To ensure you, your family, and your foster child thrive, we provide extensive support that far exceeds the requirements of Arizona’s Department of Child Safety. Christian Family Care’s support group exists to connect foster and adoptive parents through relevant training topics followed by a time to connect through conversation.
Most of our support group sessions are in-person and childcare is provided, however, we also offer a handful of virtual meetings throughout the year. Virtual meetings consist of 45-60 minutes of training and the rest of the time will be used to connect with one another and walk alongside each other in your journey as foster and adoptive parents.
Upcoming Virtual Support Group Training Meetings
06
January2026
Keeping It Real Book Club: The Connected Child Series Chapter 6: You Are the Boss | Kristen Plamondon
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
Iliana Ozuna from Myers Strickland – Understanding Juvenile Law Juvenile Law: Terminations – understanding grounds and best interest considerations; Interventions – when it might make sense to intervene and factors that the courts consider; Guardianship vs. Adoption – exploring the pros & cons, and the different perspectives on why they’re considered; Estate planning Email Iliana: iliana@myersstrickland.com
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
Keeping It Real Book Club: The Connected Child Series Chapter 10: Supporting Healthy Brain Chemistry – Chapter 11: Handling Set Backs | Kristen Plamondon
Justin Fernstrom and Benita – Individualized Education Program (IEP)benita@lextecnica.com and Justin@lextecnica.com Justin Fernstrom and Benita – of IEPDefenders.com, a community law firm supported by Lex Tecnica, Ltd., which focuses on providing support for families navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Section 504 accommodation processes for children with special needs. Their mission is to ensure that children receive the education to which they are legally entitled, and they offer support to families at no cost.
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
Kari Baker – Finding KIND ( Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences)kari@kariabaker.com Finding KIND- Discovering Hope and Purpose while loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
Stephanie Kreun – Nutrition Effects on Behaviors in Childrenstephaniekreun@gmail.com Nutrition Effects on Behaviors in Children: Nutrition and Wellness Education
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
Bayn Baxter-Smith – Cultural Connections when Matching Children and Familiesbbaxtersmith@cfcare.org Cultural Connections when Matching Children and Families
In-Person and On-Line Support GroupJoin us for an engaging conversation where we explore ways to embrace the joyful moments that can flourish even in the midst of trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Let’s come together to uplift and inspire one another, creating a supportive community where we can share our experiences.
INCLUDED: Childcare available. Snacks and beverages will be provided. RSVP HERE.
You’re Never Alone
A Christian Family Care Family Specialist will regularly visit your home to provide support.
You’ll be invited to participate in our foster and adoptive family support group where you can learn from other families, CFC experts, and find community.
Eligible working parents may receive childcare assistance from the Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES).
You are provided respite time, where your foster child is cared for by another foster family, giving you time to rest, run errands, and take care of any other personal needs.
After a child is placed in your home the state will pay you a monthly reimbursement to cover the cost of room, board, clothing, and supplies for the child. Rates are based on the age of the child and the extent of the care required. Arizona will also pay for the child’s medical, dental, prescription drug, and therapy expenses.
A Team of Professionals Dedicated to You
You will have access to our professional counseling and Christ-centered support services. We’re here to encourage you, to pray with you, and to respond to unexpected challenges or emergencies. By providing professional support services at no cost, we’re giving every family the tools they need to succeed. When a family is successful, then every child will have the best chance to experience a stable, Christ-centered home.
If you have questions about partnering with Christian Family Care to foster children, email at helpkids@cfcare.org.
If you are a foster parent in need of immediate assistance, please reach out to your assigned Foster Care Family Specialist or their supervisor by calling (800) 939-5432. If you need help during non-business hours, please call (602) 930-5127.
John Family Inspiring Story
John was defiant and disruptive at school. He would curse and storm out of class. But his foster parents, Kelley and John Sr., could see through the anger. They knew his heart was hurting. “We had no doubt that God had a reason for us to parent John and with each day that passed,” Kelley said.
DCS’ Thrive Newsletter for Foster and Adoptive Parents!
The Arizona Thrive Newsletter is published monthly by the Department of Child Safety to help foster and adoptive families across the state. Click the button below to read the latest Thrive Newsletter!
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