The Barker Blog

Welcoming The New Year with Exciting Upcoming Events

Written by By Barker Staff | Jan 2, 2024 3:50:18 PM

This month at Barker, we are thrilled to announce an array of events, educational trainings, and valuable resources that are sure to captivate your interest, broaden your understanding of our mission, and offer support as we collaborate to make a meaningful difference. Your involvement and support is essential to our success.

Upcoming Events: January 2024

Interested in attending any of our upcoming events? Simply click the banner to register today!

Barker's 30th Annual Adoption and Foster Care Conference and Teen Connections

Whether you are an adoptive parent, a birth parent, an adoptee, a professional in the field, or a supporter of the adoption community, this conference offers something for you!

The theme of this year's Adoption and Foster Care Conference is Tackling Adoption: A Game Plan for Success, where we will explore the vital role of nurturing bonds and connection in the context of adoption and foster care. We recognize that building strong relationships is crucial for the well-being and development of children, and we aim to provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance these connections.

Through informative sessions and discussions, we will delve into the various aspects of adoption. Learn more about our conference discussion topics by clicking here. 

Our Adoption and Foster Care Conference will feature inspiring keynote speaker, Alec Ingold, who will share his personal journey of triumph and resilience, highlighting how adoption shaped his life and career. Alec has firsthand experience in the world of adoption and foster care, and his journeys will inspire and educate attendees.

Join us as we highlight the significance of connection in adoption and foster care. Social workers and professionals will receive 5.5 CEU|CAT 1

Parenting Children with Specialized Needs

This online event, accessible at any time,  is designed to provide valuable insights and guidance for prospective adoptive parents, and professionals working in adoption and foster care. Join us to learn more about the needs of children, hear family stories and gain practical tools and strategies to assist parents and professionals in exploring openness and readiness for specialized parenting. Conclude with a guided self-assessment to help you understand where a child with specialized needs could fit into your family story. Join us from the comfort of your own home as we navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of parenting children with specialized needs. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.

Take our Parenting Children with Specialized Needs Training

Challenges of Aging Out of Foster Care

Aging out of foster care can be a daunting and challenging experience for young adults. At Barker, we recognize the unique struggles that these individuals face as they transition into adulthood without a loving and permanent family. We are committed to advocating for the needs of young adults who have aged out of foster care, and we provide support services to help them navigate this critical phase of their lives. Our goal is to ensure that these young adults have access to the resources, education, and opportunities they need to thrive and succeed.

Ever wondered what life has been like for young adults who have aged out of foster care? Hear from Marquis, Cierra and Ashley as they share their perspective. Interested in adopting an older child from adoption? Click here to learn more about foster care adoption.