, and what they wish others understood.
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Take a break, recharge, and enjoy lunch! Bring your own or explore one of the great local restaurants nearby. We’ve included a list of the options below to help you find something delicious.
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Hear directly from adults with FASD as they share their experiences, perspectives, and reflections on navigating everyday life - what helps, what gets in the way, and what they want others to better understand.
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Join the University of Calgary research team for a fascinating look at the micobiome and its connection to brain and body health in FASD. Discover what researchers are learning about the gut-brain connection and why tis emerging are of research is important to the FASD community.
Here’s a peek at what the day may look like! This schedule is intended as a guide, and session times and details are subject to change as we get closer to the event.
Location:
Okotoks United Church
43 Riverside Drive
Okotoks, AB T1S 1A4
Local Restaurants
Bring your own lunch or grab something from one of the local restaurants listed below. If it’s a beautiful day, nearby Sheep River Park is a great spot to enjoy your lunch, get some fresh air, and recharge before the afternoon sessions.
Restaurants within walking distance:
57 Riverside Gate - 2 minute walk
Order ahead available
Specializing in authentic Vietnamese Pho soups + Dishes
71 Riverside Drive, #153 - 4 minute walk
Serving traditional Vietnamese Subs
71 Riverside Drive, #153 - 4 minute walk
Order ahead available
Serving donairs, shawarma, pizza, burgers, poutine, salads, and more.
116 Elizabeth Street - 6 minute walk
