When it comes to fostering safety, stability, and permanence for children in foster care, it takes a dedicated team of professionals and community partners working together. These diverse players each contribute their unique perspectives and expertise, and through collaboration and teamwork, meaningful change is made.
A Symphony of Teams: Working Together for the Same Mission
Imagine a symphony orchestra, where each musician plays a different instrument, contributing to a distinct part of the piece. Though the violinist, the percussionist, and the trumpet player all have their own unique parts, they work together in harmony to create a single work — a beautiful piece of music. Similarly, at CK Family Services, various teams—including the Foster Care team, Adoption team, Behavioral Health team, FAP team, and Post Adopt team—work side-by-side, each focusing on their specific tasks but always aiming for the same overarching goal: the safety, well-being, and permanence of children.
Ushering caregivers and children into the CK family, the Pre-service, Intake and Foster Care teams are on the frontlines with Case Managers and Supervisors directly involved in ensuring stable, loving homes for children in care. The Adoption team works tirelessly to find permanent families for children whenever possible. Meanwhile, the Behavioral Health team works to ensure that emotional and mental health needs are addressed with evidence-based practices, and the Family Assessment Program team conducts thorough assessments to inform the best decisions for each child’s future. Our Post Adopt team helps equip the families who have adopted through meaningful support and resources. Each of these teams brings a different perspective and skill-set to the table, but like the musicians in an orchestra, they are united by a shared mission. This collaborative effort ensures that no aspect of a child’s well-being is overlooked, and that every step taken moves them closer to a safe, stable, and loving home. But they aren’t working alone.
Behind the scenes, a host of departments such as Accounting, Records, Human Resources, and Administration provide the foundation necessary for everything to run smoothly. Their efforts may not always be visible, but they are crucial to keeping the system functioning efficiently.
Guiding all of these efforts is the CK Executive Team, which not only leads the organization but also represents CK at the state and local levels. Their leadership ensures that our agency’s vision and mission remain at the forefront while also engaging with external partners to advocate for the needs of foster children and families. By staying connected to policy discussions and working alongside other leaders in the foster care system, our executive team plays a crucial role in shaping the future of child welfare in Texas.
Collaboration Across Sectors
The efforts within CK Family Services extend beyond our organization. We rely heavily on external partners to achieve the best outcomes for the children in care. CASA volunteers, Therapists, Psychiatrists, Educators, and Physicians all provide vital care and advocacy. Their perspectives on the child’s well-being help inform decisions and contribute to the child’s emotional, mental, and physical health.
One vital, yet often unknown resource in the foster care system is the Foster Care Education Specialists. These liaisons are employees of the school districts who work specifically to support children in foster care. Their role is crucial, as they help bridge the gap between the child’s educational needs and the unique challenges that come with being in the foster care system. Foster Care Education Specialists ensure that children in care receive the academic support they need, monitor their progress, and advocate for their success within the school system.
Additionally, collaboration with Attorneys, Judges, and CPS, OCOK, and Empower Caseworkers is essential in navigating the legal aspects of each child’s journey. Whether it’s a court hearing or a case review, these professionals ensure that each child’s rights are upheld and their path toward permanency is clear.
Valuing Different Perspectives
In foster care, teamwork is not just a strategy—it’s a necessity. Like the instruments in a symphony, each team member plays a critical role, and when we unite around a common goal, we create something beautiful—safety, stability, and love for the children in our care. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening these partnerships, embracing new perspectives, and working together in harmony to ensure every child finds their forever home. Together, we can create impactful change, like a well-played symphony, where every note matters.
To learn more about CK Foster Care, click here: FOSTER CARE
Written by Tina Clark
Clinically Reviewed by Diane Partin, Chief Operating Officer