Building Pathways to Independence: How AFS Supports Transition-Age Youth in Marin County

By Alternative Family Services | August 15, 2026

Becoming an adult is rarely a single step. Most young people rely on family members, mentors, teachers, and other trusted adults as they learn to navigate housing, education, employment, finances, health care, and relationships. For…

Understanding California’s Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure: What It Means for AFS

By Alternative Family Services | August 15, 2026

California is preparing for a significant change in how foster care funding is determined and delivered. The Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure, commonly referred to as the Tiered Rate Structure or TRS(opens in new tab),…

Milestone Moment: Finding a New Way to Connect

By Alternative Family Services | July 26, 2026

When 10-year-old KJ* entered AFS’s E-ISFC program in January 2026, he was having difficulty managing intense emotions and experiences that often left him overwhelmed. His distress could escalate quickly, sometimes resulting in unsafe behavior and…

Understanding Enhanced Intensive Services Foster Care (E-ISFC)

By Alternative Family Services | July 26, 2026

Family-based care can offer children and youth consistency, connection, and the everyday experience of belonging to a household. Some young people, however, have complex behavioral health, emotional, or medical needs that require a more intensive…

Staff in Action: Sophie Eckert

By Alternative Family Services | July 15, 2026

Sophie Eckert, MSW, M.Ed, is Program Director for the Marin County Transitional Aged Youth and Transitional Housing Program at Alternative Family Services. Get to know more about Sophie and her work here at AFS.  …

Understanding the Tiers Within the Proposed New Tiered Rate Structure

By Alternative Family Services | June 27, 2026

California is preparing for a “seismic shift” in how foster care supports are structured and funded. The new Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure, or TRS, is designed to move the state toward a more needs-based…

Subscribe for Updates