The State of Foster Care

540 young people in Metro Richmond are currently in the foster care system*. Our local Departments of Social Services are responsible for their welfare. The Directors of these agencies tell us though that the support of the Church – Christians in all sectors working together – is critical. As one of these Directors recently said, “there are some things only the Church can do” to support their agency’s work of creating positive outcomes for vulnerable children and families.  

Join us on May 15th from 12-1:30 p.m. for our annual “State of Foster Care” event at The Commons, located at 2101 Maywill Street. Enjoy lunch sponsored by C12 Forums - Richmond, learn about the issue from our panel with the Directors, and connect with Christian leaders who are working collaboratively in each locality to address these needs.

Our panelists are:

Gretchen Brown, Director of Social Services for Henrico County

Kiva Rogers, Director of Social Services for Chesterfield County & Colonial Heights

Devon Parham, Division Director of Family Services for Hanover County DSS

Shunda Giles, Director of Social Services for Richmond City

Participants will:

·      Learn about the issue from the experts

·      Hear encouraging stories about how the Church is already helping

·      Learn about current trends and challenges that are impacting child welfare

·      Learn about emerging needs that the Church can help support

·      Connect with others in their locality who currently help or want to help

Agenda:

Lunch: 12-12:25 p.m.

Panel: 12:25-1:15 p.m.

Meet & Greet with Local Collaborative Networks: 1:15-1:30 p.m.

There is no cost for this event. Please RSVP using the form below so that we have space and lunch for you! If you RSVP and are unable to attend, please email info@forrichmond.org so that we may give your seat to someone on the waitlist.

*Virginia Dept. of Social Services Statistics as of Feb. 2024:

Chesterfield 105, Colonial Heights 14, Hanover 63, Henrico 144, Richmond City 214