The Family Ties Program provides guidance, education and support for adoptive, kinship (family members parenting young relatives) and foster families with children ages 2-18 through monthly group meetings, one-on-one support, educational opportunities and social activities. The program focuses on strengthening families, nurturing resiliency and building social connections that positively impact the overall health and well-being of the entire family. During monthly meetings, the parent group, youth group (ages 11-18) and childcare (ages 2-10) run concurrently.

This month's Parent Group Topic: Preparing for a Successful School Year - What can we do to send our children off to a successful school year? We’ll discuss last year’s challenges, how to advocate for your child(ren), and some strategies to put in place as this school year starts. Join us and share your experiences. Our Educational Liaison, Robert “Gib” Gibbons, will offer suggestions and plan for continued support through the coming school year.

This month's Youth Group (ages 11-18) Topic: “Pick One” (Decision Making) Youth will learn how to make positive choices through thoughtful decision making strategies. They will learn how emotions impact actions and brainstorm various solutions to problems. Youth will learn to reflect on past experiences and relate them to current decision making processes.

Parents who attended the National NACAC (North American Council on Adoptable Children) Conference in June in Las Vegas will also be sharing key take-aways from their experience.