Pre-Service Training

Preparation for foster, adoptive and kinship care providers. An 8-session orientation and training series to help prospective and caring families with the protection and nurturance of children in their care. Offered in English and Spanish throughout Santa Clara County.

Topics include: An overview of the child protective system, the effects of child abuse and neglect on child development, positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem, and health issues and services available to children in care.

In-Service Training

Classes, workshops and trainings for foster, adoptive and kinship care providers offered after initial Pre-Service Training.

Topics Include: Age-appropriate child development, health issues, positive discipline and the importance of self-esteem, working with the system, permanency planning, reunification, adoption, cultural diversity.

Independant Living Program (ILP)

Education and training for foster youth (ages 16 - 21), foster parents, kinship and relative care providers, Foster family agencies, group home staff and other care professionals working with foster teens. The goal of the ILP program is to more effectively prepare foster youth for living independantly after their emancipation from the Foster Care System at age 18.

Services:

• Assessment of foster parent and foster youth educational needs.
• Development and implementation of specially designed classes and workshops to meet these needs.
• Outreach efforts to caregivers and foster youth.
• Introduction to the Community College system.

Program of classes

• Daily living skills
• Computer training
• Self-esteem
• Job Preparation
• Money management
• Financial aid for college
• Leadership
• Work and personal relationships