AFS Staff in Action: Averie Ramirez

AFS Staff in Action: Averie Ramirez

By Alternative Family Services | October 22, 2024

Averie Ramirez, MSW, became the Assistant Program Director for East Bay Foster Care in September 2024. Get to know Averie and her work at AFS. What are your main responsibilities at AFS? I got hired…

EBPs represent a pathway to better outcomes for children in foster care. By ensuring that decisions are driven by evidence, child welfare systems can create more stable, nurturing environments where children can heal, grow and succeed.

Evidence-Based Practices: A Pathway to Better Outcomes for Children, Teens and Families

By Alternative Family Services | October 10, 2024

In the realm of family welfare and human services, the challenges children, teens and families face are profound. Child welfare agencies, like Alternative Family Services (AFS), are committed to improving outcomes by embracing evidence-based practices…

Their journey reminds me why we do what we do at The Gathering Place—to create a space where healing, hope, and reunification are possible.

A Journey of Healing: A Family Reunited at The Gathering Place

By Alternative Family Services | September 20, 2024

I first met a young client, Charlie*, and his mother Annie*, in December 2023 at The Gathering Place (TGP). They were hesitant, quiet, and burdened heavily when they arrived. In those early weeks, the tension…

With the support of generous donors, they secured funds for Kayla to enroll in music lessons and purchase her very first violin. This opportunity was more than just a chance to learn an instrument—it was a lifeline connecting Kayla to her dreams and giving her purpose.

The Power of Music – Kayla’s Story

By Alternative Family Services | August 22, 2024

Kayla* always had a passion for music. Growing up in foster care, she found solace in the melodies and rhythms that allowed her to escape the challenges of her reality. However, her love for music…

Empowering the Howard Family: A Journey of Hope and Resilience

Empowering the Howard Family: A Journey of Hope and Resilience

By Alternative Family Services | August 7, 2024

Meet the Howard* family, a shining example of resilience and compassion. Recently, the Howards welcomed three siblings into their home: Mia, a newborn; Ethan, a spirited 8-year-old; and Lucas, a bright 13-year-old. These children were…

As a foster youth, he faced many academic and personal challenges. The future looked uncertain for David, but everything changed with the help of Foster Learning.

Impact Story: David’s Journey

By Alternative Family Services | July 18, 2024

Struggles and setbacks marked David’s* high school journey. As a foster youth, he faced many academic and personal challenges. David was failing multiple classes and frequently found himself in conflicts with his peers, leading to…

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