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National Foster Parent Association Newsletter - December 2025 |
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The NFPA is a respected national voice for Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Parents through Networking, Education and Advocacy. |
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As we enjoy this holiday time, I want to take a moment to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for the warmth, stability, and love you provide to the children in your care every day. Your dedication and untiring hard work bring light and respite to kids who need it most.
Together, we make this season one of hope and belonging. We wish for you moments of rest, joy, and connection, knowing that your compassion continues to shape brighter futures and create lasting memories for the families you support.
Arnie |
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| Town Hall - More Info, Pre-Register |
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Consider an end of year donation to provide support for the NFPA, and for our mission of providing support through Networking, Education and Advocacy through an end of year donation.
The NFPA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, so your donations are tax deductible. |
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Does your workplace participate in the Combined Federal Campaign? Look for the NFPA when choosing the organization to which you'll contribute. Our CFC Charity code is #11817. |
| Donate Now |
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Generative AI (GAI) and Internet Safety
Our friends at NCMEC have created some new, FREE resources for your family's internet safety. AI is an important tool for young people, and understanding more about how to keep them safe when using the tools is incredibly important.
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NFPA's 54th Education Conference
is Online Now!
Targeted. Timely. Presented by Experts. |
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As a 'thank you' to our Members and followers, we are extending the 54th Education Conference through the end of the year. You'll have until December 31st to enjoy the sessions. Members take part for FREE and are pre-enrolled! |
| Take Courses Now (Members) |
| Register for the Event (Non-Members) |
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Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family to Thrive
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) affects up to 1 in 20 people, and is particularly prevalent among young people in the adoption and fostering system. As a hidden brain injury, FASD can manifest in ways that often lead to challenging behaviors, which can feel overwhelming for caregivers relying on traditional parenting strategies.
In this supportive guide, Barb Clark shares her experiences raising a child with FASD - what she got wrong, what she got right, and what you can do to support your own family. Through chapters including plain-English explanations of what FASD actually is, the strengths and struggles of kids with FASD, and strategies for keeping your head above water, Barb offers practical advice for looking after yourself and your family. |
| Purchase |
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Finding Where You Belong: Henry and the Magical Words Inspires Children and Gives Back to Foster Youth
“In time, you will learn about all the places you truly belong.”
This touching line from Henry and the Magical Words, written by Cate Newbanks-Hawks, captures the soul of a heartwarming children's book that is much more than just a story—it's a message of love, family, and finding your place in the world.
Supporting a Greater Cause
Proceeds from Henry and the Magical Words benefit the National Foster Parent Association's Youth Scholarship Program, a vital initiative that helps young people with lived experience in foster care and kinship care pursue post-secondary education and reach their full potential.
By purchasing this book, readers are not only sharing an inspiring story with their children—they’re also investing in the futures of countless young people across the country.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, foster caregiver, or simply someone who believes in the power of love and resilience, Henry and the Magical Words is a story that will stay with you—and your child—long after the final page.
Get your copy today and be part of a story that’s changing lives, one magical word at a time.
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Healing Connections: A Community Approach to Childhood Trauma and Attachment
Healing Connections is an essential guide for professionals and caregivers working with children who have complex needs stemming from early trauma, losses, or involvement in the child welfare system. This updated resource builds on prior foundational knowledge to deliver contemporary tools and practices tailored to today’s diverse families, including foster and adoptive families.
Sales benefit ATTACh. |
| Purchase |
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ATTACh Conference 2026:
'Healing Connections, The Heart of the Matter'
Registration for the April, 2026 ATTACh conference is now open!
The NFPA is partnering in the development of the sessions that are dedicated to healing developmental trauma and attachment.
Visit their web page to learn more.
Print the event flyer HERE. |
| Register for the Conference |
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Bills to Follow in the 119th Congress |
Status: Passed the House, will go to the Senate as the next step.
Makes the diligent recruitment plan requirements of Title IV-B more robust and requires states to use a data-driven approach for identifying potential foster parents.
The NFPA has been actively involved in the presentation of this bill to the House of Representatives.
Status: Introduced to the House Ways and Means Committee
Creates a one-time per year tax credit for foster families providing short term care for children.
Status: Introduced to the House - Judiciary, Education and Workforce Committee
Would provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS holders, and DED recipients.
Status: Introduced to the House - Education and Workforce; Oversight and Government Reform Committee
Modernizes the Federal poverty line to accurately reflect cost of living and regional adjustments.
Reauthorizations:
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Invitation to Take Part in an Auburn University Survey
Foster parents, I'd love your insight!
I am a professor at Auburn University studying how fostering impacts marriages. If you are a married foster parent, would you mind taking a few minutes to complete this anonymous Foster Care & Marriage survey? Thanks for helping others learn from your experiences!
https://auburn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_behFvYEixlsZ2kK
Jeremy Walden
Senior Lecturer
School of Communication & Journalism |
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We invite you to apply to join the Board of the National Foster Parent Assocation! |
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Our Board of Directors is dedicated to supporting Foster, Adoptive and Kinship parents.
Consider lending your voice, unique talents, experience and passion for children to our mission as we advocate for foster, adoptive and kinship families. |
| Apply Now! |
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Share ConnectU With Your Network! |
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Visit the NFPA ConnectU Archive of past editions HERE. |
Received this newsletter via a forward? Subscribe to ConnectU HERE. |
Wish to share this edition of ConnectU on your social networks? Visit THIS PAGE for an image and direct link to an online version. |
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Become a Friend of the NFPA |
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We are committed to working to ensure that foster families have the support and services they require to best meet the needs of the children in their care.
By joining as a Friend of the NFPA at the tier that best suits you - Champion ($50/mo), Hero ($25/mo) or Advocate ($15/mo) - you become a vital partner in helping us to provide those supports. |
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