Colorado State Foster Parent Association: Supporting Foster, Kinship, and Adoptive Families Across Colorado Since 1971

Founded in 1971, the Colorado State Foster Parent Association (CSFPA) was created by foster parents and professionals with a goal to advocate for stronger support systems, improved policies, and more resources for caregivers across Colorado. Today, the organization continues that mission by connecting foster, kinship, and adoptive families with tangible support, a large community network, advocacy and education.

CSFPA is led by Executive Director, Steffany Lyddon, alongside a dedicated board of directors and volunteers throughout the state. Over the past several years, the organization has expanded its programming to focus not only on resources, but also caregiver connection, community collaboration, and elevating caregiver voices.

The organization’s largest initiative has been statewide advocacy. CSFPA recently hosted its first Foster Parent Summit, bringing foster and kinship caregivers together for intentional conversations around the realities of caregiving, barriers families face, and ways to strengthen support systems across Colorado. The summit focused on collaboration, education and actionable steps to better support children and caregivers involved in foster care.

One attendee shared, “I’m finally in the right room for my voice to be heard,” reflecting the heart behind the summit and the importance in creating spaces where caregivers feel valued in conversations impacting the system.

In addition to this, CSFPA hosted its first annual appreciation event at the Denver Children’s Museum for foster, adoptive, and kinship families. This gathering brought together local child welfare partners to provide families with access to services, activities for children, meals, giveaways, and direct support while celebrating the vital role caregivers play in the lives of children and youth.

CSFPA continues to provide direct support to families through member benefits, community partnerships, and one-on-one assistance during times of need. Families are provided with resources including school supplies, meals, birthday gifts, holiday support, and emergency needs during difficult seasons.

Member families receive access to caregiver resources, community events, and partnerships such as discounted YMCA memberships and camps across Colorado.

Looking ahead, CSFPA plans to continue expanding opportunities to amplify foster parent voices, host Kid’s Night Out events, and strengthen statewide partnerships. The organization is focused on building stronger relationships with legislators and community leaders to further advocate for foster and kinship families across Colorado.

“Our goal is to ensure caregivers feel seen, supported, and connected,” shared Executive Director, Steffany Lyddon, “When foster, kinship, and adoptive families have strong community support, children thrive.”

Anyone involved in the child welfare system who is interested in learning more about CSFPA can visit the organization’s website for additional information, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.