What We Do...

We are committed to empowering parents impacted by the child protection system. We provide peer-led advocacy, education, and support services that help parents navigate the complexities of DCF involvement, assert their rights, and stay connected with their children.

Our programs are grounded in lived experience and driven by the belief that parents and families deserve to be preserved, supported, and heard. Through one-on-one peer-led advocacy, system navigation assistance, certified parent advocate training, policy reform efforts, and much more... we work to transform child welfare from a system of surveillance and separation to one of support and restoration. We also partner with community organizations, care providers, and policymakers to promote family-centered practices and elevate parent voices in decision-making spaces. At the heart of our work is a deep commitment to justice, healing, and reunification.

Policy Advocacy:

We actively engage in policy advocacy at local and regional levels, striving for systemic improvements within the child protection system. We work with lawmakers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to promote policies that prioritize family preservation and equitable access to support services.

Family Advocacy:

We provide support, guidance, and resources to parents and families navigating the child protection system. Our team works closely with parents, offering information on their rights, explaining the process, and helping them make informed decisions for their families.

Collaborative Partnerships:

We believe in the power of collaboration and actively seek partnerships with other organizations, government agencies, and community stakeholders. By working together, we can create a stronger network of support and advocacy for parents and families.

Resource and Referral:

We connect parents and families with relevant resources, services, and community organizations that can provide assistance in areas such as counseling, parenting classes, housing support, and substance abuse treatment. Our goal is to ensure parents and families have access to the necessary support networks to address their unique needs.

Education and Outreach:

We conduct educational workshops to empower parents and increase awareness about the child protection system. Through these initiatives, we aim to enhance parental knowledge, strengthen family bonds, and promote effective communication and conflict resolution.

Issues We Aim to Solve in The Child Protection System...

Many families involved in the child protection system lack access to comprehensive support services. We aim to enhance and expand support services, including mental/emotional/physical health, parenting workshops, substance abuse/recovery, and other resources that promote family well-being and prevent child abuse and neglect.

Inadequate Support Services:

Many parents and families involved in the child protection system lack access to comprehensive support services. We aim to enhance and expand support services, including mental/emotional/physical health, parenting education workshops, substance abuse/recovery, and other resources that promote family well-being and prevent child abuse and neglect.

Insufficient Prevention Efforts:

Prevention is key to reducing the number of children entering the child protection system. We focus on promoting prevention strategies, such as community education, early intervention programs, and accessible support networks, to address risk factors and provide parents and families with the resources they need to maintain a safe and nurturing environment.

Bias and Disparities:

We aim to address bias and disparities within the child protection system, particularly those related to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors. Our efforts include advocating for culturally sensitive practices, educating professionals on cultural humility, and supporting policies that promote equity and fairness in child protection services.

Insufficient Collaboration and Coordination: 

Collaboration among agencies and professionals involved in child protection is essential for effective outcomes. We promote improved collaboration, communication, and coordination between child welfare agencies, law enforcement, schools, healthcare providers, and others to ensure comprehensive and holistic support for parents, children, and families.

Lack of Family Preservation:

Family preservation is a priority whenever possible. We work to ensure that every effort is made to preserve and strengthen families, providing the necessary support and interventions to address the underlying issues that led to child protection involvement. We advocate for alternative solutions to out-of-home placement, emphasizing reunification and maintaining the child's connection to their parents and family whenever safe and appropriate.