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Stay Connected! Get Updates and Reminders via Text

Stay Connected! Get Updates and Reminders via Text

by | Feb 7, 2025

We’re making it easier to stay informed! You can now receive important updates, reminders, and announcements straight to your phone via text. Opting in is simple—just text BCFPA to 604-544-1110, and you’ll be all set. You can unsubscribe at any time by texting STOP.
You’ll get:
✅ Key updates
✅ Important announcements
✅ Event reminders
We promise to keep texts relevant and minimal. Standard messaging rates may apply based on your carrier.
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Whether you need a quick resource or have a simple question, just text us. However, for support or urgent matters, please call the BCFPA main line at 1-800-663-9999.
Need to speak with someone? You can also request a call through text, and we’ll get back to you.
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Virtual Regional Discussion Groups for Caregivers – February 2025

Virtual Regional Discussion Groups for Caregivers – February 2025

by | Jan 17, 2025

Join members of BCFPA’s board of directors and provincial office staff to share about your experiences as a caregiver in your region.

BC Foster Parents Association hosts a set of regional discussion groups via Zoom at regular intervals throughout the year. The intention behind these calls is for caregivers to have opportunities to increase their network, ask questions, gain resources, discuss what’s happening in their region, and build a collaborative relationship with BCFPA as well as other caregivers.  These calls are loosely structured open discussions where all attendees are welcome to speak and share freely.

Each call is attended by members of BCFPA’s board of directors and provincial office staff, including our Director of Advocacy/Provincial Community Strategist and head of the Provincial Strategy Initiative, Amanda Oliver.

The dates for the February 2025 round of regional calls will be: 

  • North: Tuesday, February 4th from 7pm – 9pm PST
  • Island: Wednesday, February 5th from 11am – 1pm PST
  • Coast/Fraser: Thursday, February 6th from 11am – 1pm PST
  • Interior: Thursday, February 6th from 7pm – 9pm PST

If you have any questions regarding these calls please feel free to reach out to our Community Network Coordinator at [email protected]. 

IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU REGISTER. 
  • Regional call attendance is open exclusively to foster caregivers in BC.
  • Due to organizational needs, caregivers are only able to attend the session for their region.
  • Calls will be recorded for note-taking purposes to ensure that we accurately capture all information shared. This information will be used solely to inform our advocacy efforts and the development of BCFPA’s services. No identifying information will be recorded and nothing discussed will be shared outside of our organization for any reason.

Register here. 

Zoom links and information will be sent by [email protected] to those registered at least one week prior to the scheduled call.

FREE Workshops for Foster Caregivers Winter 2025

FREE Workshops for Foster Caregivers Winter 2025

by | Oct 31, 2024

Foster parents, get your continuing education hours!

Registration is now open for our free, full-day workshops in Victoria, Kamloops, and Kelowna for the start of 2025. 

 

 JANUARY 29, 2025 (WEDNESDAY) – VICTORIA

Hotel Grand Pacific (463 Belleville St, Victoria) from 8:00AM – 3:00PM

Empowering Foster Parents of Children and Youth with Autism and ADHD

This workshop is specifically designed for foster parents caring for children and youth with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Participants will gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and strengths of these neurodivergent children and learn effective strategies to support their growth and development.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be equipped with practical tools, resources, and a deeper understanding of how to foster emotional regulation, support daily living skills, and navigate challenges associated with ADHD and Autism.

Key Topics Include:

  • Understanding ADHD and Autism: Explore characteristics, the diagnostic process in BC, and strategies for identifying strengths.
  • Supporting Emotional Regulation and Awareness: Techniques to help children recognize emotions and triggers, with practical implementation strategies.
  • Bio-Psycho-Social Mental Health: Understanding mental health challenges, identifying warning signs, and fostering healthy environments.
  • Executive Functioning and Daily Living Skills: Tools for promoting independence through structured routines and visual supports.
  • Navigating Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating: Discuss prevalence and risks, with strategies for providing appropriate support.
  • Building a Supportive Network: Strategies for effective collaboration with educators, mental health care and other healthcare providers.

Through interactive discussions, role-playing scenarios, and practical activities, foster parents will leave this workshop with the tools necessary for holistic support. Participants will receive handouts and a supportive resource list.

Join us for this valuable opportunity to connect with fellow foster parents and share insights that can make a lasting impact on the lives of the children you support.

Speaker: Jessica Pfeffer, MACP, MEM, RCC, CCC

Jessica is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in supporting children, youth, and families navigating all aspects of childhood, with a special focus on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and eating disorders. With an educational background that includes an undergraduate degree in Anthropology and Environmental Studies from the University of Victoria, a Master of Counselling Psychology, and a Master of Environmental Management, Jessica is well-equipped to address the unique needs of her clients.

Jessica’s passion for working with children, youth, and families is evident through her longstanding commitment to service, including volunteer roles with Scouts Canada, the University of Victoria Health Coaching program, and the Royal Jubilee Hospital Emergency Department. Her diverse experience enriches her ability to connect deeply with clients and foster their well-being.

 

FEBRUARY 25, 2025 (TUESDAY) – KAMLOOPS

Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre (1250 Rogers Way, Kamloops) from 8:00AM-3:00PM

Self-Advocacy, Self-Care, & Wellness for Caregivers

Feeling depleted, tired or lackluster lately?

Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop designed specifically for foster parents who seek to incorporate and balance advocacy and self-care in their vital roles. In this supportive environment, participants will explore the interesting aspects of nervous system care, self-care and community care, while learning practical strategies to advocate effectively for children and themselves.

Speaker: Jessica Mills

My name is Jess and I am a neurodivergent therapist and mother to two awesome kiddos. I thrive on bringing neuro-affirming approaches into my work as a therapist. Throughout the course of my 15 year career as a social worker, one thing that continues to be true is how all behavior makes sense based on individuals’ experiences. As an anti-oppressive, and trauma informed Social Worker it is my goal to empower individuals to better understand how their neurodivergent brain works so that they can access their truest potential.

I spent the earlier part of my social work career working within the Child Welfare System and at a wilderness therapy treatment center outside of Banff, Alberta. I continue to spend a lot of time outside in my garden, on the slopes and in the beautiful lakes the Okanagan has to offer.

Speaker: Shawna Mackenzie

I’m Shawna, a registered social worker with a passion for creating culturally safe and supportive spaces. With roots in both Irish and Dutch heritage and kinship ties to Secwepemculucw, I bring a unique blend of experiences to my practice.

I’ve worked within the Child Welfare System for the last 6 years, providing support to families, children, and foster families. As someone who is neurodivergent, I’m especially passionate about helping others to better understand neurodivergent brains and navigate that unique experience. I believe that the more we understand, the better we can manage and thrive.

Outside of work, you’ll find me gathering dopamine from board games, spending time with my children, paddleboarding, or sipping coffee.

FEBRUARY 27, 2024 (THURSDAY) – KELOWNA
 
Ramada by Wyndham Kelowna Hotel & Conference Centre (2170 Harvey Ave, Kelowna) from 8:00AM-3:00PM 
 

ADHD to TAH-DAH! Exploring Neuro-Affirming Approaches in Parenting

Join us for an informative and engaging workshop designed specifically for foster parents seeking to understand and support children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This session will provide valuable insights into the complexities of ADHD, equipping you with knowledge and practical strategies to best understand and support neurodiversity.

Speaker: Jessica Mills

My name is Jess and I am a neurodivergent therapist and mother to two awesome kiddos. I thrive on bringing neuro-affirming approaches into my work as a therapist. Throughout the course of my 15 year career as a social worker, one thing that continues to be true is how all behavior makes sense based on individuals’ experiences. As an anti-oppressive, and trauma informed Social Worker it is my goal to empower individuals to better understand how their neurodivergent brain works so that they can access their truest potential.

I spent the earlier part of my social work career working within the Child Welfare System and at a wilderness therapy treatment center outside of Banff, Alberta. I continue to spend a lot of time outside in my garden, on the slopes and in the beautiful lakes the Okanagan has to offer.

Speaker: Shawna Mackenzie

I’m Shawna, a registered social worker with a passion for creating culturally safe and supportive spaces. With roots in both Irish and Dutch heritage and kinship ties to Secwepemculucw, I bring a unique blend of experiences to my practice.

I’ve worked within the Child Welfare System for the last 6 years, providing support to families, children, and foster families. As someone who is neurodivergent, I’m especially passionate about helping others to better understand neurodivergent brains and navigate that unique experience. I believe that the more we understand, the better we can manage and thrive.

Outside of work, you’ll find me gathering dopamine from board games, spending time with my children, paddleboarding, or sipping coffee.

IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU REGISTER. 
 
  • Workshops are exclusive to foster caregivers.
  • Attendees can only register for the workshop within their region. BCFPA is hoping to continue these workshops annually and we will rotate topics and have more dates/topics to offer.
  • First come, first served. Maximum of 50 attendees per workshop.
  • Breakfast will be served at 8:00AM, and a Territorial Welcome & Opening Prayer by an Elder will begin at 9:00AM. Lunch and coffee break refreshments will be provided.
  • Reimbursements available for mileage over 40km (round trip) at the rate of $0.61/km. Please be advised that this is available up to a maximum of $600. 
  • Children aged 0-3 are welcome to attend alongside caregivers. We just ask that attendees remain mindful of others when doing so. 
  • Childcare is NOT provided at the event but reimbursements are available for childcare up to a maximum of $200 per household (with receipt).
  • Parking at all venues is complimentary. 
  • BCFPA will not be offering complimentary rooms at any of the venues. 
  • Reimbursements available through BCFPA. All reimbursement forms (with receipts) must be completed and submitted within two weeks of the workshop that you attended. 

2024-2025 Trainings Project Registration Form
Name
Name
First
Last
Are you a foster caregiver? Who is your contract with?
Are you a BCFPA member?
Please note any dietary needs or preferences.
WORKSHOP SELECTION

Limited seats available on a first come, first served basis. Maximum of 50 attendees per workshop. We will notify you within 48 hours if your seat has been reserved or if you are waitlisted. 

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please note any learning accessibility aids that may help improve your learning experience.

Please read before submitting this form.

  • Workshops are exclusive to foster caregivers.
  • Attendees can only register for the workshop within their region. BCFPA is hoping to continue these workshops annually. We will rotate topics and have more dates/topics to offer.
  • If you have registered and are unable to attend, please inform the BCFPA office immediately so that your spot can be given to a foster parent on the waitlist.
By registering for a workshop, you confirm that you have read the statements above and that you are a foster caregiver with MCFD or an ICFS Agency.

FREE Webinar : Collaborative Decision-Making in Child Welfare

FREE Webinar : Collaborative Decision-Making in Child Welfare

by | Oct 23, 2024

Join Mediate BC and BC Foster Parents Association for one of two available webinar sessions on collaborative decision-making options in child welfare in BC

 

Mediate BC is hosting workshops on collaborative decision-making options in child welfare with multiple organizations across BC. These workshops are intended for anyone who is working with or connected to families involved in child welfare matters.  Collaborative Decision-Making options are out-of-court processes that encourage families to share their voices in decision-making to resolve child welfare matters.

Foster parents are deeply connected with children and youth involved with the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Collaborative Decision-Making Processes are important options for children and youth to know about as they navigate conflict and communication with parents, social workers, and other support people. Foster parents can also participate in Collaborative Decision-Making Processes, either through supporting children and youth in their care or working through their own conflict and communication barriers. Collaborative Decision-Making Processes can also focus on helping youth transition out of care, a critical time in many youths’ lives.

In this workshop, foster parents will learn more about Collaborative Decision-Making Processes, how children and youth can access them, and how these processes can be tailored to meet the needs of participants.  Foster parents will then be able to take this valuable information and use it to support children and youth in their care.

This workshop will begin with an hour-long presentation, which will cover key information on Collaborative Decision-Making Processes. We will then spend the last hour of the workshop answering questions, discussing barriers that foster parents face in accessing or engaging with Collaborative Decision-Making Processes, and learning from each other about best practices to support children and youth navigating conflict while in care.

  • Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am PST
  • Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm PST

A recording of the webinar will be made available to those who are not able to attend these sessions.

Registration is now closed. 

Access the recording here and copies of the presentation here. 

Resources 

The Resources page on Mediate BC’s website has resources for families on Child Protection Mediation and other Collaborative Decision-Making processes available for download in English, French, Hindi, Punjabi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Farsi, Arabic, Korean, Tagalog, and Ukrainian.

If you are interested in having hard-copy resources mailed to your organization, please reach out to Talia at [email protected].

Mediate BC also has a series of informational videos on Child Protection Mediation captioned in English, French, Hindi, Punjabi, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Farsi, Arabic, Korean, Tagalog, and Ukrainian. They are accessible here: Child Protection Mediation – Mediate BC.

Ask a Mediator Clinic.

Mediate BC offers free online clinics where you can have your questions about Child Protection Mediation answered directly by a Registered Roster Mediator (RRM), get non-legal advice about your situation, and discuss your options and resources for resolving your conflict. 

You can book your appointment online: https://calendly.com/mediatebc/ask-a-mediator-clinic. 

Appointments are available on the first and third Tuesday of every month between 4:00pm – 6:00pm. If these times do not work for you or if you have any questions, you can reach out to Ann by email at [email protected], or by phone at 1-877-656-1300, and she would be happy to assist you!

Although Mediate BC is sharing information with you specific to the topic of Child Protection Mediation, please note that the Ask a Mediator Clinic is available to anyone to discuss other areas where conflict arises as well, such as family law, landlord tenant disputes, and so on. If you would like to speak to a Child Protection Mediator specifically, or need an interpreter, we ask that you please note that in your scheduling request. 

Referral Forms

Download the professional referral form for social workers, advocates, lawyers, etc.

Download the referral form for parents, guardians, youth, and family. 

f you decide that you would like to move forward with mediation, please fill out one of the forms and send it back to [email protected] to begin the process.

You can also access these forms on Mediate BC’s website, please click here. If you have any questions about these forms, you can reach out to Hannah by email at [email protected].

Contact Information

Lori Frank, Director of Child Welfare Initiatives 

E: [email protected]

T: 604-684-1300 ext. 107

Pawan Sran, Collaborative Decision-Making Navigator 

E: [email protected]

T: 604-684-1300 ext. 103

Talia Holy, Collaborative Decision-Making Navigator Administrative Assistant 

E: [email protected]

T: 604-684-1300 ext. 104

Hannah Stanley, Child Protection Mediation Program (CPMP) Coordinator

E: [email protected]

T: 604-684-1300 ext. 102

FREE Workshops for Foster Caregivers Winter 2025

FREE Workshops for Foster Caregivers Fall 2024

by | Sep 26, 2024

Foster parents, get your continuing education hours!

Registration is now open for our free, full-day workshops in Prince George, Langley, and Richmond this Fall. 

 
Information on more workshops, taking place in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Victoria throughout Winter 2025, to be announced separately. 
 

 OCTOBER 24, 2024 (THURSDAY) – PRINCE GEORGE

Prestige Treasure Cove Resort (2005 Cariboo Hwy, Prince George) from 8:00AM – 3:00PM

What To Do When Things Get Out of Control: An Attachment-Based Perspective on Self-Regulation and Managing Other Attachment Seeking Behaviour in Children 0-19yrs.

In What To Do When Things Get Out of Control: An Attachment-Based Perspective on Self-Regulation and Managing Other Attachment-Seeking Behaviour in Children 0-19yrs, we will explore the links between attachment needs, trauma, and developmental stages in children and youth 0-19 years of age. The goal of this workshop is to enable foster caregivers to understand behaviours and equip you to respond when children/youth act out. This will be a fun and interactive workshop, including roleplaying scenarios and space for questions. 

Speaker: Amanda Oliver

Amanda Oliver, BCFPA’s Provincial Community Strategist & Director of Advocacy, holds a wealth of knowledge and experience from occupying a range of roles as a social worker for the Ministry of Children and Family Development for over twenty-seven years. Within this time, Amanda has worked directly with and on behalf of foster caregivers, and has been dedicated to improving outcomes in the fostering sector by
actively training, supporting, and promoting best practice approaches for foster caregivers. Amanda understands the challenges which foster caregivers face in meeting the complex needs of children and youth in their homes, while also facing the often-competing demands that our system of care imposes.

To learn more about Amanda, read their letter of introduction. 

Speaker: Stephanie Carr

Stephanie Carr has vast and varied experience supporting children and youth in care, both personally and professionally. Her blended family has been fostering for the past fourteen years, enabling her to learn through experience the many and ever evolving complexities that face children and youth in care today. Stephanie works with the Foster Parent Support Program at Axis Family Resources, as an integral part of a dedicated team of advocates. Through her work she assists in ensuring that voices of children/youth are heard, their connections to biological family are respected and valued, and their cultural diversity is honored in both short term and permanency planning. An understanding of attachment and the idea of behavior as a form of communication has been paramount in my work not only in my own family, but in the work supporting foster caregivers in their journey. I am passionate about sharing connection, regulation and behavior management strategies from an attachment-based lens with goal of preserving placements and supporting families.

 

NOVEMBER 20, 2024 (WEDNESDAY) – LANGLEY  

Coast Langley City Hotel & Convention Centre (20393 Fraser Hwy, Langley) from 8:00AM-3:00PM

What To Do When Things Get Out of Control: An Attachment-Based Perspective on Self-Regulation and Managing Other Attachment Seeking Behaviour in Children 0-19yrs.

In What To Do When Things Get Out of Control: An Attachment-Based Perspective on Self-Regulation and Managing Other Attachment-Seeking Behaviour in Children 0-19yrs, we will explore the links between attachment needs, trauma, and developmental stages in children and youth 0-19 years of age. The goal of this workshop is to enable foster caregivers to understand behaviours and equip you to respond when children/youth act out. This will be a fun and interactive workshop, including space for questions. 

Speaker: Amanda Oliver

Amanda Oliver, BCFPA’s Provincial Community Strategist & Director of Advocacy, holds a wealth of knowledge and experience from occupying a range of roles as a social worker for the Ministry of Children and Family Development for over twenty-seven years. Within this time, Amanda has worked directly with and on behalf of foster caregivers, and has been dedicated to improving outcomes in the fostering sector by
actively training, supporting, and promoting best practice approaches for foster caregivers. Amanda understands the challenges which foster caregivers face in meeting the complex needs of children and youth in their homes, while also facing the often-competing demands that our system of care imposes.

To learn more about Amanda, read their letter of introduction. 

 NOVEMBER 27, 2024 (WEDNESDAY) – RICHMOND
 
Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel (7551 Westminster Hwy, Richmond) from 8:00AM-3:00PM 
 

An Appreciative Inquiry Learning Event: Discussing Advocacy, Retention, and Building Effective Support Systems 

The calling to be a foster caregiver is not always an easy one. To open your hearts and your homes to the children of families in crisis, sometimes invites monumental challenges, as well as many rewards. The work can be isolating and overwhelming at times, especially without a proper support system in place.

This conversation-centered workshop will begin with breakout discussion groups on the topics of advocacy, supports, building relationships, and finding networks. Following our discussion groups, we’ll speak to the common threads that emerge. In this workshop we invite you to connect, network, teach and learn as we explore how your communities can care for you in a way that enables you to continue bringing your best to caring for the children and youth in your homes. Please join us and lend your insights to positive impact fostering in BC.

Speaker: Amanda Oliver 

Amanda Oliver, BCFPA’s Provincial Community Strategist & Director of Advocacy, holds a wealth of knowledge and experience from occupying a range of roles as a social worker for the Ministry of Children and Family Development for over twenty-seven years. Within this time, Amanda has worked directly with and on behalf of foster caregivers, and has been dedicated to improving outcomes in the fostering sector by
actively training, supporting, and promoting best practice approaches for foster caregivers. Amanda understands the challenges which foster caregivers face in meeting the complex needs of children and youth in their homes, while also facing the often-competing demands that our system of care imposes.

To learn more about Amanda, read their letter of introduction. 

Facilitator: Taiah Repstock

In her role as BCFPA’s Community Network Coordinator, Taiah Repstock organizes workshops, events, regional calls with foster parents, and any number of engagement opportunities.  With experience in moderating and facilitating meaningful conversations, she skillfully identifies key themes and captures insights from group discussions.  Driven by her passion for strengthening and nurturing community networks, organizing educational opportunities, and empowering caregivers, Taiah is dedicated to fostering collaboration and support within our community.

IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU REGISTER. 
 
  • Workshops are exclusive to foster caregivers.
  • Attendees can only register for the workshop within their region. BCFPA is hoping to continue these workshops annually and we will rotate topics and have more dates/topics to offer.
  • First come, first served. Maximum of 50 attendees per workshop.
  • Breakfast will be served at 8:00AM, and a Territorial Welcome & Opening Prayer by an Elder will begin at 9:00AM. Lunch and coffee break refreshments will be provided.
  • Reimbursements available for mileage over 40km (round trip) at the rate of $0.61/km. Please be advised that this is available up to a maximum of $600. 
  • Children aged 0-3 are welcome to attend alongside caregivers. We just ask that attendees remain mindful of others when doing so. 
  • Childcare is NOT provided at the event but reimbursements are available for childcare up to a maximum of $200 per household (with receipt).
  • Parking at all venues is complimentary. 
  • BCFPA will not be offering complimentary rooms at any of the venues. 
  • Reimbursements available through BCFPA. All reimbursement forms (with receipts) must be completed and submitted within two weeks of the workshop that you attended. 

2024-2025 Trainings Project Registration Form
Name
Name
First
Last
Are you a foster caregiver? Who is your contract with?
Are you a BCFPA member?
Please note any dietary needs or preferences.
WORKSHOP SELECTION

Limited seats available on a first come, first served basis. Maximum of 50 attendees per workshop. We will notify you within 48 hours if your seat has been reserved or if you are waitlisted. 

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please note any learning accessibility aids that may help improve your learning experience.

Please read before submitting this form.

  • Workshops are exclusive to foster caregivers.
  • Attendees can only register for the workshop within their region. BCFPA is hoping to continue these workshops annually. We will rotate topics and have more dates/topics to offer.
  • If you have registered and are unable to attend, please inform the BCFPA office immediately so that your spot can be given to a foster parent on the waitlist.
By registering for a workshop, you confirm that you have read the statements above and that you are a foster caregiver with MCFD or an ICFS Agency.