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Fall 2017
CFS ContactsAdoptions 240-2700CFS Hotline 654-3200Children’sHealth&DisabilityPreventionNurse 240-2700CSAReimbursement 654-3220EligibilityOfficeroftheDay 654-3409FieldBasedCaseAids 654-3444Recruitment,Development,&SupportInfoLine 654-3220GeneralInformationEastCounty 955-2290GeneralInformationEmergencyResponse&CourtUnits 654-3444
GeneralInformationFamilySupportandCollaboration(FormerlyCentralPrograms) 654-3405GeneralInformationOngoingUnits: 240-2700ILPCoordinators 240-2700LicensingNEW NUMBER! 654-3405PlacementVacancyLine 289-1900RDSManager 654-5594RelativeApproval 654-3405RFAOfficeroftheDay 654-3405RxforKidsPublicHealthProgram 289-9308YouthServicesDivision 240-2700
Asweseektoenhancethestability,supportandpartnershipbetweenoursocialworkers,caregiversandfamilies,wewouldliketoupdateyouaboutthestaffandresourcesavailabletosupportyouandthechildren/familiesyouserve.
Thenewlynamed“Placement Stabilization Team” (PST)iscomprisedof5PlacementStabilizationCoordinatorswhowillworkwith you toidentify best match placements for children and conduct follow upcallstocaregiversduringthefirstthreemonthsofanewplacement.PlacementStabilizationCoordinatorswillalsomakereferralsandteamwithSocialWorkers,PeerPartnerEducators(PPEs),resourcepartnersorwithoneofourregionallyassignedCaregiverSupportSpecialistsformore in-depthsupport, resource linkageandtraining. ThePSTteamis comprised of Sandra Nolan, Elisa Carreno, Betty Cedeno, JanelleMontalvoandCynthiaHutchison.YoumaycontactthePlacementUnitat289-1900oremail:[email protected].
InadditiontotheinitialplacementcoordinationandstabilizationeffortsprovidedbyourPSTteam,wealsohaveonstaffregionallybasedFosterand Relative Caregivers Support Specialists (CSSs). These CaregiverSupport Specialistsmaintain a regional caseloadof all of our countyfosterandrelativecaregivers.• SheriMeyerson-Camarillo/EastCo./ContractedShortTerm
ShelterFamilies:654-5568or765-5161• AnaNavarro-WestCounty/SpanishSpeakingCaregivers/
MedicallyFragilechildren:654-3204or290-7262
Relative Caregiver Support Specialists:• MirnaPina-Ventura/SantaPaula/Fillmore&Piru/OjaiValley/
Somis&EastCounty:289-1985or256-9278• TanyaSanchez-Oxnard/PortHueneme/Camarillo:654-3278or
320-6217CaregiverSupportSpecialistswillcontinuetoprovidesupporttosocialworkers,caregiversandPPE’sinordertoensurechildrenandfamiliesreceive thehighestquality careand support. Someof the rolesof aCSCSinclude:• Identifyingbeneficialresourcesandsupports• Supportingcaregivernavigationofthechildwelfaresystem• Troubleshootingagencyorpartnershipchallenges• Securinghardtoaccessresourcesorspecialfundingandtraining• Providing education, training and updates on policies, practices
andinitiatives• ParticipatinginFamilyTeamMeetings• SupportingcaregiversduringandafteraComplaintInvestigation• Supportingcaregiverengagementwithbirthparents• Providingassistancewithyourrolesinsupportingreunification• LinkingcaregiverswithaPeerPartnerEducator
Wearegratefulforthecommitmentandcareyouprovideourchildren.Ifyouneedimmediateattention,pleasecontactourCaregiverSupportLineat805-654-3220oremailusatfostervckids@ventura.org.
Greetings Foster VC Kids Caregivers,
Elizabeth Thasiah
In2016,Ventura County finalized 122 adoptions offosteryouth.
In1984,PresidentReaganproclaimed the first National Adoption Week
1976In1976,MassachusettsGovernorMichaelDukakisannouncedanAdoption Week inhisStateto promote awareness of the need for adoptive families for children in foster care
1984
1995In1995,PresidentClintonexpandedAdoptionAwarenessWeektotheentire month of November.
1998In1998,PresidentClintondirectedtheDepartmentofHealthandHumanServices(HHS)todevelop a plan to expand the use of the Internet as a tool to find homes for childrenwaitingtobeadoptedfromfostercare.
2008 In2008,PresidentBushprovidedanexplanation of National Adoption Month in Spanish.
2016
TheDaveThomasFoundationiscommittedtofindingforeverfamilies.ToorderacopyordownloadyourfreePDF,visitwww.davethomasfoundation.org/adoption-guide/.
NationalAdoptionDay isa collectivenationaleffort to raiseawarenessof themore than100,000children in foster carewaiting to find permanent, loving families. This annual, one-day event hasmadethedreamsofthousandsofchildrencometruebyworkingwithpolicymakers,practitionersandadvocatestofinalizeadoptionsandcreateandcelebrateadoptivefamilies.
Intotal,NationalAdoptionDayhelpednearly65,000childrenmovefromfostercaretoaforeverfamily.CommunitiesacrossthecountycelebratetheSaturdaybeforeeveryThanksgiving.In2016,morethan5,100childrenwereadoptedbytheirforeverfamiliesduringthe16thannualNationalAdoptionDaycelebrationin430citiesacrosstheUnitedStates.
Thisyear’sNationalAdoptionDaycelebrationwillbeonSaturday,November18,2017.Formoreinformation,visitnationaladoptionday.org.ToreadmorefromtheDaveThomasFoundationonAdoption,visitwww.davethomasfoundation.org
November 18th is National Adoption Day!
Each year, November is recognized as National Adoption Awareness Month. While all adoption-related issues are important, the particular focus of this month is the adoption of children currently in foster care.
For over two decades, National AdoptionMonth has been celebrated across thecountry.Manynational;State;localagencies;andfoster,kinshipcare,andadoptivefamilygroups will arrange programs, events, andactivitiesduring themonthofNovember toraise awareness for children and youth infoster care who are waiting for permanentfamilies.
Formoreinformationonadoption,visitwww.childwelfare.gov/topics/adoption/nam/
isNOVEMBER
National Adoption Month!
Vacationsarepartof family lifeand inmanycasesyouwillfindas a foster family you will be able to include your foster childin theplans for aholiday.Mostof thetime it is supportedandencouragedtoaddthefosterchildtotheseplans.
Whenafosterchildexperiencesatypicalfamilyvacation,itbenefitschildreninmanyways.Theyareintroducedtonewculturesandexperiencesaswellashelpthemtosocializeandbuildconfidenceinuniquecircumstances.Italsoallowsthemtocomparenotesastowhat theydidduring the summeroffwhen theygetback toschoolwiththeirfriends.
Beforeplanningavacation/holidayorschooltripforthechildyouarefosteringyouneedtopreparebyknowingthefollowingthings:
Learn about the permission needed regarding the rules andregulationsfor leavingtheareawiththefosterchild.Thechild’sindividual circumstances must be taken into account and theirwelfareandsafetyisconsideredparamount.
It is expected that the child’s supervising social worker will becontacted before any plans are made to leave the area on avacationtoreceivepermissionoradviceregardinganypaperworkorapprovals thatneed tooccur. Sometimesa judgemustgrantpermission and occasionally the biological parents must givepermission.Keep inmind that the request to leave thestateor
country can take several weeks to acquire, so plan in advancebeforefinishingthearrangementstoleave.AlwayscarrytheHEP,courtordersofplacementandMediCalproofforthechildwhenleavinghome.
Givenoticeof plans aheadof timebecause itmay take severalweeks’ time to get the approvals necessary from those legallyresponsibleinCFS.Forplanstotakethechild/childrenoutofthecountry, thetime to get passports, original birth certificate andcourtapprovalwillneedtobearrangedwellinadvanceofmakingreservationsforthetrip.
Beforeenteringintoplansforavacationaskyourselfsomeofthefollowingquestions
• Howwelldoyouknowyourfosterchild?Ifitislessthan30daysyoushouldgiveitalotofthought.
• Whatisthechild’sageandactivitiesthatwouldbeofinteresttothem?
• Would thechildmiss familyvisitation, therapyor schoolbygoingonthe familyvacation? Insomecases thiswouldnotbeallowedandwouldcausealegalproblem.Othercasesthevisitationschedulecanbemodifiedbyagreementwithbirthparentsandsocialworker.
• How is the child’shealth?Can the childhandle the typeofactivitiesplannedonthetrip?
Ifthingsallfallintoplacethensitbackandenjoytherideasyouwill be providing the greatest opportunity your foster child hasever experienced. Those opportunities include fun, excitement,memories and life skills never before offered to them. Have awonderfultime.
Nurses CORNERByJulieAnneDeSanti,RN,BSN,PublicHealthNurse
Families are able to self-refer for Tri-Counties Regional services!
Tri-Counties Regional Center provides a variety of supports and services forindividuals with developmental disabilities living in San Luis Obispo, SantaBarbaraandVenturaCountiessothattheymaylivefullyandsafelyasactiveandindependentmembersofourcommunity.ToseealistofserviceprovidedclickHEREorcalltheOxnardofficeat(805)485-9643,(805)485-9892EnEspañolortheSimiValleyofficeat(805)823-2325,(805)485-9892EnEspañol
Vacations and the Foster Child
To all of our wonderful resourcefamilieswhoareco-parentingwithbirth families –Wewant to hearfromyou!Wewouldlovetotalktoyoumoreaboutyourexperiencesand successes and share yourstories.PleasecontactJaciJohnsonat 805-289-1948 or email her [email protected]
Call for Action!
Kudos Corner
Betty C. Ijustwantedtosaythankyouto
BettywhohelpedusattheCSAPicnic.Betty,ILOVEworkingwithyou.Thejoyyoubringto the families is really appreciated. Theyall loved your ability to wrangle the smallgoatsandchickensandpositionthefamiliesperfectly to take theirmemorable picturesfromourCSA2017Picnic.Thankyouforyourdedicationtoourfamilies! –LeeannM. Shelley H. & Charlie G. Ihavehadthepleasuretoworkwithresourceparents,ShelleyandCharlie.Theyhavebeenproviding excellent care to drug exposedbabyRuby.Rubyhasneededahospitalstay,weeklydoctorappointments,andtheyneedtomakesuresheisfedevery3hourssoshegainsweight.TheyprovideconsistentdetailedupdatesandarenotonlyprovidingexcellentcareforRuby,buttheyareworkingwiththebiological family to make sure they knowRuby’sneeds.Ruby’sdadworkstwojobsandhasnoexperiencewithadrugexposedbaby.TheyhavebeenfacilitatingvisitsfordadandmakingsureheknowsallofRuby’sneedsandpreferences.Adadwhohadafearof fostercare now feels the support of our resourceparents. Iamgrateful for theseparentsandtheirwillingness toworkwithourbiologicalfamilies;thishasbeenimplementalforRuby’scase. –JenniferK.
Nancy and Michael S.Thisfamilyexpandedtheirlicensetoacapacityof four, with the goal of being available forsiblings to be together. They currently havetwo sets of siblings, two brothers and twosisters. They are managing the challengesthatgoalongwithworkingwithtwodifferentbiologicalfamiliesandreunificationservices,aswellasfourkidsinthehousebetweentheagesofsevenandten.Theydothisbalancingactwiththechildren’sbestinterestinmind.Theyhave done a wonderful job of reaching outand communicating with the parents, whilecaringandnurturingthekids.Thesefourkidsaredramaticallylesstraumatizedbecausetheywereabletostaywiththeirsibling.Thankyoutothisfamilyforextendingthemselvestomakeadifferenceinthelivesofchildren.–BettyC.
.Alexa S.As aPPE,Alexa is a great advocate for thefosterparentssheworkswith.Shediligentlyreaches out and knows the pulse of thefosteringcommunity.Shetenaciouslyworkson finding the right match for the homesonhercaseloadandhasgreatlyassisted inmanysuccessfulplacements.Sheisagreatsourceofinformationandmentor.KudostoyouAlexa,formakingconnectionsthatleadtogoodoutcomes. –BettyC.
Jenn and Kevin T.I have been working with Jenn and Kevinsince December 2016. They always keepmeupdatedwithwhat’sbeengoingonwiththechild,andaremore thanflexiblewhenitcomestovisitationscheduling.Theytrulylovethechildastheirown.It’sbeensuchapleasuretoworkwiththem!–JessicaV.
Yvonne M. Youaresuchaninspiration,and so greatwith our kids.We appreciatehowyouarealwayswillingtogoaboveandbeyond!Thankyou! –SandraR
Joe W. A former Emergency ShelterHomeprovider,Joetookplacementofateenandthoughthechildwasmovedafterabout6months,Joehasmaintainedcontactwithhim,havingregularvisitsandinteractingwiththechild’sNREFMwithwhomhenowlives.
Shortly after the childwasmoved Joe tookplacement of a younger child who stayednearlyayearwhilereunificationserviceswereprovided. Joeandhiswifeacceptedhimasfamily,involvedhiminallactivities,and,tookhimwiththemontripsacrossthecountry.Joeandhiswifewereabletomakerealprogressin addressing and helping to eliminate ormodify the concerning behaviors. The childcame into Joe’s home speaking only a fewwordsandcommunicatedmostlywithbodylanguageor by crying. By thetimehewasreunifiedthechildwasspeakingincompletesentences. During the reunificationprocessJoe facilitatedmultiple visits perweekwithmomanddad.Heofferedspecialvisitationswiththeparentsaswell, invitingtotakethewhole family out to dinner at a restaurant.Sincethischild’sreunificationJoehasstayedin contact with him. He inquires regularlyaboutthechild’sschoolingandwellbeing.Joehashadseveralmeetingswiththechildandhisfamily,onerecentlyatthepark.Ithinkhe’sdoneaphenomenaljob. –SheriM.
Weknowthatexcellentpartnershipbetweencaregivers,bioparents,communityresourcesandsocialworkershappeneveryday.Now,theFosterVCKidsteamwantstohearaboutit!Weareaskingforeveryonetosubmitkudosaboutanygreatexperiencetheywanttoshare.PleasedropanemailtoCrystal.Stratton@ventura.orgtosharethelove!!
Call for Kudos!
The Foster VC Kids CSC’s have been making their way around the Ventura County, spreading the word about the need for loving homes for our Foster kiddos! Makesureyoucomesayhelloatourupcomingevents,andpickupareusableshoppingbag!Don’tforgettoletusknowifyouknowofanyeventsweshouldbeapartof.
Come Visit Us!
September 23ArtFestivalCommunity
Event,PlazaParkinOxnard(11am-3pm)
September 23 StrengtheningourFamiliesCommunityEventhostedbyOxnardSchoolDistrict,
FrankJuniorHighSchool
September 30MakeaDifferenceDay,PlazaParkinOxnard
October 17 Multi-CulturalFestivalin
downtownOxnard–Livemusic,booths,arts&crafts
Dear Busy,Recentlegislation(AB1567,Campos)givesfirstpriorityenrollmentinbeforeandafterschoolprogramstofosterandhomelessyouth.BeginningJuly1,2017,before-and-afterschoolprogramsarerequiredto informtheparentorcaregiverofapupiloftherightofhomeless childrenand foster children to receivepriorityenrollmentandhow to requestpriorityenrollment, subject toprogramcapacity.Thebillfurtherallowsdistrictadministratorstodirectlycertifytotheprogramsthatayouthisinfostercare(orhomeless)withoutfurtherdocumentationfromacareprovider.Also,thisbillwillprohibitaprogramthatchargesfamilyfeesfromchargingafeetoafamilyiftheprogramisawarethatthechildisinfostercare(orhomeless).
CheckinwiththeFosterYouthLiaisonforyourdistricttoseeifheorshecanguideyouinensuringyourstudentsreceivepriorityenrollment.Thislegislationisverynew,sodistrictswillbedeterminingpolicyandprocedurethisyear.
Forassistancewiththisoranyotherschool-relatedquestionorconcern,pleasecontactusat(805)[email protected].
Dear FYS,Iamanewfosterparenttotwoschool-agedsiblings.Theywillbeattendingtheir
schooloforiginintheFall,whichisinaneighboringcitytoourhome.SincemyspouseandIbothwork,weareinneedofafter-schoolprogramming.Wecalledtheschoolandweretoldtheprogramisfullbutourkidswillbeaddedtothewait-list.Weareveryworriedthatthiswillnotbesolvedbythetimeschoolstarts.Whatshouldwedo? —Busy Parent
The School Zone
Foster Youth Education RightsAswebeginanotherschoolyearandourkidsaregettingreadyforbacktoschool,here isauseful linkthatsummarizesthe
CaliforniaEducationCoderightsforourfosteryouth.
1)Toremainintheirschooloforigin,2)Toimmediateenrollmentinschool,3)Topartialcreditsforhighschoolstudents,
4)ToGraduation,5)ToCollege,6)ToSchoolDiscipline,7)Toschoolrecords
Formoreinformation,clickhere:http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/pf/fy/fosteryouthedrights.asp
TheFosterMovementPodcast,featuringformerfosteryouthandnationalleadersinfostercareadvocacy,providespowerfulinsights and practical tools to help youworkwith others toprovideMoreThanEnoughforkidsandfamiliesinfostercarewhereyoulive.Thepodcastscovertopicssuchas‘NavigatingBiological Family Relationships’, and ‘Changing Society byChangingFosterCare’.Tolistenandsubscribe,justgoHEREorvisithttps://cafo.org/series/foster-movement/
Check out the Foster Movement Podcasts!
AswewelcomeFall,wealsowelcomegettingbackintotheroutineofbuses,lunchesandthesoundofschoolbellsringing.Ifyouneedassistancewithbackpacksorschoolsupplies,pleasecontactRDSat654-3220tofindouthowtogetintouchwithyourlocalresourcepartner.Resourcesare available if you have questions on youth education, educationalrightsandmore.FosterVCKidspartnersoffertutoringoptionsthatareavailabletofosteryouth.PleasecheckoutouronlineResourceToolkit,andformoreresourcesHERE!
Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program: FYSCPworksincollaborationwithfosterliaisonsineachdistrictinthecounty toensure that theeducational, physical, social andemotionalneedsoffosteryouthareidentified,todeterminegapsineducationaland social support services and provide those services, directly orthroughreferrals tocollaborativepartners.Theprogramalsoseeks tofacilitatethecompletionandtimelytransferofschoolrecords,improvestudents’ academic achievement, reduce truancy, dropout rates anddelinquentbehavior,andprovideadvocacytopromotethebestinterestoffosteryouthsthroughoutthecounty.ContacttheFosterYouthServicesProgramat805-437-1525fys@vcoe.org.
Project Understanding Tutoring CentersTutoringCentersprovideextrainstructionforstudentsgradesK-5withvolunteer tutors in one-to-one interaction. Project Understandingcurrentlyhas11tutoringcentersthroughoutVenturaCounty,inElRio,Oxnard,SantaPaula,SaticoyandVentura.Freeforallstudents.ContactRDS at 805-654-3220 for referral sheets and instructions. Sometimesstudents may have to be on a waiting list due to space limitations.For more information, visit www.projectunderstanding.org/tutoring-centers/orcontactMariaGonzalez,ProgramManager–805-652-1326,ext303
Eureka! TutoringFreetutoringforfosteryouthinallsubjectareas,kindergartenthroughcollege. Embracing theWhole Child Foundation sponsors educationalassistance. One-on-one tutoring available through in-home webinars
andinhome.Toscheduleatutoringsession,goto:www.ewcata.com.Formoreinformation,[email protected] Storehouse-Back to School SuppliesBackpacksandschoolsuppliesarestillavailableandthewarehouseandboutiqueareopentothefostercommunitytoshopforfreeonTuesday,WednesdayandFridayfrom9am-2pm.Foranappointment,call(805)499-7161orEmail:[email protected]
Featured Resource Partner: Women of Substance & Men of Honor (WOSMOH)WOS&MOH,Inc.addressestheneedsofguidanceandsupportforat-riskyouthbyprovidingrehabilitation&restorationservices,educationon healthy lifestyles and relationships, Leadershipmentoring coursesand scholarships and items includinghygieneproducts, and foodandclothingvouchers.Transitionalfostercareyouth&ProbationyouthareprovidedwithChristmasGiftBags,Transitionalandaftercaresupport,aCommunityNest,TransitionalHousingandreferralsforsupport.WOSMOHisalwayspartneringwithotheragenciesandbusinessestofundraise,provideactivitiesforyouthandfamilies,andcreatesupportswithin the community! To locate services, get involved or see whatupcomingeventsarehappening,emailhelpingyouth@wosmoh.orgorvisittheirnewwebsiteatwww.wosmoh.org!
Foster VC Kids isheretohelp.Wehavemanyresourcesavailableforyouandyourchildren’sneeds,otherthantheabovehighlighted.Ifyouhavespecificmaterialorresourceneeds,contactyoursocialworkerorFosterVCKidsforsupportatfostervckids@ventura.orgorcallusat654-3220.Wecanhelpyoutoaccesstheresourcesyouandyourchildneedtothrive.
Toseethefulllistofresourceproviders,seeourfullFOSTER VC Kids RESOURCE TOOLKIT
atwww.fostervckids.org/resources.
Resource CenterBack to School
TheYis,andalwayswillbe,dedicatedtobuildinghealthy,confident,connectedandsecurechildren,adults,familiesandcommunities.Everydayourimpactisfeltwhenanindividualmakesahealthychoice,whenamentorinspiresachild,andwhenacommunitycomestogetherforthecommongood.VENTURAFAMILYYMCA|760TelegraphRoad,Ventura,CA93003805.642.2131•ciymca.org/ventura
TheVenturaFamilyYMCAhas something foreveryone.Thesearejustpartofthewidevarietyofactivitiesandprogramstheyoffer:
Afterschool Care - Withtoday’sbusyschedules,manyparentspartnerwith the Y for a little help.Afterschool at the Y is knownto improve a child’s attitude about school and boost their self-confidence.Yourchildwillreceivethecareandattentionheorsheneeds:•Homeworkhelp•Creativeplay•Asafeandfunenvironmenttoplaywithfriends•HEPAstandards(HealthyEatingandPhysicalActivity)SIGNYOURCHILDUPFORAFTERSCHOOLCARETODAY!Formoreinformation,pleasecontactJulieO’[email protected]
NFL Flag Football | September 4 - November 11Keepyourchildhealthyandhappyandsignhim/herup forYouthFlag Football.Our coachesemphasize characterdevelopmentandencourageself-confidencewitheverypracticeandgame.Playerswillhaveopportunities to growphysically,mentally and sociallywhilehavingablastplayingthegame.Thereisplayingtimeforeveryone.For anymore information, contact [email protected] orcall805.642.2131x13.
Youth Basketball League | September 14 - November 11Giveyourchildtheopportunitytobuildconfidenceandlearnnewskills! Our coaches emphasize learning fundamentals, displaying
teamwork and having fun, with plenty of playing time for all. Allplayers receive a jersey and an end-of-season trophy. Don’twait!Signyourchildupforaseasontogrowandlearnphysically,mentallyand emotionally! For more information, contact [email protected] & Government - CaliforniaYMCAYouthandGovernmentcreatesasixmonth learningby-doingexperiencethatteachesthevalues of democracy by bringing together a cross-section of thestate’s high school students. The program runs from the end ofAugusttotheendofFebruary.ScholarshipsavailableMeetingsareweeklyat6pmattheVenturaY.DayTBD•Experiencegovernmentfirst-hand•Learnhowtosolvecommunityproblems•Debatecurrenttopicsandissues•DiscusswithpeersthroughoutCaliforniaFormoreinformationcontact:JulieO’[email protected]
Aquatics -TheYMCAhasbeenAmerica’sleadingswiminstructorfor more than 100 years. Our aquatics programs extend beyondinstruction.Wealsoproviderecreational,competitiveandspecialtyaquatics programs for all ages and abilities, including parent-childclasses,water exercise and therapy,water safety and rescue, andwatersports.Youcanviewourswimprogramscheduleatwww.ciymca.org/ventura/html/aquatics.html
What’s Happening at the YMCA this fall
LikeallYprograms,swim,sportsandplay isopentoallwithfinancialassistanceavailable.Formore information,contactAmberStevens,DirectorofAquaticsandYouthProgramsatAmber.Stevens@ciymca.orgor805.642.2131,x17.
EachmonthFosteringResourcefamiliesareinvitedtocometogetherforqualitytimewithavarietyofspeakers.Trainingcertificatesareavailable.LighthouseChurch,3353OldConejoRd,NewburyPark,CA913206:00-8:00pmMeetingsareheldthe2ndThursdayofeverymonth.
September 14 -TrustCasedRelationalIntervention,MissionStatementOctober 12 - TrustBasedRelationalIntervention,LifeBooksNovember 9- TrustBasedRelationalIntervention,NotesofThankfulness
2017 CISS PPE HUB's
Children’s Services Auxiliary hostedtheirannualSummerPicnicinthePark!Manyfamilieswereabletorelaxandhavefun!OurPPEandCSAmemberswereabletomakegreatconnectionswithFosterfamiliesandeveryonethoroughlyenjoyedthepicnic.
Fromlefttoright:AlexaSchumacher,FosterPPE,LeeannMesa,FosterPPE&CSAPresident,SoniaCorrea,FosterPPE,BettyCedeno,PlacementStabilizationTeam
In partnership withWomen of Substance, Men of Honor (WOSMOH),ournewestFaithinMotionpartner,St. Peter Claver’s MissionsofMercyinSimiValleyhostedaRestandReunionevent.Thefestivitiesincludedgames,facepaintingrefreshmentsandFUN!Theeventwasgreat!Thechurchwillbedoingthiseventyearlytohonorandspreadloveandfuntoourfamiliesandyouth.
Resource Events Looking Back
OnbehalfoftheChildren’s Services Auxiliary andFosteringtheFuture,wewouldliketocongratulatethe10recipientsofthisyear’sJoan Gendreau and Brendan Acosta Scholarships. Wearepleased toannounce thatacombined totalof$18,158willbegiven to theseindividualstofurthertheireducationalgoals.These10amazingindividualshavecommittedtomajoring insuchfieldsasPsychology,Nursing,ChildDevelopment,FamilyTherapy,BusinessAdministrationandMentalHealthatthefollowingschoolsUCLA,CSUN,CSUCI,CCBC,Moorpark,OxnardandVenturaCommunityWealsohadoneindividualwhoqualifiedforasportsscholarship.Thesestudentswillbeusingtheirawardmoneytofurthertheireducationandaspiretoreachtheirgoals.TheessayssubmitteddetailedtheeffectsofFostercareandhowinmanycasestheyovercameobstaclesandbarriers.Itiswithgreatpridethatwerecognizeandcelebratethesuccessofthesestudents.Fordetailsonhowtoapplyforthe2018Scholarshipspleasevisitourwebsitecsavc.orgfordetails.
Children’s Services Auxiliary recognizestheneedandawardsscholarships toCourtDependentgraduatinghighschoolstudentsorGEDequivalentwhoareapplyingtoatleastoneofthefollowing:Vocational/TradeSchool,CommunityCollege,4-yearCollegeand/orapplyingtotheMilitaryafterhighschoolorGEDcompletion.Thesescholarshipsareawardedyearlyanditisnevertoolateortooearlytoconsiderapplyingforopportunitiesforthecollegeboundyouthinyourhome!
Businesses with Heart is our newest addition to the Foster VC Kids family of resources.
Many localbusinesseshaveaskedhowtheycanhelpsupportourfoster community. Businesses with Heart provide opportunitiesforbusinesses topartnerwithFosterVCKids tohelpsupportourfoster youth and caregivers. Businesses can provide discounts ontheirproductsorservices,theycanmentorayouthtoprovideaninsidelookatwhatgoesoninthedayofaparticularbusiness,evenofferan internshipor job!Pleasecheckourwebsite foralldetailson services and discounts for: restaurants, dentists, mechanics,recreational activities, furniture, barber shop, and much, muchmore! Ifyouwould liketosuggestaparticularneedorwould liketo refer a business to Businesses with Heart, please contact [email protected].
New Partner Highlight! LaRougeSalon|2104E.MainSt,Ventura|805-667-8533OfferingFREEhaircuts, everyWednesday from2pm -5pm.Comerelaxinabeautifulurbansalonsettingandgetafreshlook!OwnerRachelPerrymansaysthateveryonedeservestofeelspecial.Comemeetyour stylistwho is looking forward toprovidinga real salonexperienceandagreathaircut!CallforyourappointmentandbringyourBusinesseswithHeartIDcard(Coming Soon!).
Monthly Parent’s Night Out Event ClareRicespeaksonEncounterChurch’sfosterministry:
WhenIjoinedtheleadteamstaffatEncounter5yearsago,Iknewverylittleaboutfostercareandadoption.Atthatpoint,allIknewisthatasthenewDirectorofCareMinistries,IwasnowchargedwithoverseeingtheFosterCareMinistry.Whatstartedaspartofmyjobdescription,veryquicklyfilledmyheartwithloveforfosterfamilies.ForsometimeIfeltconflictedbythispassion,becauseIdon’tfeelthecallingtobeafostermom.WhatIquicklylearnedisthatthereareanumberofwaysthatIcanserve.FornowthemostimportantwayformetoprovideisbyincreasingawarenessoftheneedsofthefostercarefamiliesinVenturaCountytothemembersofEncounterChurch.
WestartedbytakingonabackpackministrythatdevelopedintoLoveDoesBags.Ifyou’reafosterparentinVenturaCounty,perhapsyou’vebeenonthereceivingendofoneofourredbackpacksfilledwithitemsandpackedwithloveandprayer.LoveDoesBagshasgrownquicklythankstothedozensofvolunteerswhodonateandserveeachmonth.However,wewantedtoservemore,andhaveapersonalconnectionwiththefosterfamilies.Whenaskingfosterparentswheretheysawopportunityforourchurchtoserveandallofthemresponded“RESPITECHILDCARE”!WehostedafewFosterCareParents’NightOuteventstogiveparentsaneededbreak,andchildrenaneveningoffun.Ourchildcarestaffcaredforchildrenuptoage12whiletheparentsenjoyedaneveningout.Theparentsandstaffagreedthattheeventswereawin-win for all involved. Starting this summer,wewill starthostingFosterParents’NightOutatEncountereveryothermonthonthefirstFriday.–ClareRice,DirectorofCareMinistries,EncounterChurch
The Foster Parents’ Parents Night Out will be Friday, September 8,5-9pm. There isa$5feeperfamilyandpre-registrationisrequired.Youcanregisteronlineatwww.encounterlife.org/eventsoremailClareat [email protected]. Encounter Bible Fellowship Church 6950RalstonSt,Ventura,CA93003
CASA of Ventura County – A Night of Fine Food and MusicJoinourCourtAppointedSpecialAdvocates foraneveningoffinefoodandmusicatCaféFirenzeonSeptember14that6pm.Ticketsare$50perpersonwithopportunitydrawingsthroughouttheevening!Topurchasetickets,visitwww.casaofventuracounty.orgorcall805-389-3120.Formoreinformation,[email protected]
Women of Substance, Men of Honor – Annual Breakfast FundraiserWomen of Substance &Men of Honor has an upcoming AnnualBreakfastFundraiseronOctober28thatSpanishHillCountryClubtoraisefundsforcarepackages.Starttimeis9amwithregistrationopenat8:30.Ticketscanbepurchasedonourwebsite:www.wosmoh.org
Mosaic Retreat – Hope for the foster and adoptive journey – Saturday, November 4th, 9am-9pm –PleasejoinusatCornerstoneChurchat2080WinifredStreetinSimiValleyforguestspeakers,breakoutsessions,andfellowship!Alightbreakfast,lunchanddinnerwillbeservedandaneveningeventyouwon’twanttomiss!Fostercaretraininghoursareoffered,howeverchildcareisnot.Toregister,visit:http://mosaicretreat.com/registration
James Storehouse – Fall ActivitiesInOctober,JamesStorehousewillpartnerwithKidsandFamiliesfortheCoatsandCostumesGiveawayevent.Formoreinformation,call(805)499-7161oremail:[email protected]
InNovember,Thanksgivingdinnermealswithallthetrimmingswillbeavailabletofosterandkinshipfamiliesinneed.Everythingisincluded.Itjustneedstobecooked!Packswillalsoincludegiftcertificatesforaturkey.WealsoplantohaveourannualDreamDayforlittlegirlsinfostercare,ages4-11. WewillbetakingthemtotheAmericanGirlDollStoreatTheGrovewheretheywillpickoutadoll,getthedolls’earspierced,andwewillhaveaspecialseatingoutonthepatiotohavelunchtogetherwiththeirnewdolls.TheGrovewillhaveaspecialsurpriseforeachofthegirls,[email protected].
Upcoming Resource Events
JaciJ.andAnaN.atthe
VenturaChamberBusinessExpo
CalistaM.from
VenturaHighSchool
volunteerstohelp
applytemporary
tattoosandpass
outrecruitment
informationatthe
Ventura4thofJuly
StreetFair.CrystalS.,JaciJ.,andSteve
M.attheCountyof
Ventura’s‘TasteofWellnessFair.
PLACESwe’ve been
JaciJ.andCrystalS.atChoppersandCoppers
FosterVCKids,Children’sServicesAuxiliary,VenturaCountyFire
andtheBoyScoutsmarchedalongtheparaderouteopeningupthe
VenturaCountyFairforthe2ndyearinarow!
Kids & Families Together Presents Nurturing Connections
Kids& Families Together (K&FT) is excited to announce our newpsychoeducationalmaterialusedinourSET(forfosterandkinshipresource families) and FAM (for pre and post adoptive families)programs! Nurturing Connections includes information on thefollowingtopics:1. Attachment2. Development3. TraumaandHowItImpactsUs4. TraumaandtheBrain5. Resilience6. TherapeuticParentingPhilosophy7. TherapeuticParentingToolbox8. Co-Parenting9. MakingSenseofYourAttachmentHistory10. GriefandLoss11. Self-Care12. PlayandFamilyBonding13. Adoption
Therearehelpfulvideolinksthroughoutaswellasextraresourcesattheendofthebook.Takeadvantageofthisopportunitytodeepenyour understanding of your child’s experience and talk things outone-on-onewithK&FT’sattachmentandtrauma-informedclinicians.Toself-refer,callRachelAshleman,LMFTat805.643.1446,ext.106.
Parenting Again: Grandparents as Parents (West County)
Facilitators: Pam & Bill LehtonenSaturday, September 9th, 9am-2pm, Includes lunch
Ventura Missionary Church, 500 High Point Drive, VenturaJustwhenyouthoughtyourparentingdayswereover,yougetacallandyourgrandchildrenornieceandnephewneedtocometoyourhousetostay.Formanyofus,thattemporarycircumstanceturnsintoapermanentsituationandmostofthetimeyouareoverwhelmed.Youdoyourbestandmakesacrifices.
BillandPamLehtonenhavebeenraisingtheirgrandchildrenforover14years.Intheirhome,theyhavea21yearoldincollegeandtwoelementaryagedchildren,10and9.Withover35yearsasparenteducators,theyhavelearnedthattraditionalparentingisnotenoughforthesekids.Childrenwhocomefromhardplacesallexperienceloss,trauma,attachmentissuesandmuchmore.Pam&Billwillsharethestrugglesofloss,anxiety,financialproblems,relationshipswithbirthparentsandthecomplexitiesofraisingchildreninourfast-pacedworld.Theywillalsodiscussthemanyblessingsthatraisingasecondfamilycanbringwithpracticaltoolsthatcanmakealastingdifference.
Youarenotalone!Comeandexperiencelikefamilieswhowanttolearnwaystotakecareofthemselvesandalsogetthemuchneededhelpinraisingtheirsecondfamily.Let’sdothistogether!CelebrateGrandparentsDaywithus!EachParticipant/Couplewillreceiveacopyofthebook,TheKinshipParentingToolbox.
Participants will receive 5 hours of training upon completion of the class series. Please RSVP to Rhonda Carlson at [email protected] Sponsor: Ventura College FKCE
What’s Goin’ On?Foster VC Kids Calendar of Events
Resource Parent Networking and Support GroupsResource Parent Networking provides foster parents the opportunity to meet and build relationships with other foster parents in their communities. Be sure to
“Like” us on Facebook and visit www.fostervckids.org to view the most current information on events! * Please note that meetings are subject to change*
Trauma-Informed Parenting Support Group
Educational:Foster,AdoptiveandKinshipCaregiversinVenturaCountyhavetheopportunitytoexploreavarietyoftopicsinasafe,supportiveenvironmentoftheirpeers.Topicsincludetrauma,BrainandDysregulation,attachment,therapeuticparenting,dealingwithdifficultbehaviors,workingwithbirthfamilies,playfulnessandmore.ReceivetraininghoursthatcanbeappliedtowardResourceParenttrainingrequirements.ChildcareprovidedbyCISSandmustbearrangedatleast48hoursinadvance.PleasecalltoRSVPifyouplanon
attendingagroup.Attendanceisnotrequiredeachweek.Thursdays 6:00-8:00pm, June 8-July 27
Kids & Families Together 856 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Call Amy at 805-643-1446 ext. 133 to register for group.
Simi Valley: ProvidedthroughtheVenturaandOxnardFKCEprogramsandmeetsthe2ndFridayoftheMonthatCornerstoneChurch.
[email protected]@vcccd.edu.formoreinformation.
Ventura: FosterVCKidsmonthlynetworkingmeetingsarecurrentlyonhold.SeetheHUBCalendar.ContactFosterVCKidsat805-654-3220orfostervckids@ventura.orgformoreinfoandforupcomingdates.
Spanish:FosterVCKidshostsmeetingsthelastWednesdayofthemonthfrom6-8pmatVenturaMissionaryChurch.ContactFosterVCKidsat805-654-3220orfostervckids@ventura.
orgformoreinfoandforupcomingdates.
Camarillo: DefendingtheFatherlessisaChristianfaithbasedcaregiversupport
network/group.Allarewelcome.Emaildefendingthefatheless.info@gmail.comorgotohttp://www.defendingthefatherless.net/formoreinfo.
Ventura County Foster Parent Association (VCFPA): TheVCFPAofferssupport,training
andresourcestoVenturaCountyfoster,adoptive,andrelativecaregivers.Theyholdmonthly
membershipmeetingsbi-monthly.Forinformationontheassociationandmeetingsdates/times/
locations,visithttp://www.vcfpa.com/.
CPR & FIRST AID Recertification TrainingParticipantsmustalreadypossessavalidCPRand/orFirstAidcardandneedaRENEWALoftheircurrentcard.PrioritygoestoFoster&KinshipparentsinVenturaCounty.Pre-registrationisREQUIRED.There is NO childcare available at these trainings.
Adult & pediatric CPR & First Aid *Recertification* Classes (East & West Counties)
Allclassesstartat4:30pmandendat6:30pmFirst Aid –September8thDayRoadCenteratVenturaCollege,71DayRd,Ventura,93003CPR–September1stJames’Storehouse3541OldConejoRd.#117,NewburyPark,91320To register, please contact your local FKCE office: Email [email protected] or [email protected] or call 805-678-5144 or 805-289-6181 All Ventura County Foster Caregivers are welcome at no charge. Hosted by FKCE
Mandated Reporter Training – NOW A REQUIRED TRAINING FOR ALL FOSTER & RESOURCE FAMILIES!
ForProfessionalswhoaremandatedreportersinthefieldsofHealth,MentalHealth,Education,SocialServices,Justice,LawEnforcement,Faith,andChildcare.Participantswilllearnhowtorecognizerespondtoandreportchild,dependentadult,andelderabuseandgainknowledgeofpreventionresourcesinourcommunity.No cost, with materials & certificates provided.
November 9th, 2017 9:00am-11:30am at National University 1000TownCenterDrive,Oxnard,93036*January 24, 2018* at 9:00am-11:30am at VCCF Building 4001MissionOaksBlvd,Camarillo,93012- *SPANISH ONLY*March 29, 2018 1:00pm-3:30pm Location to be determined
Email any questions to [email protected] to The Partnership for Safe Families and Communities website for links to register www.partnershipforsafefamilies.org/events
FKCE Trainings Trust Based Relational Intervention Video Series
(West County)Trainer: Pam Lehtonen
5 Mondays: September 11, September 18, September 25, October 2, October 9 6:00-8:30pm (choose one, all, or any combo!)
Ventura Missionary Church, 500 High Point Drive, Ventura (Room 325)Because of their histories, children from hard places have changes in theirbodies, brains, behaviors, and belief systems. While a variety of parentingstrategiesmaybesuccessfulintypicalcircumstances,childrenfromhardplacesneedcaregivingthatmeetstheiruniqueneedsandaddressesthewholechild.All5eveningsarevideobasedtrainingwithroomfordiscussionattheendofeachclass. TrustBasedRelational Intervention(TBRI) isaresearchgroundedinterventionthatmeetsthecomplexneedsofchildrenwhohavesufferedharmduringearlychildhood.Pamhasimplementedthesestrategiesinherhomeandwillalsooffertipsandsuggestionsfromherownexperience.Eachparticipant/couplethatattendswillalsoreceiveacopyofthebook“TheConnectedChild”byKarynPurvisandDavidCross.Participants will receive credit for 2.5 hours upon completion of each segment of training. Please RSVP to Rhonda Carlson [email protected] and specify which classes you intend to take. Sponsor: Ventura College FKCE
For Relative Caregivers Kinship care is the full or part-time parenting of children bygrandparentsorotherrelatives.Thesetraininggroupswillexplorethe practical issues related to parenting a second generation andprovide tools and support tohelp yougetandkeepyourbearingalongtheway.NoRSVPneeded-Walk-inswelcome!Traininghourcertificatesprovidedupon request. For further information,[email protected],[email protected]
Sponsors: Ventura College FKCE, Oxnard College FKCE and Kids & Families Together
Ventura: 1stand3rdTuesdays6:00-8:00pmKids&FamiliesTogether856E.ThompsonBlvd.
Santa Paula:(Bilingual)2ndTuesdayofthemonth6:00-8:00pm|First5NeighborhoodforLearning
21710thSt.
Thousand Oaks: 2ndTuesdayofthemonth6:30-8:30pm|SeniorConcerns401HodencampRd.
Simi Valley: 3rdWednesdayofthemonth6:00-8:00pmSimiValleySeniorCenter3900AvenidaSimi
FormoreinformationontheaboveclassesortoRSVPyoumaycallor email: Debbie Flowers at Oxnard College 678-5144 or RhondaCarlsonatVenturaCollege289-6181debbieflowers@[email protected]
Facilitating Behavioral Change Monday, September 11th 6:00-8:30pm
Childrenwhocomefromabuse,neglectortraumaaremorelikelytodisplayproblembehaviors. ThisvideobasedclasswillexploretheConnectingandCorrectingprinciples.Thevideolecturewillprovidepractical insight and tips on how to use Trust Based Relationalinterventioninreal-lifesituations.
Empowering, Connecting, and Correcting Principles
Monday, September 18th 6:00-8:30pmTrust-Based Relational Intervention is a research-based approachtoworkingwith childrenwho come from “hardplaces”. Childrenwhohavebeenexposedtodrugsandalcoholinuteroorwhohavesufferedabuse,neglectortraumaearlyinlifesufferfromsignificantdisruption in development. This video- based class will offerstrategiestohelpchildrenovercomethesedeficitsandgainthepathtoneededhealing.
Playful Interaction Monday, September 25th 6:00-8:30pm
Throughplay,childrenlearntodevelopthesocialandemotionalskillsneededtosucceedinlife.Thisvideowilloutlinetheimportanceofplayandwillprovidepracticalexamplesofplayfulinteractions.Youwill learn how to unlock the mysteries of playful nurture that isneededinallhumanrelationships.
Hold Me Tight Couples Workshop
(8 sessions) (Camarillo)September 27th- November 15th 6pm-8pm
(This workshop is FREE and you’ll receive training hours!)
Kids and Families Camarillo Office 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Suite P
Areyoureadytostrengthenyourrelationshipwithyourpartnerandinturn,benefityourchildrenandtheirfuturerelationships?
Thegoalsofthisgroupareto:1)identifyandchangefrustratingandpainfulcyclescouplesgetcaughtin,2)improvecommunication,3)helpcouplesmakesenseoftheirownandtheirpartner’semotionsandrelationshipneeds,4)begintohealandforgivepastrelationshiphurts, and 5) deepen and enhance trust, emotional safety, andphysicalintimacy.
Research has shown that when partners are securely attached,they find it easier to be good parents. They also model healthyrelationships for their childrenand tend tohavechildrenwhoarealsosecurelyattached.Securelyattachedchildrenarehappier,moresociallycompetent,moreresilienttostress,andmorelikelytoformhealthy relationships in the future.To register for the next group, please contact Rachel Ashleman, LMFT at 805.643.1446, ext. 106.
Healthy Touch Monday, October 2nd 6:00-8:30pmTouch is more powerful than any other form of communication.Touch isessential tohumanexistence. Thisvideowillexploretheimportanceoftouch,particularlyasatoolforpromotinghealinganddevelopingdeeperconnectionbetweenparentsandchildren. Youwilllearnpracticalwaystoaddhealthytouchtoyourdailylife.
Trust Based Relational Intervention for your Teenager
Monday, October 9th 6:00-8:30pmDeveloping a trusting relationship with any teenager can bechallenging. For teens with traumatic backgrounds of abuse,neglectorbrokenhomes, it isespeciallychallenging forboth theteenandfortheadultcaringforthem.Thisvideofollowsyouthages11-18thatareofferedTrustBasedRelationalIntervention.Youwillseehowthisapproachbringsaboutremarkablechanges.
Please RSVP to Rhonda Carlson [email protected] and specify which classes you intend to take. Sponsor: Ventura College FKCE
** College of the Canyons, locatedinSantaClaritaalsohostsFosterandKinshipCareEducationclasses.TheseworkshopsareFREEforALL fosterandresource families,CollegeStudents,Educatorsandanyoneinterestedinparentingclasses.TheseclassesareavailableforB,D,orFraterenewal.Parkingclassesareneededforallclasses,andpasseswillbeemailedtoregisteredparticipants.You can register online http://www.canyons.edu/Departments/ECE/Pages/Foster-and-Kinship-Care.aspx OR Email [email protected]. These workshops/classes are for adults only, as childcare is not provided
Useful Links Aspiranet
www.aspiranet.orgBethany Family Services
www.bethany.orgCalifornia Youth Connection www.calyouthconn.org
Casa Pacifica www.casapacifica.org
CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates www.casaofventuracounty.org
CFS Independent Living Program www.ventura.org/ilp-youth/ilp-youth
Channel Islands Social Services www.islandsocialservices.org
Child Development Resources www.childdevelopmentresources.org
Child Hope Services www.childhopeservices.orgChildren’s Services Auxiliary
www.csavc.orgDark to Dawn
www.darktodawn.orgFoster VC Kids
www.fostervckids.org
HulaFrog www.hulafrog.com/Ventura-Ca
iFoster www.ifoster.org
Interface Children & Family Services http://icfs.org
James Storehouse www.jamesstorehouse.orgKids & Families Together www.kidsandfamilies.orgKoinonia Family Services
www.kfh.orgMacaroni Kid
www.camarillo.macaronikid.comNational Foster Parent Association
http://nfpaonline.orgNeighborhoods for Learning
www.first5ventura.org/parents-caregivers/neighborhoods-for-learning
QPI California www.qpicalifornia.com
Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center www.rainbowconnectionfrc.weebly.com
Raising HOPE/HOPE4Kids www.raisinghope.org
Shelter Care Resources www.sheltercareresources.com
TEACh Fund Scholarship www.vccf.org/scholarship/tech/index.shtml
VC Foster Parent Association www.vcfpa.com
Ventura County Office of Education Foster Youth Services www.vcoe.org/spes/FosterYouthServices.aspx
Women of Substance, Men of Honor www.wosmohinc.comConejo Valley Guide
www.conejovalleyguide.com/events-calendar
Foster Parent Training WebsitesCalifornia Just in Time Training
www.qpicalifornia.org/justintime.shtmlCenpatico U
www.cenpaticoU.com Foster Care & Adoptive Community
www.fosterparents.comFoster Club
www.fosterclub.com/_booster/article/foster-parent-online-training
Foster Parent College www.fosterparentcollege.com
In the Month of April: There were 851 children in care
240 children were in foster home placements (County & FFA)
397 children were in kinship/relative care placements
98 children were in guardian homes
17 finalized adoptions
55 children remained in group homes/shelter care
29.9% of siblings are separated from each other
18.1% are placed with some, but not all siblings
We welcomed 5 new foster homes into the Foster VC Kids family!
Pleasehelpusspreadthewordabouttheneedforqualityfosterhomes!Remember,fosterparentsareeligibletoreceiveanincentiveof$100forreferringafamilyoncetheycompletethelicensingprocessandanadditional$100onceachildisplacedinthenewfosterfamily’shome!Contactyourlicensinganalystformoreinformation!
Foster Care Snapshot: The Critical Need Continues…
