Welcome to the quarterly newsletter for TFI’s Kansas services and programs!

INSIDE:

We believe keeping our community informed of what is happening in Kansas is important. In this issue, you will find the following:

Foster Parent Highlight – enjoy a look at some of our selfless foster parents.
Program Highlights – stay up to date on some of TFI’s initiatives in Kansas.
Staff Highlight – meet some of the individuals that make up our amazing staff.
By the Numbers – learn how Kansas is working to meet outcomes and goals.

Dede and Jorge Nunez Munoz have been fostering for over a decade. They have provided consistency to many sibling groups; giving them a loving family environment. They encourage youth to discuss their life skills and any extracurricular activities they find their passion in.

Recently, they supported a sibling group, and helped one of them receive an athletic scholarship for soccer at a college. When the siblings arrived in the US, they did not speak English, and Dede and Jorge made them feel welcomed and that they belonged to a family.

Dede and Jorge consistently go above and beyond and we are truly grateful for their hospitality and all they do to help others

Clinical Services

The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) department continues to grow, and two counselors have completed the Kansas Department for Aging & Disability Services (KDADS) case management training and will be working towards certification.

A clinical therapist is almost finished with her K-PMTO training and is working with a family to obtain coaching while completing the training.

Clinical Making a Difference…

In the Spring, the Clinical Services team identified an individual who was recommended for outpatient drug and alcohol treatment. Initially, he was reluctant, but as we delved deeper into his story, he revealed that his hesitation stemmed from past experiences. Through continued communication, he chose to embrace the treatment services.

During his journey, he became increasingly open to participation and introspection, recognizing how substance use could perpetuate a generational cycle and hinder his future goals. Now, having successfully completed the program, he exhibits a transformed mindset, driven by a renewed commitment to sobriety and overall well-being.

Grow Nurturing Families

GNF Making a Difference…

In August, we proudly celebrated the graduation of six families from our program. One of the families initially reached out to us following a DCF report concerning challenging behaviors at school. From day one, they demonstrated a remarkable commitment to transforming these behaviors and paving the way for their child’s success.

Throughout their journey, the families maintained regular communication with our family support workers and therapists, diligently updating them on progress and addressing any issues as they arose. Their dedication was evident as they consistently attended therapy sessions and completed daily Homework Assignments, fully engaging with our program.

Since completing the program, we’ve received heartwarming updates: their child has returned to school after summer break and is thriving without any issues. The families continue to apply the skills they’ve acquired, embracing Special Time—a cherished daily ritual that strengthens their bond through positive parenting techniques.

To learn more about Grow Nurturing Families and the difference it is making, check out the video below.

Kansas Permanency

In August, the Kansas Permanency Specialty Team took a moment to recognize the immense dedication involved in child welfare and the challenges of life itself. Staff were encouraged to be “Self-Care Aware,” reflecting on their own well-being and sharing their self-care practices with one another.

Participants were entered into a drawing for a chance to win a small prize, and three lucky winners received “Sunshine in a Box” gift boxes. As the month came to a close, the responses were compiled and presented to their peers.

Kansas Permanency Making a Difference…

This past month, a heartwarming reunion unfolded in Area 8 as three siblings joyfully reunited with their mother. Just half a year ago, the possibility of terminating parental rights loomed, with TFI and the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) expressing concerns about the mother’s progress and the father’s absence.

During this challenging time, the mother bravely revealed the abuse she had suffered, and with TFI’s unwavering support, she secured a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order. One of her children, with special needs, faced a lack of suitable daycare options in their rural community. However, through innovative teamwork between the mother, TFI, and the GAL, they found and enlisted a qualified caregiver to meet the family’s distinct needs.

Since their reunion, the mother has radiated pride and empowerment, having left behind an abusive relationship and rebuilt her life. Her connection with her children has never been stronger, and she continues to embrace the support that propels her forward.

KS Case Management Area 8, Permanency Supervisor, Carla Zizumbo-Robbins received the Winner of the Child Welfare Supervisor Award at the Excellence in Supervision Conference, in Manhattan, Kan.

Carla has been a supervisor at the Wellington office for just around one year. She has brought knowledge, experience and life to the Wellington team. She goes out of her way to assist wherever she can and pushes the team to be their best by encouraging, coaching and ensuring staff are appreciated.

The phrase, “that’s not my job,” is not in Carla’s vocabulary. She uses her experience and knowledge to run an efficient team and strives to maintain a positive work environment. Carla is dedicated to building future strong leaders who are eager and willing to help build each other up. This has led to high levels of productivity, more achievements and an inviting work environment that staff look forward to coming to each day.

Grow Nurturing Families began a new contract with the Sedgwick County DCF teams in July 2024. They opened services to that county and surrounding areas and are working hard to promote the GNF program for referrals. GNF Therapist Lori Brown has been going above and beyond to meet with community partners to get the word out about GNF services.

Lori has partnered with some of the grade schools, provided presentations and has met with DCF teams to discuss services. She recently set up a booth at a Trunk or Treat in Derby, Kan. to promote GNF and provide candy to children. One of Lori’s unique talents gains a lot of attention at the events she attends because she is able to create balloon animals while connecting with families.

KC Foster Care would like to highlight Kaci Eccles. Kaci is a preparation specialist and is one of the first people that families work with when submitting applications to become licensed foster parents. She ensures that documentation is received and submitted timely and helps walk the families through the beginning stages of becoming a foster parent. She also coordinates our MAPP/DT classes by finding trainers and entering families into the training.