The Science of Hope & Well-Being

Empowering Families, Protecting Children through Advocacy and Awareness: A Public Webinar Series

Louisiana CASA is excited to host our third webinar series. This series is brought to you in partnership with the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund so we are required to ask participants certain demographic questions during registration. Once you register, an email will be sent to you that includes the link to join the webinar. We hope to see you there!

The Science of Hope & Well-Being

Hope is the mindset that drives resilient behaviors.  Additionally, research shows that hope is a psychological strength that can be nurtured. This presentation will cover topics such as the science and power of hope, the role of supportive relationships and environments, and practical strategies for building resilience in individuals and communities. The presentation will draw on over 15 years of research demonstrating hope as a protective factor for children and families experiencing adversity and trauma. By providing education and resources on hope and resiliency, the webinar could help to prevent child abuse and promote outcomes for children and families facing challenging situations. 

Chan M. Hellman, PHD

Chan M. Hellman is a professor at the University of Oklahoma and Director of The Hope Research Center and has published over 100 research studies.  Chan has presented his work on hope with TEDx and has provided invited talks in Europe, United Kingdom, and the Middle East.  Chan’s research is focused on hope as a psychological strength helping children and adults overcome trauma and adversity.  This research informed the development of the “Hope Centered and Trauma Informed” curriculum used to promote Hope Centered Organizations. Chan is the co-author of the award-winning book “Hope Rising:  How the Science of Hope Can Change Your Life” published by Morgan James.  Chan was one of five invited workshops for Jane Goodall’s Activating Hope Summit in 2021. Chan’s work was featured as a main stage presentation at the 2023 American Psychological Association convention. Chan has Co-Founded Hope Rising Oklahoma along with First Lady Sarah Stitt in their effort to make Oklahoma a hope-centered state.  Chan’s work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and more recently in TIME Magazine. Chan Joined the University of Oklahoma in 2002 and is a Professor in the Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work.  Chan is also the Founding Director of The Hope Research Center and holds an Adjunct Professor appointment in the Department of Health Promotion Sciences for the OU College of Public Health.