Continuing Education

All foster families are required to complete annual continuing education as a part of their reevaluation process. (Depending on the state, there are varying requirements for the number of live hours and non-live hours.) We’ve realized that this is a need we could help meet while creating a larger sense of community.

Continuing Education event basics:

  • Design weeknight or weekend training events and provide beverages, snacks, or a meal.

  • Create support groups or book clubs that can meet weekly for about an hour over a four- to six-week period.

  • Host parent training events at your church. Have everyone meet up and sit together.

  • Simulcast conferences such as CAFO, Refresh, and Show Hope offer an easy way to make training accessible to your families.

 

Pool Party

All ministry participants are invited to an annual pool party. This is one of our most anticipated gatherings. It’s an opportunity to play with your kids while you’re in the company of other families on similar journeys. This combination of fun and belonging has been a huge hit!

This event includes:

  • A rented pool with fun water features

  • Dinner (usually BBQ, a big hit in Georgia!)

  • An ice cream station

  • A photo booth with fun summer props

  • An inexpensive goodie bag for each kid

This is the least expensive ministry-wide gathering that we provide annually.

 
 
 

Christmas Event

At the end of the year, it’s important to take time to celebrate what God has done in and through the families in this ministry. This can be done in a variety of ways. 

  • Host a brunch that incorporates worship, inspirational talk, and Communion.

  • Gather for a Christmas movie night. Provide fun movie snacks and a hot chocolate bar and encourage families to show up in their pj’s.

  • Host a Christmas festival with a variety of crafts and activities for the whole family.

  • Have skilled photographers snap family photos during these events, utilizing on-site Christmas decorations.

  • Create a customized Christmas ornament commemorating the year for each family.

Our families consistently tell us that spending time together talking and sharing stories is something they value. No matter what you do, families will appreciate you creating a space for them to be together.