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40 Years of Training That Strengthens the CACFP Community

August 6, 2026

40 Years of Training Blog cacfp.org (1)

For 40 years, the National CACFP Association has been committed to strengthening the Child and Adult Care Food Program by supporting the professionals who make it work every day. Training and professional development have always been central to that mission. 

Through conferences, workshops, webinars and certification programs, the National CACFP Association has provided thousands of learning opportunities for providers, sponsors, state agencies and community partners. These trainings help ensure CACFP professionals have the knowledge, tools and confidence to successfully operate the program while serving nutritious meals to children and adults in care. 

Supporting Professionals Through Education 

CACFP is a complex federal nutrition program with important regulations, meal pattern requirements and administrative responsibilities. High-quality training helps ensure that providers and program operators understand how to implement the program correctly while maintaining a focus on nutrition and care. 

Over the years, the National CACFP Association has developed a wide range of training opportunities designed to support professionals at every stage of their CACFP journey. Topics include, but are not limited to, meal pattern requirements, menu planning, food safety, financial management, program administration, nutrition education and leadership development. 

Programming such as CACFP Boot Camps provide foundational training for providers and program operators who want a deeper understanding of CACFP requirements and best practices. Other virtual training opportunities focus on specialized topics that help providers strengthen daily operations and improve the quality of meals served. 

Community

Bringing the CACFP Community Together 

One of the most impactful training opportunities offered by the National CACFP Association is the National Child Nutrition Conference. For 40 years, the conference has brought together CACFP professionals from across the country to learn from experts, share best practices and build lasting professional connections. 

These in-person learning opportunities allow providers, sponsors and State agencies to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and explore new strategies for strengthening their programs. Many participants return year after year, continuing to build their knowledge and expand their professional networks. 

The National CACFP Association has also expanded access to learning through virtual events, webinars and on-demand training opportunities. These formats allow CACFP professionals across the country to participate in training regardless of travel or location barriers. 

Advancing Professional Growth Through Certification 

Professional certifications have also played an important role in advancing CACFP training and professional development. Certification programs allow professionals to demonstrate their expertise, strengthen their knowledge and show their commitment to maintaining high program standards. 

Through certification and continuing education opportunities, CACFP professionals can continue learning while building skills that benefit both their organizations and the communities they serve. 

Path Icon Certification Purple
Training

Strengthening Programs Through Training 

Training does more than build knowledge. It strengthens the quality of CACFP operations across the country. 

When providers and program operators have access to strong training, they are better equipped to plan nutritious menus, meet program requirements and create positive mealtime environments that support healthy development. 

Training also helps professionals grow as leaders, allowing them to mentor others, share best practices and contribute to a stronger CACFP network nationwide. 

Looking Ahead 

As the National CACFP Association celebrates 40 years, training remains a critical part of supporting the CACFP community. New research, evolving nutrition guidance and changes in program policy will continue to shape the program in the years ahead. 

Ongoing professional development ensures that CACFP professionals remain prepared to meet these challenges while continuing to provide high quality meals and care. 

For four decades, the National CACFP Association has been proud to support the CACFP community through education, collaboration and professional development. We look forward to continuing that work for many years to come.