By Melissa McWilliams, AGSS Program Manager

Last month, I focused on opportunities for kids to have fun, learn, and grow, away from the normal routine of home life. This month, I want to encourage parents to look for ways to do the same! It is important in the work we do as parents, to make sure we are taking care of our own needs (physical, mental, and spiritual) as well as developing a community who can support us unconditionally in a non-judgmental and supportive way. To help with this, I have a list of a few conferences and opportunities to check out below:

Lost Sparrows

• Dates: September 5 – 6, 2025
• Location: Warsaw Community Church in Warsaw, IN
• Website: lsconference.org

Families Rising Conference

• Dates: October 6 – 8, 2025
• Location: Orlando, FL
• Website: wearefamiliesrising.org/families-rising-adoption-and-foster-care-conference

Replanted Conference

• Dates: October 23 – 25, 2025
• Location: Attend in-person in Chicago, IL or attend virtually through a local Host Site
• Website: wearefamiliesrising.org/families-rising-adoption-and-foster-care-conference

If getting away just isn’t an option right now, check out these resources that offer training accessible from home!

Hope for the Journey

“Hope for the Journey is a five-session resource designed to equip parents, caregivers, church leaders, and professionals with the tools to build connection and trust with the children and teens in their care.”

• Dates: Year-round access (in lengths of 3 or 12 months)
• Access begins April 4, 2025
• Website: hopeforthejourney.com

Lifeline Youth & Family Services Support Groups

• Support Groups for Resource Families: lifelineyouth.org/support-groups

Lost Sparrows’ Helpful Resources List

• www.lostsparrows.org/resources

C.A.S.E. (Center for Adoption Support and Education):

• Webinars: adoptionsupport.org/webinars
• Virtual Support Groups: adoptionsupport.org/resources/event/support-group

The parenting journey (and life, in general!) is best done in community with others, and I hope becoming involved in any of these opportunities helps build your community!