Family Connections Program - Amara

Family Connections Program

Building Connections

Children and youth placed in out-of-home care thrive when they see their parents and caregivers working together as a team. The Family Connections ProgramTM brings parents (whose children are placed in out-of-home care) and those caring for the children (relative caregivers, suitable others and licensed caregivers) together to have a facilitated, collaborative, child-focused conversation. Lead by FCP Certified Peer Mentors, Connections Conversations are designed to be low-key and positive, with a focus on supporting participants as they navigate this unique relationship and develop a plan to partner together to meet the needs of the child(ren) they all care about.

To Make a Referral:

 
Social workers – please complete our online intake form to make a referral.
 
Anyone else can refer by emailing us at fcp@amarafamily.org

 

Family Connections: An Introduction

Connecting Parents & Caregivers

We offer support for parents whose children are placed in foster/kinship care and those who are caring for the children as they work to build a collaborative, child-centered partnership.

Our services include:

  • Connections Meetings (in person, virtual and paper options)
  • Caregiver and parent relationship support provided by experienced peer mentors
Watch video

What will we talk about?

We can talk about:

  • Child’s Routine
  • Child’s Likes & Dislikes
  • Family Traditions & Cultures
  • Communication

What will not be discussed?

We won’t talk about:

  • Case plan
  • Visitation
  • Personal information you are not comfortable sharing

Who will be there?

These people will be there:

  • Child’s Parent(s)
  • Caregiver(s)
  • Parent Ally
  • Caregiver Mentor

Goals

  • Provide easier transitions into foster care
  • Make it faster and more likely for families to be reunited
  • Support child and family wellbeing
  • Strengthen relationships
  • Increase caregiver and parent engagement

 

Amara occasionally texts clients to best coordinate our services. By agreeing to receive services from Amara, you agree to receive individualized communications from us via text. Clients can always opt out of receiving texts by contacting us at amara@amarafamily.org.

Support this Program

The Family Connections program model was created in collaboration with other local nonprofit and governmental organizations. Believing in the power of this approach to transform and improve the experience of families impacted by foster care, Amara has invested in making this program possible. We are continuing to seek funding to expand this program to multiple counties across the state. Join us in realizing our vision by making a gift to support our work today.

Related Stories

Family Connections: Grayson's Story

Katie and Jonathan Biron became foster parents knowing the importance of maintaining relationships between kids and their parents. While fostering Grayson, they formed a close relationship with his biological family who became one large extended family through adoption.

Watch Grayson's Story

A Network of Family

Katie and Caitlin, their daughters and their extended family, have created a constellation of people to share their lives with. “Our family has grown…I feel like our lives have been really enriched, but it was always in the purpose of keeping the girls connected to their people. That has felt like we’ve forged really amazing relationships with their birth families and it’s been incredible.”

Watch Caitlin and Katie's Story