This week, I attended a kinship coalition meeting where I was introduced to incredible social workers, caregivers, and others working tirelessly within and for the system. We discussed countless different needs of the community including mental health support, continuing care for those with special needs, and ongoing support concerning the impact of COVID. I attended a RAPP meeting and multiple workshops about Positive Youth Development and kinship care. My favorite experience this week was when I sat in on a meeting of caregivers who act as peer mentors in the program. Through it, I gained valuable insight into the dreams and struggles of those with whom I will work and help. One caregiver said beautifully, “This is a make or break situation, and I’m not going to let it break me.” While everything I did this week was done virtually, I felt so connected to the group of people I met. The week was enlightening, inspiring, and got me even more excited for the rest of this summer!
