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Capacity Building

CENTER FOR STATES

Kinship care

Explore the stories of grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and family friends as they make life adjustments to step into the role of kinship caregivers. Gain a deeper understanding of the support they need to navigate the child welfare system and negotiate the complex dual roles they play to provide stability and normalcy for the children in their care, some with special needs. Hear from kinship navigators, administrators, case workers, family finders, and peer mentors who help connect children, youth, caregivers, and parents to the support and resources they need.

Find kinship care stories that best meet your needs by selecting filters on the left and use them with activities from the discussion guide to build understanding and connections between people as you advocate, inspire, support, recruit, train, and coach individuals and teams.

Connect With Us

Learn how we can help your agency build the capacity to thrive.

Email: capacityinfo@icfi.com 
Phone: 1.844.222.0272

Visit the Center for States' Contact Us webpage for more information.

Showing 1 - 5 of 28 Voices of Lived Experience Stories
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Tish's Story

This video highlights the story of a family specialist in Ohio and her experience working with families to successfully place children with kin.

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Teresa's Story (2022)

This video highlights the story of a school social worker in Rhode Island and her experience becoming a foster parent to a student who did not have a relative placement.

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Ronda’s Story

The video highlights the story of a kinship caregiver and how becoming a licensed foster parent working with social services and her local child welfare agency resulted in better support and resources.

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Nevada’s Story

This video highlights the story of a kinship foster parent and her experience navigating the kinship caregiver process in New York City by using the Kinship Guardian Assistance Program (KinGAP).

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Monica's Story

This video highlights the story of a family specialist in Ohio who partners with families to identify safe and healthy kinship connections that empower children, youth, and families.