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Kin-first Systems Spotlight: Celebrating the 2023 Kin-first Symposia and Embracing More for 2024

It's a Brand New Year!

The Center for Excellences in Family Finding, Engagement and Support is at full speed for 2024, but we'd be remiss to miss this opportunity to reflect upon the recent success of the 2023 Kin-first Symposia.

Judge Bill Thorne giving a presentation
Judge Bill Thorne's keynote presentation at the Kin-first Symposium

The regional, first-of-their-kind events, hosted in Davis Nov. 7 and Anaheim Dec. 6, welcomed more than 300 attendees to learn from statewide and national experts and to participate in the important discussion on how to stop the separation of children from their families and communities, and instead keep them connected to those they love. The Center for Excellence in Family Finding, Engagement and Support at UC Davis Human Services thanks all attendees, speakers, panelists and staff who made the Kin-first Symposia happen and for striving toward a kin-first culture that ensures familial connection for children.

Kin-first Models and Approaches to Creating Systems Change

Our recently recorded webinar featured an outstanding panel of leaders from model programs, including: Cultural Brokers, Inc.; the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption/Wendy’s Wonderful Kids; Kinnect to Family; and Family Finding. Panelists shared their unique perspectives and insights on the Kin-first philosophy and delved into the power of Kin-first Culture and the transformative programs that are redefining family connections.

If you weren't able to catch this webinar live, we have a recorded version, along with accompanying materials, ready for access at our webinar series page.

Introducing Digital Stories!

The CFE Digital Stories series debuts with an emotional story from a parent partner turned social worker who, 10 years earlier, had her children removed from the home. Many of her kids were placed in separate homes and difficult to stay in touch with for more than one hour a week, resulting in additional trauma to the children and family, while her daughter was placed with a grandparent. This story looks at the enormously positive impact being place within the family had on her daughter.

New Microlearning: Storytelling Through Data

Through engaging scenario videos and data narrative illustrations, this interactive training will deepen your understanding of the importance of the Kin-first Culture and set you up with new tools to apply it effectively in your work environment.

Upcoming Events

We have several upcoming webinars currently open for enrollment:

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Kin-first Model Program Series: Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Overview

February 8, 2024, 11am-12pm (PST)

Kin-first Model Program Series: Kinnect to Family Overview

February 27, 2024, 1-2PM (PST)

Learn More

Visit our website for additional resources, information, and training opportunities.

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