Support & Discussion Groups- Online & In-Person

These groups are a casual discussion group meant to support adoptive, fostering, & kinship parents and to build relationships between parents and their adopted/fostered children of all ages through community, conversation, and educational materials.

All facilitators are committed to increasing their learning and understanding through the insight and perspective of other triad members,

Each month we discuss part of a book or topic. Although not required, sharing personal experiences and asking questions is encouraged. There is No requirement to come to all discussions or to have read the chapter beforehand, so please join us and feel free to choose the chapter topics that interest you!

Parent Self Care Time (Respite) / Youth Resilience Building Program

Encompass offers a Resilience Building Group for Youth who are Adopted, Fostered, or in Kinship Care and is intended to double as an opportunity for respite, for parents to have time for much needed self care or a date with their partner.

This program is created, planned, and facilitated by Heather Gonzales LPC (adult adoptee) and other lived experience mentors, for adoptees and foster youth. It combines elements of both a support group and a mentoring opportunity that helps build social emotional learning skills, increase resilienc factors, and incorporates artistic activities to increase fun, group engagement, self-expression, and learning.

Adoptive Parent Retreats

These retreats hope to continue to be offered biennial (depending on sponsors). In response to numerous requests and surveys, these retreats are generally designed as a relaxing getaway weekend for parents.

You are encouraged to make your own schedule and participate in the activities as you choose. Meals are provided and will be served at specific times but you can choose to skip these or eat alone.

Often held at a State Park with: trails, pools, lounge, all day coffee, scenic overviews, outdoor firepits & indoor fireplace, restaurant, kayaks or canoes, quiet cozy corners, beach, bar, and tennis courts.

Family Picnic & Other Events

In addition to our more regular scheduled activities we have special events such as family picnics, an annual Art Show, part art workshops, adoption related educational workshops, and/or community work days.

Check Calendar for upcoming activities and dates.