Quick look: Ensure Justice 2026, hosted by the Global Center for Women and Justice in partnership with OCDE, will take place March 6 at Vanguard University. The conference will bring families and educators together to address threats facing youth and strengthen prevention efforts across Orange County.
Vanguard University and the Orange County Department of Education are teaming up to host a conference focused on the threats facing young people today — from labor trafficking and online grooming to gang involvement and unhealthy relationships.
Ensure Justice 2026, presented by the Global Center for Women and Justice at Vanguard University in partnership with OCDE, will take place March 6 in Costa Mesa. The one-day event is designed to equip parents, caregivers, educators and community leaders with research-informed strategies to help prevent exploitation and strengthen support systems for youth.
Organizers say the conference will examine how traffickers and online predators target young people, how digital platforms can be used to manipulate behavior, and how families and schools can respond. Sessions will also address the warning signs of gang recruitment and unhealthy relationships, along with approaches that promote resilience and informed decision-making.
“This conference is about preparing adults to better support young people before harm occurs,” said Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean. “When we strengthen awareness and collaboration across schools, families and community partners, we create safer environments for students.”
The theme for this year’s gathering, “Resilient and Ready: Building Youth Who Stand, Speak and Lead,” reflects an emphasis on prevention and youth empowerment. Throughout the day, participants will hear from researchers, educators, law enforcement leaders and youth advocates in plenary sessions and targeted workshops.
Dr. Sandra Morgan, executive director of the Global Center for Women and Justice, said the partnership underscores a shared responsibility.
“The challenges facing youth are complex, but prevention is possible when communities work together,” Morgan said. “Our goal is to provide practical tools that families and educators can use immediately.”
Ensure Justice 2026 will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Vanguard University. Parents, teachers and faculty may register free of charge with a discount code, and university students are eligible for a reduced rate.
Registration details and additional information are available at gcwj.org.
