1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)
This session will highlight the critical role of lived expertise in influencing permanency practices and outcomes. It will showcase real-world examples and best practices, including strategies for effective message development and sharing from experts in the AdoptUSKids Speakers Bureau. Through targeted training and support, these voices can offer valuable insights that help child welfare professionals better partner with and support youth. Additionally, the workshop will explore ways to create more opportunities for incorporating these lived experiences into the work of child welfare systems.
Melinda Kline, LSCSW, National Project Director (NPD) – AdoptUSKids Melinda is a proud Citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. Melinda has 30+ years of child welfare and Social Work experience with an emphasis on permanency, foster care and adoption. Prior to her current position as NPD at AdoptUSKids, she served as the Deputy Director of Permanency Programs for the State of Kansas. Melinda has national... Read More →
1.0 CE (National Association of Social Workers – NASW)
Lutheran Social Services of WI and Upper MI has provided adoption and foster care services for over 50 years. As a provider in over 55 counties a need was identified around initial and ongoing support of Kinship and Like - Kin families. The team did research, surveyed partners, and heard from families to create a service that is specific for Kinship and Like-kin families. Hear about the process, evaluation and development of LSS of WI and Upper MI went through to assure resources for families were available. Data and tools related to kinship screening will be shared with attendees. A family will join the presentation to share their experiences. A key component in this shift of service provision is understanding the Child Welfare Transformational Change Wisconsin has been undergoing to assure families are the focus. Attendees will learn how LSS supported the staff in this shift to better support kin and kin-like families.
