Child Welfare and Foster Care

The Critical Role of Schools in Supporting Foster Youth Education

By Alternative Family Services / September 28, 2025
The Critical Role of Schools in Supporting Foster Youth Education

The journey for children and youth in foster care is often marked by significant challenges, and their educational experiences are no exception. Across the United States, including in California, the…

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The Ongoing Evolution of Child Welfare

By Alternative Family Services / August 1, 2025
AFS: The ongoing evolution of child welfare

As many AFS staff members will readily tell you, the child welfare system today is rife with misconceptions. Let’s dive into what the child welfare system looks like in the…

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Listening with Intention: How Integrated Listening Systems Supports Healing at Alternative Family Services

By Alternative Family Services / June 14, 2025
Listening with Intention: How Integrated Listening Systems Supports Healing at Alternative Family Services Photo by Marvin Lewis on Unsplash

At Alternative Family Services (AFS), our mission is to help children, youth, and families heal, grow, and thrive. One innovative tool supporting that mission is Integrated Listening Systems (ILS)—a therapeutic,…

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Healing Through Connection: The WisdomPath Way to Reparative Parenting

By Alternative Family Services / June 14, 2025
Photo by Leo_Visions on Unsplash Many youth who enter AFS programs have lived through significant loss, disruption, and trauma. They’ve changed homes, schools, and trusted adults far too often. WisdomPath Way Reparative Parenting offers caregivers the tools to make their home feel safe.

At Alternative Family Services (AFS), we believe healing begins with connection. When children are surrounded by empathy, structure, and unwavering support, even the deepest wounds can begin to mend. That’s…

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Thinking for Change: Empowering Justice-Involved Youth and Adults Through Cognitive Behavioral Change

By Alternative Family Services / March 16, 2025
Thinking for Change: Empowering Justice-Involved Youth and Adults Through Cognitive Behavioral Change

The journey toward rehabilitation for justice-involved youth and adults is complex, but Thinking for Change (T4C) offers a transformative approach that focuses on cognitive restructuring, social skills training, and problem-solving…

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A Lifeline for Families in Need: Understanding Enhanced Care Management (ECM)

By Alternative Family Services / February 7, 2025
Photo by M.T ElGassier on Unsplash

Breaking Barriers and Restoring Hope Across Northern California, countless families face overwhelming challenges—from housing instability to mental health struggles—that can make everyday life feel like an uphill battle. Enhanced Care…

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