At CK Family Services, we believe no family should ever feel alone, and that belief is at the heart of something new and exciting at our agency: Family Connections. This growing initiative is designed to ensure that every verified foster and kinship family, as well as those in the progress of being verified, feels supported, seen, and connected.
One of the first steps we’ve taken is creating CKFS Communities. These local groups bring families together right where they are. Through CKFS Communities, families can:
- Get to know others who live nearby
- Easily connect with local respite providers
- Discover resources specific to their area
- Build meaningful, supportive relationships
Here are a few of the ways we’re building connection within our CKFS Communities:
1) CKFS Community GroupMe Groups
To make communication more immediate and personal, we’ve launched GroupMe chats for each CK Community. These groups provide a space to ask questions, share resources, and support one another in real time, right alongside people who live nearby.
2) Community Leaders
Each CKFS Community includes dedicated Community Leaders, who are fellow families who have stepped up to help foster connection. These leaders attend monthly online meetings to stay informed, help keep their local communities engaged, and plan quarterly get-togethers so families can connect face-to-face.
3) CKFS Facebook Group
Our Facebook group continues to be a central space for general updates for all of our families, keeping everyone connected to the bigger picture.
If you are a CKFS family or are in the process of becoming verified and would like to join your CK Community’s GroupMe or are interested in becoming a Community Leader, email Kevin at kbouse@ckfamilyservices.org to learn more.
While CK Communities are already creating meaningful connections, this is just the beginning. We’re excited to continue building new ways to support and bring families together throughout 2026. Because when families are connected, they’re stronger, and so are the children we serve.
