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Donations are used to support Colorado's adoptive families.
In This Issue
Help COCAF When You Shop
C.A.S.E. Webinars
Twitter COCAF!
Subsidies / Adoption Assistance
SOAR! Fundraiser
GAO Report
Therapy through LFS
Impact of Adoption on Adoptive Parents
Sexual Health & Women with Disabilities
Events
Support Groups

Help COCAF

While You Shop!
                                        

Use AmazonSmile when you shop Amazon, and support COCAF at the same time! Shop at AmazonSmile and 0.5% of your eligible Amazon purchases can be donated to the nonprofit of your choice - including COCAF. Your donations help adoptive families in Colorado find the services they need to keep their families safe, healthy, and thriving. Click here to start shopping.
Classroom Training

Mobilizing Families
Thursdays
October 1 - November 5, 2015

Family Wellness Event
Saturday
October 3, 2015
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Timberline Church
2908 South Timberline Road
Fort Collins, CO

Becoming a Regulated Parent:  Creating Sanctuary Amidst the Chaos
Thursday
October 8, 2015
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
800 E Beaver
Fort Morgan, CO

Parenting Kids from Hard Places: An Introduction to TBRI
Friday
October 9, 2015
Or
December 11, 2015
9:30 am-3:00 pm
The Adoption Exchange
14232 E Evans Avenue
Aurora CO
Click here for more info. 

ABCs of IEPs (Part1)
Wednesday
October 14, 2015
BVSD Education Center
6500 Arapahoe Rd
Boulder, CO 80301        
For more information, contact Anna Stewart at 720-561-5918 or [email protected]

Effects of Marijuana on Kids & Families
Thursday
October 15, 2015
Contact Suzanne Daniels at 303-441-1533 for more information.

Anniversary Reactions:  Traumatic Memories
Monday
October 19, 2015
9:00 a.m. - noon
8:30 Registration
Mile High United Way
711 Park Avenue West
Denver, CO 80205

Parenting Kids from Hard Places: In Depth TBRI Empowering Principles
Friday
October 23, 2015
9:30 am-3:00 pm
The Adoption Exchange
14232 E Evans Avenue
Aurora CO

Raising Children with Trauma Histories
Thursday
November 5, 2015
Noon - 2:00 p.m.
Macedonia Baptist Church
3240 Adams St
(Colorado & MLK Blvd)
Denver, CO 80205
Childcare and a meal provided with an RSVP.
RSVP to Carrie Savage at 303-742-0823 x2071 

XYZ's of IEPs (Part 2)
Tuesday
November 10, 2015
BVSD Education Center
6500 Arapahoe Rd
Boulder, CO 80301        
For more information, contact Anna Stewart at 720-561-5918 or [email protected]

Parenting Kids from Hard Places: In Depth TBRI Correcting Principles
Friday
November 13, 2015
9:30 am-3:00 pm
The Adoption Exchange
14232 E Evans Avenue
Aurora CO

Raising Children with Trauma Histories
Tuesday
November 17
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Risen Christ Catholic Parish
3060 S Monaco Pkwy
(Hampden &  Monaco)
Denver, CO 80222
Childcare and a meal provided with an RSVP.
RSVP to Carrie Savage at 303-742-0823 x2071

IEP Assessments & Monitoring Progress
Wednesday
January 13, 2016
BVSD Education Center
6500 Arapahoe Rd
Boulder, CO 80301        
For more information, contact Anna Stewart at 720-561-5918 or [email protected]
 
Understanding Executive Functioning (EF)
Wednesday
February 24, 2016
BVSD Education Center
6500 Arapahoe Rd
Boulder, CO 80301        
For more information, contact Anna Stewart at 720-561-5918 or [email protected]
 
Twice Exceptional Learners
Thursday
March 31, 2016
BVSD Education Center
6500 Arapahoe Rd
Boulder, CO 80301        
For more information, contact Anna Stewart at 720-561-5918 or [email protected]

Webinars
 
Adoption at School
Tuesday
October 6, 2015
11:00 a.m.

We Never Outgrow the Need for Family
Tuesday
October 6, 2015
Noon-1:00 p.m.

AdoptCare Advanced
Mondays
October 26 Session 1
November 2 Session 2
November 9 Sessions 3
November 16 Session 4
10:00 a.m.

C.A.S.E. Webinars 

Strategies for Success: Parenting Your Child/Teen with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD

Thursday, October 15, 2015

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Extended Access: October 16- 21, 2015

 

Considering Adoption? Making the Decision to Adopt Older Children/Teens from Foster Care

Thursday, November 19, 2015

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Extended Access: November 20-25, 2015

 

Search and Reunion in International Adoption

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Extended Access: January 27 - February 2, 2016

 

Ask the Expert: Answers to the Five Most Common Adopted Teen Parenting Challenges

Thursday, February 18, 2016

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Extended Access: February 19- 24, 2016

 

Parent to Parent: Addressing Trauma-Based Behaviors to Promote Attachment

Thursday, March 17, 2016

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Extended Access: March 18 -23, 2016

 

Search and Reunion: Focus on Birthfathers

Thursday, April 21, 2016

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Extended Access: April 22 - 27, 2016

 

Ready by 21: A Realistic Approach to Helping Foster Youth Transition to Adulthood

Thursday, May 19, 2016

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Extended Access: May 20 - 25, 2016

 

Adoptive Fathers: Empowering the Male Voice

Thursday, June 16, 2016

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Extended Access: June 17 - 22, 2016

 Conferences

Together We Can
October 13-15, 2015
Cajundome
Lafayette, LA
 
Relatives Raising Children 2015 Conference
Friday
November 6, 2015
8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Adams County Government Conference Center
4430 S Adams Pkwy
Brighton, CO 80601

NACAC Conference
August 3-6, 2016
Nashville, TN

 

Webcasts

These webinars have been recorded and are available 24X7

 

Supporting Youth in Transition: The Importance of Case Worker Visits

Click here to for more info.

 

Adoption Tax Credit: A Guide for State Advocates

Click here for more info.

 

Child Welfare and the Affordable Care Act

Click here for more info.

 

Improving the Economic Security of Children in Foster Care & Young People Who Are Transitioning out of Care

 

Privatization of Child Welfare Services: A Guide for State Advocates

Click here to download.

 

Collaborating with Kinship Caregivers Curriculum and TA

Click here to download.

 

Finding What Works: Helping Young Adults Transition into Adulthood

Click here to download.

 

The Uninterrupted Scholars Act: How Do Recent Changes to FERPA Help Child Welfare Agencies Get Access to School Records?

Click here to download.

The 50 State Chartbook on Foster Care: A Web-Based Data Resource for Child Welfare Professionals

Click here to download.

 
  Improving the Economic Security of Children in Foster Care and Young People Who Are Transitioning from Foster Care
FREE Online Courses
FREE AFP Online Classes

These classes are available free to families who have adopted internationally or privately. To get your online training code and instructions for accessing your free training class, contact Michelle Betsch at [email protected] or

303-829-4296.

  

Conspicuous Families


  Discipline and the Adopted Child: Ain't Misbehavin'

 

Finding the Missing Pieces 

 


The Journey Of Attachment 

 

 Tough Starts: Brain Development Matters  

AMC Autism Logo  
Sensory Friendly Films
  
AMC Theatres (AMC) and the Autism Society have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis with the "Sensory Friendly Films" program.

Oct 17
The Jungle Book

Nov 14
The Peanuts Movie

Dec 5
The Good Dinosaur

 

Click here for more info.

 

 

Twitter @Adopt_Colorado 

 

Check us out at http://www.twitter.com/Adopt_Colorado  and follow us!  You'll get up to the minute news on classes, resources, and adoption issues. 

  
 
Do you remember as a child wanting to be 18 so you could be free from your parents?  And when you were having hard times as a young parent, did you have that momentary thought that you only had to make it until your child is 18?  Ha!  Parenting is a life-long commitment, and for some of us, it doesn't get easier as our kids get older.

My 22-year old is struggling with impending homelessness.  She had a great living arrangement, but because of her inability to function within societal norms, she has been asked to move out.  Again. 

Our children don't always mature on the normal curve.  Some of them may never mature.  Which means that my job as a parent continues to be, well, stressful.  Which means that I need to take care of myself, because the reality is, I have a long haul ahead of me.  So whether your kids are 3 or 30, take care of yourself, because your children need you...until they really have matured. 
 
One way to take care of yourself is to educate yourself.  Check out all the training opportunities in the column to the left of this.  There are classroom events as well as webinars and do-it-on-your-own-time web-based classes.  Be educated, it never hurts, and it may really help.
 
Have a howling Halloween!           
happy-halloween2.jpg
 
K. Colleen Tarket, COCAF Board of Directors
Question of the Month 

Multi-ethnic arms outstretched to ask questions.
What can adoptive parents do if the County informs the parents that the County is reducing or eliminating the adoption assistance payment (subsidy)?

Federal law requires that adoption assistance payments be negotiated between the adoptive parents and the State (or County in Colorado) in good faith.  If you are told that your child's adoption assistance payment (subsidy) is being reduced or eliminated, you have the right to negotiate for a reasonable rate.  If the County does not offer you a rate that you feel is justified, then you have every right to take your case to a Fair Hearing.  COCAF or a good adoption attorney can help you prepare for a Fair Hearing if needed.   

Many adopted children are part of the SOAR! Youth & Adult choir.  This activity helps them develop social skills, as well as discipline.  This fund raiser will help them continue to develop these critical skills.

Click here to purchase tickets.
 
GAO Identifies Lack of Post-Adoption Support Services 

A recent U.S Government Accountability Office (GAO) report points to lack of post-adoption support services as being one of the causes of unregulated child custody transfers - a practice commonly called rehoming.
 
The report acknowledges that too few adoption-competent therapists are available to assist adoptive families, and that families are generally not equipped to handle children with traumatic pasts.  Other necessary services, including residential treatment, are costly and out of reach for most adoptive families.
 
To read the entire report, click here.
 
Therapy Available through LFS 

Adoptive families can experience unique challenges and issues that can be difficult to navigate- Lutheran Family Services (LFS) is now offering therapy through their adoptive family support services. 

LFS offers individual counseling, family counseling, and support groups for adopted youth.  Services are available in Lakewood, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. LFS offers a flat rate of $30 per hour session in the office and $4 per hour session for in home sessions. LFS does accept CO Access Medicaid.

You don't need to wait for a crisis-seeking support proactively will reduce your stress and help you to focus on your family.  To get more information:
  • Email:  [email protected]
  • Denver Area 303.217.5858
  • Fort Collins Area 970.266.1788
  • Colorado Springs Area 719.227.7571


Impact of Adoption on Adoptive Parents 
from The Child Welfare Gateway

Adoptive parenthood, like other types of parenthood, can bring tremendous joy and a sizable amount of stress. This factsheet explores some of the emotional ups and downs that adoptive parents may experience before, during, and after adoption. While every family is unique and every parent has different feelings and experiences, there are some general themes that emerge regarding adoptive parents' emotional responses. This factsheet identifies some of these themes, affirms common feelings, and provides links to resources that may help your family address adoption-related concerns.

 
Sexual Health & Women with Disabilities 
From disabilityscoop

Two women from Chicago have written a guide on reproductive health for women with disabilities.  The guide includes information women need to ensure their sexual health, including what to expect at a normal gynecological exam, information on birth control, and information on sexually transmitted diseases.

To read the entire article, click here.
 
Events

Family Wellness Event for Foster and Adoptive Families
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Fort Collins, CO
 
Event includes a breakout session for single adoptive or foster parents.  Click here for more information.

Worldwide Festival
Sunday, October 4, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
The Galleria at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, 14th & Curtis St., Denver

The Worldwide Festival is a free, day-long event dedicated to celebrating Denver's ten sister cities and the communities, cultures, and people connected to these cities. This event includes music, speakers, dance, food, fashion, and global crafts and traditions.

The Sky's The Limit!  Silent Auction & Concert to Benefit SOAR Youth & Adult Choir
Saturday, October 4, 2015, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Stanley British Primary School
350 Quebec St, Denver, CO 80230

Be entertained by the SOAR! Youth & Adult Choir and help raise funds to support youth through music and mentorship.  Wine, beer, hors d'oeuvres, and sweet treats will be served.  Advance tickets are available online at www.SOARthechoir.org or at the door.  

Support Groups

 

Sometimes our children provide us with challenges that we're just not quite ready to handle.  And sometimes support groups can help us find the answers we need, or at least make us feel okay about the unique challenges we're facing.  Here are some support groups that might be helpful.

 

 

Adoptive Parents Support Group

Last Sunday of every month from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Discovery Church, 2605 W 144th Ave, Broomfield, CO  80023

Meets the last Sunday of every month from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.  
For more information, email [email protected] or [email protected]. 
  

Online Support Group for Adoptive, Foster, & Kinship Parents

Second Tuesday of the Month

Morning session 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Evening session 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Session includes a short presentation followed by a discussion.  

Email Deb Felio at

[email protected]  

for the toll-free number and access code.

 

Adoptive Parents Support Group

1st Tuesday of the month   

February 3 - May 5, 2015

5:30pm-7:00pm

Supervised activities and group therapy for children

Lakewood Nazarene Church

Lakewood, CO

RSVP to Family Support Specialist, Mindi Bekler, 720-251-5876

 

Teen & Tween Adoption Support for Parents

Potluck

2nd & 4th Monday of each month

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Resilience Center

1298 Peoria St

Aurora, CO 80011

Click here for more info.

 

 

Young Adult Mental Illness Support Group

For ages 18-28

1st & 3rd Thursday of every month

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

1st week Classroom F-G

3rd week Classroom E

St Anthony Hospital

11600 W 2nd Dr

Lakewood, CO 80228

Contact Courtney at 720-369-2629 for more information.  

  

Welcome Child Adoption/Foster Care Support Group

Second Sunday of the month

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Timberline Church, Room 214

2908 S. Timberline Road

Fort Collins, CO  80525

For more information contact Michele Sanner by email at mlsanner@gmail.com or by phone at (970) 481-5749.

 

Xpress Yourself Art & Play Therapy  

Support groups for internationally adopted children & adolescents

CCAI

6920 S. Holly Circle

Centennial, CO 80112

Call 303-850-9998, ext 22

 

Called to Adopt Support Group

4th Saturday of the month, 6:00 p.m.,
Christ Community Church, Greeley, CO

Click here for more info.

 

The Men's Group for Adoptive Dads

Thursdays, 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m.

Zoe's, 715 10th St, Greeley, CO 80631

For more information, contact Tim Paxton at 970-691-5737 or by email at [email protected].

 

 Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support Group

Facilitators:  Sarah Ahn and Jenny Burnsed, LPC

Last Monday of every month 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Bixby School,  3750 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder

There is no fee associated with this group, though donations are gratefully accepted.  Please contact Sarah at [email protected] for questions.
 

Therapeutic Post-Adoption Support Group

2nd Thursday of the month, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Windsor Timberline Church

360 E Crossroads Blvd, Windsor, CO

Click here for more information.

 

Aurora Mental Health

Adoption Support Group

2nd & 4th Mondays of the month

Aurora Mental Health

11059 E Bethany Drive, Aurora, CO 80014

Click here for more information.

 

The Be The Change Challenge

(For parents of challenging children)

2nd Tuesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

ACL Boulder, 5744 North 71st Street, Longmont, Colorado 80503

Call 630-841-0458

Click here for more info.

 

EMPOWER Colorado Adams County Rainbow Center

3rd Thursday of each month, 6:00 p.m. -  8:00 p.m.

2140 E 88th Ave, Thornton, CO  80229

Contact:  KimNichelle Rivera 303-226-5536

 

EMPOWER Littleton/Aurora/Englewood

1st & 3rd Thursday, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network

155 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, CO 80112

Contact Carol Villa at 303-790-1055 for more information or email [email protected]

 

NAMI Connections Recovery Support Group for Adults

Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

ADMHN Building, 3rd floor

5500 S. Sycamore St, Littleton, CO  80120

Contact:  Carol 

303-790-1055

 

NAMI Family Support Group Teleconference

2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month

Contact:  [email protected] 

 

Louisville Parent Support Group

Second Tuesday of the month 7:00 - 8:30

Art Underground

 901 Front Street, Louisville, CO 80027

$25 per session; reservations required.  

Call 720-352-1743.  
 

 Adult Adoptee Group

Thursdays  6:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

7950 S Lincoln St, Ste 111-E, Littleton, CO 80122

Call 303-522-3184 to register. $20 per session.
 

 

  

COCAF strives to provide Colorado's adoptive families with the information and resources they need to keep their families healthy and happy.  If you have ideas for topics you think we should cover, please let us know.  And if you find a good resource -- definitely let us know.  Please forward your ideas or information to me at [email protected].  Materials received by the 20th of a month will be considered for inclusion in the next month's newsletter.
  
Wishing all families peace, serenity, and a good sense of humor,
Colleen Tarket, COCAF Board Member (and newsletter put-ter-together-er)
 

COCAF does not recommend or endorse any specific book, website, survey, study, or provider of services.  The purpose of the COCAF e-newsletter is to provide families with potential resources.  All information contained in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and as is without warranty expressed or implied, and shall not constitute legal, medical, psychiatric, educational, or parenting advice.  COCAF is not be liable for any damages arising from using the information in this newsletter, including direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, and/or consequential damages.

 

No information on this site should be considered legal advice.  Laws vary by state, so you are urged to research the specific laws, and your rights, within your state.  If you have specific questions regarding your rights, or the laws in your state, please contact an attorney.

 
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We believe that all children have the right to a permanent loving family. We are dedicated to improving services for every pre- and post-adoptive family and to increasing the knowledge and accountability of public systems. We are committed to advocacy in state and local service planning and delivery, in support of all pre and post adoptive families.

  
Sincerely,
Deborah Cave, Executive Director