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“You are the sky. Everything else – it’s just the weather.” ― Pema Chödrön
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Look for Fostering Vermont every other week. Send your news, events, and other items of importance and interest to: mary.collins@vermont.gov DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: TUESDAY, NOON.
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As we continue to work to safely navigate Covid-19, please rely upon your District Office should you need support during this critical time. Here is a link to each of our District Offices: https://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact-us/districts
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IN YOUR DISTRICT
news from around the state
Send us news of what's happening in your community and district.
We'll post highlights here. Email to: mary.collins@vermont.gov
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We are in need of caregivers who are willing to be contacted by Centralized Intake to support after-hours emergency needs. If you might be interested in serving this need, please reach out to the Resource Coordinator in your district. Thank you.
Here is a link to each District Office: https://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact-us/districts
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CHANGE TO MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT RATE
The State of Vermont has announced a change to the reimbursement rate for mileage. It has increased to .585 per mile effective 1/1/2022. This affects and includes foster parent mileage reimbursement. All foster parents’ mileage reimbursement requests should be updated with the new rate for services from January 1, 2022, going forward. Thank you.
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ADOPTION NEWS
children and youth who are eligible for adoption in Vermont
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DCF is seeking families able to consider adoption. This bi-weekly feature will introduce you to these children and youth. Some of the children have requested a pseudonym. You will know by those names listed in quotes. For more information, please visit:
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 Meet Aliah!(11 years old)
My favorite things: I like listening to music. I enjoy reading. I like hanging out with friends. I watch scary movies. I enjoy sports like soccer, swimming, and cheerleading.
Things I do not like: People making fun of me. I don’t like when people ignore me or my feelings. I don’t like certain fruit like peaches, plums, and pineapples.
Favorite foods: I love pizza, garlic bread, and spaghetti! Pretty much like Italian foods. I also like chicken cutlets. What I want in a family: I want people who are nice to me. I want a family that understands what I am going through. I want them to listen to me and I also want advice from them.
What I want families to know about me: I want them to know that I like to be active. I like to laugh with my friends. I like to sing. I want to be a cheerleader. I want to be supported. I want them to understand my past and help me with my future. I want to stay connected to some of my biological family.
What we want families to know about Aliah: Aliah has been through a lot in her short years. A family that understands childhood trauma is best. She loves her biological family fiercely. She has also had many placement changes, so she needs someone who is truly going to commit to her. While she is 11 years old, she does act a bit younger at this time. Aliah tends to follow others, especially her peers. She needs support around basic things like hygiene and social interactions. A two-parent household would be best but a single parent (mother) would also be an option.
Contact Information: Kirk Brewster. Email: kirkb@lundvt.org, or, Call: 802-772-0703
 
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VERMONT CHILD WELFARE TRAINING PARTNERSHIP
Here is the link to our training catalog:
Vermont Kin, Foster, and Adoptive Families Training Catalogue ~ January 2022
This also includes a link to our online training catalog
Kin, Foster and Adoptive Families ONLINE TRAINING Catalogue
RPC+ TIPS for Tuning In – Winter/Spring 2022
| District |
Start Date |
Time |
Contact Person |
RPC+ for Youth Caregivers**
Child Welfare Training Partnership |
February 15th
Tuesdays with some Saturday daytime classes |
6:00pm – 7:30pm
Virtual
Zoom class |
Amy Bielawski-Branch
Amy.Bielawski-Branch@uvm.edu
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Middlebury
Counseling Service of
Addison County |
February 17th
Thursdays |
5:00pm – 7:30pm
Virtual
Zoom Class |
Heather Bessette
hbessette@csac-vt.org |
Barre
Washington County
Mental Health |
March 9th
Wednesdays |
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Virtual
Zoom Class |
Megan McKeever
Megan.McKeever@wcmhs.org
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The RPC+ course lasts for 10 weeks
All RPC+ classes are currently offered virtually via Zoom so you can take it anywhere in the state, although there is some advantage to taking it locally in order to get to know other participants and resources in your own community.
All classes include some work for participants to do on their own at home – such as watch a video or read a short article between classes.
Questions? Contact: Amy.Bielawski-Branch@uvm.edu 802-578-0426
Classes are FREE and are for any Vermont kin, foster and adoptive caregiver
New classes will be added soon!!
** RPC+ for Youth Caregivers is for caregivers who have an adolescent (age 12+) in their home.
Effective 1/18/22
RPC+ for Youth Caregivers
Winter/Spring 2022
Kristy and Carmina
| Module |
Date |
Time |
| 1 |
Tuesday February 15 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 2 |
Tuesday February 22 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 3 |
Tuesday March 1 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 4 & 5 |
Saturday March 5 |
9:00am – 12:00pm |
| 6 |
Tuesday March 8 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 7 |
Tuesday March 15 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 8 |
Tuesday March 22 |
6:00pm – 7:30pm |
| 9 & 10 |
Saturday March 26 |
9:00am – 12:00pm |
Please reach out if you have questions!!
https://vermontcwtp.org/
VT Child Welfare Training Partnership
University of Vermont
208 Colchester Ave.
Burlington, VT 05405
802-656-3376
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January Virtual Fostering to Forever
Must complete both:
Wednesday January 26th
9:00am to 10:30am
AND
Wednesday February 2nd
9:00am to 11:00am
April Virtual Fostering to Forever
Must complete both:
Monday April 11th
6:30pm to 8:00pm
AND
Monday April 18th
6:30pm to 8:30pm
May In-Person Fostering to Forever
Tentatively scheduled for
Wednesday May 18th
5:30pm – 9:00pm
in Berlin/Barre
This class may switch to virtual if there are covid concerns
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Class Topics
Preparing for the Transition
Connecting with State and local resources
Lifelong Issues in Adoption or Guardianship
What’s DIFFERENT & What’s the SAME??
Talking about Adoption
Working with the rest of the family (birth, extended, siblings)
Claiming the newest member of your family
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If you need assistance with online enrollment email: ebaird@uvm.edu
2022 ~ Fostering to Forever
This class prepares caregivers for adopting from foster care and is REQUIRED prior to submission of your adoption assistance agreement. This class is available virtually (zoom), online (at your own pace), or in-person (when covid restrictions allow). Choose which option works best for you!
Virtual (Zoom) Class:
The virtual class is divided into two parts. You must attend both classes to receive your certificate of completion.
OR
In-Person Classes:
Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, May 18th 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm in Berlin/Barre
This class may switch to virtual if there are covid concerns
To register for any of these classes, contact:
Emma.Baird@uvm.edu
If you prefer to take the class online:
Fostering to Forever
Same class as on the previous one – just online so you can take it at your own pace
Online Instructions
1. Go to this website: www.training.vermontcwtp.org
2. Register for an account (or login if you already have one)
3. Enroll in “FOSTERING TO FOREVER”
4. Enter enrollment key: F2forever
Families Forever
For families who are moving from Conditional Custody Order (CCO) to Adoption/Guardianship)
Online Instructions
1. Go to this website: www.training.vermontcwtp.org
2. Register for an account (or login if you already have one)
3. Enroll in “FAMILIES FOREVER”
4. Enter enrollment key: FFcwtp
If you have questions about these online classes, please contact Jill Richard
Jill.richard@uvm.edu
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Vermont BPC Breakthrough Parent Curriculum:
Navigating Trauma Across Generations
An RPC+ type class for birth parents who are involved (or at risk of being involved) with the child welfare system.
Caring for a child or youth who has experienced trauma can be challenging, especially when you may have had similar traumatic experiences. Unresolved trauma can negatively impact parenting and interfere with healthy decision-making
The experience of trauma can lead to traumatic stress reactions that can be confusing, frustrating, and overwhelming for both parents and children. Traumatic stress reactions and other responses to trauma can cause children to behave in ways that may baffle you. Their relationship with you, with other adults, and even with their peers may feel shaky or unpredictable, and usual approaches to parenting may not work with them.
Trauma-Informed Parenting can make all the difference!
Vermont BPC is a free 10-week long course for birth parents who have been (or are at risk of) being involved with the child welfare system. It educates parents about the impact of trauma on themselves and their children while providing information, skills, and strategies for understanding, healing, hope, and growth.
This is a new national course being piloted in Vermont through NFI (Northeastern Family Institute) in partnership with the UVM College of Education and Social Services and Vermont Care Partners.
There will be two virtual offerings – one starting in January and the second in March.
Contact Tina Bleau at NFI for more information or to share with any birth parents who might be interested: TinaBleau@nafi.com
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VFAFA NEWS
helpful news and information for our VFAFA partners
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VFAFA MEETINGS
Here you will find notices of upcoming meetings, events, and news of special interest from our VFAFA partners. If you would like to suggest a topic or share news from your Parent Group, please email: mary.collins@vermont.gov. Thank you!
VFAFA has a newly appointed President, Debbie Boyce, who will serve the remainder of the President's term (2022 Annual Meeting).
VFAFA is seeking people to fill both Board seats, coordinator positions, as well as accepting volunteer assistance. Specifically, VFAFA is seeking:
Vice President
Members at Large
Children's Activity Fund Coordinator
District Representatives - with openings in:
- Brattleboro
- Hartford
- Morrisville
- Newport
If you are interested in being considered for one of the positions listed above, or just helping VFAFA, please contact the VFAFA Secretary at: VFAFASecretary@gmail.com.
Join us for our next meeting! Tuesday, February 8 , 2022, 7 pm
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You can join the ZOOM meeting here:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85160431007?pwd=NW9QaVI4cHdpdGs1Z0Z1aTVwUHMxQT09
Dial by your location
+1 646 876 9923
Meeting ID: 851 6043 1007
Password: 084646
In addition to the above information, you can always find a link on the Vermont Foster and Adoptive Families Facebook page.
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VKAP NEWS
helpful news and information from Vermont Kin As Parents
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For information on Vermont Kin as Parents visit: www.vermontkinasparents.org
Vermont Kin as Parents, (VKAP), has moved to 1205 North Ave Burlington, 05408. The phone number is 802 871 5104. This number is answered 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. VKAP can help caregivers navigate the various educational, medical, legal, and financial services the children need. A support group is available on Tuesday evening. Please contact VKAP if you have any questions.
Email Jim Holway: president@vermontkinasparents.org
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The Foster Club Internship is happening this summer. YDP will be sponsoring two youth. Any interested youth should reach out to us directly at ydp@wcysb.org.
Jen Boardman, LMSW - she/her/hers
Director, Youth Development Program
Washington County Youth Service Bureau
Mail: PO Box 627, Montpelier, VT 05601
Physical Address: 652 Granger Rd, Berlin VT
Cell: (510) 277-5465 Office: (802) 229-9151
vtyouthdevelopmentprogram.org
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VSAC News You Can Use
college planning, financial aid, and more
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| Help us spread the word about these upcoming dates |
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Saturday, March 5: College & Career Pathways - Registration now open!
High school families across the state are invited to attend this free online event to participate in live virtual workshops, discover free resources, get expert advice, and meet with local reps from Vermont colleges and training programs. Find out more and register at vsac.org/ccp.
Friday, February 11: VSAC-assisted scholarships - Application deadline!
With a single application, you can apply for more than 120 VSAC-assisted scholarships. You can submit your application today and return later to upload your supporting documents. Everything must be submitted by February 11.
Friday, January 21 & 28: FAFSA Fridays - Only two dates left!
There are still openings available to receive help with your FAFSA. Sign up for a one-on-one Zoom meeting with a VSAC counselor. |
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VIRTUAL AND LIVE EVENTS
events of interest for vermont foster and kincare families
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PLEASE CONFIRM THAT EVENTS OF INTEREST POSTED ON THIS CALENDAR ARE HAPPENING. CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS MAY OCCUR WITHOUT NOTICE.
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EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
PLEASE FOLLOW ALL VERMONT STATE SOCIAL DISTANCING GUIDELINES AND BE SURE TO CHECK IN ADVANCE TO CONFIRM THAT EVENTS OF INTEREST ARE STILL HAPPENING.
Dayna Lorentz Staff Picks Online Thu., Jan. 20, 7 p.m.
Middle-grade author Dayna Lorentz celebrates the launch of her newest novel with a discussion on restorative justice in life and in fiction. Wayward Creatures follows a troubled 12-year-old boy who befriends a lost coyote while attempting to repair the damage he caused by starting an accidental forest fire. In keeping with the themes of the book, Lorentz discusses accountability and collective responsibility with Rachel Jolly and Kelly Ahrens of the Burlington Community Justice Center. Author and Seven Days associate editor Margot Harrison moderates this all-ages panel. 802-448-3350
Outdoor puzzle swap in West Lebanon
Thursday, January 20, 2022
7:00 pm - 7:15 pm
Kilton Public Library
80 Main Street
West Lebanon, NH
Bring puzzles to swap with others to the library's back parking lot.
Contact Info: Lisa M. Green
603-359-7116
Learn to Snowshoe for Little Ones
Sat., Jan. 22, 10-10:30 a.m.
Morristown Centennial Library
7 Richmond St., Morrisville
Tiny tykes strap in and practice snowshoeing in the library's backyard. 802-888-3853
Art Lab: Collaborative Washi Tape Mural
Sat., Jan. 22, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Brownell Library
6 Lincoln St., Essex Junction
Little artists drop by to help create beautiful, collaborative art out of brightly colored and patterned craft tape. Ages 3 and up. 802-878-6956
Online: Zentangle with Katy Abbott
Saturday, January 22, 2022
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Hartland, VT
Virtual Event https://www.hartlandlibraryvt.org/events/
Free
Note: Advance Registration.
The Hartland Public Library welcomes Katy Abbott to teach a workshop in the art of Zentangle. Zentangle® is an easy-to-learn and relaxing method of creating beautiful images from structured repetitive patterns. Zentangle is used to increase focus and creativity in addition to reducing stress and practicing mindfulness, and is enjoyed by a wide range of skills and ages. Non-Artists are welcome and encouraged to participate. During this two-hour zoom class, you will learn what the Zentangle method is all about, how to tangle, and make future creations. You will pick up a supply kit in advance of the session at the library and the classes will be taught by Katy Abbott who has been a Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT) since 2012. To register, email Nancy at director@hartlandlibraryvt.org or use the link on our website. 802-436-2473
'The Snow Maiden
Sun., Jan. 23, 2 p.m.
Barre Opera House
6 N. Main St., Barre
A childless couple adopts a magical girl made of snow and ice in No Strings Marionette's adaptation of an old Russian folktale. Masks and proof of vaccination are required. 802-476-8188
HopStop Family Show: Unexpected Tales Online
Sat., Jan. 29, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Simon Brooks leads an interactive storytelling workshop for little yarn-spinners ages 4 through 6. Presented by Dartmouth College's Hopkins Center for the Arts. 603-646-2422
Drop-In Soap Carving
Wed., Feb. 2, 1-2:30 p.m.
Birds of Vermont Museum
900 Sherman Hollow Rd., Huntington
Crafters stop by to carve squeaky-clean sculptures. Tools and soap provided. All ages. 802-434-2167
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COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Thank you for your generous support!
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THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS FOR YOUR GENEROSITY ON BEHALF OF VERMONT FOSTER AND KIN CARE FAMILIES!
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We appreciate every Vermont community and individual for all the ways you support children and youth in foster care throughout Vermont. If you would like to learn more about ways that you or your organization can support a child in foster care, our Recruitment & Retention Specialists and Resource Coordinators would love to work with you!
WE WISH TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE GENEROSITY OF
THE PARAMOUNT THEATRE, RUTLAND
For providing tickets to foster families so that they could enjoy a drive through the Vermont State Fairgrounds and their holiday lights spectacular! And to,
THE VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY
FOR ITS SUPPORT OF FOSTER FAMILIES DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON. MANY THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO AND FOR THE SPIRIT IN WHICH YOU GIVE!
 Robyn Bradley, RRS, Rutland District, and her Vermont Teddy Bear
Do you have an idea or item that our foster families could benefit from? Reach out to your District Office. Here's how: Contact your District Office Recruitment & Retention Specialist and Resource Coordinator at: https://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact-us/districts
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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
DCF has numerous job opportunities available. To inquire and apply, visit the State of Vermont Job Website at: https://careers.vermont.gov
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INTERIM FAMILY SERVICES WORKER | BURLINGTON DISTRICT
The Family Services Burlington District office is hiring an interim Family Services Worker – a short term commitment through 6/3/2022. Hence, the subject title…we’re looking for someone who has either done this type of work before and would be happy to do it again, but not for the rest of their life or maybe someone who has recently retired and wants a little bit of excitement in their life, but not forever or someone who’d like to try this type of work on for size without a longer term commitment.
The ideal candidate is someone who is a self-starter, likes working as part of a team, someone who believes that people have the power to change, someone who has some strong writing skills, someone’s who interested in the court process, and who likes to laugh with the best bunch of social workers you’ll ever find.
In exchange for bringing these incredible qualities, you will be provided with a supportive and knowledgeable supervisor, peers who are invested in your learning and success, a leadership team who has your back as you’re doing such important work, and an office culture that is able to move mountains in order to provide the best services possible for children, youth and families.
If you or someone you know is interested the Job Req. # 27106 for Family Services Worker - Interim has been posted.
Beth Maurer, MSW, District Director
426 Industrial Avenue Suite 140 Williston, Vermont 05495
Cell:(802) 735-6009 Office: (802) 863-7370
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For all newsletter inquiries, please contact:
Mary.Collins@vermont.gov
Are you a foster care provider who would be willing to speak with the press? If so, we would LOVE to hear from you. From time to time, the Commissioner's office receives requests for interviews. Perhaps your story may be one we could share?
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Copyright © 2021
Vermont Department For Children and Families, Family Services Division
All rights reserved.
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Our mailing address is:
280 State Street HC1N Building B Waterbury Vermont 05671
Tel: (802) 241.0896
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