Future Forward

On September 24, 2026, the New Jersey Family Planning League hosted a pivotal statewide gathering to strengthen connections between clinical care and community-based support for sexual and reproductive health.

The Future Forward conference’s goal was to advance equitable health care by building a more seamlessly integrated ecosystem in New Jersey—one where sexual and reproductive health is supported not only within clinical settings, but also through a strong network of nontraditional partners across the state. By integrating reproductive health into the broader fabric of New Jersey’s community services, we hope to ensure that access to these essential services and good health outcomes are a reality for every New Jerseyan.

Glimpses from the Future Forward Conference

Attendees joined us for engaging breakout sessions on diverse topics

HIV Today: Prevention, Care, and Community Action

This session explored current HIV trends, new prevention tools, including PrEP and U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), and strategies to reduce healthcare stigma. Participants explored strategies to reduce healthcare stigma and build community partnerships that expand access to care.

Speaker

Mark Cruz, Rutgers University

Abortion Care in Practice: Access, Support, and Policy

This session explored patient-centered abortion counseling, referral networks, and practical support strategies. Panelists broke down New Jersey’s legal landscape and the latest policy efforts impacting care.

Panel Speakers

Dr. Kris Brandi, Luminosas Wellness Collective

Apria DeGuzman, The Women’s Centers

Phoebe Pollinger, Tovah

Reaching Young People: Strategies for Care and Connection

Participants learnt how to better reach and support youth in sexual and reproductive healthcare. Panelists shared practical approaches to deepen engagement with current patients and connect with unreached young people.

Speaker

Bethany Diaz, Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan NJ

Thomas Foley, HiTOPS

Shayne Judge, Rutgers University

Kathy Rodriguez, Education Consultant

Tazmine Weisgerber, ANSWER

Moderator

Blythe Ulrich, NJFPL Board

Bridging Care: Substance Use and Reproductive Health

This session explored how to integrate low-barrier, equitable substance use disorder care into sexual and reproductive health settings. Participants learned practical strategies to reduce stigma, handle disclosures, and empower patients through education and strategic partnerships.

Speaker

Iris Jones, New Jersey Department of Health

Advancing Maternal Health Through Partnership

This panel examined New Jersey’s maternal health landscape, identifying gaps in care and actionable strategies to bridge them. Attendees discovered how innovative partnerships are improving access, quality, and health equity for families statewide.

Panel Speakers

Sakura Ando, NJFPL

Gina Arias, Moms Rising

Dr. Shelby Pitt, Rutgers Health

Trashaun Powell, Society of Family Planning

Jasmine Winters, Peaceful Minds Haven

Moderator

Dr. Rita Knause, NHCAC

Expanding Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Access in Southern NJ

This panel discussed reproductive healthcare access in rural Southern New Jersey, along with how community partnerships and innovative care models are breaking down barriers and expanding services.

Panel Speaker

Dr. Emma Cortes, Migrant Health Collaborative of South Jersey

Dr. Haydeeliz Hopkins, Healthcare Administrator

Dr. Miriam Langer, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Moderator

Bridget Bohannon, Famcare, Inc