CO4Kids Live: The Arena
The Colorado Department of Human Services has partnered with Foster Source to create an ongoing series of virtual panel discussions as a resource for foster parents. Each panel discussion features Colorado foster parents and/or foster care experts discussing a topic related to foster care and offers participants and viewers an opportunity to connect, share real stories and struggles and proactively seek support.
Foster Care Warriors: Inside the Arena
In Brene Brown’s book Dare to Lead, she ponders Theodore Roosevelt’s quote about the man in the arena. “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat… who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement…” The goal of this series is to focus on the experiences of those in “the arena” of foster care.
Episode 1:
Foster Parenting During the Pandemic
The pandemic has impacted everyone, including foster families. Three Colorado foster parents discuss how they have continued to provide safety and stability to kids amidst unknown circumstances and health concerns.
Episode 2:
You Know You’re a Foster Parent When
In this episode, three Colorado foster parents and our partners at Foster Source discuss what it is really like to be a foster parent. The foster parent panelists share common experiences, unexpected surprises and the resources they lean on for support.
Episode 3:
Foster Care Journeys
In this episode, hear from four Colorado foster parents and our partners at Foster Source, as they share what inspired them to become foster parents and what they’ve learned along the journey.
Episode 4:
Overcoming Barriers
In this episode, learn how foster parents overcome added barriers like healthcare, transportation or even taking a vacation.
Episode 5:
Supporting Teens in Foster Care
Supporting teens in foster care comes with unique challenges and opportunities. Hear from four Colorado foster parents, as they share their experiences.
Episode 6:
Treatment Foster Care
This unique type of foster parent is a part of the Family First Prevention Services Act, an endeavor to create a continuum of foster care for Colorado’s kids.
Episode 7:
Therapeutic Foster Care
Therapeutic Foster Care is a new type of foster care that also serves children and youth who have higher levels of needs. During this episode, you’ll hear from our partners at Foster Source and three Colorado therapeutic foster care parents who will share their experience with this unique type of foster care.
Episode 8:
Mental Health for Caregivers
Navigating mental health can be especially challenging for foster parents. This Mental Health Awareness Month and National Foster Care Month, we’re discussing what foster parents need to know about mental health. In this episode, two Colorado mental health experts and former foster parents will discuss what foster parents need to know about mental health – for themselves and the children in their care.
Episode 9:
How to Support LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care
This episode featured two expert panelists from the Colorado Department of Human Services who discussed strategies and resources for caring for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care.