This session highlights the unique partnership between a permanency recruiter and investigator as they bring together two very different professional lenses to strengthen permanency outcomes for children and youth. While it is not new to use investigative approaches in family search, Louie offers a distinctive blend of former law enforcement expertise and deep empathy -- skills that both uncover hidden connections and build trust with relatives and fictive kin. Paired with Shannon's extensive background in family engagement, the two demonstrate how complementary perspectives create a "special sauce" that goes beyond traditional recruitment. Through their collaborative process, participants will learn how investigative strategies can enhance kinship and birth family engagement, particularly in navigating complex family dynamics. The presentation illustrates how professionals with different skill sets can learn from one another, step forward at the right moments, and ultimately maximize opportunities to connect children and youth with safe, lasting family relationships.
For families and youth navigating the foster care system, access to consistent, holistic, and community-centered support can be life-changing. This session will explore how the Treehouse Foundation leverages cross-actor collaboration with public agencies, nonprofit partners, educational consultants, and arts organizations to create wrap-around supports that enhance stability, belonging, and opportunity for youth and families. Through partnerships with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, Treehouse provides a supportive environment for youth in foster care and their families. Collaborations with arts organizations have expanded creative, intergenerational programming that strengthens community bonds and nurtures identity. Partnerships with educational consultants ensure families receive no-cost, expert guidance for children with IEPs or school challenges, helping parents navigate complex education systems. In addition, alliances with Cradles to Crayons ensure that children’s basic needs—from clothing to school supplies—are met, while partnerships with Tickets for Kids provide enrichment opportunities that foster joy, connection, and new possibilities
