BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CHLSS - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:CHLSS X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://chlss.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CHLSS REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20230312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20231105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T193000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20260320T154243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T161115Z UID:10001700-1776274200-1776281400@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Youth Panel - Insights from Foster Care Experiences DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Youth Panel – Insights from Foster Care Experiences\nWednesday\, April 15th from 5:30–7:30 pm (CT) via Microsoft Teams\nFamilies are invited to join us for a meaningful and insightful conversation led by members of the Mankato Area Youth Leadership Council. During this virtual youth panel\, young people will share their firsthand experiences navigating foster care placements\, including the moments that supported them and the challenges they faced along the way. \nTogether\, we will explore the importance of creating a welcoming transition for youth entering care\, as well as the impact of nurturing\, stable living environments. This session offers a unique opportunity for caregivers to hear directly from youth\, deepen understanding\, and strengthen supportive practices at home. \nParticipants will walk away with a greater awareness of youth perspectives and practical ideas for fostering trust\, belonging\, and emotional safety. \nPresented by the Mankato Area Youth Leadership Council \nThe Mankato Area Youth Leadership Council is a group of young people committed to improving the foster care system through advocacy\, storytelling\, and community leadership. Council members bring lived experience and a passion for strengthening foster care practices for future youth and families. \nThis webinar will take place on Microsoft Teams. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n\n \n \n Youth Panel: Insights from Foster Care Experiences\n \n \n \n PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-youth-panel-insights-from-foster-care-experiences/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Untitled-design-20.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T130000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20260204T175345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T175456Z UID:10001685-1771329600-1771333200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Applying for MFIP Benefits DESCRIPTION:Minnesota benefits are important for parenting families.  Learn how to apply online for Food Assistance (SNAP)\, Emergency Assistance)\, MFIP/Cash programs\, and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) with one online application.   Find out how to upload documents to your application without creating a sign in.  We will also review the paper application. \nDetails:\nTuesday Feb 17th noon — 1:00 pm\nVirtual Presentation via Zoom \nJanet Salo is a Kinship Navigator with the Kinship Family Support Services\, a program of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She is an advocate for kinship caregivers and children in their care. She brings over 25 years of non-profit experience focusing on advocacy and support of individuals with unique abilities and needs\, educational advocacy\, training and support for kinship caregivers and children in transition. \nRegister Here URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-applying-for-mfip-benefits/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260111T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260111T153000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20251208T140610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T143945Z UID:10001617-1768132800-1768145400@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nEmagine Movie Theater – Monticello\, MN\nSunday\, January 11\, 2026\, from 12:00 p.m. (CT) – end of the movie\nJoin us for a sensory-friendly showing of the SpongeBob Movie at Emagine Movie Theater in Monticello\, MN! \nSchedule: \n\n12:00 PM – Arrival for mingle and connection time in the party room\n1:00 PM – Movie begins\n\nFood & Drinks:\nPopcorn\, pizzas\, chicken tenders\, and drinks will be provided for all attendees. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nClick Here to Register URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-1-11-2026/ LOCATION:Emagine Theater – Monticello\, MN\, 9375 Deegan Avenue\, Monticello\, 55362 CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Untitled-design-13.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251222T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251222T190000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20251103T123947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T135930Z UID:10001593-1766419200-1766430000@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nGreen Mill and Bentleyville – Duluth\, MN\nMonday\, December 22\, 2025\, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm (CT)\nPlease join us for an early dinner at Green Mill for Pizza\, Chicken Wings\, Salad\, and Soda. After dinner\, everyone will receive a parking voucher to head over to the Bentleyville Lights Display! We won’t have a formal group gathering or tour at the lights\, but we encourage families to connect and enjoy them together! \nGet Ready for a Dazzling Night at Bentleyville\nBentleyville “Tour of Lights” is America’s largest free walk-through holiday lighting extravaganza that transforms Bayfront Festival Park\, located on the shores of Lake Superior in Downtown Duluth\, into a dazzling winter wonderland. With over 5 million twinkling lights\, Bentleyville has become a cherished holiday tradition for visitors of all ages. An unforgettable holiday experience awaits you at Bentleyville in Duluth\, Minnesota. Whether you’re making magical memories with your family or exploring the lights on a winter getaway\, Bentleyville offers something special for everyone. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nClick Here to Register URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-12-22-2025/ LOCATION:Green Mill\, 340 Lake Ave\, Duluth\, 55802\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Event-Pic-8.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T133000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20251002T160425Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T132426Z UID:10001578-1764676800-1764682200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Understanding and Supporting Adoptees\, Fosterees and their Heritage DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Understanding and Supporting Adoptees\, Fosterees and their Heritage\nTuesday\, Dec. 2 from 12-1:30 pm (CT) via Zoom\n This webinar covers the fundamentals for being a great parent to a child with heritage different from your own. Isaac Etter will cover his personal adoption experience\, heritage and its relation to adoptees. \n  \nPresented by Isaac Etter \nIsaac Etter is an adoptee and social entrepreneur dedicated to reshaping how we support adoptive families. Adopted at the age of two\, Isaac brings both lived experience and professional insight to his work as the founder of Parenting Different. \nTo learn more about Isaac and his work\, visit his website\, Parenting Different. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Adoptees\, Fosterees and their Heritage\n \n \n \n URLThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-understanding-and-supporting-adoptees-fosterees-and-their-heritage/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event-Pic-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251115T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251115T173000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250930T161959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T172824Z UID:10001580-1763222400-1763227800@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Pride Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nCH/LSS recognizes that Pride community families may have different experiences from the larger foster and adoptive community and want to provide a safe and dedicated space for connection with families sharing in those experiences. \nWay Cool Cooking School – Eden Prairie\, MN\nSaturday\, November 15th\, 2025\, from 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm (CT)\nPlease join us for a tasty evening cooking Cheese Enchiladas\, Pico de Gallo Salsa\, and Churro Cookies at Way Cool Cooking School in Eden Prairie\, MN! \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThis event is nearly full. Please complete the form below to join the waitlist. If a spot opens\, you’ll receive an email with further details. \n\n \n \n Pride Connect2Connect Waitlist (November 2025)\n \n \n \n NameThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email*\n \n Phone*Please list the number you can best be reached at on the day of the event.City*County*State*Number of adults attending*Number of children attending*Does anyone in your group need vegan\, vegetarian\, or gluten free options? If yes\, please specify which.*Does anyone in the group have any food allergies?*What are the ages of the child(ren) attending?Your care of this child/children is:*\n \n Pre-Adoptive\n \n \n Finalized Adoption\n \n \n Temporary Care\n \n \n Kinship Care\n What agency/county/services are you working with?*Attestation: We have one or more Pride community members in the family*\n \n \n Yes\n CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-11-15-2025/ LOCATION:Way Cool Cooking School\, 16544 W 78th St\, Eden Pairie\, MN\, 55347\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event-Pic-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251111T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251111T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250925T145402Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T170817Z UID:10001576-1762887600-1762893000@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Wholistic View of Health DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Wholistic View of Health\nTuesday\, Nov. 11 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm (CT) via Zoom\nThis training is designed for foster and adoptive parents who want to better understand the whole-child perspective. We will explore how physical health\, emotional and psychological health\, and behavior are deeply interconnected\, and how challenges in one area often impact the others. Parents will learn practical strategies to recognize early signs of difficulty\, support their child’s overall well-being\, and respond in ways that promote healing\, resilience\, and growth. \nPresented by Dr. Vicki Sanders \nDr. Vicki Sanders is a licensed therapist\, speaker\, consultant with a deep passion for helping individuals heal. Originally from the Central Valley\, she has always been committed to serving the local community. As the CEO of VMS Family Counseling Services\, located in Fresno\, California\, she leads a team of seven therapists\, working with diverse clients to provide compassionate\, evidence-based care. \nDr. Vicki specializes in working with individuals who have experienced foster care\, adoption\, or complex relationship history. She prioritizes evidence-based treatments while tailoring her approach to each client’s unique needs. Grounded in a client-centered philosophy\, she ensures individuals understand both the “what” and the “why” of therapy\, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. Her expertise in foster care and adoption\, domestic violence\, substance use\, and behavioral health\, and supporting children and adults with identified needs has made her a leading speaker in these fields. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Wholistic View of Health\n \n \n \n URLThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-wholistic-view-of-health/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event-Pic-4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251104T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251104T203000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250925T142612Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T145226Z UID:10001575-1762282800-1762288200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Child to Parent Violence DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Child to Parent Violence\nTuesday\, Nov. 4 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm (CT) via Zoom\nThis training explores the often-overlooked dynamic of child-to-parent violence\, a form of family violence rooted in histories of emotional and psychological health\, attachment disruptions\, and regulation difficulties. Participants will gain insight into the underlying causes of aggression directed toward caregivers\, learn to recognize patterns of escalation\, and develop informed strategies to respond with safety\, connection and effectiveness. Emphasis is placed on fostering resilience\, supporting caregiver well-being\, and creating pathways for healing within the parent–child relationship. \nPresented by Dr. Vicki Sanders \nDr. Vicki Sanders is a licensed therapist\, speaker\, consultant with a deep passion for helping individuals heal. Originally from the Central Valley\, she has always been committed to serving the local community. As the CEO of VMS Family Counseling Services\, located in Fresno\, California\, she leads a team of seven therapists\, working with diverse clients to provide compassionate\, evidence-based care. \nDr. Vicki specializes in working with individuals who have experienced foster care\, adoption\, or complex relationship history. She prioritizes evidence-based treatments while tailoring her approach to each client’s unique needs. Grounded in a client-centered philosophy\, she ensures individuals understand both the “what” and the “why” of therapy\, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. Her expertise in foster care and adoption\, domestic violence\, substance use\, and behavioral health\, and supporting children and adults with identified needs has made her a leading speaker in these fields. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Child to Parent Violence\n \n \n \n LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-child-to-parent-violence/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event-Pic-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251025T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251025T183000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250908T171214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T123838Z UID:10001538-1761409800-1761417000@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nHalloween Costume Party Open-House at CHLSS Eustis Office\nSaturday\, October 25th\, 2025\, from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (CT)\nPlease join us for an evening of Halloween fun! Arrive dressed up and ready for connections\, crafts\, photobooth\, and games! Dinner will be provided. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest in this event. We are currently at capacity. Please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. \n\n \n \n Connect2Connect Waitlist (October 2025)\n \n \n \n X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email*\n \n Phone*Please list the number you can best be reached at on the day of the event.City*County*State*Number of adults attending*Number of children attending*Does anyone in your group need vegan\, vegetarian\, or gluten free options? If yes\, please specify which.*Does anyone in the group have any food allergies?What are the ages of the child(ren) attending?Your care of this child/children is:*\n \n Pre-Adoptive\n \n \n Finalized Adoption\n \n \n Temporary Care\n \n \n Kinship Care\n What agency/county/services are you working with?*CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-10-25-2025/ LOCATION:Children’s Home – St. Paul Office\, 1605 Eustis Street\, Saint Paul\, MN\, 55108\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event-Pic-1.png GEO:44.989629;-93.2030617 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Children’s Home – St. Paul Office 1605 Eustis Street Saint Paul MN 55108 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1605 Eustis Street:geo:-93.2030617,44.989629 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251010T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251012T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250804T111841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250804T114943Z UID:10001518-1760119200-1760272200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Foster & Foster Adopted Youth Retreat DESCRIPTION:An Opportunity for Foster & Foster Adopted Youth to Make New Connections & Build Friendships\nFriday\, October 10-Sunday\, October 12\, 2025 | Camp Knutson\, Crosslake\, Minnesota\nLutheran Social Service (LSS) is excited to offer a special opportunity for foster and foster adopted youth (ages 13-17) to spend a weekend among peers who have shared life experiences at Camp Knutson (Camp K) in Crosslake\, Minnesota. In addition to helping foster and foster adopted youth build new connections and make new friends\, this retreat will offer an opportunity for siblings who are not currently residing in the same placement to spend quality time together and maintain their familial bond. Priority will be given to siblings who do not reside in the same household. Whether attending with a sibling or not\, every youth will gain valuable life skills that can be used long after the retreat has concluded. \nRegistration & Additional Details URL:https://chlss.org/event/foster-foster-adopted-youth-retreat-2025/ LOCATION:Camp Knutson\, 11148 Manhattan Point Blvd\, Crosslake\, MN\, 56422\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T170000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250731T164433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T171126Z UID:10001516-1758382200-1758387600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nConquer Ninja Gym – Burnsville\, MN\nSaturday\, September 20th\, 2025\, from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm (CT)\nPlease join us as we conquer some Ninja challenges!!! The Conquer Ninja Gym staff will guide us through obstacles and games. It will be a fun opportunity to try new things and get our wiggles out! Anyone\, parents and kids\, who would like to participate is welcome to join! We will have table activities available for those who would just like to watch. Our gym session is 3:30-5pm\, we will be serving pizza in the party room during this time\, as well. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest in this event. This event is currently at capacity. URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-09-20-2025/ LOCATION:Conquer Ninja Gym\, 3203 Corporate Center DR Ste 180\, Burnsville\, MN\, 55306\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Heading-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250826T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250826T133000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250725T145450Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T171038Z UID:10001514-1756209600-1756215000@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: The Impact of Environment on Academic Success DESCRIPTION:Time: 12:00 pm – 1:15 pm (CT)\nJoin the SENSE-ational Spaces team to learn the importance of environment on a child’s participation and success within the academic setting. Attendees will learn how to increase their ability to recognize and implement a variety of sensory strategies tailored to children’s specific needs within the academic setting to promote attention\, regulation of arousal\, and engagement. This is the perfect training to kick off the new school year for parents\, educators\, and other professionals! \nPresenters: Marlee Olson\, MA\, OTR/L and Alexi Christensen\, MA\, OTR/L – Marlee and Alexi are the founders and operators for SENSE-ational Spaces\, LLC. They use an occupational therapy lens to support individuals with identified needs\, their families\, and the community through education and creation of sensory-friendly spaces. They offer education on coping with emotional distress\, sensory processing\, and environmental modification for practitioners\, caregivers\, and organizations. \n  URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-the-impact-of-environment-on-academic-success/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Heading-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T130000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250624T134158Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T093024Z UID:10001465-1755340200-1755349200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nConfidence Learning Center “Camp Confidence” – Brainerd\, MN\nSaturday\, August 16th\, 2025\, from 10:30 am – 1:00 pm (CT)\nJoin us for a fun day of summer camp experiences at Camp Confidence in Brainerd\, MN! Activities include ziplining\, rope courses\, animal sanctuary\, and crafts. We will start with check-in and snacks at 10:30 am\, followed by camp activities and ending with a catered lunch at 12:30 pm. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThis event is currently at capacity. Please complete the form below to be added to the waitlist and you will be notified if a spot becomes available. Thank you! \n\n \n \n Connect2Connect Waitlist\n \n \n \n CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Event Date:*\n \n \n Camp Confidence; Brainerd\, MN: Saturday August 16th\, 2025 from 10:30 am - 1:00 pm\n Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email*\n \n Phone*Please list the number you can best be reached at on the day of the event.City*County*State*Number of adults attending*Number of children attending*Does anyone in your group need vegan\, vegetarian\, or gluten free options? If yes\, please specify which.*What are the ages of the child(ren) attending?Your care of this child/children is:*\n \n Pre-Adoptive\n \n \n Finalized Adoption\n \n \n Temporary Care\n \n \n Kinship Care\n What agency/county/services are you working with?*CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-08-16-2025/ LOCATION:Camp Confidence\, 1620 Mary Fawcett Memorial Drive\, East Gull Lake\, MN\, 56401\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Website-Event-Pic-21.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250629T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250629T140000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250430T174845Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T122804Z UID:10001446-1751193000-1751205600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nCarlson’s Llovable Llamas – Waconia\, MN\nSunday\, June 29th\, 2025\nSession 1: 10:30 am – Noon\, Picnic: Noon – 12:30 pm\, Session 2: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm\,\nEnjoy a summer day making new friends and experience the joy of bonding with llamas! Our friends at Carlson’s Lovable Llamas are going to teach us all about llamas\, taking care of them\, grooming them\, and feeding them. We’ll get to visit with the baby llamas and tour the farm. And we’ll all get to take the llamas on a long trail walk! We will have two farm sessions so there are more llamas for each group\, with a large group picnic lunch in the middle. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest in this event. This event is at full capacity. Please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-06-29-2025/ LOCATION:Carlson’s Llovable Llamas\, 8380 County Rd 10 E\, Waconia\, MN\, 55387\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Website-Event-Pic-16.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T140000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250530T141208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T195214Z UID:10001458-1750770000-1750773600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Navigating FASD: Panel DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Navigating FASD: Panel\nTuesday June 24th\, 2025\, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. (CT)\nJoin Proof Alliance for a compelling 1-hour live panel featuring the voices of foster and adoptive caregivers who are navigating life with children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). During this candid discussion\, panelists will share their unique experiences\, including the challenges they’ve faced\, the lessons they’ve learned\, and the moments that have brought them hope and resilience. This conversation offers valuable insights\, encouragement\, and connection for anyone caring for a child impacted by FASD. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom. You will receive the link to join after registering below. URL:https://chlss.org/event/navigating-fasd-panel/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Website-Event-Pic-18.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T150000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250430T153502Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T142939Z UID:10001445-1750165200-1750172400@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Money-Related Emotional Injury for Youth Impacted by Adoption and Foster Care DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Money-Related Emotional Injury for Youth Impacted by Adoption and Foster Care\nTuesday\, June 17\, 2025\, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. (CT)\nThis two-hour training session focuses on understanding the emotional impact of financial stress on youth in foster care and provides foster care parents with practical tools to support their children. The training will explore how financial stress affects behavior\, decision-making\, and emotional health\, and will help participants recognize the signs of financial stress in both children and adults. Additionally\, foster parents will learn effective strategies for managing financial stress\, fostering open conversations about money\, and building financial literacy in foster youth. By the end of the session\, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to break the cycle of financial stress and create healthier\, more supportive environments for youth in their care. \nPresented by Tasha Moulton \nTasha Moulton is a passionate leader at LSS Youth Resource Center – Mankato\, with over 12 years of experience in nonprofit management and direct work with youth experiencing homelessness and trafficking. Tasha provides training to all audiences\, emphasizing the intersection of emotional injury and financial literacy. Her work focuses on empowering youth\, community members\, and professionals alike to understand and address the impacts of financial stress. Tasha is dedicated to creating positive\, sustainable change in her community through education\, mentorship\, and support efforts. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom\, and it will be recorded. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Money Trauma-Related Stress for Youth impacted by Adoption and Foster Care\n \n \n \n FacebookThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-money-related-emotional-injury-for-youth-in-foster-care/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Website-Event-Pic-15.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T123000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250417T005156Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250530T175818Z UID:10001430-1748687400-1748694600@chlss.org SUMMARY:I'm Just Trying to Feel Something Else: Chemical Misuse in Adopted Adolescents DESCRIPTION:Join us for Coffee\, Donuts\, and an In-Person Training\nDate/Time: Saturday May 31\, 2025\, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm \nLocation: St. Cloud Public Library; 1300 W St Germain St\, St Cloud\, MN 56301 \nPsychological and emotional health symptoms and chemical abuse are more common during the adolescent years. When these concerns are combined with attachment disruptions\, special challenges face the adolescents\, but also their families and clinicians. Attendees will learn the basics of the adolescent brain\, attachment-based parenting\, and the negative effects of chemical abuse; explore the common reasons adolescents abuse chemicals; process the complex relationship between attachment disruptions and chemical abuse; and learn interventions for addressing chemical abuse in adolescents. \n  \nPresented by Adam Arnold\, MA\, LMFT\, LADC \nAdam Arnold is a licensed psychotherapist\, trainer\, and consultant with Enliven Psychotherapy in Saint Paul\, MN. Central to Adam’s clinical work is gaining consent for psychotherapy from all of his clients – ensuring that they are driving their goals for treatment – regardless of their age. Adam spent over a decade combining his passions for healing and the arts\, serving as Founder and Artistic Director of blank slate theatre\, a personal growth-oriented theatre for adolescents in Saint Paul\, Minnesota. While there\, he collaborated with culturally and ability varied adolescents to produce over two dozen theatre pieces centering on themes of psychological and emotional health and social change\, including the award-winning DISORDERED [thy name is teenager]\, and BOTTOM\, a play on child trafficking. Adam also was proud to serve as chair of the “Safe Schools\, Safe Students Conference\,” which sought to address psychological and emotional health issues in schools\, innovate family involvement with schools\, soothe peer aggression\, and eliminate school shootings. \n  URL:https://chlss.org/event/im-just-trying-to-feel-something-else-chemical-misuse-in-adopted-adolescents/ LOCATION:St. Cloud Public Library\, 1300 W St Germain St\,\, Saint Cloud\, MN\, 56301\, United States CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Website-Event-Pic-14.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250518T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250518T143000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250404T235410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T200857Z UID:10001426-1747567800-1747578600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nPizza Ranch/Riddlers Escape – Saint Cloud\, MN\nSunday\, May 18th\, 2025\, from 11:30 am – 2:00 pm.\nJoin us for a fun day of pizza and puzzle rooms! We will start at Pizza Ranch at 11:30 am for lunch followed by puzzle rooms at Riddlers Escape. A gluten free pizza is available upon request. If you would prefer to join for the activity and skip lunch\, we plan to meet at Riddlers Escape at 12:45 pm to sign waivers. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest. This event is at full capacity. URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-05-18-2025/ LOCATION:Riddlers Escape\, 510 25th Ave N Ste 5\, St. Cloud\, 56303\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Website-Event-Pic-13.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T120000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250311T163737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T163933Z UID:10001414-1747476000-1747483200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nRed River Zoo – Fargo\, ND\nSaturday\, May 17th\, 2025\, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.\nJoin us for an adventurous morning of animal exploration and relationship building at the Red River Zoo in Fargo\, ND. We will gather at the Carousel Pavilion\, where you can enjoy unlimited free carousel rides\, zoo admission for your entire family\, and close-up encounters with the animals. A pizza lunch will also be provided. \nPlease note: \n-This event is only open to relative and kinship families. \n-You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \n-Since the event is located in North Dakota\, please ensure you have permission from your child’s worker to take them across state lines. \nContact us for registration URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-05-17-2025/ LOCATION:Red River Zoo\, 4255 23rd Ave S\, Fargo\, ND\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Website-Event-Pic-9.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250506T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250506T143000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250317T173128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T173128Z UID:10001415-1746536400-1746541800@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Tantrums\, Meltdowns\, Blow-ups\, Oh My! DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Tantrums\, Meltdowns\, Blow-ups\, Oh My!\nTuesday May 6th\, 2025\, from 1:00-2:30 p.m. (CT)\nYou likely do your best to try and prevent these from happening\, yet they still do. Participants in this session will walk away with practical de-escalation strategies to use with kids of all ages\, as well as helping kids (and yourself!) through them with calm confidence.  Recognizing that we can’t prevent every behavior we can learn and teach our children how to manage them to the best of their ability and come out on the other side without shame\, blame\, or fear. \n  \nPresented by Angie Ellsworth\, MS\, LSW\, LSC \nAngie Ellsworth is the owner of Timeout Behavior Coaching\, LLC\, where she trains and coaches parents and teachers in research-based positive behavior strategies to create a calmer and more respectful environment and build healthier relationships. As a wife\, parent of three\, and more than 20 prior years of experience as a school social worker\, counselor\, and behavior coach\, Angie knows all about the challenges happening in the trenches.  It is a pleasure and an honor for her to now be providing in-home parent coaching to support families in more meaningful and transformational ways.  Having witnessed amazing growth in others\, Angie is looking forward to sharing her expertise with you. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom\, and it will be recorded. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Tantrums\, Meltdowns\, Blow-ups\, Oh My!\n \n \n \n CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-tantrums-meltdowns-blow-ups-oh-my/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Website-Event-Pic-10.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T143000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250327T160903Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T014838Z UID:10001421-1745326800-1745332200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Trauma-Informed Parenting: Helping Heal the Deepest Wounds DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Trauma-Informed Parenting: Helping Heal the Deepest Wounds\nTuesday\, April 22\, 2025\, from 1:00-2:30 p.m. (CT)\n“All you need is love\,” says The Beatles’ tune.  For kids with significant adverse childhood experiences\, however\, love may have resulted in just as much pain as protection.  Separated from their parents\, the very same defenses that helped them survive then become a barrier to getting the love they need to thrive.  Caregivers are confused by the love/hate relationships traumatized youth have with them\, affectionate one minute and rejecting the next.  It is easy to feel helpless and defeated when youth do not seem to trust the connection enough to drop their defenses\, especially when situations escalate.  Before reaching the intersection of fatigue and frustration\, however\, we can take a different approach – TLC with TIP!  Let’s explore what it looks like to give the tender\, loving care kids in foster care need with a trauma-informed parenting approach\, and what it takes to hang in there when the loving gets tough! \nPresented by Susan K. Taylor: Piedmont Coordinator\, Consortium for Resource\, Adoptive\, and Foster Family Training (CRAFFT)\, Radford University. \nSusan Katherine Taylor has been at Radford University since 2011\, as a training coordinator with the Consortium for Resource\, Adoptive\, and Foster Family Training (CRAFFT).  She has worked with kids of all ages and families of all circumstances\, and has volunteered with Child Care Aware of Virginia for many years\, believing that all caregivers need to be informed about attachment\, trauma\, and meeting kids’ needs in a complex world. She has an interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree from Davidson College in Psychology and Sociology and graduated with honors from The University of Tennessee\, Knoxville\, where she obtained her Master of Science in Child & Family Studies.  She has post-graduate work from The School of Life\, where she majors in humor and humility\, with minors in love\, loss\, and letting go – accumulated over three decades of work with children and those who care for them\, and 25 years as a kinship caregiver. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom\, and it will be recorded. You will receive the link to join after registering below. \n\n \n \n Trauma-Informed Parenting for Foster and Adoptive Parents\n \n \n \n InstagramThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Number of people attending:(Required)Email(Required)\n \n County(Required)State(Required)AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces PacificI am a:(Required)\n \n \n Parent/Caregiver\n \n \n \n Professional\n \n \n \n Other\n What agency are you working with?(Required)For parents/caregivers: Where are you in the adoption/foster care process?\n \n \n Waiting\n \n \n \n Temporary Placement\n \n \n \n Adoptive Placement\n \n \n \n Finalized\n Please provide any questions you have about this topic:CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-trauma-informed-parenting-for-foster-and-adoptive-parents/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Website-Event-Pic-12.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T140000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250307T003756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T235259Z UID:10001411-1745064000-1745071200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nCHLSS Eustis Building – Saint Paul\, MN\nSaturday\, April 19th\, 2025\, from 12:00 pm – 2:15 pm.\nConnect2Connect SPRING MINGLE! Please arrive in our large conference space at the CHLSS office building. We will have a fun time of lunch\, connecting\, and creating! Cheers Pablo (our crowd-favorite teachers for leading paint-a-long art classes) is bringing the painting party to us! Everyone will get to bring home a large canvas of their spring-themed design. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest in this event. We are currently at capacity\, please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. \n\n \n \n Connect2Connect Waitlist\n \n \n \n InstagramThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Event Date:*\n \n \n Camp Confidence; Brainerd\, MN: Saturday August 16th\, 2025 from 10:30 am - 1:00 pm\n Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email*\n \n Phone*Please list the number you can best be reached at on the day of the event.City*County*State*Number of adults attending*Number of children attending*Does anyone in your group need vegan\, vegetarian\, or gluten free options? If yes\, please specify which.*What are the ages of the child(ren) attending?Your care of this child/children is:*\n \n Pre-Adoptive\n \n \n Finalized Adoption\n \n \n Temporary Care\n \n \n Kinship Care\n What agency/county/services are you working with?*CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-04-19-2025/ LOCATION:Children’s Home – St. Paul Office\, 1605 Eustis Street\, Saint Paul\, MN\, 55108\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Website-Event-Pic-8.png GEO:44.989629;-93.2030617 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Children’s Home – St. Paul Office 1605 Eustis Street Saint Paul MN 55108 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1605 Eustis Street:geo:-93.2030617,44.989629 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250413T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250413T120000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250224T123112Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T184048Z UID:10001408-1744538400-1744545600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nSkatin’ Place – St. Cloud\, MN\nSunday\, April 13th\, 2025\, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.\nJoin us for a fun morning of roller skating\, laser tag\, arcade\, and bounce houses at Skatin’ Place in St. Cloud\, MN. We will gather in the front entry\, distribute wristbands\, grab skates\, and enjoy a fun experience together! A pizza lunch will be provided. \nPlease note: \n-This event is only open to relative and kinship families. \n-You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nContact us for registration URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-04-13-2025/ LOCATION:Skatin’ Place\, 3302 Southway Dr\, St. Cloud\, MN\, 56301\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Website-Event-Pic-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250322T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250322T150000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250203T150437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T233734Z UID:10001396-1742648400-1742655600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: LGBTQ+ Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nCH/LSS recognizes that LGBTQ+ families may have different experiences from the larger foster and adoptive community and want to provide a safe and dedicated space for connection with families sharing in those experiences. \nChaska Curling Center\nSaturday\, March 22\, 2025\, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nJoin us to close out the winter season with experiencing the iconic Minnesotan activity of Curling in Chaska\, MN! We will have a private group lesson on the ice. Please note\, curlers must be at least 8 years old. Parents who do not wish to participate and kids younger than 8 years old will be able to watch from the “Players’ Lounge.” There will be table games and activities available. Some snacks and beverages will be provided. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThank you for your interest in this event. This event is currently full\, please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. \n  URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect-2-connect-march-22-2025/ LOCATION:Chaska Curling Center\, 3210 Chaska Blvd\, Chaska\, MN\, 55318 CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Website-Event-Pic-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250310T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250310T143000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20250206T164232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T195216Z UID:10001400-1741611600-1741617000@chlss.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Medication Administration and Management for Children in Foster Care DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a Webinar: Medication Administration and Management for Children in Foster Care\nMonday\, March 10\, 2025\, from 1:00-2:30 p.m. (CT)\nThis presentation will explore the ins and outs of managing medication for youth in foster care. We will discuss: \n\nTypes\, names\, and preparation forms of medication\nRoutes of administration\nWho administers medication\nGuidelines for administering medication\nRecord keeping special situations\nStorage\, inventory\, and disposal of medication\n\nPresented by Shelly DeBaker\, LPN \nShelly DeBaker received her LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) in 1985 and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Bethel University in 2011.  Those 40 years of nursing have included numerous areas of nursing: from long term care\, inpatient\, behavioral health and operating room. She has worked for Methodist Hospital as a RN since 2009\, specializing in hospice and in oncology at Allina Health since 2014. She is an adoptive parent to two amazing kids and enjoys being outside and around water. She enjoys sharing her medical knowledge through teaching\, especially fellow adoptive parents and being a resource for CHLSS. \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom\, and it will be recorded. You will receive the link to join after registering below. URL:https://chlss.org/event/webinar-medication-administration-and-management-for-children-in-foster-care/ LOCATION:Online Webinar CATEGORIES:Educational Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=application/pdf:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Website-Event-Pic.pdf END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T130000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20241209T164308Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T121437Z UID:10001332-1740222000-1740229200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nMount Kato – Mankato\, MN\nSaturday\, February 22nd\, 2025\, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.\nJoin us for a fun day of snow tubing at Mt. Kato in Mankato\, MN. We will gather in the chalet\, distribute tubing tickets\, and enjoy a fun experience together! A catered lunch will be provided. All tubers must be at least 42 inches tall.  \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect2connect-community-gathering-02-22-2025/ LOCATION:Mount Kato\, 20461 Old Hwy 66\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Website-Event-Pic-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241227T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241227T160000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20241104T162511Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241126T120803Z UID:10001313-1735308000-1735315200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Children\, Youth\, and Families Permanency Support Service grant. \nEmagine Movie Theater – Monticello\nFriday\, December 27th\, 2024\, from 2:00 pm – end of the movie.\nJoin us for a sensory friendly movie showing of Moana 2 at the Emagine Movie Theater in Monticello\, MN. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThis event is now at full capacity. Please complete the form below to be added to the waitlist. URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect-2-connect-12-27-2024/ LOCATION:Emagine Theater – Monticello\, MN\, 9375 Deegan Avenue\, Monticello\, 55362 CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Website-Event-Pic-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241123T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241123T120000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20241007T185528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T150358Z UID:10001291-1732356000-1732363200@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: LGBTQ+ Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Human Service Permanency Support Service grant. \nLSS recognizes that LGBTQ+ families may have different experiences from the larger foster and adoptive community and want to provide a safe and dedicated space for connection with families sharing in those experiences. \nColor Me Mine\nSaturday\, November 23\, 2024\, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.\nJoin us for an artsy day at Color Me Mine in Maple Grove\, Minnesota! We will be painting ceramic art pieces and have a light lunch together. Additional details will be emailed closer to the date. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThis event is at capacity. Please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. You will receive an email if a spot becomes available. \n\n \n \n Pride Families Connect2Connect Waitlist (November)\n \n \n \n CommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Event Date:*\n \n \n Color Me Mine Maple Grove: Saturday\, November 23rd\, 2024 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm\n Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email*\n \n Phone*Please list the number you can best be reached at on the day of the event.City*County*State*Number of adults attending*Number of children attending*Does anyone in your group need vegan\, vegetarian\, or gluten free options? If yes\, please specify which.*What are the ages of the child(ren) attending?Your care of this child/children is:*\n \n Pre-Adoptive\n \n \n Finalized Adoption\n \n \n Temporary Care\n \n \n Kinship Care\n What agency/county/services are you working with?*The artwork we make will need to be fired in a kiln at the Maple Grove location. You can either plan to pick it up from Color Me Mine a week or later after the event\, or you can coordinate a pickup time from our CHLSS office building. Which would you prefer?*\n \n \n pickup from Color Me Mine in Maple Grove\n \n \n \n pickup from the CHLSS office building (1605 Eustis St\, St. Paul)\n CAPTCHA\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect-2-connect-november-23-2024/ LOCATION:Color Me Mine\, 12155 Elm Creek Blvd N\, Maple Grove\, MN\, 55369\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/November-C2C.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241027T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241027T140000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20240909T120538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240925T110254Z UID:10001270-1730030400-1730037600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Human Service Permanency Support Service grant. \nNowhere Entertainment\nSunday\, October 27th\, 2024\, from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm.\nJoin us for a Halloween themed afternoon at Nowhere Entertainment in Inver Grove Heights\, MN. We encourage you to come dressed up in your costume. There will be a catered taco bar lunch with desserts and lemonade. \nActivities include: \n\nUnlimited Mini Golf\nYou will receive an Arcade Card ($20 value ~ can be used to play about 10-15 arcade games)\nAnd (optional) Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Haunted House! (Details below)\n\nYou will sign up for the Haunted House tour when you arrive at the event.\n\n\n\nAbout the Haunted House Tour: \nNowhere Haunted House’s Behind-the-Scenes Tour is a guided\, lights on look at how a haunted house operates. There will be no actors on the tour\, no spooky audio\, and the animatronics will be powered off.  You will see our detailed sets\, hear the history and creation of Nowhere\, see and touch animatronics\, go “backstage” where actors prepare for their roles\, and learn how haunted houses are another form of theater. \nAlthough no actors will be in the haunted house and the animatronics will not be on\, some kids may feel uncomfortable or nervous with specific scenes or certain elements\, while others want more. Creepy elements include skeletons\, bugs\, an abandoned hospital\, creepy old house with dirty rooms\, clowns\, and fake blood. We will offer two levels of the Behind the Scenes Tour. The first will have most of the fake blood covered up (we aren’t able to cover up everything)\, the second will show all scenes and elements containing fake blood. \nEvery child’s “scare level” is unique. Some are not fazed by scary elements\, while others can be triggered by them. It’s important to remember that trauma may impact how people react to haunted houses. We believe parents and caregivers are the experts on their children and will make the best decision for a child in their care. \nPlease note: You will receive an email with waivers for the event within a week after registering. If you do not complete the waivers by the deadline\, you will forfeit your spot to attend. \nThis event is at capacity. If you would like to receive emails for future events\, please see below. \nConnect2Connect Email List\n  URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect-2-connect-10-27-2024/ LOCATION:Nowhere Entertainment\, 5300 S Robert Trail #200\, Inver Grove Heights\, MN\, 55077\, United States CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Website-Subpage-Hero-Image-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240927T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240927T190000 DTSTAMP:20260417T193123 CREATED:20240723T125123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240927T111917Z UID:10001174-1727456400-1727463600@chlss.org SUMMARY:Connect2Connect: Community Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Community & Connection\nConnect2Connect provides opportunities for foster and adoptive families to connect with one another and build relationships in an in-person\, interactive\, and fun way. Connect2Connect is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Human Service Permanency Support Service grant. \nRed Barn Learning Farm\nFriday\, September 27th\, 2024\, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm.\nJoin us for a fun evening at Red Barn Learning Farm in Hayfield\, MN. Events will include exploring the farm\, learning about the animals\, and a sunset hayride. Dinner will be included! \nPlease note: Registration for this event is currently full. Please fill out the form below to be added to the waitlist. An email will be sent if spots open up. \n  URL:https://chlss.org/event/connect-2-connect-09-27-2024/ LOCATION:Red Barn Learning Farm\, 27251 State Hwy 30\, Hayfield\, MN\, 55940 CATEGORIES:Community Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://chlss.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Connect2Connnect-August-1.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR