By Dee Useo Photo


 

FOSTER THE FAMILY

Foster/Adoptive mama circles (monthly support group)

Amidst the challenges of foster care and adoption, how can we embrace this sacred calling and live out of a place of flourishing rather than surviving?

I know firsthand how important it is for me to know I’m not alone on the journey. We need a sisterhood of mamas who can witness us as we are, honor where we’ve been, and encourage us onward toward more healing and wholeness as we care for some of the most vulnerable in our society.

Meeting in-person at Grace Fellowship Church: 25 Sullivan Ave. Port Jervis, NY 12771 **While we meet at a church, this is not a specifically religious group. Anyone from any, none, or all faith backgrounds are welcome.

(Tri-State / Hudson Valley / Sullivan Catskills region)

NEXT MEETING: Wednesday, March 26th 5:30-7pm

Click the “Get Notified” button below for updates on the calendar of events and circle monthly themes. Or follow along on social media @nourishedfostermama + @fosterthefamily.hudsonvalley

What To expect at the circles?

  • safe and candid conversation

  • kind community - a safe place to be seen and encouraged.

  • practical education and learning opportunities to support your journey as a foster/adoptive mom.

Foster/Adoptive Mama Circles are a “kind of community that knows how to welcome the soul and help us hear its voice, a circle of trust” -Parker J. Palmer

When my own cup is full,
I can more easily pour out:
more peace,
more presence,
more love.
— a.m.
 
 

FAQ’S

Is this for just mamas or mamas and their kids?

For the first few meetings, it’s just for mamas. (with the exception of babies or a child who will sit with you). We may be able to figure out some childcare for future meetings if that’s something people are desiring/needing!

Is this only for foster or adoptive mamas?

Yes, this group is designed specifically to support foster and adoptive mamas, and kinship caregivers/moms.

What will we be doing?

The goal of this time is to find connection, support, and helpful practices/tools to help us along in our motherhood journey. Each group may look a little different, but all will include some kind of practical learning and time for connection and discussion.

Who’s leading it?

To start, this group will be facilitated by Abby Mortenson and McKaila DeVries. Abby is a foster and adoptive mama of 5 with a background in social work and trauma-informed practices. McKaila is a biological and foster mama who also works in the social work field.

We are holding open hands and hopeful expectations about this group that it will grow and impact many lives by giving the much-needed support that foster and adoptive moms need. My aim is to create a safe space for support, encouragement, and authentic community. A little village mamas cheering one another on.

Where will it be?

Grace Fellowship Church: 25 Sullivan Ave. Port Jervis, NY 12771 **While we meet at a church, this is not a specifically religious group. Anyone from any, none, or all faith backgrounds are welcome.

When will it be?

4th Wednesdays every month, 5:30-7pm. First one will be MARCH 26th. (For future groups we may change the days/time depending on needs of the group.)

Have more questions?

Just contact me here!

 

FOSTER/Adoptive Mama circles

Motherhood: the beautiful, the exhausting, the sacred journey. It can feel lonely or isolating. It can feel draining or joy-filled. This time will be a safe and sacred space to share, process, and learn some specific practices to help mamas feel more grounded, present, and at peace through the highs and lows of the world's toughest job. Think community of kindred souls, breathing and mindfulness tools, and more.


navigating grief with grace circle

Date TBA

More to come soon. Please sign up below if you’re interested to hear more. These may be in person or virtual (or both!)

 

mama and me retreat

Date TBA

More to come soon. Please sign up below if you’re interested to hear more.