Roster Update July 2010

University of Phoenix & National Foster Parent Association(NFPA)

Partners in Education

09V O L U M E

J U L Y2 0 1 0

A M O N T H L Y

N E W S L E T T E R F O R

F O S T E R & A D O P T I V E

P A R E N T S I N U T A H

The University of Phoenix has offered 50 scholarships to alumnus of foster care and foster parents the opportunity to earn a college degree under the banner of the University’s First Chance Scholarship program.

This degree program is for a Bachelor’s

or Master’s Degree. The NFPA has now partnered with the Foster Care Alumni of America to offer these scholarships nationwide. To read more about the scholarship and find out how you can qualify go to www.nfpainc.org.

The deadline to apply is July 23, 2010!

in this issueScholarship Opportunity P.1

Statewide Happenings P.2

LGBTQ Listening Forums P.3

Letter From DHS P.4

fosterroster

STATEWIDE UPDATEUtah Foster Care

Foundation Offices

Murray5296 S. Commerce Dr. #400Murray, UT 84107Phone: 801.994.5205Fax: 801.994.5206Toll Free: 877.505.KIDS

Ogden3340 S. Harrison Blvd. #200Ogden, UT 84403Phone: 801.392.1114

Orem252 N. Orem Blvd. Orem, UT 84057Phone: 801.373.3006

Price475 W. Price River Dr. #152Price, UT 84501Phone: 435.636.0210

RooseveltPhone: 435.724.0959

Vernal1052 W. Market Dr. Vernal, UT 84078Phone: 435.781.4224

Moab180 S. 300 E., Ste. CMoab, UT 84532Phone: 435.259.3345

St. George321 N. Mall Dr. #B102St. George, UT 84790Phone: 435.656.8065

Richfield201 E. 500 N.Richfield, UT 84701Phone: 435.896.1232

Celebrating Foster FamiliesUtah Foster Care Foundation invites you to join

us in celebration of you!

What: All Region Resource Family Appreciation Event

Where: Raging Waters 1200 W. 1700 So. in Salt Lake City

When: Monday, August 2, 2010

Check-in: Noon - 6:00pm (swimming until 7:30pm)

This event is for STATE LICENSED RESOURCE

FAMILIES including parents and biological,

foster and adopted children UNDER age 21

who LIVE IN THE HOME. No exceptions.

Watch your mailbox for more information.

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Cool Down this Summer!

This year Utah Foster Care Foundation is hosting a statewide appreciation event.

It will be held at Raging Waters in Salt Lake City: 1200 W. 1700 S., on Monday, August 2nd.

Invitations will be mailed to your home later this month, so watch your mailbox for your invitation!

2

Blaze Tickets Donated

On April 17, 2010 seven foster families were able to attend the Utah Blaze Arena Football game at the E-Center in West Valley City.

Tickets to the game and t-shirts for the families in attendance were generously donated by Maakoa, a juice company located in Utah County.

Maakoa is once again offering this opportunity to foster/adoptive families licensed with the state of Utah. Be aware that there are only 50 tickets available and so, it is on a first come, first served basis. If you attended the game on April 17th, you are not eligible to attend this game.

The game is on Saturday, July 9th at 7:00 pm at the E-Center.

Hurry, there are only 15 tickets left!

If your family would llike to attend this game, please contact Darcey at 801.994.5205 or toll-free 877.505.5437 or email [email protected].

You need to include your family name, number of people in your family and your telephone number, so that details for picking up the tickets can be given to you.

Thank you Maakoa for your generous donation to foster families! For more information about Maakoa, please visit their website: http://www.maakoa.com.

Royal Family Kids Camps

August 9th thru August 13thSponsored by Mountain View

Contact Darlene Petterson801.567.9487

Applications available online at: https://www.rfkckids.org

Mountain View is sponsoring its 13th year of RFKC. No other camp has what they offer, one counselor for every 2 children! Training sessions have prepared their staff for the special circumstances of children who are in the foster care system. There is an amazing amount of fun filled days at RFKC! There will be swimming, lots of great food, hiking, activity center, pinewood derby, clean cabins, lots of fun and fresh air!! Camp will be held at Camp Wapiti.

Foster Family Camp at Aspen Grove

The deadline to mail in your registration form is JULY 9th. Remember that preference is given to families who have never attended camp before. You MUST have a current foster care placement and/or adopted children from foster care within the past 12 months (October 2009 - September 2010).

Foster family camp is for immediate family members under the age of 18 still living at home. Due to limited space no exceptions will be granted.

Statewide Happenings

(1,1) -2-3- July Roster Update.indd 7/22/2010 1:24:13 PM(1,1) -2-3- July Roster Update.indd 7/22/2010 1:24:13 PM

LGBTQListening Forums

Dear Foster Parent,

Have you cared for a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning (LGBTQ) youth? We invite you to participate in a Listening Forum addressing the needs of these youth who are placed in out-of-home care. We are hosting Listening Forums throughout the state. Bring your youth and join us at the location nearest you. Logan Wednesday 7/28: 9:00-2:00 Utah State University, Center Colony Room, Taggart Student Center

Salt Lake City Thursday 7/29: 9:00-2:00 Sorenson Unity Center, Performance Theatre

St. George Monday 8/2: 10:00-3:00 St. George Library

Price Tuesday 8/3: 9:00-2:00 College of Eastern Utah, Multipurpose Room, Student Center

Provo Wednesday 8/4: 9:00-2:00 Provo Library, Room 302, 550 N. University

Ogden Monday 8/16: 9:00-2:00, Unitarian Universalist Church, 705 23rd Street

Please note that the first hour of each day is for youth only. Please arrive at 9:50am for the Listening Forums (10:50am in St. George). Register to participate by contacting [email protected] or 801.539.8800 ext. 29.

The Listening Forums are co-sponsored by Volunteers of America, Utah, Quality Youth Services, and the Utah Pride Center and are for all families involved with child and family services and juvenile justice. The Listening Forums will give you and youth in your care the opportunity to share your experiences, concerns, and suggestions for improving care for underserved LGBTQ youth.

3

UFAFA ExecutiveCommittee

President: Jennifer Gardner1st Vice President: Renee Calkins2nd Vice President: Cayce ThillSecretary: Michelle OstmarkTreasurer: Beth Hardman

Check out our website:www.myufafa.com

The safety needs of all youth in state care are of primary importance. Each youth and their foster parents should have every chance of a safe and successful placement. - UFCF


4


in this issueFamily Rules P.5

Cluster Concepts P.6

Training Updates P.7

Trauma & Attachment Series P.10

SALT LAKE VALLEY REGION UPDATE

Salt Lake Valley Office

5296 S. Commerce Dr. #400Murray, UT 84107

Phone: 801.994.5205Fax: 801.994.5206

Toll Free: 877.505.KIDS

Area Representative

Kirsten Fuller

Foster/Adoptive Family Recruiters

Amy BoyackChristina LeCluyse

Dan Webster

Trainer

Liz Rivera

Retention Specialist

Tina Porter

Family RulesBy Raising Children Networkhttp://raisingchildren.net.au/

It’s not easy and it’s not fair when the only way you discover that there are rules is when you break them. Living without clear rules provokes uncertainty and anxiety in children, and it makes it harder for them to learn how to achieve the balance between what they want and respecting the need of others.

Families need some rules. Effective rules are positive statements about how your family wants to look after and treat its members. When rules are stated clearly and unam-biguously, they help children learn where the limits are and what is expected of them. An additional benefit is that rules can help adults be consistent in the way they treat children.

It is important to involve children as much as possible in the development of family rules. Involving your children in develop-ing the family rules and the consequences for breaking them helps them to under-stand and internalize the principles behind the rules.

Many families find it useful to write down a set of rules about how the family members are expected to behave. Having them written down makes them clear and can prevent arguments about what is or is not a rule for the family.

Rules are an adult’s responsibility, but chil-dren will appreciate being involved in set-ting the rules. Taking part in discussions about rules will prevent them being broken, but it will help the children understand what the rules are and why they are needed. Writing the rules down and posting them somewhere prominent in the house can be a good reminder for everyone.

Rules are effective only if they are enforced. When you decide on a rule, also decide what will happen if the rule is broken. In the early days, you might simply remind your child of the rule and give them an-other chance. But ultimately, it will be more effective simply to implement your chosen consequence when a rule is broken.Starting as early as age three, if children agree to the consequences in advance, they are much more likely to keep a lev-el head when it becomes time to follow through on them.

JULY 2010

5


Salt Lake Valley Cluster ConceptsMonthly Cluster announcements for currently licensed foster parents

For in-service training details, see the training pages

Clusters are groups of foster, adoptive and kinship families that meet together on a monthly basis.

Clusters can help you:

• Obtain on-going training hours

• Meet other foster, adoptive and kinship families

• By providing support

• Arrange respite care

• Provide fun family activities

Call the Cluster facilitator nearest you or contact Tina Porter at 801.994.5205 for more information.

For more information on upcoming Cluster trainings, see “Upcoming In-service Trainings”.

What are

Clusters?

Salt Lake Metro

South Valley West/West Jordan

Movie Night

See training pages for details

Facilitator: Suzi801.487.4985

[email protected]

No Cluster scheduled for JulyFor in-service hours see training pages

Facilitator: Valerie801.608.1871

[email protected]

Murray/Midvale/East Salt Lake


Facilitator: Terumi801.699.9769

Kearns

Safe Environments for LGBTQ Youth


Facilitator: Michelle801.755.4766

[email protected]

Magna/West Valley


Facilitator: Linda801.690.6490

[email protected]

Sandy/Draper


Facilitator: Naomi801.619.8069

[email protected]

Tooele/Adoptive Parents


Facilitator: Maia435.843.1090

[email protected]

6

Facilitator: Cami435.882.1250

[email protected]

Spanish/Cluster en Español


Facilitator: Jessica801.577.7161

[email protected]


Salt Lake Valley TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

First Placement Foundations for Youth

Art and Science of Love; Strengthening Marriage

Date: Tuesday, August 24th Time: 6pm - 8pm

Location: Utah Foster Care Foundation 5296 S. Commerce

Dr. #400

Presented by:DCFS/Liz Rivera

This training is a pre-service refresher as well as a chance to address specific issues with your current placement. We offer this class quarterly in the Salt Lake Valley.

Sessions 1&2: September 11; 10am-4pmSessions 3&4: September 25; 10am-4pm

Location: Utah Foster Care Foundation 5296 S. Commerce Dr. #400

Presented by:Liz Rivera

It is essential to help youth build a solid foundation upon which they can more easily make the transition to living as adults and building life long connections for greater stability.

Required for all foster parents of youth 14 and older.

Coming Soon!

Dates TBD

Presented by:Bruce Parsons, PhD

To Register For Classes:

Contact: Liz Rivera

Salt Lake Valley Region Trainer

Phone: 801.994.5205

Email: [email protected]

Toll Free:

877.505.5437

Please be ready with your name, phone number & the title of the class you would like to be registered for.

Notes on In-service Trainings:

• Classes are for licensed foster parents

• Training hours will beapplied to re-licensing requirements

• Primary caregivers arerequired to attend 12 hours of in-service training per year

• Secondary caregivers are required to attend 4 hours of in-service training per year

• ADULTS ONLY unlessotherwise specified

• Classes start on time

• You must attend the entire class to receive credit

Director of Education Mick Woolsey, LCSW

Phone: 435.229.8808Email: mick.woolsey @utahfostercare.org

The goal of this workshop is to begin by focusing on the couple’s relationship and then translating what we learn to all relationships within the family.

*All classes taught at UFCF Murray office5296 S. Commerce Dr. #400.

Parenting Tip of the Month

7

Don’t just do something. Stand there & pay attention. Your child is trying to tell you something.

Sally Provence



Upcoming In-service Trainings

6pm-9pmUtah Foster Care

Foundation 5296 S. Commerce Dr. #400

Movie Night:The Blind Side

Come join us to watch the movie The Blind Side. We’ll also discuss its ap-plicability to our work.

Sponsored by the

Murray & Salt Lake

Clusters



Safe Environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgendered and/or

Questioning Youth

Presented by Jenny Arm

LGBTQ youth are more likely to be the targets of violence and are also more likely to be homeless. This training will address safety.

Sponsored by the

Kearns Cluster

July 7th



Understanding LyingPresented by

Amanda Wiseman

Lying is a common behavior in children. This class will present reasons children lie and ways to respond.

7pm-9pm1784 Aaron Dr.,

Tooele

Tips for Working with Therapists

Presented by Jeff Tesch

Jeff, a therapist, will offer practical tips to best work with your child’s therapist.

Sponsored by the

Tooele Cluster



Movie Night

We’ll relax and watch a movie with a theme that relates to foster care/adoption and discuss it. We’ll have banana splits, too!

Sponsored by the

Salt Lake Cluster



Understanding Addiction

Presented by TBA

Addiction affects many of the primary families we work with. This class will help us to understand the dynamics of addiction.

Sponsored by the

Kearns Cluster

July 26th July 28th

August 10th August 12th August 19th

Training Tips:

• Approved Trainings-In-service trainings provided and approved by Utah Foster Care Foundation.

• Foundations for Youth-FFY is required for families caring for youth 14 and up.

• Community & Partner Trainings- Call your regional trainer for approval prior to attending a class or conference that is held within the community and is not a pre-approved training.

• Approved On-line Training- Families may visit the web site: www.fosterclub.com for up to 2 hours of online training per year.

• Peer Parent Training and Resource Family Consultant (RFC) Training- 6 hours each per year may be used toward licensure. RFC Training must be provided by DCFS RFCs.

REMINDER: Family team meetings do

not count toward in-service training hours.

REMINDER:

START YOUR RENEWAL HOURS EARLY. A YEAR GOES BY QUICKLY!

8


SLV Happenings

Kids & Judges Day

September 9, 20103:30 pm - 5:00 pmMatheson Courthouse

This is a great opporturnity for children in foster care to see and learn about the court in a less intimidating and overwhelming experience.

Please contact your child’s caseworker for more information!

Free Bikes

The mission of the Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective is to promote cycling as an effective and sustainable form of transportation and as a cornerstone of a cleaner, healthier and safer society. The Bicycle Collective provides refurbished bicycles and educational programs to the community, focusing on children and lower income households.

If you have a child in foster care in need of a free bike - “no strings attached” - please contact Tina Porter: 801.994.5205 or [email protected].

9


Upcoming In-service Trainings, cont.



Peaceful Parenting

Presented by Kathy & Ned Searle

A peaceful heart leads to a peaceful parent, a peaceful parent leads to a peaceful home, a peaceful home leads to a peaceful child.

Sponsored by the

SVW/West Jordan Clusters

August 26th



Documentation

Presented by TBD

We’ll discuss importance of documentation and various methods.

Sponsored by the

SVW/West Jordan Cluster



Recognizing Gangs

Presented by SLCO Sheriff’s Office

A deputy from the gang enforcement unit will edu-cate us on recognizing signs of gang activity.

Sponsored by the

Kearns Cluster

September 15th September 22nd



Secondary Trauma

Presented by Liz Rivera

Parenting traumatized children can have effects that we may not recog-nize. We’ll discuss sec-ondary trauma and its potential effects.

Sponsored by the

Murray/Magna/SL Clusters



Recognizing Gangs

Presented by SLCO Sheriff’s Office

A deputy from the gang enforcement unit will edu-cate us on recognizing signs of gang activity.

Sponsored by the

Kearns Cluster

2:30pmCity Park

corner of Vine St. & 200 W.

K-9 Unit

Presented by Tooele PD

The Tooele PD will show-case their K-9 unit.

Sponsored by the

Tooele Cluster

September 28thSeptember 25thSeptember 22nd


10

Two of the most common issues that children in care bring is a history of trauma and compromised attachment. These two series of three classes each will be offered on an ongoing basis. Attachment Series Class One: Introduction to Attachment July 19th; 6-9pmClass one is a basic overview of attachment theory and its application to children in foster care.

Class Two: Disorganized Attachment August 30th; 6-9pmOf all the attachment outcomes, disorganized attachment is the most problematic, and probably the most common, for children in care. We’ll discuss what it is and how to best support children with a compromised attachment history.

Class Three: Adult Attachment September 28th; 6-9pmAttachment is not just for children. This class of the series will discuss how our own attachment history can interact with our children’s.

Trauma and Development Series

Class One:Trauma’s Effect on the Developing Brain

October 26th; 6-9pmHow trauma affects the developing brain of a child and the consequences.

Class Two: Healing Trauma’s Effects

November 22nd; 6-9pmHow we can best support children who have a history of trauma.

Class Three: Preventing Secondary Trauma December 16th; 6-9pmLiving with a traumatized child can affect other members of the family. We’ll discuss how this occurs and how to minimize it. ALL CLASSES HELD AT: UTAH FOSTER CARE FOUNDATION OFFICES 5296 COMMERCE DRIVE #400

Attachment and Trauma Series

Utah Foster Care Foundation has funds available to meet the special needs of children in foster care when DCFS is unable to meet these needs for any reason. Funds are limited.

Requests MUST include the following:• Child’s first name, last initial and age• Foster parent’s name and home address• Caseworker’s name and contact information• The item being requested and the associated costs• Brief description of how the child will benefit

Request should come in writing by a foster parent, the child in care or the caseworker.

PLEASE NOTE:• Dispersal of funds can take up to 4 weeks.• Checks are mailed to the foster parent’s home address.• Funds are for children in foster care ONLY. • Items covered by the foster care reimbursement or by Medicaid are not eligible.• Only requests previously denied by DCFS are eligible.

VACATIONS:• A child in care can receive vacation funds only ONCE in their lifetime.• Vacations are restricted monetarily & may not cover all costs.

SUBMIT REQUESTS TO:Tina PorterUtah Foster Care Foundation5296 So. Commerce Dr. #400Murray, UT 84107

[email protected]

10

Wishing Well Funds


in this issueQIC Study P.11

Northern Region Happenings P.12



NORTHERN REGION UPDATE

Northern Region Office

3340 S. Harrison Blvd. #200Ogden, UT 84403

Phone: 801.392.1114Fax: 801.392.1112

Toll Free: 877.392.1114

Area Representative

Brenda Durtschi

Foster/Adoptive Family Recruiter

Maryanne McFarland

Trainer

Brian Young


Mindy Lundgreen

Northern Region Quality Improvement CommitteeDisruption Study, July 2010

The Northern Region QIC is embarking on a review of current disruptions of young children from foster homes and kinship placements. The committee is very con-cerned with the frequency of disruptions particularly of the 0 – 5 children. So – here is what they are planning to do:

The committee will be divided into teams of two. Each team will be assigned a cur-rent case where there was an unexpected disruption. The team will interview the caseworker, the RFC, the foster parent or kinship provider and the GAL. The purpose of the interviews will be to hear what hap-pened and what, if any, system issues there are that contributed to the disruption. This is not a review of casework – it is a review of the system. It is the committee’s task to assemble what they learn and develop recommendations to the region.

I truly appreciate the committee being will-ing to study this difficult issue. At the same time I want to limit the amount of time and effort for the RFCs and caseworkers. I imagine the interview time would be 30 – 45 minutes. Pam will be scheduling the interviews and once we know which cases (probably late June) she will be in touch with those who fit into the parameters of the study. It is hoped that the majority of the interviews can be held on July 28th. That is the day the committee members have set aside to go over some documen-tation (assessment, team meeting notes and CPS case) and meet with as many people as they can.

Once the committee completes their rec-ommendations I will be happy to share those with everyone. Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions about this study.

JULY 2010

11

by Carol Baumann, Northern Region Director


12

Northern Region Changes

Due to the need for caseworkers and the lack of resources to hire, there have been many changes made in our region. These changes include reassigning two of the Resource Family Consultants (RFC) to caseworker positions. As of Tuesday, July 1, Suzanne Beckstead is a caseworker in Clearfield and Diana Smith is a caseworker in Ogden.

We are currently trying to redistribute foster families and job responsibilities among the rest of the RFC team. I anticipate that this will be an ongoing process with lots of tweaking. So, please be patient with us as we try to figure out the best way to continue moving forward in helping our children and families. If you have questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you! Maegen BernardoRFC/Adoption Assistance & Finalization Supervisor801-395-5952

You’re Invited

Come see the new offices of Utah Foster Care Foundation in Northern Region!

Please join us at an Open HouseAt our new location:

3340 Harrison Blvd, Suite 200 in Ogden

Wednesday June 30th4:00pm - 6:00pm

Volunteer Opportunity

Youth 2 Community Mentor Connection is a collaboration between Second District Juvenile Court and Division of Child and Family Services

You Can Make a Difference!

Help us create a community of support to help youth make a successful transition from foster care to living on their own.

Become a mentor and make a difference in the life of a youth.

Everyone has something to offer, including you!

If you are interested in being a mentor or contributing to our program, contact:

Chris Wilson 801.626.3826 or [email protected].

Northern Region Happenings


Northern Region Cluster ConceptsMonthly Cluster announcements for currently licensed foster parents




• Obtain in-service training hours


• Get support


• Attend fun family activities

Call the Cluster facilitator nearest you or contact Mindy Lundgreen at 801.392.1114 for more information.


What are

Clusters?

Foster/Adoption

North Davis

Family Swim Party July 9thRSVP for details.

Facilitator: Janette801.546.9465

[email protected]


Facilitator: Patty801.544.7925

[email protected]

Cache Valley

July – No Cluster MeetingFamily Swim Party

RSVP to Marilyn Keyes for details

Facilitator: Lara435.735.7232

[email protected]

Box Elder


Facilitator: Ann435.723.3095

[email protected]

North Ogden


Facilitator: Marilyn801.782.9080

[email protected]

Weber West


Facilitator: Rebekah801.773.7268

[email protected]

13

South Central Davis

Utilizing Resources Available

to Foster Parents


Facilitator: Amanda801.298.6381

[email protected]

Level III

No meeting scheduled for July.

Facilitator: Maryanne801.392.1114

[email protected]

Facilitator: Jenn435.787.2858

[email protected]


Northern Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

“He said what?”

First Placement

Date: July 31st - DATE CHANGE!Time: 10:00am - NoonLocation: Brigham City DCFS1050 S. Medical Dr. Ste. B

Presented by: Brian Young, SSW

This training offers families an opportunity to review some key concepts from pre-service, as well as addressing child/system issues they have experienced during placements.

Date: August 28thTime: 9:00am - 11:00amLocation: Ogden DCFS

950 E. 25th Street

Presented by:Brian Young, SSW

No matter how you look at it, dealing with an allegation is extremely stressful. We’ll look at why they can happen, what you can do to prepare and what to expect from the process.


Contact: Brian Young

Northern Region Trainer

Phone: 801.475.5537

Email: brian.young

@utahfostercare.org

Toll Free:

877.392.1114



• Classes are for licensed foster parents ONLY


• Primary caregivers arerequired to attend 12+ hours of in-service training per year

• Secondary caregivers are required to attend 4+ hours of in-service training per year







Positive reinforcement is more effective than negative attention. Remember-- every interaction is a teaching interaction.

14

Combined Cluster Swim Party

Come enjoy a fun evening of swimming, waterslides, splash pads, pizza and pop at the North Shore Aquatic Center 2480 N. 200 E. in N. Ogden on July 9th. An RSVP to your Cluster facilitator is required!! Upon RSVP you will receive further details about time. Sponsored by the following Clusters: N. Ogden, Foster/Adoption, Box Elder, Weber West, N. Davis.


Northern Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

Upcoming In-Service Trainings

9:00 am - 11:00 amOgden DCFS

950 E. 25th Street

“He Said What?”

Presented by Brian Young, SSW

No matter how you look at it, dealing with an alle-gation is extremely stress-ful. We’ll look at why they can happen, what you can do to prepare and what to expect from the process.

6:00 pm - 8:00 pmBountiful DCFS57 W. 200 N.

Utilizing Resources Available to Foster

Parents

Presented by Jennifer Gardner,UFAFA President

Finding, accessing and using resources will be the topic discussed. Child care available by RSVP only.

Sponsored by theSouth/Central Davis

Cluster

July 7th

6:00 pm - 8:00 pmBountiful DCFS57 W. 200 N.

Bringing the Order Home

Presented byJennifer Anderson

Discussion will focus on ways to make our homes function better through organization.

Sponored by theSouth/Central Davis

Cluster

When using fosterclub.com, remember to enter my email as well and I will automatically receive your quiz verifications.

Thanks, Brian

[email protected]

“Troubled children are in pain. Only patient, lov-ing, consistent care works. There are no short-term miracle cures.”

~Dr. Bruce Perry

August 11th August 20th

August 28th Training Reminder Just a Thought

Training Tips:








IMPORTANT:TO REGISTER FOR A TRAINING THAT IS CLUSTER-SPONSORED, YOU MUST CALL YOUR AREA CLUSTER FACILITATOR.

6:30 pm - 8:30 pmLogan DCFS

115 W. Golf Course Rd.

Drug Awareness

Presented byCache Drug Task Force

Come for an informative evening on drug awareness and education. RSVP for child care.

Sponosred by the

Cache Cluster

15


in this issueCASA P.16



WESTERN REGION UPDATE

Western Region Office

252 N. Orem Blvd.Orem, UT

Phone: 801.373.3006Fax: 801.373.3004

Toll Free: 877.373.3006

Area Representative

Wendy Bunnell

Foster/Adoptive Family Recruiter

John Thill

Trainer

Nancy Zelenak


Jessica Hanneman

CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocate

JULY 2010

16

What is a CASA Volunteer?

A CASA volunteer is an advocate for abused and neglected children that are currently under the Court’s jurisdiction. A CASA assists the Guardian Ad Litem at-torney who represents the child’s best in-terest.

What kind of educational background do I need to be a CASA?

Being a CASA does not require any spe-cial education or background, simply the desire to find abused and neglected chil-dren safe and permanent homes.

Is CASA a mentor?

Not really. CASA’s are the eyes and ears for the Guardian Ad Litem. A CASA will establish a relationship with a child, con-tact other professionals on the case, and report back monthly to the Guardian Ad

Litem on the progress of the child. How-ever, CASA’s will often develop friendships with the children as a mentor would.

What is the time commitment for a CASA?

One year. A CASA will visit with the child at least twice a month and spend at least 8 hours per month on a case.

Are there any special requirements to be a CASA?

Volunteers must be 21 yrs or older, pass a background check and Child Abuse Regis-try screening. They must also complete 32 hrs of training and be committed to serving a child. For more information contact Dee Knell, Casa Coordinator 801.344.8516, email [email protected].


Western Region Cluster ConceptsMonthly Cluster announcements for currently licensed foster parents






• Get support



Call the Cluster facilitator nearest you or contact Jessica at 801.373.3006 for more information.


What are

Clusters?

Central Cluster

Timpanogos

Contact your Cluster Facilitator for information regarding summer activities.

Facilitator: Beth801.426.8782

[email protected]


Facilitator: Jennie 801.756.1845 [email protected]

Facilitator: Becky [email protected]

South Cluster


Facilitator: Jilean435.623.4049

[email protected]

Facilitator: Jessica801.373.3006

[email protected]

Kinship/Adoption


Facilitator: Cayce801.426.4880

[email protected]

Level III


Facilitator: Cindy801.785.1014

[email protected]

17

Wasatch/Summit


Facilitator: No facilitatorcall Utah Foster Care Foundation

@ 801.373.3006

North Star


Facilitator: Shanna801.360.2011

[email protected]

Crossroads

Medication Disbursement


Facilitator: Stephanie801.789.7753

[email protected]

Facilitator: Amanda801.319.3678

[email protected]


Western Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

Your First Placement

Date: July 30th; 10am-NoonLocation: Utah Foster Care Foundation 252 N. Orem Blvd.

Presented by:Nancy Zelenak

This is a highly recommended class if you have not yet had your first placement, or if you are within your first year of licensure. We’ll discuss how to share your concerns with DCFS; how to communicate effectively with the birth family and how to prepare your family for foster care.

Date: July 13th; 6:30pm-8:30pmLocation: American Fork DCFS

861 E. 900 N.

Prestented by:Martin Roundy

Each of these series can stand on their own, with valuable information working with people who struggle with addictions. Don’t miss it!

Sponsored by the Timpanogos Cluster


Contact: Nancy Zelenak

Western Region Trainer

Phone: 801.373.3006

Email: nancy.zelenak

@utahfostercare.org

Toll Free:

877.373.3006












FFY #1: Building Trusting RelationshipsWednesday, July 7th; 5:30pm

FFY #2: Adolescent BehaviorWednesday, July 14th; 5:30pm

FFY #3: Assessing, Planning & TeamingWednesday, July 21st; 5:30pm

FFY #4: The Goals of Transition to Adult LivingWednesday, July 28th; 5:30pm

Presented by:Les Harris

American Fork DCFS Offi ce

18

Foundations for Youth

This is a required training for DCFS foster parents wanting to foster youth aged 14 and older. The au-thor of this training will be present-ing the newest parenting tools for helping these youth prepare for life and lifelong relationships in this four part series.

*July classes will be held at the Spanish Fork DCFS office:607 E. Kirby Lane

Addictions, part 3

The American Fork DCFS OFFICE HAS MOVED! The address is: 861 East 900 North, 801.763.4100 (main receptionist).

The front door is directly west of the Mt. Timpanogos Temple.


Western Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents


6:30 pm - 8:30 pmEagle Mountain Fire Station #2; 3785 E. Ranches Parkway

Medication Disbursement

Presented by Dr. Teresa Cisneros

Wasatch Mental Health asked to present these trainings so that foster parents are aware of their vital role in medication disbursement.

Sponsored by theCrossroads Cluster

July 20th July 21st July 30th

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm4101 Wood Road

Eagle Mtn.

Meal Planning

Presented by Angie Adams

Learn how to make scrump-tious and nutritious meals when you’re short on time! (NOTE: new location!)

Sponsored by theCrossroads Cluster

August 5th August 10th August 11th

6:30 pm - 8:30 pmHeber City DCFS Office

69 N. 600 W.

Fetal Alcohol Effect

Presented byLynn Tanner

What can I expect from a child diagnosed with FAE? Find answers with the current trends in car-ing for these children.

Sponsored by the Wasatch/Summit Cluster

6:30 pm - 8:30 pmUtah Foster Care Foundation

252 N. Orem Blvd.

Drugs and Gangs

Presented by Lt Phil Murphy

This presenter is from the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force. He is the expert on drugs and gangs in UT County. Please attend!

Sponsored by the

Central Cluster

10:00a - NoonUtah Foster Care Foundation

252 N. Orem Blvd.

Your First Placement

Presented by Nancy Zelenak

This training will review basic ‘need to know’ issues as you prepare for your first place-ment and during your first year of licensure.

Sponsored by the

Crossroads Cluster

6:30 pm - 8:30 pmAmerican Fork DCFS

861 E. 900 N.

The Cycle of Abuse

Presented by Dr. Amy Fehlberg

How can you help children/teens stop the cycle of abuse when they’ve been a victim? This expert trainer will give you the answers.

Sponsored by the

Timpanogos Cluster

August 17th

7:00 pm-9:00 pmAmerican Fork DCFS

861 E. 900 N.

Safety Issues for Youth in Custody

Presented by Dr. Jenny Arm

All children deserve to be safe in foster care. This presenta-tion is to help you to care for youth who are gay, lesbian or bi-sexual.

Sponsored by the North Star Cluster

19


By Marissa DouglasSouthwest RegionRetention Services Specialist

The Reyes children have the following to say about their Dad. “He loves me no matter what.” “He gives me advice, but lets me learn from my mistakes.” “He is always think-ing about me.” “He helps me, cooks for me, and we plant things in the garden.” “He has taught me to work hard and be responsible.”

Gerardo and Lori Reyes of Moroni, Utah have been married for thirty years and out of those thirty years, twenty- seven have been spent living in Moroni. The Reyes’ have four biological children in addition to five they’ve adopted from fos-ter care. Gerardo and Lori got involved in foster care as their biological children got older and encouraged them to go for it. They have been licensed foster parents for seven years and fostered eight children. The Reyes’ comment they have had many positive experiences and have been blessed through their foster care involvement and

encourage others to get involved.

Lori says, “Gerardo is a patient, loving, fun, hands-on Dad.” Gerardo shares his advice to other foster dads of patience, understanding, and love. Gerardo adds “remember that you were a kid once too!” Gerardo’s hobbies and interests include fishing, camping, and working in the yard. His future plans include being the best dad he can be and after retirement, being able to spend more time with his family and grandkids.

in this issueFoster/Adoptive Dad of the Year P.20


Training Update P.22

SOUTHWEST REGION UPDATE

St. George Office

321 N. Mall Dr # B102St. George, UT 84790Phone: 435.656.8065

Fax: 435.656.8071Toll Free: 877.656.8065

Area Representative

Debbie Hofhines

Trainer

Cliff Farnsworth


Diane Callister

Richfield Office

201 E. 500 N.Phone: 435.896.1232

Toll Free: 877.656.8065

Foster/Adoptive Family Recruiter/

Retention SpecialistMarissa Douglas

Foster/Adoptive Dad of the Year: Gerardo Reyes

JULY 2010

20


Southwest Region Cluster ConceptsMonthly Cluster announcements for currently licensed foster parents

For in-service training details, see the training page





• Get support



Call the Cluster facilitator nearest you or contact Diane Callister at 435.656.8065 for more information.

For more information on upcoming Cluster trainings, see “Upcoming In-Service Trainings”.

What are

Clusters?

Manti

Allegation Prevention

See training pages for details.

Facilitator: Nancy435.283.5020

[email protected]

St. George



Facilitator: Brandee435.652.3979

[email protected]

Cedar City/Beaver

The Relationship Factor


Facilitator: Amy435.586.7403

[email protected]

21

Facilitator: Lisa435.438.2651

Richfi eld



Facilitator: Coylene435.896.2023

[email protected]

FREE!

The St. George office has a children’s table and chair set made of wood.

If you would like this for your family, call the St. George office, 435.656.8065 and ask for Debbie or Diane.

This is being offered on a first call, first served basis.


Southwest Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents



Insight: The Whole Team

Attachment is not just for children.

Consider how your own attachment history impacts your reaction to children.

***

When using www.fosterclub.com website to obtain up to 2 hrs of in-service train-ing, please remember to put your trainer’s email ([email protected]) as a second email (after you take the quiz)!

Foster parents must help youth build a solid foundation upon which they can more easily make the transition to living independently.

This is a four-part series that is required for all foster parents serving youth fourteen years of age and older.

Call Cliff if you are interested in this training.

Division of Child and Family Services359 E. Riverside DriveSt. George, UTSponsored by the St. George Cluster


Contact: Cliff Farnsworth

Southwest Region Trainer

Phone: 435.656.8065

Email: cliff.farnsworth

@utahfostercare.org

Toll Free:

877.656.8065


Notes on In-Service Trainings:










Insight: The Whole Team is a panel of foster parents with their children & a panel of caseworkers. Dinner will be served at 5:00 pm that will include a small group discus-sion during dinner. You can earn 3-5 hours of in-service training by attending Insight! Childcare will be provided by the Family Support Center.

• August 18th, 2010; 3:00pm - 8:00pm sponsored by the Cedar/Beaver Cluster. Location: Iron County School District Office.Please call the Family Support Center to RSVP for your children.

• August 25th, 2010; 3:00pm - 8:00 pm sponsored by the St. George Cluster.Location: St. George DCFS Office.

22


Southwest Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

Upcoming In-Service Trainings

7pm-9pmSt. George DCFS Admin.

359 E. Riverside Dr.


Presented by Cliff Farnsworth, CSW

We will talk about how to prevent allegations as well as how to respond when one occurs.

Sponsored by the

St. George Cluster

July 13th

7pm-9pmAmy’s Home

The Relationship Factor

Presented by Rick Clements

Training will teach you how to better connect emotionally with children in care.

Sponsored by the

Cedar Cluster

6:30pm-8:30pmRichfield DCFS201 E. 500 N.


Presented by Cliff Farnsworth, CSW

We will talk about how to prevent allegations as well as how to respond when one occurs. (Light Dinner)

Sponsored by the

Richfield/Manti Clusters

July 14th July 20th

August 11th

Training Tips:









6:30pm - 8:30pmNancy’s House

ADHD

Presented byCliff Farnsworth, CSW

Learn what ADHD is and is not. Parenting children with ADHD tips will be given.

Sponsored by the

Manti Cluster

August 18th

6:30pm-8:30pmRichfield DCFS201 E. 500 N.

Healthy Eating/Canning

Presented by USU Extention Service

Come learn how to take better care of yourself by eating healthy. (Dinner served)

Sponsored by the

Richfield Cluster

September 2010

Color Code

Presented by Brian Young

Brian will be traveling to St. George and Cedar City to present this valu-able training.

Mark your calendar!

St. George: 9/17/2010Cedar: 9/18/2010

23


in this issueHealing Arts P.24



EASTERN REGION UPDATE

Eastern Region Office

475 W. Price River Dr. #152Price, UT 84501

Phone: 435.636.0210Fax: 435. 637.9702

Toll Free: 877.636.0210

Area Representative

Kobi Marchello

Moab Office180 S. 300 E. Suite C

Moab, Utah 84532Phone: 435.259.3345

Fax: 435.259.2691

Foster/AdoptiveFamily Recruiter &

Retention SpecialistGeri Winkler

Vernal Office1052 W. Market Drive

Vernal, Utah 84078Phone: 435.790.4225

Fax: 435.781.1539

Trainer

Les Harris

Roosevelt OfficeRR 3 Box 8008

Roosevelt, Utah 84066Phone: 435.724.0959

Fax: 435.722.6566


Faith Spencer

Crayons, Construction Paper, and Children in Care

Encouraging artistic expression in children, especially those in crisis, has been shown to increase concentration levels, self-esteem and self-control, as well as enhance interpersonal skills and defuse angry feelings.

Why? Art is a natural form of communication for children because it is easier for them to express themselves visually rather than verbally. It offers children a safe, developmentally appropriate way to communicate thoughts, fears, memories and experiences. It can help them develop strategies for coping.

Through creative self-expression, art allows children the chance to:

• Release and express thoughts, hopes and concerns for the future.

• Make sense of external confusion and dissatisfaction.

• Provide a point of interest for a conversation.

• Make decisions and have control for themselves through choice of materials.

• Provide a non-verbal avenue to express feelings or experiences that may be too difficult to verbalize. • Develop motor skills and physical co-ordination.

• Have a lot of fun and enjoy the experience.

Providing a wide range of creative materials and experiences is important. Being creative is more than drawing or painting. There’s also photography, music, field trips, working with wire, clay, paper, wood, water or shadows. The possibilities are endless!

JULY 2010

24


Eastern Region Cluster ConceptsMonthly Cluster announcements for currently licensed foster parents






• Get support



Call the Cluster facilitator nearest you or contact Faith Spencer at 435.724.0959 for more information.


What are

Clusters?Grand/San Juan

Foster Family Appreciation & Traditions Night

July 12th, 6-9pm @ Moab Grand Center

Grand Facilitator: Kim435.259.0665

[email protected]

Carbon/Emery/Adoption

Parenting with Love & Logic

See training page for details

Facilitator: [email protected]

25

Uintah Basin

Licensing Review for Foster/Adoptive Families


Facilitator: Shanna435.722.6885

[email protected]

Facilitator: Debbie435.724.6746

[email protected]

San Juan Facilitator: Jackie435.678.3019

[email protected]

The end of The Fun Run, held in Price in May.

The Uintah Basin Cluster Party.


Eastern Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents

Summer Family Reading

2 hours of in-service training will be offered to parents participating in their local library’s summer reading program for kids.

To receive credit, you must attend library story time, or officially sign up the children in your home to participate in the summer reading program.

Total number of hours spent to-gether in reading activities must be at least two hours. Your librarian can sign your training log.

Presented by: Les Harris

It is essential to help youth build a solid foundation upon which they can more easily make the transition to living as adults and build connections for greater stability.

Required for all foster parents of youth 14 and older.

• See the next page for class details. This class is not offered every month.


Contact: Les Harris

Eastern Region Trainer

Phone: 435.781.4224

Email: [email protected]

Toll Free:

877.505.5437













What you do matters. Tell yourself that every day. How you treat and respond to your child should come from a

knowledgeable, deliberate sense of what you want to accomplish.

***

When using www.fosterclub.com website to obtain up to 2 hrs of in-service training,please remember to put your trainers email ([email protected]) as asecond email (after you take the quiz)!


26


Eastern Region TrainingMonthly training announcements for currently licensed foster parents


July 22nd

Noon - 4:00 pmPrice location TBD

Parenting with Love and Logic

Presented by Faith Spencer

Learning & utilizing Love & Logic parent-ing strategies effectively. You must register with Kobi to attend 435.636.0210.

Sponsored by theCarbon/Emery Cluster

4:00 pm - 8:00 pmPrice location TBD

Parenting with Love and Logic

Presented by Faith Spencer

Learning & utilizing Love & Logic parent-ing strategies effectively. You must register with Kobi to attend 435.636.0210.

Sponsored by theCarbon/Emery Cluster

August 11th August 12th

September 7th

Training Tips:



• Community & Partner Trainings- Call your regional trainer (found on page 5) for approval prior to attending a class or conference that is held within the community and is not a pre-approved training.




not count toward In-service training hours.


1:00 pm - 3:30 pmRoosevelt DCFS

Licensing Review for Foster/Adoptive Families

Presented by Stephanie Robb &

Jacina Barrett

Foster parents will be provided an opportunity to learn how to facilitate their licensing process and answer questions related to license renewal.

Sponsored by theUintah Basin Cluster

5:30 - 9:30 pmPrice DCFS Office

475 West Price River Drive, Suite 152


Presented by Les Harris, LCSW

It is essential to help youth build a solid foun-dation upon which they can more easily make the transition to living as adults and build connec-tions for greater stability.

Required for all foster parents caring for youth age 14 and older.

27

September 15th

6:00 - 9:00 pmVernal DCFS Office

1052 W. Market Drive

Multi-Disciplinary Panel

Presented by Collateral Agencies

Foster parents will be given an opportunity to learn the roles of various partner agencies to assist them with caring for the children placed in their homes.

Sponsored by theUintah Basin Cluster

September 21st

1:00 - 5:00 pmPrice DCFS Office

475 West Price River Drive, Suite 152


Presented by Les Harris, LCSW

It is essential to help youth build a solid foun-dation upon which they can more easily make the transition to living as adults and build connec-tions for greater stability.

Required for all foster parents caring for youth age 14 and older.


Documents

Roster Update July 2010