The Foster Family: Recent Episodes
Savio
What is the Best Option for Legacy Gift?
For those considering a legacy gift to support Savio, a great place to start is with our traditional retirement accounts.
The path to securing our retirement is well-marked. We invest using a traditional IRA or workplace account. Our funds grow, tax-deferred—often for decades. Eventually, these assets will support us during our retirement years.
A key feature? No income tax applies until we make our retirement withdrawals. This dynamic helps us all save for a healthy and financially secure retirement.
A Legacy Option
There is an additional consideration, however. Our traditional retirement assets never lose their income tax obligation.
When our loved ones inherit these funds, they also inherit our tax liability. This dynamic can help unlock a tax-efficient option for a legacy gift.
As a non-profit organization, Savio pays no tax on gifts from retirement accounts. You could name Savio as a beneficiary tomorrow, while still preserving full control over your funds for life. Nothing changes when you update your beneficiaries. You’re simply updating your future instructions. Savio won’t receive your legacy gift until your estate eventually settles.
And when we finally do—zero tax is withheld. Every dollar you share is a dollar we receive.
The income tax dynamics for traditional retirement accounts can make this an excellent legacy gift option.
For more information, please contact Joshua Pruyn at jpruyn@saviohouse.org or 303-536-8310. All inquiries will be held in strict confidence.
How to give more and pay less. What are the tax benefits of appreciated assets?
As the end of the year approaches, many people begin considering how to make the most impactful contributions to the causes they care about. Beyond the traditional cash gift, some charitable giving options offer greater tax advantages, allowing you to make a meaningful difference while maximizing your financial benefits. Here’s a look at why appreciated assets can be a smart choice for charitable donations and how they can amplify the impact of your generosity.
Appreciated securities – stocks, bonds, mutual fund shares – are excellent options to consider when making charitable gifts, offering tax advantages that may not exist when donating cash. To illustrate the impact, please consider the following for a donor in the 24% federal income tax bracket:
Cash Gift$10,000 – Charitable donation (cash gift)
$2,400 – Federal income tax deduction
$7,600 – After-tax ‘cost’ of gift
Gift of Appreciated StockThe tax benefit above can be increased by donating appreciated securities instead of cash. Consider a gift of stock with a $10,000 current market value, purchased years ago for $2,000:
$10,000 – Charitable donation (appreciated stock, cost basis of $2,000)
$2,400 – Federal income tax deduction (24% marginal income tax bracket)
$1,200 – Capital Gains tax not paid (15% long-term Capital Gains tax rate, applies if stock is sold)
$6,400 – After-tax ‘cost’ of gift
In this example, a donor avoids paying capital gains tax on the stock’s appreciated value, but still enjoys a charitable deduction for its full fair market value.
To learn more about donating appreciated assets, please contact Joshua Pruyn, Director of Development, at jpruyn@saviohouse.org or (303) 526-83310
The Town and the StruggleIn the heart of Western Colorado, nestled among rugged hills and wide-open plains, lies a small town where life moves at a slower pace. It’s a place where neighbors know each other by name, where the horizon stretches far and wide, and where the sunsets are as breathtaking as they are predictable. The town may not have much in terms of economic opportunity—70% of its families rely on supplemental income, and the jobs that do exist often involve long commutes to nearby cities—but it has a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. The landscape is dotted with modest homes, weathered trailers, and a single gas station that serves as the town’s hub. It’s a place where people look out for one another, where they take pride in their Western roots, and where they face their struggles with quiet resilience.
For Claire, this town had always been home. It’s where she had grown up, where she was raising her two children, and where she was now fighting to keep her family together. Claire’s love for her children was fierce, a deep-rooted emotion that drove her every decision. But love alone wasn’t enough to protect her from the storm that had engulfed her life.
Mia, her once joyful and creative 11-year-old daughter, had become a source of chaos. With the complex emotional changes of growing up compounded with wanting to stand-out in a small town, Mia started acting out. The young girl’s shouts and shoves had replaced the laughter that once filled their home. Mia’s rebellion was relentless—she had even chased Claire with a knife and was caught bringing stolen alcohol and vapes to her elementary school. The property damage alone had taken Claire’s home from a place she was proud of, to a series of repair projects she could never manage. Worse still, the tension was suffocating her son, who had started hiding in cabinets whenever Mia lashed out. He was just seven years old, but already burdened with the trauma of watching his family fall apart.
Claire had always put on a brave face for her children, but inside, she felt like she was drowning. Her phone had become her lifeline, a way to escape the overwhelming chaos. She spent hours scrolling mindlessly, trying to block out the noise, the fighting, the fear. But deep down, she knew this was only making things worse. Her attention was elsewhere when Mia needed her most, and her son, too young to understand, was left to fend for himself in the crossfire. It was her son who ended up calling the police when Mia threatened her family, out of fear for his and his mother’s safety.
When DHS and the local diversion program became involved, Claire knew she was on the brink of losing everything. The threat of Mia being taken away loomed large, and the possibility of her son being removed too was terrifyingly real. Claire had lost before, but she couldn’t lose again. She couldn’t bear the thought of her children growing up without her, of them thinking she didn’t care enough to fight for them.
Then, just as things seemed their darkest, Errin pulled into the family’s dusty driveway. Savio’s MST therapist was younger than Claire had expected, with a calm demeanor that belied the gravity of the situation. Errin didn’t come in with judgment or blame—she came with understanding, and more importantly, with confidence and hope.
“I’m here to help you, Claire,” Errin had said on their first meeting, her voice steady and reassuring. “We’re going to get through this together. You’re not alone in this.” Claire was desperate enough to allow her to believe that might be true.
The Struggle for ControlThe first few weeks were a battleground. Mia’s behavior didn’t magically improve with Errin’s arrival. If anything, it seemed to get worse. Mia was furious when Claire, guided by Errin, began to set boundaries. When Claire took away the vape pens Mia had been sneaking into school, the confrontation was explosive, fueled by Mia’s longing to be seen as “cool” and important among her classmates.
“You can’t do this to me!” Mia screamed, her face contorted with rage. “I hate you!”
Claire’s hands shook as she stood her ground, her heart breaking at the venom in her daughter’s voice. But she didn’t back down. “I love you too much to let you hurt yourself,” she managed to say, echoing the words she and Errin had rehearsed together. “This is for your own good.”
Mia stormed off, slamming her bedroom door so hard it rattled the walls, but Claire didn’t follow. She sat at the kitchen table, hands trembling, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. It was one of the hardest things she had ever done, but Errin had been there, a steadying presence, assuring her she was doing the right thing.
“Mia’s testing you because she needs to see that you mean what you say,” Errin had explained during one of their sessions. “She’s seeking connection, Claire. But she also needs to know that you’re in control, that you’re the one setting the rules.”
Errin’s words resonated deeply with Claire. She realized that she had been so consumed by her fear of losing her children that she wasn’t being the parents he wanted to be. Errin helped her see that setting boundaries wasn’t about pushing Mia away—it was about bringing her closer, about showing her that she was loved enough to be protected.
But the battle for control wasn’t just with Mia—it was also within Claire herself. Her phone had become a crutch, a way to disconnect from the overwhelming responsibilities of motherhood. Errin gently pushed Claire to put the phone down, to be present with her children.
“Mia’s acting out because she’s seeking connection, and that connection is crucial for her mental health. By being present, you’re not just setting boundaries—you’re helping her feel secure and loved, which are the foundations of good mental health,” Errin explained to her. “Show them that they have your full attention. It’s going to make a world of difference.”
At first, it was harder than Claire had imagined. The phone had become a habit, an escape from the chaos around her. But slowly, she began to put it aside during meals, during homework time, and during those quiet moments when Mia or her son needed her attention. She could see the change almost immediately. Mia’s outbursts began to lessen, and there were moments—fleeting but real— when Claire saw glimpses of the daughter she used to know.
The Fire and the FearJust as things seemed to be improving, disaster struck. It was a scorching afternoon when the shed caught fire. Claire was inside folding laundry when she heard the neighbor’s shouts. Rushing outside, she saw the flames licking at the wooden structure, thick black smoke curling into the sky.
“What happened?” she cried, grabbing the garden hose and trying to douse the flames, but it was too late. The shed was engulfed, and her son stood nearby, tears streaming down his face.
“I didn’t mean to, Mom!” he sobbed. “I just wanted to see what would happen!”
By the time the fire department arrived, the shed was reduced to a smoldering pile of ash, and the surrounding trees were scorched. Claire’s heart sank as she realized the implications. DHS had already been closely monitoring her family, and now this?
The next morning, DHS was at her door, talking about removing her son from the home. Claire felt the world closing in on her, the fear of losing her children once again becoming all too real.
But Errin was there, calm and collected. “We can fix this, Claire,” she said, her voice filled with quiet confidence. “We just need to create a safety plan. We’ll remove all the hazards—matches, lighters—and improve supervision. We’ll show DHS that you’re doing everything you can to keep your kids safe.”
Errin also saw the opportunity to remind Claire of the drivers to the family’s behavioral health challenges, “This isn’t just about preventing another fire, Claire. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels safe and supported. That’s how we address the underlying issues and ensure that these problems don’t resurface.”
Errin’s words were like a lifeline. Together, they spent hours crafting a detailed safety plan, going through every step to ensure nothing was overlooked. Errin guided Claire through the process, helping her see that she wasn’t helpless, that she had the power to protect her children.
When DHS returned to review the plan, they were impressed. They saw the effort Claire had put in, the changes she had made, and they agreed to let her keep her son. It was a victory, but it was also a turning point for Claire. For the first time, she realized that she had the strength to change things, that she wasn’t just a victim of circumstance.
“Mia and your son need you to be strong, Claire,” Errin had said. “And you’ve shown them that you are. You’re doing great.”
Building a FutureWith the fire incident behind them, Claire focused on rebuilding the trust and connection between her and Mia. She continued to set boundaries, enforce rules, and most importantly, give Mia the attention and love she needed.
Errin’s presence was still a guiding force, though she made sure to let Claire take the lead. “You’re the one making this happen, Claire,” Errin would say during their sessions. “You’re the one who’s showing your children what it means to be strong, to be loved.”
Mia’s behavior began to improve noticeably. The boundaries that Claire set, combined with the attention and connection she was now giving Mia, were making a difference. There were still tough days, but there were also days filled with laughter and light, days where Mia would sit down with Claire, who had limited literacy, and help her with reading and writing, just as she had done during their court appearances.
“I remember seeing her read those documents to you in court,” Errin recalled during one of their sessions. “She wasn’t doing it out of obligation, Claire. She was doing it because she wanted to help you. That’s the kind of relationship you’re building now.”
Mia’s grades improved, and she was able to finish 5th grade on a high note, something Claire had once thought impossible. The school, which had once been a source of tension, became a place of support. The vice principal, who had been skeptical at first, started working closely with Errin and Claire, helping Mia stay on track with regular backpack checks and ensuring she stayed on school grounds.
As the months passed, Mia’s transformation became more and more evident. She joined the softball team and found herself surrounded by positive friends she could connect with. The creative spark that had once defined her returned, and she began drawing again, filling sketchbooks with images of the world as she saw it—complex, beautiful, and full of possibility. She finally felt seen, both by her family and by the parts of her searching for joy.
But it wasn’t just Mia who had changed. Claire had grown, too. She was more confident, more sure of herself as a mother. She had learned to set expectations and enforce them, to trust her instincts and believe in her ability to guide her children.
One day, as they sat together in the garden they had planted, Mia turned to her mother and said, “I’m happy, Mom. I’m really happy.”
Claire felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes. It had been so long since she had heard those words from her daughter. “I’m happy too, Mia,” she replied, her voice thick with emotion. “We’ve come so far.”
Moving ForwardThe time came for Errin to close the case. It had been six months—longer than the typical MST program—but Claire wasn’t ready to let go. She had grown to rely on Errin’s steady presence, her unwavering belief that they could overcome anything.
“What you’ve done isn’t just about changing Mia’s behaviors, Claire,” Errin explained during one of their final sessions. “It’s about addressing mental health through a family lens. When we focus on strengthening the family, we’re not just solving the problem at hand—we’re creating a foundation for lasting mental health and well-being. The support system you’ve built here, the connection you’ve reestablished with Mia, the security and change you’ve made possible for her brother, and the confidence you’ve gained are what will sustain this progress long after I’m gone.”
Claire nodded, trying to hold back the tears. She knew Errin was right, but that didn’t make it any easier to say goodbye. “Thank you,” she whispered. “For everything.”
DHS and the local diversion program, who had been closely monitoring the family throughout the intervention, were thrilled with the progress Claire and her children had made. The family had experienced no new incidents since the MST program began, and Mia’s behavioral improvements had exceeded their expectations. They felt confident that Claire was now fully equipped to manage her household without further intervention or mental health support. For the first time, Claire felt the weight of DHS’s presence lift, replaced with a sense of accomplishment and hope.
A few weeks later, Errin received a text message from Claire. “We’re doing great,” the message read. “Thank you for helping us get here.” Attached was a photo of Mia and her brother, smiling on their first days of middle school and kindergarten.
Family Separation and Substance MisuseFamilies play a critical role in shaping who we become as individuals, providing the support and nurturing needed for healthy development. When this system is disrupted by family separation, the effects can be traumatic for everyone involved, leading to both short- and long-term consequences for children and parents. Keeping families together should be a top priority, as it is crucial for the success of the family unit and the well-being of each individual.
The importance of family unity is especially evident in the context of substance use disorders (SUDs). Addressing SUDs while maintaining family integrity can lead to better outcomes for both parents and children, highlighting the need for family-based approaches in treatment and support systems.
Substance misuse is a leading factor in family separations, with around 80% of foster care cases involving allegations of parental misuse of drugs or alcohol (Human Rights Watch). Finding ways to secure the improvement of the parent's condition and child safety or vice versa while maintaining the family structure is a high priority in the realm of social workers. Social Work education tends to focus on the environment and the individual's effect on each other which illustrates the benefits of involving the family in the SUD treatment process.
Why Family involvement in treatment matters Substance misuse impacts the entire family. That’s why family involvement in the treatment process is so important. Families are the bedrock of our lives, providing love, support, and guidance. When a parent struggles with addiction, it can shake the very foundation of that bond, leaving everyone feeling lost and unsure of how to help.
But family can also become a source of strength, a safe place where healing can begin. Involving loved ones in treatment helps them understand what’s happening and how they can support their family member's recovery. It’s not just about addressing the addiction; it’s about rebuilding trust, mending broken relationships, and creating a path forward together.
The Consequences of Family Separation for Children When children are removed from their homes due to parental substance abuse, the situation becomes even more complicated. Federal laws like the Adoption and Safe Families Act push for the termination of parental rights if a child has been in foster care for 15 out of 22 months. This tight timeline creates pressure on both parents and children, making reunification difficult.
This race against the clock and a successful and safe treatment process are at odds. When a child is removed from a home due to substance abuse and is placed into foster care, many barriers arise that inevitably prevent the child from returning home. The longer the child is in foster care the less likely reunification becomes. Additionally, these children tend to stay in foster care longer than children of parents without SUDs (Casey Family Programs). According to a report done by Youth Today, 8 million reports were made to child welfare services in 2019, and 3 million investigations were made. This means that one in three children will be subjected to investigation before they turn 18. The fear that strikes many people here has to do with the steps that are taken after the investigations. Additionally, families of color are disproportionately investigated and separated as the result of investigations.
holistic and beneficial approaches of Savio At Savio, we strive to keep children with their families when safely possible. For over 50 years Savio has worked to prove that rehabilitation of various types of family dysfunction is possible through evidence-based models in the home. Our Family Integrated Treatment (FIT) court programs helps to provide resources that identify the roots of problems like substance abuse and mental health treatment. Savio integrates evidence-based practices, ensuring a holistic approach to family recovery. and accelerating the path to permanency for children.
A Need for Something More: Family Treatment ProgramsHistorically substance use treatment programs and child welfare systems have worked separately in restoring safety and recovery in families. But like in most cases working individually hinders the possibility of faster progression and collaboration of resources. In the past decade, more efforts have been made to mend the gap for more accessible services, although many barriers still inhibit child reconciliation and substance treatment. It is also important to note that because substance use disorders are so highly stigmatized that reaching out for support can be increasingly more difficult. Given that the child-parent relationship is often the primary motivation for parents to achieve and maintain sobriety, and positively influences treatment success, this approach is especially valuable (Casey Family Programs). Certain states have recognized the importance of keeping families together during treatment and therapy. States have used a component of The Family First Act, the process often starts in a residential treatment program and transitions to in-home services all while involving the whole family unit.
Family-Based vs. Individual-Focused Treatment Unlike traditional residential treatment programs that tend to isolate the patient in hopes of self-motivated recovery, family-based residential treatment programs aim to provide dual treatment for recovery and parenting and child attachment skills. These programs allow parents and children to live together or maintain frequent visits if something prohibits habitability. Family residential treatment programs extend beyond individual recovery to encompass the prevention of child maltreatment, preserve and reunify families, and foster family self-sufficiency.
The shift from individual to family-based approaches, though new, is already seeing significant improvements in successful recoveries. A program in Los Angeles called SHEILDS for Families Exodus reported that “81 percent of program participants in the last five years successfully completed its residential treatment program, which is almost four times the national average” (Casey Family Programs). Two programs reported positive impacts on children involved in the treatment process. Minnesota Wayside House states that of the children served, 94% were free from abuse and neglect and 70% of the children continued to live in their homes 12 months after their parents completed the program (Casey Family Programs). The Program OnTrack in Oregon reported 95% of the children were neglect and abuse-free during the time of the treatment (OnTrack Rouge Valley).
Now is the Time for ChangeChanges to federal laws have created a prime opportunity to evaluate and invest in family-based treatment programs for parents with substance abuse disorders. Family-based residential treatment programs are becoming a more notably positive and progressive way to address substance use disorder and child maltreatment by preventing family separation. To make the most of this opportunity, treatment programs must be trauma-informed, evidence-based, and offer a range of services, from parenting skills training to therapy for both individuals and families. By embracing and expanding these innovative approaches to prevent family separation, they create healthier and more stable environments, promote family preservation, and support long-term recovery.
Skylar was a young mother, barely out of her teens, when her daughter was born. Although she loved her baby with all her might, she was caught up in a storm of challenges that took over her life: fentanyl addiction. Its grip was unrelenting as she tried to hold on to both her daughter and the feelings of escape her usage provided. This world was also all Skylar knew. Generations of parents and grandparents had used various substances over the years, all with their own stories and struggles, but all with the same result— family chaos and troubled relationships.
Just a few months after her daughter was born, Skylar found herself in unknown territory—child services had become aware of her circumstances and removed her daughter to the care of her aunt. In the blur changes, a stark reality made her heart sank: she wouldn’t be able to hold her daughter every day or kiss her goodnight when she went to sleep . She started grieving the loss of missing her daughter saying her first words and taking her first steps. With the pain of seeing her daughter’s empty crib each morning, Skylar started using even more. Her case worker saw her growing more and more distant from her goal of having her daughter back; she was referred to inpatient care. “No chance,” Skylar shook her head listlessly, “I don’t know anyone who has been able to stay sober so why try? Why would it work for me if help never worked for them?” While sporadically attending treatment to fulfill court requirements, the image of her daughter was always at the forefront of her mind. She started to miss her smile more and more. Her giggles when they played. And even the looks her daughter would give her when she was feeling upset and needed Mommy. Skylar knew she wanted to be the one to raise her daughter; and she knew she couldn’t get the help she needed to reach that future alone.
Skylar decided to participate in Savio’s Family Integrated Treatment (FIT) Court. The voluntary program is designed to help families who are involved in the child welfare system due to parental substance misuse with the goal of providing caregivers with the support they need overcome addiction and rebuild their lives together with their children. Through FIT Court, Skylar was introduced to her Savio team; their curiosity of Skylar’s experience, instead of judgment, already made her feel like she was on a different path. Through the collaborative efforts of her therapists, case workers, and judge, she found herself motivated to enter and complete a three month long inpatient treatment program knowing that holding her daughter in her arms again was just on the other side. The time without her daughter and the difficulty of facing her past made it a difficult 90 days. But on the other side she heard the judge praising her progress, commitment to maintaining sobriety, and work to become a better mother. “I’m so proud of you,” the judge said, “I know you are ready to move on to the next chapter in your family’s story.” Skylar had regained custody of her daughter.
She didn’t realize how complicated hearing those words would be. Skylar always envisioned being overcome with joy…and while she felt more happiness than ever before in her life, she also carried a sense of dread. Throughout the last several months she had solely been focused on her own needs. Taking care of herself. Now, she had her small daughter looking to her to meet all of her needs. Overwhelmed with how to integrate the skills she learned with everyday life, Skylar’s Savio therapist reminded her of how far she had come. “You can do this,” she reminded Skylar, “You’ve been doing the work and we’re with you every step of the way to help as you move forward.” Because inpatient care had been a critical step in Skylar’s path to wellness, she and her Savio team started searching for similar programs that would allow the twenty-year-old to have consistent supervised care while living out her role as an active parent with her daughter. The options were devastatingly slim. Due to a stroke of great luck and chance timing, a space in a small program became available. This program allowed very few mothers, and only those with babies, to receive housing and treatment for addiction. Her arrival there, an opportunity available to so little, was a safe haven.
When Skylar moved in, she was able to focus with her Savio team. She and her team actively practiced life skills and saw how those could help her daughter succeed. They reviewed the pros and the cons of her previous lifestyle, the pros and cons of how treatment helped her, and how and why she wanted to stay on the path she was on. But most importantly, her therapist reminded her: “You are naturally an amazing parent.” She helped Skylar see that when she was able to show up for her daughter, she was wonderful at it. And that her past experiences and the generations of use before her didn’t define what she was capable of moving forward.
Skylar realized how game-changing it was to have her daughter with her while seeking help. Before, when only allowed to see her daughter occasionally on supervised visits, she would have downtime. And that downtime would open up opportunities to use again or engage with unhealthy people and places. Here she was secure. Her schedule of waking up, caring for her daughter, going to medical appointments, doing chores and errands, and doing bedtime routines became established; she was able to be more present for the continuity of little moments, the little laughs, the baby-talk conversations with her daughter, that make life so magical. Skylar slowly started to believe the feedback her therapist gave her. Maybe she was a great parent. Maybe she did just need that extra aid to reach a place of sobriety to make all of this happen.
As Skylar has been nearing the end of her time with Savio, she has been working with them to plan ahead. When her daughter grows older and eventually enters daycare, she aims to work and continue treatment. While she faces ongoing challenges, including housing instability when she graduates from her current program, she is hopeful for the future. Skylar’s journey is a testament to how a parent’s resilience and unwavering love for their children can break cycles and beat the odds. As she ended her most recent Savio session, Skylar carried her daughter to crib, and before turning off the light, realized that because of her own efforts, that crib would never have to be empty again.
So you want to be a licensed therapist in Colorado? Congratulations! This is an exciting path, but one that’s often weighed down by confusion and questions. “What are the steps to becoming a licensed therapist?” “What is supervision and how do I get connected with it?” “When can I start counting my clinical hours?” We go over the process of licensure that we see most with our therapeutic teams and how we guide them in achieving their professional goals.
First off, let’s go over some key words you may come across in the licensure experience:
DORA (aka the Department of Regulatory Agencies): This is Colorado’s agency that oversees and manages all professional licenses, business registrations, and the protection of customers. That’s right, most everyone who provides person-to-person care, from your doctor to your hairstylist, is registered with DORA.
Clinical Supervision: This is the process in which mental health workers receive regular support and oversight from a more experienced member of their profession. During supervision, clinicians may review their cases in-depth, build upon skills, work through questions, and more. Supervision is a valuable way for emerging therapists and counselors (and even seasoned ones, too!) to gain insight from an additional perspective and receive guidance as they strengthen their competency.
Accreditation: This is the evaluation process that confirms an education source meets established standards of quality in its teachings. Even if you are attending a well-known school or program, it is important to double check that the one you are enrolled in meets the accreditation standards for your desired license (don’t worry we’ll point out what you need to look for in a minute!)
Jurisprudence Exam: This component is required in the licensure application process. It tests knowledge of state laws, ethical practices, and regulations of the profession. Colorado’s Mental Health Jurisprudence Exam applies to addiction counselors, licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and social workers.
Time to break down the journey to licensure! We’ll focus on how that process looks if you want to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Step 1: Where do I begin?First, start by making sure your degree meets the educational requirements for an LPC. LPC applicants need to have their degree from a CACREP approved program or equivalent (www.cacrep.org).
But wait a minute… what if I already graduated from an unaccredited program? Don’t lose hope! There may be an education equivalency process you can go through that will allow eligibility for licensure.
Read more about education equivalency here!
Step 2: What is DORA Colorado? Register with DORA (www.dora.colorado.gov)! You will start off as an LPC “candidate.” Once you are registered, you can start documenting your supervision and clinical experience hours.
Step 3: What is clinical supervision and how do I get it? LPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs all have different requirements as to how many hours you need of clinical experience and supervision—as well as who can supervise you. And when, you may ask, can I start counting my working hours toward licensure? As soon as you register with DORA (in Step 2)!
After graduating with your degree, LPC candidates are required to have 100 hours of clinical supervision (70 face-to-face and individual) and 2,000 hours of clinical experience over a minimum of 24 months.
LPC candidates can receive supervision from either LPC supervisors OR LCSW supervisors.
Supervision is a requirement, but how you obtain those hours may vary. Depending on where you work, you may have to outsource and pay for supervision hours. While prices vary, an estimated range would be approximately $80-$190 per individual hour of supervision.
At Savio, however, we provide clinicians’ supervision FREE OF COST. You can save money and focus on your cases with a team that is familiar and informed about your clients’ circumstances. And there’s even better news. If you are hired to work in your ideal program but your supervisor doesn’t meet licensing requirements, we have a solution! Because Savio has multiple programs with clinicians of various backgrounds, we have the ability to connect you internally within our organization to a supervisor who can help you fulfill needed hours.
Our supervision model is structured so that in your first year of employment you receive group supervision (if allowable for your degree), and your second year of employment focuses on individual supervision.
Step 4: What are the required exams for therapist licensure?The Jurisprudence Exam consists of 45 multiple choice questions that can be taken open-book and online. This exam is not timed and can be completed within a 60-day window.
In addition to your Jurisprudence Exam (which is the same for LPC, LCSW, and LMFT), each license requires passing scores on additional tests.
LPCs must also complete either the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCHMCE).
Taking tests naturally comes with stressors and anxiety. At Savio, we help our staff prepare for the Jurisprudence Exam and connect them with others who may be preparing for their intended license’s exam so that you can study and review with peers.
Still feeling overwhelmed or unsure if you are submitting the correct information? Savio employees can review their paperwork with their supervisor to make sure it checks all the boxes, so you can be on your way to licensure sooner and more efficiently.
Step 5: You become licensed!After years of hard work in completing school, tests, supervision hours, and clinical experience hours, you can now spread your wings and have even more doors open for you! You might even embrace the journey to become a supervisor yourself and help new members of your profession become licensed as well.
How to Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Step 1: Where do I begin?First, start by making sure your degree meets the educational requirements for an LCSW. LCSW applicants need to have their degree from a CSWE approved program (www.cswe.org).
But wait a minute… what if I already graduated from an unaccredited program? Don’t lose hope! There may be an education equivalency process you can go through that will allow eligibility for licensure.
Read more about education equivalency here!
Step 2: What is DORA Colorado? Register with DORA (www.dora.colorado.gov)! You will start off as an LCSW “candidate.” Once you are registered, you can start documenting your supervision and clinical experience hours.
Step 3: What is clinical supervision and how do I get it?LPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs all have different requirements as to how many hours you need of clinical experience and supervision—as well as who can supervise you. And when, you may ask, can I start counting my working hours toward licensure? As soon as you register with DORA (in Step 2)!
After graduating with your degree, LCSW candidates are required to have 96 hours of clinical supervision (48 face-to-face and individual) and 3,360 hours of clinical experience over a minimum of 24 months.
Only LCSW supervisors can oversee LCSW candidates for licensure.
Supervision is a requirement, but how you obtain those hours may vary. Depending on where you work, you may have to outsource and pay for supervision hours. While prices vary, an estimated range would be approximately $80-$190 per individual hour of supervision.
At Savio, however, we provide clinicians’ supervision FREE OF COST. You can save money and focus on your cases with a team that is familiar and informed about your clients’ circumstances. And there’s even better news. If you are hired to work in your ideal program but your supervisor doesn’t meet licensing requirements, we have a solution! Because Savio has multiple programs with clinicians of various backgrounds, we have the ability to connect you internally within our organization to a supervisor who can help you fulfill needed hours.
Our supervision model is structured so that in your first year of employment you receive group supervision (if allowable for your degree), and your second year of employment focuses on individual supervision.
Step 4: What are the required exams for therapist licensure?The Jurisprudence Exam consists of 45 multiple choice questions that can be taken open-book and online. This exam is not timed and can be completed within a 60-day window.
In addition to your Jurisprudence Exam (which is the same for LPC, LCSW, and LMFT), each license requires passing scores on additional tests.
LCSWs must also complete the Association of Social Work Boards Clinical (ASWB) Exam.
Taking tests naturally comes with stressors and anxiety. At Savio, we help our staff prepare for the Jurisprudence Exam and connect them with others who may be preparing for their intended license’s exam so that you can study and review with peers.
Still feeling overwhelmed or unsure if you are submitting the correct information? Savio employees can review their paperwork with their supervisor to make sure it checks all the boxes, so you can be on your way to licensure sooner and more efficiently.
Step 5: You become licensed!After years of hard work in completing school, tests, supervision hours, and clinical experience hours, you can now spread your wings and have even more doors open for you! You might even embrace the journey to become a supervisor yourself and help new members of your profession become licensed as well.
How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Step 1: Where do I begin?First, start by making sure your degree meets the educational requirements for an LMFT. LMFT applicants need to have their degree from a COAMFTE approved program or equivalent (www.coamfte.org).
But wait a minute… what if I already graduated from an unaccredited program? Don’t lose hope! There may be an education equivalency process you can go through that will allow eligibility for licensure.
Read more about education equivalency here!
Step 2: What is DORA Colorado? Register with DORA (www.dora.colorado.gov)! You will start off as an LMFT “candidate.” Once you are registered, you can start documenting your supervision and clinical experience hours.
Step 3: What is clinical supervision and how do I get it?LPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs all have different requirements as to how many hours you need of clinical experience and supervision—as well as who can supervise you. And when, you may ask, can I start counting my working hours toward licensure? As soon as you register with DORA (in Step 2)!
After graduating with your master’s degree, LMFT candidates are required to have 100 hours of clinical supervision and 2,000 hours of clinical experience over a minimum of 24 months. However, if you are working post obtaining your doctorate, you are required to have 75 hours of clinical supervision and 1,500 hours of clinical experience over a minimum of 12 months.
LMFT supervisors or those approved by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) can oversee LMFT candidates for licensure.
Supervision is a requirement, but how you obtain those hours may vary. Depending on where you work, you may have to outsource and pay for supervision hours. While prices vary, an estimated range would be approximately $80-$190 per individual hour of supervision.
At Savio, however, we provide clinicians’ supervision FREE OF COST. You can save money and focus on your cases with a team that is familiar and informed about your clients’ circumstances. And there’s even better news. If you are hired to work in your ideal program but your supervisor doesn’t meet licensing requirements, we have a solution! Because Savio has multiple programs with clinicians of various backgrounds, we have the ability to connect you internally within our organization to a supervisor who can help you fulfill needed hours.
Our supervision model is structured so that in your first year of employment you receive group supervision (if allowable for your degree), and your second year of employment focuses on individual supervision
Step 4: What are the required exams for therapist licensure?The Jurisprudence Exam consists of 45 multiple choice questions that can be taken open-book and online. This exam is not timed and can be completed within a 60-day window.
In addition to your Jurisprudence Exam (which is the same for LPC, LCSW, and LMFT), each license requires passing scores on additional tests.
LMFTs need to also take a licensing exam developed by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards known as the National MFT Exam.
Taking tests naturally comes with stressors and anxiety. At Savio, we help our staff prepare for the Jurisprudence Exam and connect them with others who may be preparing for their intended license’s exam so that you can study and review with peers.
Still feeling overwhelmed or unsure if you are submitting the correct information? Savio employees can review their paperwork with their supervisor to make sure it checks all the boxes, so you can be on your way to licensure sooner and more efficiently.
Step 5: You become licensed!After years of hard work in completing school, tests, supervision hours, and clinical experience hours, you can now spread your wings and have even more doors open for you! You might even embrace the journey to become a supervisor yourself and help new members of your profession become licensed as well.
We wish you luck on your journey toward licensure! After completing all the steps and finally being able to add the letters of LPC or LCSW or LMFT to your title, you’ll see new opportunities for career growth, your network expanding, and rewarding moments when working with clients. Curious about how Savio can support your career aspirations and path toward licensure? Reach out to Traci attmichel@saviohouse.org.
Youth Behavioral Services are dedicated toward older children and teens who are in need of compassionate care. These programs help kids and parents connect and create lasting change. Meet Marisol and her adoptive family as they explore how to guide her through struggles.On Monday morning, the phone rang. It was school… again. Sixteen-year-old Marisol was in the office after getting into a fight with peers. The pattern was getting worse with her adoptive parents getting calls earlier and earlier in the week concerning her disruption at school. Marisol had already been on a long journey. After it was discovered that she was a victim of human trafficking, Marisol was removed from danger and then fostered and adopted by safe and loving parents, Ana and Marco. While this couple had two biological children of their own, having a big sister join their family made them complete. The transition was not without its challenges. Marisol had never known a healthy relationship dynamic with caregivers in her life and was clashing with authority both at home and at school. She refused Ana and Marco’s requests for help around the house and her angry emotions would elevate into yelling back at them during disagreements. The family knew that help was desperately needed to prevent Marisol from getting involved in the world of legal trouble.
Savio’s Youth Behavioral programs are designed to help system-involved or at-risk adolescents identify their struggles, establish coping skills, and move forward in life without the weight of shame from past mistakes. Meeting with their Savio therapist was a team effort; it soon became evident that each person in their family unit played a vital role in the healing process. Ana and Marco realized that they needed to be leaders for their kids to see what healthy responses look like when faced with frustration. They learned how to regulate their own emotions when they would arise and, in turn, would then help Marisol de-escalate and reach for her grounding tools. During her program, she was introduced to safe ways to manage anger, such as breathwork and redirecting energy towards productive activities—like doing household chores.
Before they knew it, Marisol started utilizing these routines all on her own. As their program came to an end, Ana and Marco overheard their youngest children in a yelling match with fears washing over them of old patterns re-emerging. As they rushed over to address the conflict, they discovered Marisol had already taken the lead in guiding her siblings with calming techniques she had learned. These once-overwhelmed parents warmed with a sense of hope that things would be better not just for their oldest child, but for every member of their family.
As discharged neared, Ana and Marco noticed that the phone calls from school were no longer expected. In fact, she was forging new friendships and performing better on homework and tests. When she’d run off the bus into the embrace of her family, Marisol would no longer argue about how she could help out. As their therapist finished their last session, both parents smiled with tears in their eyes and said, “Thank you for teaching us how to understand Marisol and encourage her to know she can control her emotions. We are so grateful for what this has done for our family.”
Our Trauma Services help parents and children who have experienced distressing events. This treatment can overlap with other programs and is available to all ages. Meet Grayson, one of our brave little ones, who was able to find hope with his mother after working with Savio.Shortly after Grayson was born, his mother held him in arms of uncertainty. She was sixteen years old and had no idea how to raise a child while she was still growing up herself. Amidst fears, this mother and son had comfort that things could be okay. Mom’s parents were loving and supportive; they were ready to help their daughter and grandson succeed against all the odds that many teenaged parents face. Seven years later, Grayson had grown to be a bright-eyed little boy who loved starting each day with a hug from Mom, Grandma, and Grandpa. Even though life had its ups and downs, they had each other. Mom, now in her early 20s, was discovering more about who she was all while balancing common emerging adult learning curves of job searches, financial responsibilities, and preparing to find her own place to live; having the extra parental help with Grayson made navigating this part of her journey far easier.
Everything changed one summer morning when the family was driving home from the store. In a split moment of time, an accident caused Grayson to lose his grandparents forever, and Mom lost her only support system. One day of tragedy brought with it a flood of large-scale trauma for Grayson, and tremendous lost feelings for his mother. Overwhelmed with the reality of being a sole caretaker for her son, Mom left town and placed Grayson in the care of kinship. As time passed, Grayson’s struggles in response to the disaster became apparent--nightmares, tummy aches, and extreme fearfulness were all regular occurrences. With exhaustion each day from caregivers and case workers, it was clear Grayson needed help returning to the joyful little boy he was once before. Savio’s Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) program helps young people heal the wounds of deeply distressing experiences of all kinds. Since Grayson’s world was colored by major losses of death and abandonment, this initiative was a perfect fit.
Starting this form of therapy led to noticeable results right away. His outlook on the world around him became braver each day. As he progressed in his journey, Mom was coping with her experience of the loss in her own way and started to make regular monthly calls with Grayson to check in. Each exchange brought brief joy but also confusion as to why Mommy wasn’t there with him. As treatment entered its final stages, Grayson had the opportunity to draw out his past experiences to take back his story with the knowledge that he had a voice that mattered moving into the future. His therapist gazed upon his picture with care and asked, “What is your biggest dream?” Grayson paused thoughtfully with a crayon in hand. “I just want my family back together again,” he responded before tearfully coloring again. Grayson shared his vulnerable feelings during his next mother-son call.
A couple of weeks later, kinship heard a light knock at their door and couldn’t believe their eyes. Grayson’s mom came back…and Grayson ran into her arms. Mom had decided to reunite with her son and finish TST treatment together, addressing her emotional wounds while supporting Grayson’s final stages of healing his own. By the final session, Mom had regained custody. In their final hour of therapy, they knew that they still had a long ways to go but felt safe in the knowledge that they had gained skills to feel empowered and that by sticking together, they wouldn’t have to face anything scary alone.
Our Family Wellness program supports families with young children. Meet Noah, his sister Lila, and their parents as they embark on a journey of healing.The Green family excitedly boarded the plane, ready for the journey to see Grandma and Grandpa. After saving up and planning their excursion for over a year, the reality of being together again was within reach. Mom and Dad settled 8-year-old Noah and 3-year-old Lila in their seats when a familiar panic set in: Noah’s screams echoed through the aircraft. Judging eyes and scowls shot toward the family, heat rising in these parents’ faces. Dad desperately tried to intervene but found himself losing his temper as he tried to stop Noah from kicking the seats in front of him with endless ear-piercing yells. They were asked to leave the plane. Disheartened, ashamed, and coping with the loss of seeing their loved ones, a thought flashed through their minds, “What if we can never do ‘normal’ things out in public ever again?”
Noah’s mental health challenges had an unusual course for such a young age. Around when his mom left his biological father, who was an unsafe person in their lives, Noah started exhibiting symptoms of depression at three years old. As he got older, his sadness and irritability grew and behavioral problems became apparent; despite attempts at treatment, there was no fitting solution. School’s attention was caught when Noah’s frequent shouting, hitting, and running away interfered with his safety and participation, which all indicated developmental delays. School staff were unsure if there were larger problems of abuse or neglect happening at home, which led to the Department of Human Services (DHS) checking in on the family. The Greens felt a whole new experience of embarrassment as they desperately discussed their situation with their caseworker. “We tried it all,” said Mom in exasperation, “but nothing has helped.” It was clear that this little boy had loving, stable parents; they were just at a loss for how to show up for him as he struggled with his emotions. DHS knew Savio has a proven successful history of assisting families experiencing disruption with young kids and directed the Greens to our care.
Their therapist was welcomed into the family’s home but saw the discouragement in yet another attempt to find a sense of wellbeing. But this time it was different. Noah was not sent off to another office with another stranger clinician. He got to stay in the familiarity of his home while Mom, Dad, and little sister Lila never left his side. Both parents were able to look at their own life experiences to see how they affected their reactions to difficulties in the present. They saw Noah’s behaviors differently knowing that punishment for acting out, something they had been raised to see as the standard, was not necessarily the solution for their son’s actions. And punishing themselves with feeling ashamed of their situations in public would never help them either.
Things started to brighten at home but anxiety still lingered toward the outside world. “We can’t take him in public… we just don’t know what he’ll do,” Dad shared with their therapist. Meanwhile, things at school—where Noah spent much of his time— still looked rocky. Savio knows that no child and no family is an island, and we ensure that each significant element of a young person’s life is brought into the healing process. Noah’s therapeutic team worked together with his school principal, teacher aides, and social workers to help them understand his behaviors and needs as well as how to bridge care into his classroom setting. Once this support was consistently there for him, everything started to change. Days grew into months without Noah having an outburst. And every once in a while, Mom or Dad would catch him smiling and giggling with Lila—a sight that was brand new to them.
As their program came to an end, the Green family bravely packed up their car and ventured toward the zoo. It had been a long time since they had tried a public outing, but this opportunity felt different. Equipped with self-assuredness, the four of them held hands laughing and smiling at the elephants and monkeys. They were immersed in a living dream that had once felt so unattainable. As they drove home, looking at the sleepy eyes in their back seat, they realized that road ahead knew no bounds; they could do anything as a family together.
April is Child Abuse Prevention MonthWe sat down with Family Wellness Therapist, Miranda binns-Calvey, MSW to learn more about what child abuse is and how we can prevent. What is your definition of child abuse?
Child abuse can be seen as neglecting basic needs, including emotional support, nutritional support, and housing. While many people think of this term meaning violence, it really goes beyond that. It really can be as simple as not meeting day-to-day essentials.
What are some misconceptions people have about child abuse?
It would have to be the emotional aspect of the situation. A lot of people think of parents who aren’t showing up to meet these needs as monsters, but there are so many environmental factors at play. Oftentimes, parents struggling in this dynamic haven’t figured out their town traumas and therefore have trouble interacting with their child in a healthy way. With that, another misconception is that these parents don’t want the best for their kids; they really do. But sometimes their own life experiences have misinformed them about what the “best” really looks like. Some things that are said and done come from a place of fear as well.
How do you approach these fears and difficulties that a caregiver is experiencing?
Families heal by humanizing the parent. It’s important that when an emotion comes up, we ask them “What do you feel?” and “Why do you feel sad/anxious/angry/etc.?” There’s going to be times where some parents will struggle to figure out how their previous trauma is showing up in their current life, and maybe those are cases where families need to spend time apart before they can be together safely. Once we can identify a parent’s fears and how they are connected to ways they interact with their child, we can provide guidance that helps meet needs in a healthy way.
What are some common and uncommon signs?
I’ll start with uncommon signs. One that often comes up is “parenting the parent.” We see kids doing the work of taking care of both their emotional needs and their parents’ emotional needs. You might see kids who are really good at school, super attentive, and also super aware of what’s going on for adults. But these kids often don’t know how to be a kid because they have adult issues on their mind. So, we see heightened anxiety in the kiddo. Cases with these symptoms can also be challenging to work with because the young person might think “No, I’m fine.”
One intervention that we love to do with these kids is to play a sorting game. We hold up a stick that says “Kid Worry” on one side and says “Adult Worry” on the other. We list different challenging circumstances, and the kids flip it to the side that they think matches. We help guide kids and work through understanding that taking on Mom or Dad’s problems is not for them. This really helps look at situations with logic when big feelings might come up.
In terms of common signs, physical issues might be easier to pick up on. For example, food instability could be characterized by appearing malnourished or hiding food after gaining access to it. One may see marks such as bruises or notice that a child has sensitivity to loud noises where kiddo is at a heightened activation level. With behavioral signs, some children exhibit physical aggression such as hitting, which can sometimes indicate that it was modeled in front of them. Many signs we see are trauma responses.
How can you tell the difference between a young child who has anxiety going on as part of natural development vs. something larger going on at home?
It’s natural for kids to act out from time to time and say “no” or have worries. But usually when something more serious is going on these kids are inconsolable. It reaches a point to where they are shutting down and not able to function on a daily level. They may automatically think that someone yelling might hurt them. They also have a hard time using what we like to call their “thinking brain” and may revert to what joke as their “lizard brain,” which encompasses those extremely basic reactions of flight, fight, or freeze (and fawning). Sometimes kids’ logic will get jumbled and they think “I need to hit someone first before they hit me” in their fight instinct. Or some kids may revert to freezing via shutting down crying and refusing to talk.
Thinking back to the uncommon signs where a child may be high-functioning and doing well at school, they may go above and beyond to please so that their parents won’t be anxious anymore which would be in the fawn category.
What advice do you have for parents struggling with their own emotional regulation?
Getting therapy themselves and finding a good support network is awesome. We tell parents to be mindful of how they are feeling, to reflect on what’s triggering for them, and to recognize where the struggles are. It can be as simple as taking a five-minute breathing break with a friend of family member.
We also recognize that some parents don’t have this type of support easily accessible. It’s important to give themselves grace in recognizing what isn’t readily available for them and to push forward in the ways they can. We like to remind clients to not put pressure on themselves and help explore what’s out there in terms of free parent support groups and counseling services after they leave Savio. Finding people going through the same hardships is huge and can really help the healing process. We always remind caregivers that they are doing the best they can.
What would you say to parents who might be feeling guilt with these challenges?
I would tell them to recognize that they are coming from a good place and affirm that we know they want the best for their kid. They are doing things based off their own trauma—which is all they know how.
What are your child abuse prevention tips?
Not giving consequences to your kid while you are angry. If that does arise, recognize it and know you can heal and recover from it. You can model that for kids by asking for forgiveness and owning up to your mistakes. Giving grace to yourself as you work through past behaviors. Let go of guilt and shame and try to do better next time. Even if you try and it doesn’t go as planned, keep going and keep trying. No parent is perfect.
What prevention advice would you give to people outside the immediate family that may be experiencing this issue?
Approach with that same sense of kindness we ask parents of themselves. Approach parents with the question, “How can I support you?” and “I notice that you are struggling with X; what’s happening for you?” Approach with that curious lens vs. judging. Check in with the child, check in with the parent. And remind parents of the difference between an emergency and a non-emergency when you see a big reaction. For example, is a child in physical danger vs. did a child not clean up after themselves?
If you sense that a child is in danger, absolutely report at co4kids.org or their hotline 844-CO-4-Kids.
Any last thoughts you’d love for people to know?
Your own parents did the best they knew with the tools they had. That’s how we are raised. But now we can be in a place to know we can do better.
Humanizing does not mean excusing. You can hold people to a standard without shouting or getting aggressive. It’s also important for parents to recognize that kids are doing the best they can as well. Try to release that shame when we don’t live up to expectations.
Showing up for your kid each day is trying, even if you feel like it’s chaos, providing love and support to the best of your ability is important. Everyone is learning and growing. Even if your kid is not going down the path you initially thought for them, keep being of support and there for them. Your child is coming to their own conclusions and this journey is a process.
Building trust step by step (or one walk at a time) Sophie’s parents split up when she was a baby, which led to Mom having full custody. While Sophie formed a loving bond with her mother as she grew older, her dad had put minimal time or effort into getting to know her. When Sophie turned ten years old, her world changed for the worse. Mom’s new partner started living with them, and the mother-daughter pair were faced with terrible abuse. This tragedy quickly caught the attention of Sophie’s school, and she was removed from the home to safety. Sophie needed a stable, caring environment while Mom addressed the circumstances that led to her removal. Where would she go? The next best option was living with her biological dad—a man with whom she had never formed a real relationship. Furthermore, her life experiences had left her feeling scared of new people, especially men. Even though she was encouraged that things would be better, Sophie still had major doubts.
Over the past few years, Dad’s life had been filled with uncertainty, overcoming challenges, and self-discovery. He moved back in with his parents, his brothers, and nieces and nephews, creating a supportive, multigenerational household. Skepticism engulfed Sophie when she arrived at their door. This place was a new part of town; she felt like she was living among strangers. When Sophie and her dad started their Savio Family Wellness services, they were both at a loss as to all the potential their father-daughter relationship could have. “I don’t know how to be a parent,” Dad shyly disclosed to his Savio therapist during one of their sessions. Their therapist looked at Dad’s downcast face and recalled Sophie’s words from a previous discussion: “I just want to feel like someone cares about me. Not just sometimes… but all the time.” Their therapist knew that the help this family needed relied on a practice we can all take for granted—spending regular, quality time together. With Sophie’s apprehension towards her new surroundings, their therapist recommended that they take regular walks to get to know her neighborhood better and gain a sense of safety for the new people and places. After school, Sophie and Dad would do their daily tradition of exploring nearby parks and stores, the houses of family friends, and finally back home again. Walking together allowed them to start conversing about their days, learning about things they had in common, and planning hopes and dreams for the future. Sometimes, her cousins would join in, and these newfound friends would race Sophie to the playground for a nearby adventure.
Sophie had arrived at her situation filled with fears. But, with the help of their Savio therapist, Sophie gained a new outlook on the possibility to have healthy relationships with male figures in her life and learned that “new” didn’t have to mean bad. From then on, Sophie’s world has opened up to finding resilience in transitions and knowing that her family loves her. In turn, Sophie’s dad realized that he always had the ability to be the parent he wanted to be. Their therapist finished this father and daughter’s last session and glanced back to see them leave the house again for their daily walk, knowing that they weren’t just going around a few blocks but toward a brighter future together.
Listen to our trustee Cleo Rauchway talk about why she supports Savio on the CityCast Denver podcast!
Suicide is a profoundly complex and concerning issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. As we close out September, National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, we reflect on some ways you can help support those at-risk.
Suicide Prevention: Recognizing the Warning Signs and How to Intervene
Suicide is a serious public health issue, but it is preventable. By recognizing the warning signs and intervening early, we can save lives.
Why is it important to recognize the warning signs of suicide?
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 10-24 in the United States. It is also a leading cause of death among veterans and certain racial and ethnic groups.
By recognizing the warning signs of suicide, you can help someone who is struggling and get them the help they need.
What are the warning signs of suicide?
The warning signs of suicide can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:
Talk
- Expressing hopelessness, worthlessness, and feeling trapped
- Talking about suicide or wanting to die
- Making a plan for suicide
Behavior
- Isolating from friends and family
- Giving away prized possessions
- Sleeping too much or not getting enough sleep
- Saying "goodbye" to loved ones
Mood
- Mood changes, including depression, anxiety, irritability, anger, or shame
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Rapid improvement in mood or sense of relief, which could indicate worsening suicidal thoughts
Promoting Mental Health and Social Support Networks:
Promoting mental health and wellbeing is a key aspect of suicide prevention. Encouraging self-care practices, stress management techniques, and healthy coping mechanisms can help individuals build resilience and better navigate challenges. Additionally, fostering a supportive environment that encourages seeking professional help when needed is vital. Mental health clinicians can help build coping skills and explore compounded issues.
Developing strong support networks is crucial for individuals at risk of suicide. Friends, family, and community members can significantly provide emotional support and connect individuals to appropriate resources. Think about people in your life whom you feel safe and comfortable connecting with - try connecting on a regular basis! Encouraging open communication and active listening can make a difference.
How can I intervene if I think someone is suicidal?
The most important thing you can do is to talk to the person about your concerns. Let them know that you care about them and that you are there for them. You can also listen to them without judgment and offer support. Encourage them to seek professional help if they are struggling.
Here are some specific things you can say:
- "I'm worried about you. Are you thinking about suicide?"
- "I'm here for you. Let's talk about what's going on."
- "I'm not going to leave you alone."
- "Let's get you some help."
If you are concerned that someone is in immediate danger of suicide, call 988 or take them to the nearest emergency room.
Resources for suicide prevention
There are many resources available to help people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts. Here are a few:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Colorado Crisis Services: Coloradocrisisservices.org, or call 1-844-493-8255 or text "TALK" to 3825
To learn more about suicide risk factors, and warning signs we recommend @afspnational, @trevorproject, or @twloha.
You can also encourage the person to sign up for a Mental Health First Aid class. Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use issues, and how to help someone who is in crisis. Youth specific classes are available.
Meet the MillersThe Miller family connected with Savio in hopes of their 13-year-old son, Zack, being able to move back home. Like most young teens, Zack’s head was filled with questions about his place in the world. The emotional confusion of growing up became too much to process and he didn’t feel able to open up to his family. Zack started displaying unhealthy coping behaviors and became aggressive towards his sisters, which ultimately led to him being placed in a group home. It soon became apparent that Zack felt unimportant and acted out because he felt his parents’ attention was scattered. In addition to caring for their son, their oldest daughter had a disability and much of the Millers’ time was dedicated to supporting her. The family never wanted Zack to stay at the group home, but they were also concerned for the girls’ safety. Devastated, Zack’s parents knew they couldn’t handle these circumstances alone. That’s when they looked to us.
Getting started on the road to healing was difficult. Zack’s parents felt embarrassed about sharing their struggles with outsiders. After building trust with their Savio clinician, Mom and Dad were ready to face their fears. The Millers developed skills that helped them identify the drives behind their son’s behavior while also caring for their daughters. As a family, they worked to create a stronger connection by challenging unhelpful previous beliefs and opening communication opportunities. The Millers also came to realize that they could rely on the support of their friends and community. They had nothing to be ashamed of. Mom and Dad took a huge step forward and let their guards down to advocate for their son’s individualized needs with school staff members. An act that once felt impossible helped prevent Zack from falling behind in education.
Nearing the completion of treatment, Zack came back home. The Miller siblings started exploring new ways of interacting. In bonding over board games, bike rides, and favorite television shows, Zack and his sisters slowly, yet steadily, started rebuilding their relationships. And for the first time in a long time, Mom and Dad have been able to see strength again in their family. The family had one last session before their program came to an end. Mom told their therapist, “We appreciate everything you have done, but we don’t need you anymore. We’ve got this.”
meet Aubrey’s FamilyJen peered into the bedroom of her 15-year-old daughter Aubrey. Curled up in a ball, Aubrey was recovering from an epileptic seizure. This was not an unusual scene. Aubrey had experienced countless seizures and surgeries to alleviate her condition since she was a little girl. But what Jen noticed this time was that her episodes were getting more intense and more frequent.
These weren’t the only changes going on in Aubrey’s life. Aubrey’s grandmother, who moved in years ago to help care for Aubrey and her now 10-year-old twin brothers after their parents’ divorce, recently passed away. After the funeral, Aubrey grew more irritable with each day and would struggle to fall asleep at night. Between her daughter’s emotional outbursts and debilitating health scares, Jen felt helpless as to what to do next as a parent.
She reached out to Aubrey’s medical doctor for solutions. The doctor reviewed Aubrey’s case and found that in addition to her epilepsy, she was also experiencing psychogenic seizures (seizures set off by psychological factors), which were likely onset by the combined traumas from previous medical procedures and the loss of her grandmother. Jen and Aubrey looked at each other- a shared feeling of despair flooded through them at the news of yet another diagnosis. Just when it felt like all hope was lost, the doctor reassured them that a solution was possible. He referred the family to Savio.
Psychotherapy was a whole new world for Aubrey. Although she was highly emotionally intelligent, verbally communicating those feelings had always been a challenge. Her therapist addressed this need straightaway. With the help of her therapist, Aubrey was able to express everything she was holding inside. Her frustrations with being unable to do everyday tasks due to the possibility of having a seizure came to light.
Watching her peers getting their learner’s permits for driving, playing sports, or exploring hobbies like cooking…she had been grieving so much beyond managing physical pain. After being validated by her therapist, the rest of her family support system was invited to learn more about how to best help Aubrey while she moves forward. At home, near the end of Aubrey’s treatment program, Jen spotted her daughter journaling on the couch – only to then be surprised with a loving tackle from her younger brothers. While watching her three kids laughing together, a huge sense of peace came over Jen. Aubrey’s medical struggles will not go away overnight, but now she and her family have coping tools that will help them along the way.
Meet Luna’s FamilySeven-year-old Luna ran home from school and grabbed her favorite princess coloring book. While looking for the perfect shade of violet to bring her rainbow to life, she looked over and saw her mom’s downcast eyes. Something was wrong. As a very bright and empathetic child, Luna knew her mom was hurting and constantly worried if she was okay. Luna’s instincts were right. But on this day, Luna’s mother Grace was finally going to talk to her about it. After a long struggle of substance misuse and domestic violence, Grace knew it was time to search for treatment and safe housing for herself and her daughter. She wanted nothing more than to find a bed in a program that allowed Luna to enter, too. Unfortunately, in Colorado less than 6% of residential treatment facilities centers allow children to join their mothers. Grace was dreading telling her daughter that she would have to leave her for a month to get help.
Her Savio therapist practiced the conversation with her, running through what she could say, and how her daughter would react. A few days before she entered treatment, Grace sat Luna on her lap and tried to prepare her daughter for what was to come. Grace did her best to hold back her tears while she tried to explain to her daughter why she needed help, and how her grandparents would take good care of her. Luna finally responded, “So we won’t be able to play together?” Grace’s tears started flowing now.
When they were saying goodbye before her mother entered treatment, Luna gave her a stuffed unicorn that Grandma had helped her pick out. They named him “Uni” together. Every time they would get on a video call, Luna’s mom would make Uni do the same dance routine. When Luna would come visit in-person, they would spin around with their unicorn friend together. This time was very hard for Luna. She was living with her grandparents, who were very dedicated to making sure their family healed, but she missed her mother. She had experienced a significant amount of trauma both because of her mother’s substance use and the domestic violence she had witnessed that led to her family being involved with child welfare and the court system.
After hard work and dedication, Luna’s mom successfully completed her treatment. The day she came home, Mom, Luna, and Uni had a picnic. And they did Uni’s dance together. This was just the beginning of this family’s journey. Luna’s mom knew she had a lot to repair with her own parents as well as her daughter. She sought to build community around her family, joined groups that worked with people impacted by substance use, and established strong friendships with parents who had experienced similar situations. Luna and her mom have now graduated from their time at Savio and are looking forward to thriving together as a family.
We sat down with Savio’s Child First program supervisor, Taylore Thorson, MA, LPCC, to discuss how children can experience trauma and what their grownups can do to support them in the journey towards healing.
How do traumatic experiences affect kids differently than adults?
TT: The diagnostic criteria for kids actually looks similar to criteria for adults. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) diagnoses in children include regular PTSD symptoms, but oftentimes children are less likely to be believed that what they’re experiencing is related to trauma. Kids also might not have the language to explain what’s going on for them internally. They may show their behaviors to others through play or actions, such as being aggressive with toys, or being aggressive with peers, or having relationship struggles in general. For example, if a child is throwing their doll against the wall, it could be speaking to a bigger experience going on.
Which subtle signs of trauma should caregivers be aware of?
TT: Well, there’s “Big T” trauma and “Little t” trauma. “Big T” trauma is often related to life-threatening or dangerous events. “Little t” traumas are also very distressing on a personal level, but the event may not be associated with bodily harm; “Little t” trauma can also be ongoing exposure. Both forms of trauma can show up in very early stages of development. Babies may show signs of “Big T” with arching their backs, big struggles with being held, and rigidness. Kids may show signs such as having nightmares or going into “freeze” mode. They may also be having accidents beyond an appropriate developmental level. Kids can often have physical experiences such as complaining of tummy aches, headaches, or throwing up. Behaviorally, they may hide when a certain adult comes around or they may have a HUGE fear of going to school. On the other hand, things may not be safe at home, and they don’t want to leave their school environment.
With “Little t” trauma, kids may not have comfort in going to any adult for assistance. There should be a healthy level of “stranger danger.” But for kids going through disruptions, they have trouble talking to any adult in a personal or public setting at ALL times. So, there should be apprehension, but not all the time.
What are the biggest misconceptions you’ve heard about childhood trauma?
TT: People think it doesn’t exist. Not that trauma doesn’t exist, but that kids can’t have mental health struggles. For example, maybe there’s a 5-year-old feeling anxious, but an adult in their life might think, “Life gets so much harder, how can he be going through trauma? He doesn’t understand what problems really are.” Also, there are some adults who don’t feel they need to get involved because it is not their issue. The parent-child relationship is important; research shows that what caregivers experience can impact their kids’ experiences. And then there are some parents that think, “What if my kid can never be okay because of my own life’s trauma?” While that thought can pop up, it’s important to remember that we can intervene with the cycles. Yes, trauma can stem from attachment disruption or struggles with relationships. This does not mean it’s the caregivers’ fault, sometimes the relationship dynamics just need a tune-up.
Why do some individuals develop PTSD but not others?
TT: I think it’s different life exposure to different stressors. And then we have different relationships in place to address, or not address, those stressors. People may not have the team or financial resources to address issues to prevent them from becoming perpetual.
Where do you see gaps in trauma care?
TT: Prenatal care and looking at caregivers’ perspectives of their pregnancies. It’s important to incorporate maternal mental health care and to help parents explore the relationship they have with their child before giving birth. There can be very little check-in with mental health during pregnancy, especially if you don’t have access to healthcare. These individuals need more support and resources. Additionally, having support with traumatic birth experiences and caring for how that may impact parent-child relationships. Paternal health needs also need to be addressed. Fathers can have postpartum depression, anxiety, and sleep deprivation all while learning to be a parent.
Circling back to the cycles, in what ways can parents pass down generational trauma when they start their own families? What steps can people take to address it?
TT: Some parents might not acknowledge or be aware of the negative cycles that are in their system. The first step, and the hardest, is acknowledging that they exist. In Child First, we do child trauma assessments, but we also do caregiver trauma assessments. We look at the trauma caregivers were exposed to when they were under 18 years old as well as the trauma they’ve experienced since they turned 18 years old.
There are some helpful next steps as well. Talking to your child as though they’re a real person with real feelings is so important. Parents journaling about what their child is doing and observing them, followed by asking themselves reflective questions such as, “What did I go through [in life] that makes me react like this [to their behavior]?” Furthermore, there are really great support groups out there that address trauma, especially for single parents. Being able to talk to people with shared experiences is game changing.
What is Child First programming and what are the goals?
TT: Child First is national, evidence-based model that helps young children and families who live in environments where there is violence, neglect, mental illness, and/or substance abuse. These stressors can be harmful during a child’s development, so Child First works to prevent long-term harm. We utilize this model at Savio.
It’s a two-generation model. We say the child is not our client, and the caregiver is not our client, but the relationship between the two of them. Our goal is to strengthen the attachment bond and address the trauma that has occurred within the family system. Our aim is to leave their relationship stronger than we found it. By the end of treatment, we determine success when a caregiver can identify what they want to do different moving forward, can identify themselves as a good parent, has safety for themselves and their child, and can recognize how hard they try every day and never give up no matter how challenging it gets.
What is the two-generational approach and how is Child First different than other trauma treatments?
TT: It’s a double scoop of two perspectives at the same time. Yes, keeping the child’s view in mind but also the caregivers’ view. And looking at how those views interact. In treatment, a Child First therapist can be the voice for young kids who can’t express their feelings or may be nonverbal. We give them the outlet to share through the most common language kids have—play. Caregivers can play with their child in therapy, which is interactive, and our therapists can help interpret what play means to their caregivers. We also provide therapy in the home.
What benefits do you see from providing services in each family’s home environment and incorporating community?
TT: Home-based services are more sustainable over time because you are making changes in the everyday environment vs. a controlled office environment. We remove barriers to public transport or finding childcare. It’s extremely accessible. Kids also can feel more comfortable in their home environment; they can be more open and more expressive. The treatment team can also see negative cycles up front and instill change right then and there. The team might catch something the parents might not be aware of as a problem, such as certain babyproofing of the house.
Were you ever surprised or did you learn something new while working with families going through these experiences?
TT: While I understand where it’s coming from, I was surprised by how many caregivers feel alone. People truly don’t give themselves enough credit for all they do. Bad parents don’t sit around wondering if they’re bad parents. Our families are putting in the work. It’s also amazing to see how consistent Child First is and how across the board it really encourages kids to feel safe to share— and that’s always amazing to hear.
Can you name one “AHA!” moment you had as a therapist when you realized that the changes a family was making were going to last beyond treatment?
TT: One client told me, “Being in this program helps me know that I have the ability to do things differently… I’m learning so much about how I’m not a bad parent… I’m not alone, and I can make things different than when I was a child.” Seeing someone know they’re capable and that they can do it on their own is how I know things will continue to get better.
What is your biggest advice for anyone who is starting their own journey in healing trauma?
TT: Starting is the hardest part—it’s like working out. You’re going to have steps back…and that’s where a lot of people stop doing the work. Don’t give up if something doesn’t go in the exact direction you’d like! Healing isn’t always a clear path up.
What is your biggest advice to caregivers who are helping their children cope with traumatic circumstances?
TT: Children are resilient. They are more likely to heal from childhood trauma when they have a safe, attuned caregiver who supports them throughout the journey. Make sure you take care of yourself and your own lived experience so that you can be present in supporting your child. Things are reversable! Every age group has an intervention. Data shows healing is possible and for kids the number one factor is having a caregiver who is a safe adult for them.
What is the one takeaway you want people to take with them after learning more about childhood trauma?
TT: There’s hope. So many people like researchers and clinicians are constantly increasing support for adults with the aim of lessening childhood trauma.
“Being in this program helps me know that I have the ability to do things differently… I’m learning so much about how I’m not a bad parent… I’m not alone, and I can make things different than when I was a child.”
— Savio child first parent
Thank you for your insights, Taylore!
For more questions about Child First, you can reach out to us at info@saviohouse.org
Do you remember that feeling you had the night before the first day of school? Were you scared you wouldn't fit in? Were you worried you wouldn't stand out? Overwhelmed at the assignments ahead of you? Starting a new school year can be daunting to any student... and their parents. Our families are putting in hard work. They’re spending hours of their personal time to better their caregiver-child relationships. These sessions often look like talking about uncomfortable mental health subjects and discipline all while bringing it back to the strong love they have for one another. With so much time being put into overcoming these challenges, finding new school gear often falls by the wayside.
Savio holds its annual Back-to-School Drive in the summer to help our kids get everything they need to start the year off right. We serve low income families who might not have the resources to buy that perfect first day of school outfit their teenager’s freshman year or that Spider-Man backpack their little one won’t stop talking about. By lending a hand, you can give the gift of confidence to young people going through life’s most difficult times…and the gift of relief to parents who want the best for their kids.
Checking out our families’ Wish Lists here! You can learn more about the families we serve and the items they need, Once you self a profile, you can start shopping! We are collecting donations on our King Street campus the week of July 24th-July 28th. All you have to do is label your collection with your child or family’s name from their profile, bring it our way, and we’ll make sure they get their supplies right away so that the night before the first day of school won’t seem so scary.
Don’t have time to shop? No problem! Make a monetary donation in the form below and a volunteer shopper will gather everything for you!
How one non-binary teen and their mom Healed in Multisystemic TherapyOn a Tuesday night, Riley slammed the front door without saying so much as a “goodbye” to their mom and little sister. This was a typical Tuesday…and Wednesday, and Thursday, and Friday, and so on. Riley was a non-binary 13-year-old whose rebellious behavior only got more intense since their dad abandoned the family a few years prior. What started out as refusing to do household chores and getting into yelling matches over cell phone privileges, evolved into leaving without permission or lying about where they were going. Just one week prior to this latest discord, Riley had been reported as a runaway after their mom returned from work with her teen nowhere to be found. The frantic searches for Riley exhausted the family.
Riley was referred to Savio’s Multisystemic Therapy program (MST), a family- and community-based mental health treatment option for addressing unwanted behaviors. MST believes that a young person’s whole ecology must be integrated during therapy to ensure changes can be sustainable. The individuality of teens like Riley is looked at within the context of their family, peers, school structures, and community at-large. This program could not have been a better fit for Riley, who had felt constraints on their identity throughout life due to society’s rigid understanding of gender, as well as their mother’s lack of knowledge on what it meant to be non-binary. Their mom began to see that the roots of Riley’s disobedience ran deeper than realized; Riley wanted to break free from any boxes that made them feel small or controlled.
Through therapeutic approaches, Riley was able to explore their conflicting feelings of having love and respect for their family, but also wanting to feel unconstrained. MST also helped Riley find healthy resources and outlets outside of home where they could express themselves freely. A gifted drawer, Riley attended an art conference that connected them mentors who could teach them how to expand on their talents and express frustrations in a healthy, creative way. Riley was also joined an LGBTQIA2S+ community center where they could talk to others with similar life experiences who understood their challenges. Eventually, conversations started becoming more open with Mom as well. In one session Riley was able to talk to their mom about the desire to feel comfortable in their body. Mom was able to share her difficulty in processing Riley’s assigned gender at birth with the present of who they were as a 13-year-old. Slowly, but surely, the parent-child relationship started healing when they learned each other’s point of view.
It’s often said that rules without relationships lead to rebellion. Riley’s bond with their mother had grown immensely stronger by discharge. When the therapeutic team checked back in with the family, they learned Riley was doing chores, rarely had aggressive outbursts, and had discussions with their mom on when they needed space in leaving the house and established where they were going. We are so proud that the treatment models we offer can help teens who are members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, like Riley, create lasting behavioral change and proudly be who they are with the people they love.
Words of gratitude for Emma, one of Savio’s MST therapists
What Needs to Be Considered?
This article was written by Savio’s very own Rebecca Carpenter, Child Placement Agency Coordinator. We are so appreciative of her insights! Several years ago, I received a placement referral for a 17-year-old youth, Sam*. Sam, who identified as non-binary, had been bouncing from placement to placement for the last three years following their mother kicking them out of their family home after they came out as Queer. Since then, Sam had been placed in one home after another that promised they were open to Sam being who they were but ended up trying to push their ideas of how Sam should present and exist. By the time I met Sam, they were very understandably over the system, angry, and feeling like being who they were had cost them not only their family of origin but also robbed them of being able to fully explore who they were because they were constantly moving and in a state of survival.
Out of the nearly 400,000 youth currently in the American foster care system, approximately 30% identify as a member of the LGBTQIA2S+^ community (Human Rights Campaign, n.d.). These numbers are an extreme over-representation of this population, who comprise an estimated 7.1% of the general US population. (Gallup, 2022). While there are many reasons that youth are placed in foster care, including abuse, neglect, parental substance use, parental incarceration, and delinquency, LGBTQIA2S+ youth face the added risk of finding themselves a part of the system because of familial rejection because of who they are. Perhaps even more than their cis/straight peers, LGBTQIA2S+ youth in the foster system need supportive, affirming, and present adults to validate their identity.
Being placed in foster care has its challenges regardless of the reason. LGBTQIA2S+ youth are at higher risk for experiencing discrimination from the foster care system because of their identities. At a structural level, placements, especially at higher levels of care, are required to identify what gender(s) their programming will serve. Laws are written in the binary, using gender assigned at birth as the determination, leaving youth outside of the binary without an identified place to go. While many states are starting to realize that this is an outdated way of looking at licensing, the actual placements are not guaranteed to be in line with their gender identity, nor are they ready to welcome and support LGBTQIA2S+ youth through exploring their identity and becoming adults who are confident in who they are. LGBTQIA2S+ youth are almost two times more likely to experience further negative experiences in their placements, including overt hostility toward their sexual orientation or gender identity from their foster parents, verbal harassment, and physical violence than non-LGBTQIA2S+ youth in foster care. (Human Rights Campaign and FosterClub, 2022) This leads to higher rates of placement disruptions, usually because the youth run away, refuse to live in the home any longer, or the foster parents demand their removal. (National Institute for Health Care Management, 2021) Youth who run or otherwise don't have stable housing are more likely to make difficult and often dangerous choices to survive.
Foster Care in the United States is administered on a state or local level, depending on the state. As with many things, this means that the expectations regarding the support of LGBTQIA2S+ youth in foster care vary depending on where the youth live. Just over 80% of the states offer some form of protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity for foster youth, but the level and extent are not consistent. (United States Government Accountability Office, 2022). This also means that who gets removed from their family of origin and placed in foster care varies from state to state. In 2022, the Attorney General of Texas declared gender-affirming care to minors as child abuse and that any parent who obtained their child gender-affirming care could be in jeopardy of having their child placed in foster care. (Attorney General Ken Paxton, 2022) Florida followed suit in 2023. (Trotta, 2023) Many other states are exploring enacting similar policies, though many aren't doing it by making providing gender-affirming care to minors illegal. Nineteen states have passed laws banning this care up to 18 years old, and another eight are currently considering it. (Human Rights Campaign, 2023) In these states, it may soon become a reality that LGBTQIA2S+ youth who are loved and supported by their families of origin are being removed by the state and placed in foster care, and their treatment stopped. This will lead to this already very vulnerable population being removed from the supportive homes and placed in situations where their identity is treated as illegal. This will undoubtedly increase the already high rates of mental health crises and suicidal ideation and/or attempts. Even without these laws, LGBTQIA2S+ youth in foster care are three times more likely than foster youth who don't identify as LGBTQIA2S+ in the foster care system. (National Institute for Health Care Management, 2021).
As luck would have it, the day I received Sam's placement referral, I happened to have an opening in one of my foster homes that identifies as part of the LGBTQIA2s+ community. In the best-case scenario for Sam, they were able to stay in this home through their high school graduation. The home supported them in figuring out the twists and turns of being LGBTQIA2S+. Sam is currently finishing their bachelor's degree and is a mentor at our local LGBTQIA2S+ location. Sam was a lucky exception, and we must work until all LGBTQIA2S+ youth are in safe, affirming, supportive foster homes.
*Not their real name
^LGBTQIA2S+ will be used to refer to those who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Questioning/Queer, Ace/Aro, Two Spirit and other individuals who are part of this community.
Works Cited
Attorney General Ken Paxton. (2022, February 21). AG Paxton Declares So-Called Sex-Change Procedures on Children and Prescription of Puberty Blockers to be "Child Abuse" Under Texas Law. Retrieved from https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/ag-paxton-declares-so-called-sex-change-procedures-children-and-prescription-puberty-blockers-be
Court Appointed Special Advocates Guardian ad Litem for Children. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://nationalcasagal.org/
Gallup. (2022, February 17). Gallup. Retrieved from https://news.gallup.com/poll/389792/lgbt-identification-ticks-up.aspx
Human Rights Campaign. (2023, May 15). Map: Attacks on Gender Affirming Care by State. Retrieved from https://www.hrc.org/resources/attacks-on-gender-affirming-care-by-state-map
Human Rights Campaign and FosterClub. (2022). LGBTQ Youth in the Foster Care System. Retrieved from https://assets2.hrc.org/files/assets/resources/HRC-YouthFosterCare-IssueBrief-FINAL.pdf
Human Rights Campaign. (n.d.). LGBTQ+ Youth in the Foster Care System. Retrieved from https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/lgbtq-youth-in-the-foster-care-system
National Institute for Health Care Management. (2021, May 26). Foster Care, LGBTQ Youth & Increased Suicide. Retrieved from https://nihcm.org/publications/foster-care-lgbtq-youth-increased-suicide
Trotta, D. (2023, May 18). DeSantis Signs Florida ban on transgender treatment for minors. Tampa, Florida, USA: Reuters. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/us/desantis-signs-florida-ban-gender-affirming-treatment-transgender-minors-2023-05-17/
United States Government Accountability Office. (2022). Report to the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support, Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives: Foster Care-Further Assistance from HHS Would be Helpful in Supporting Youth's LGBTQ+ Identities and Religious Beliefs. Washington DC: United States Government Accountability Office.
303 Boards Gives BackThree months ago, sixteen-year-old Alex’s life took a turn in an uncertain direction. He was navigating the legal system and adjusting to his temporary foster home placement, all while saying goodbye to bad influences and peers he’d known his whole life. As he moved to an unfamiliar small town to support his level of care, he took in the vast horizon. There was one comfort he kept close: skateboarding. Through all the changes, grabbing his board and practicing skills gave him confidence that he could move forward in life. One Saturday, he woke up with adventure on his mind. Getting a mid-air thrill, nothing could stop him… until he landed and his wheel hit the ramp at a wrong angle. His skateboard was broken. His heart sank, and the unclarity came rushing back. What would he do for fun? How would he make new friends? Would he fall back into old habits? Skateboarding had to stop for now, but Alex held onto the hope that he could one day return to his passion.
When Savio shared Alex’s story with 303 Boards on Colfax, a local skateboard shop, they jumped right in to help. Their team created a custom board so that this teen in Savio’s foster program could get back to filling his free time with what he loves doing most of all. Having the ability and resources to make positive choices is a game-changer for youth going through tough times. It empowers them to lean into their talents and changes their outlook toward new possibilities. While checking out his new ride, Alex and 303’s staff bonded over skateboarding heroes and special events offered through the shop to meet friends and mentors who could teach him even more. A huge smile grew over his face. Things didn’t seem so cloudy anymore. Alex eagerly made plans to come back and visit.
“It’s all about paying it forward to the community. We’re so fortunate to have access to be around what we love all the time. It’s good to spread that abundance. It doesn’t have to be a big act or anything. It could be as small as seeing a kid at the park and leaving him some shoes. Just filling any need makes a difference.” - 303 Boards Team
Generosity like 303 Board’s is what makes Denver’s spirit strong. Alex has a new board, and he now has a connection to people he can relate to, which can help set him up for future success. Through acts of kindness like these, more kids in Savio’s program can start seeing the fun sides of life again and find healthy ways to cope with personal troubles – a gift that can never be broken. If you or you know someone in the community who could provide Savio’s kids with a life-changing experience, please reach out via the form below!
Name * First Name Last Name Email * Message * Tell us more about what you are interested in helping with Thank you!
How Can We Close Cultural Gaps?The effort to tackle racial disparities in the child welfare system sometimes seems impossible. In a world where Black families are twice as likely to be separated from one another, it is Savio’s top priority that every child in our foster program feels seen and celebrated in their identity. What can organizations like ours and community members like you do to ensure children entering foster care receive culturally responsive support? We spoke with two incredible foster homes partnered with our organization to learn more about actionable steps somebody can take to eliminate this problem.
Kimberly’s StoryFoster parent Kimberly decided to join this cause after working as a social worker for years and seeing how foster families struggled to keep up with providing culturally competent care. She said that the final straw for her was watching families destroy Black youths’ natural hair, not out of malice, but because they did not know how to care for it and were not encouraged to seek out the resources to learn.
She noted how uncomfortable conversations about racial differences can be for foster parents, which inevitably led to youth feeling that it was on them to acclimate to a new way of living. No child should ever take on such a burden. These people have the best intentions but don’t have the knowledge base that will allow their foster children to feel supported. Kimberly shared her thoughts on what potential fosters could reflect upon:
“Families need to acknowledge their own privilege and become more comfortable with communities of color on their own, even before beginning the journey to foster. These are strong communities you can learn from yourselves. Why not reach out and learn?”
For Kimberly’s first foster placement, she had two young girls of mixed racial backgrounds come to stay in her home. The girls’ mother was of Asian descent but had spent most of her life working hard to assimilate to Western expectations. Their father encouraged his daughters to disconnect from their roots.
She wanted to emphasize some of the positive and memorable aspects of their family’s heritage. The girls wanted to learn more and more, not just about their family’s culture. They were excited to learn about other Asian cultures and have Kimberly teach them about her African heritage. They bonded over going to diverse community events and meeting new people.
By exploring their mother’s culture and family system of origin, they gained more empathy for what she had experienced in her lifetime due to racial discrimination. And they began to unlearn some of the negative biases that their father had taught them.
Although the girls have returned home, they continue to spend time with Kimberly attending community events and broadening their worldview as they grow up.
Mae’s StoryFoster parent Mae noted that as a Black woman, she feels it is easier to connect with the Black youth placed in her home. However, with all children staying in her home, she works to maintain a connection with the culture they have known their whole lives. She tries to cook the same foods, attend the same church, and have regular conversations about what has been meaningful to their family. Mae chooses to honor the significant moments her foster children carry close to their hearts:
“These children have a history; it is my job to make sure that is not taken away from them. This can look like reminding them of their culture, their community, or their mother. They still love their families, and I work to ensure they can still love their culture the same way.”
To Mae, understanding the history of challenges minority populations have endured can be a lesson for youth in foster care. Knowing that these communities have persevered through great difficulties shows children that they, too, can persist and survive the challenges that led to them being placed in foster care.
Mae says her greatest joy is seeing foster youth become great parents and community members and continue passing their heritage on to their children. By encouraging the youth in her home to connect with their own culture, she feels like she is playing at least a little a part of passing on the joy in diversity to the next generation.
Building BridgesFoster Parent Recruiter Kaci Cessna connects businesses and spaces owned or operated by diverse groups of people. Through building relationships with leaders in those communities, she hopes the organization will be able to continue branching out to potential foster parents interested in continuing their journey of calling attention to the importance of multiculturalism. As an organization, Savio works to recruit and train foster parents from various cultures and ensure that foster parents with less informed backgrounds have an understanding of cultural humility.
For example, Cessna noted that if someone is already seeking out spaces that support the queer community, even if they are not LGBTQ+, they are already more likely to be open and willing to have exploratory conversations around identity.
“We don’t want to pretend that we are ever going to be completely culturally competent; it is about recognizing our gaps and being able to commit to practicing lifelong learning to ensure that children are supported to connect with their cultures.” - Kaci Cessna, Savio Foster Parent Recruiter.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent with Savio or how you can provide culturally sensitive support, please fill out the interest form below.
Name * First Name Last Name Phone (###) ### #### Email * Question/Comments * Thank you!
*Click here to read Part I* *Click here to read Part II* Thank you for following the journey of Jake, Anna, and Alice as they worked to heal from trauma to feel safe and supported in their new home.
After years of dealing with abandonment, neglect, and loss, consistent support from their therapist, McReynolds, and their foster dads, the Turners, has helped them believe that they are safe. But that doesn’t mean Savio’s work is done.
“The important thing to understand about trauma is that it impacts everyone differently. Each child needs to know that those in their life are going to invest effort into supporting and addressing their experiences individually and continually.”
— Nicholas McReynolds - Trauma Systems TherapistThe family recently had a hearing to finalize the children’s adoption. The Turners thought the adoption would relieve any lingering fear the children had. Instead, they’re learning that although adoption is a huge step, they need to continue proving they will do whatever it takes to support the children and heal their trauma.
For Alice, this means showing her that she is just as important as her siblings and that her relationship with her parents is unique and all her own. Alice’s behavior had been less disruptive than her siblings, so she usually got less attention. Now, her dads are working to make sure she feels special. Their efforts are taking hold—recently, Alice was very excited to share with McReynolds that her Barbie had her own bedroom for the first time and how important that meant her Barbie was.
For Anna, the Turners are helping her understand why they need to enforce rules and boundaries from time to time. Due to her experience of receiving disproportionate responses from her biological parents to anything she did, she did not respond well to discipline, even gentle discipline. To help show her that they would always try to set consistent and realistic expectations for her, the Turners invited her to help plan a trip that she would take with one of her dads.
This trip served as a metaphorical contract between her and her adoptive parents, they would always support her, and she would always do her best in school and work towards being kinder towards her siblings. She was involved in every aspect of the planning. And her adoptive parents used this to demonstrate that they were not going anywhere and would always follow through on what they said they would do.
For Jake, the Turners are showing him there is always someone on his side. They are supporting his journey to understand his traumatic experiences and consider connecting with members of his birth family.
Although Jake feels very protective of letting them back into his younger sisters’ lives, he has decided that when he is 18, he would like to try and reconnect with members of his biological family. Although Jake’s adoptive parents are scared that he will get hurt again, they have told him they will support him in this decision.
His adoptive parents have told him they will follow his lead, and if he is ready for his birth family to be a part of his life again, they will always support him.
While there is still lots of road to travel, Jake, Alice, and Anna are an example of what is possible for those who have experienced trauma when they receive the right support, both from their families and through effective interventions. As an organization, Savio believes even the most challenging trauma behaviors can be addressed through family-focused services. We truly believe that trauma and behaviors should not be the most important part of a child’s story.
The type of therapy this family received costs our organization approximately $175 a session to deliver, but Medicaid only reimburses about $100. Savio is dedicated to ensuring that all families have access to the services they need regardless of their ability to pay.
If you believe that families deserve the opportunity to receive the services they need to allow their lives to be about so much more than the trauma they have experienced, we invite you to join us in supporting Savio and our mission.
Any amount you can contribute today will make sure children like Jake, Anna, and Alice have the chance to heal and walk confidently into vibrant futures.
“Redetermination” of Medicaid Eligibility
The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing is anticipating 325,000 people enrolled in Medicaid to lose benefits due to the end of a pandemic-era rule. Before the pandemic, Medicaid (also known as Health First Colorado) and the Child Health Plan Plus program (CHP+) eligibility was determined by income and household size. This redetermination occurred annually to evaluate if the recipient and their family members still met each program’s eligibility requirements. However, at the height of the COVID-19 outbreak, the federal government halted eligibility reassessments. This resulted in 1.7 million Coloradans becoming insured through Health First Colorado and the CHP+ program. Now that the public health emergency is coming to an end, the eligibility redeterminations have been reinstated.
Medicaid recipients’ eligibility will not be determined at the same time; the typical renewal month for each recipient is determined by the day they signed up with Health First Colorado. These eligibility redeterminations have already started; last month the initial group of Medicaid recipients received notice of their renewal deadlines from the state. After receiving their renewal notices via mail or email, Coloradans will have roughly 60 days to submit the necessary paperwork before their renewal deadlines. Recipients will continue to have Health First Colorado or CHP+ benefits during the redetermination process, but they will have a limited amount of time to acquire other health coverage if their renewal is denied. The first wave of Medicaid disenrollments will take place in May, so it is important that Coloradans consider alternative means for attaining health insurance.
Are You Enrolled in Medicaid? How to Prepare
Although Coloradans cannot complete their renewal forms early, there are steps they can take to prepare for the process. Since the renewal paperwork will be sent to recipients based on contact information they shared with the Medicaid program, it is important that recipients ensure that their information is accurate. Recipients will receive notices about their renewal by mail, email, text message, or notification, depending on their listed preferred method of communication. Coloradans can learn how to update their contact information and communication preferences here. Once contacted by a Medicaid official, recipients must complete their renewal forms before their deadline. Recipients can learn where to find their renewal due date here. Coloradans that require assistance in completing their renewal paperwork may contact their local county human services department.
*Click here to read Part I.*Last week we introduced Jake, Anna, and Alice, three children who experienced unbelievable trauma in their little lives.
As his little sisters’ protector, Jake needed allies to support him and his siblings while they healed from so many painful experiences. They had been placed with new foster parents, Michael and Sam Turner, who agreed to do whatever it took to help, including completely buying into the therapy plan developed by the children’s Trauma Systems Therapy therapist, Nicholas McReynolds.
The Turners knew that they were in for a big challenge. Not only did they need to help the children address their past trauma, but they also needed to help reassure them that they would protect them from further trauma and abandonment.
The children had thought that their previous foster home would be their forever home. And when that wasn’t the case, they were retraumatized. Although the Turners intended to adopt Jake, Anna, and Alice, they did not want to get their hopes up at the risk of causing them more trauma. As the Turners began the complicated legal process, they opted not to tell the children about their intention. Instead, they focused on sticking to the children’s therapy plan and telling them they were safe.
Jake was wary of the Turners and McReynolds, especially when they tried to reassure him that they were there for him. Abandonment had become his new normal, and he was just waiting for it to happen again. When his foster parents would tell him that he and his sisters were safe with them he said, “My last family said that too, and now they are gone.”
McReynolds worked to build trust with Jake, which involved lots of time on the swings, games, and puzzles. While building a puzzle one day, McReynolds put a piece in the wrong spot.
“Oops, that was a mistake,” McReynolds said, while he tried out a few more spots that might work.
“What do you mean, adults make mistakes too?”
— JakeJake just stared at McReynolds. He had never heard an adult say that.
This breakthrough -- that adults make mistakes too-- allowed McReynolds and Jake to talk about how his former foster parents and biological parents had made many mistakes. And that those mistakes weren’t Jake or his sisters’ fault. He learned that sometimes adults just do the wrong things.
Jake, Anna, and Alice were three of the 35 children who received services in the past year thanks to a Caring for Denver Foundation grant.
The Caring for Denver Foundation was created in 2019 from a ballot initiative to address Denver’s substance misuse and mental health needs. Thank you to the Denver residents who supported this important work.
Jake began to talk about the trauma he and his sisters experienced, both during their time with their biological parents and when they were removed from their former foster home. He began bonding with his foster parents more and more, though he remained worried that these parents would leave too.
Now that Jake understood that adults make mistakes too, he could apply that logic to his new foster parents. He saw how they did their best to support him and his sisters but also made a few mistakes along the way.
For example, Michael Turner has a naturally loud voice and can be very animated in all his responses-- positive and negative. This trait scared Anna, reminding her of the yelling and fighting that would happen when she was with her biological parents. Michael worked towards calming his voice and taking space if he was about to have an emotional reaction. When he did have a big reaction, he reassured Anna that he cared, even if he sometimes responded too loudly.
Because Jake understood that adults don’t do everything perfectly, he stopped causing a commotion any time his sisters were about to get in trouble in order to protect them.
Now, the Turners frequently remind the children that they are there for them. McReynolds is reassuring the children that it is okay if they do not view the Turners as their “Dads” just yet-- they are just the adults taking care of them, making sure they are safe.
Jake finally has someone in his corner to take care of his sister. He is beginning to trust that he does not have to be the biggest person in his sisters’ lives anymore. He is gaining confidence that his foster dads are taking good care of all three of them. He thinks they might all finally be safe this time.
Join us next week, for an update on how the adoption hearing goes and how Jake, Anna, and Alice feel about the news.
Are you considering becoming a foster parent? The thought of opening your home and heart to a child in need may be daunting, but the rewards of fostering can be truly life-changing for both you and the child.
Fostering is a crucial component of the child welfare system, providing temporary care for children who are unable to live with their biological families due to various reasons. Foster care is often the best option for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other forms of trauma, providing them with a stable, safe, and nurturing environment where they can heal and grow.
So, what are the benefits of foster parenting? Here are just a few reasons why fostering could be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life:
Making a difference in a child's life
As a foster parent, you have the opportunity to make a profound impact on a child's life. You can provide them with a stable and loving environment, help them develop new skills and interests, and offer them the support and guidance they need to overcome their challenges. For many children in foster care, the love and care of a foster family can be life-changing, helping them to heal from past traumas and build a brighter future.
Learning and growing as a person
Fostering can be an incredible journey of personal growth and learning. By welcoming a child into your home, you will gain new perspectives, develop new skills, and learn more about yourself and your capacity for love, empathy, and compassion. You will also have the opportunity to work with a team of professionals, including social workers and therapists, who can offer you guidance and support as you navigate the challenges of foster parenting.
Building strong and meaningful relationships
Fostering can also be a way to build strong and meaningful relationships with the children in your care, as well as with their birth families and other foster parents in your community. By fostering, you become part of a network of people who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for children in need, and you can form lifelong friendships with those who share your passion and commitment.
Meeting a critical need
The need for foster parents in Colorado and Denver is critical. According to the Colorado Department of Human Services, there are over 4,000 children in foster care in Colorado at any given time, and there is a significant shortage of foster homes. By becoming a foster parent, you can help to address this critical need and provide a safe and loving home for a child in need.
Making a lasting impact on your community
Finally, by fostering, you can make a lasting impact on your community. By providing a safe and stable home for a child in need, you are not only helping that child but also contributing to the well-being of your community as a whole. By fostering, you can help to create a brighter future for the children in your community and help to build a more compassionate and caring society.
In conclusion, fostering can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. By opening your home and heart to a child in need, you can make a profound difference in their life, learn and grow as a person, build strong and meaningful relationships, meet a critical need, and make a lasting impact on your community. So, if you are considering becoming a foster parent in Colorado or Denver, take the first step today and reach out to a local foster care agency to learn more about how you can get involved. Together, we can create a brighter future for the children in our communities.
Interested in learning more abouthow to become a foster parent?Curious about the financial considerations of fostering? Click to read “Do Foster Parents Get Paid"?”
When Trauma Systems Therapist Nicolas McReynolds first met with siblings Jake (9), Anna (7), and Alice (4) the children had been separated from their parents due to substance use and domestic violence. The three young children had had their world turned upside down and were struggling to cope.
All three children were experiencing trauma symptoms in different ways. Alice still did not understand where her biological parents went and would scream for hours straight, asking for her mom. Anna, who was replicating the abusive behavior she had seen would become incredibly violent when upset. Her fists would fly in a rage whenever she felt upset, leaving bruises on her siblings, and alarm in her caregivers.
Jake was used to trying to protect his little sisters. He would take the blame for everything, even if it was very clear that he was not the one responsible. And other than trying to take the blame, or distract others when his sisters were having outbursts, he never spoke.
When one of his sisters broke a mug, he insisted that it was him, even though he was not even in the room, and everyone saw it happen. When asked why he said he did it, he just sat there silently.
Recent years have seen a change in the way that we talk about the drivers that lead to behavioral problems. According to Savio’s Associate Director, Julia Roguski, even 10 to 15 years ago a child might be labeled as aggressive or a problem without much consideration to how trauma might be shaping their behaviors. Children like Jake, Anna, and Alice would have been labeled as having a history of child abuse or neglect and their files would not go much further to explain how that might impact their mental and behavioral health moving forward.
“Our depth of understanding of how trauma impacts a developing brain has just increased drastically. And the trauma symptoms a child might be experiencing are no longer labeled as being dysfunctional. Instead, we are able to recognize how their trauma is driving those behaviors. It is becoming more and more acceptable for people to say, ‘That was really hard for me.’ And people are starting to recognize that there is so much more going on behind the scenes that people might not know about. ”
— Julia Roguski And while conversations about trauma are becoming more common, there are still those who have a hard time grasping the concept.
When Jake, Anna, and Alice referred to Savio about a year ago. They had already been removed from the family’s home because of their parents’ substance use, which lead to domestic violence and housing insecurity. There was a time when the five family members were all living in a van. After child protective services intervened and assigned them a county caseworker, they went to live with a family member. But the family member was not prepared to take care of three young children, and it led to neglect.
The siblings’ birth parents had not taken any steps to address their substance use or to prevent their parental rights from being terminated. The foster family that the children were placed with was interested in adopting and began the difficult process of reassuring the children that this was their forever home and working to show them stability.
*Jake, Anna, and Alice were three of the thirty-five children who received services in the past year thanks to a grant from the Caring for Denver Foundation.*
The Caring for Denver Foundation was created in 2019 from a ballot initiative to address Denver's substance misuse and mental health needs. Thank you to the Denver residents who supported this important work.
At this point, a county caseworker suggested that they receive services from Savio, because of our track record of providing effective services for families who have experienced extensive trauma. This step represents our community’s growing understanding of trauma; in the past, these children may have just been labeled as difficult or problematic and never referred to trauma therapy.
Here the children run into a large hurdle. While their foster parents were doing the best that they could to support and help these children heal, they had not fully grasped how deeply trauma can impact a child’s developing brain.
They were paired with Nicholas McReynolds, a Trauma System Therapy clinician. McReynolds began to try and schedule with the foster parents. They wanted to protect the children and thought that the best way to do that would be to not dig too deep into their past experiences. They did not want to retraumatize them and wanted McReynolds to just address their behaviors, not their experiences.
They wanted to just not talk about it and thought it would go away. That is not the case, however, and the children’s trauma behaviors not only continued but intensified. Without being able to address the root of their trauma, the children were not going to be able to begin to heal. Despite this, they told Savio that they wanted to terminate services, but continue with the adoption.
While the foster parents understood that the children had experienced trauma, they did not understand the amount of work it would take for the children to be able to heal, nor how essential treating their complex trauma was in addressing their behavioral problems.
After many conversations with the county caseworker about how the children would most likely require an extensive amount of trauma intervention for quite some time and that these behaviors were not just going to go away overnight, the foster parents made the hard decision to stop the adoption process and request that the children were placed with a different foster home. They knew that the children could be more successful with a family that understood the impacts of trauma more clearly.
Always the protector, Jake continued to look out for his little sisters as they were placed in a second foster home. Will these next foster parents be the ones to take over that role?
Follow us on social media to receive updates about Jake and his little sisters, and their journey to heal.
Colorado families are facing challenges in affording food due to the reduction in SNAP benefits that took place in March. At the end of February, Coloradans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program received their financial emergency benefits that were distributed in response to increased financial hardships at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, SNAP benefits returned to their regular pre-pandemic levels and are once again income based. Families across Colorado are experiencing a $95 reduction in their benefits. Participants are not able to appeal the reduction since it is a result of the Omnibus Bill passed in Congress. However, recipients may request an appeal if they believe that their base benefits have been miscalculated. If Coloradans have questions about their benefits, they may contact their local county human services office.
Resources and Additional Assistance
The reduction in SNAP benefits is a challenge for many families, especially since food prices have been consistently increasing. There are some actions families can take if they are concerned about food insecurity. First, Coloradans are encouraged to log onto their Colorado Peak account to determine if they are eligible for additional services such as WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) and TANF (Colorado Works). In addition, families can roll over unused SNAP benefits to the next month to mitigate the impact of the benefit reduction. The unused benefits can remain on EBT cards for a maximum of nine months. Families can also explore tips on stocking up on nonperishables, freezing produce, stretching ingredients, and comparing prices of items at Colorado’s Department of Human Services’ website. Lastly, Coloradans can use this food pantry finder website to locate food banks near them. If you are a client at Savio in need of food assistance, ask your Savio worker about our food pantry!
How You Can Help
Food banks are experiencing an increase in demand for their services due to the SNAP benefit reduction. If you are interested in supporting families that have been impacted by this change, consider donating to your local food bank. Food banks have greater buying power, so they are able to provide three meals for every dollar given. In addition, food banks can use monetary donations to purchase fresh food that is difficult to donate. For this reason, many food banks may prefer that your donation be monetary rather than goods. You can find food banks to donate to in Colorado through Feeding Colorado’s website.
**Dial or text 988 to reach the Crisis Lifeline, connecting you to a counselor to if you or someone you care about is having any type of mental health crisis, suicide concerns, or substance use-related crisis.****What Is 988?**
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is the new name for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The new name reflects the Lifeline’s aim to serve people who are having any type of mental health crisis, suicide concerns, or substance use-related crisis. 988 is also available for those who are concerned that their loved one may need crisis support. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and provides access to trained crisis counselors through call, text, and chat options. To reach counselors, you can dial 988 (the old 1-800-273-8255 number will also connect callers to the lifeline) or you can text 988. To chat online with counselors, visit https://988lifeline.org/chat/.
Common Concerns
A lot of people may feel reluctant to contact the lifeline due to concerns about first responders being dispatched, being hospitalized, or their location being tracked. First, Emergency Medical Services and police officers are not automatically dispatched when you call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The majority of people that contact the lifeline do not require additional services; less than 2% of Lifeline calls require connection to emergency services. Typically, emergency services are asked to intervene when there is a pressing safety or health issue, such as when there is a suicide attempt occurring. The goal of the Crisis Lifeline is to help stabilize people in the least restrictive way possible. In addition, most calls do not result in hospitalization; this only occurs when there is an imminent concern regarding health and safety. Lastly, the only information that the crisis counselor will have about your location will come from your area code (if you call or text) or your IP address (if you use the chat option). It is not required that you provide any personal or identifying information to receive services from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If the counselor asks you for additional information, it is to either to connect you to ongoing support or to evaluate 988 services.
988 vs. 211 vs. 911
988 is distinct from 911 in that it focuses on improving access to crisis services in relation to suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 911 is concerned with public safety purposes and offers Emergency Medical Services, firefighters, and police officers. 211 provides health and social service information and referrals while the 988 system aids individuals during times of crisis. Depending on each circumstance, 988 may collaborate with either 911 or 211 to ensure individuals are able to access the services that they need.
How Does Calling the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Help?
Suicide is the leading cause of death among people 10-34 years old. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health-related crisis, you can save a life by reaching out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline helps thousands of individuals overcome crisis situations every day. The vast majority of people that chat, call, or text the Lifeline get the necessary support they need and do not require additional services during that distressing moment. The trained crisis counselors are able to help callers feel significantly less overwhelmed and less suicidal by reducing the intensity of the situation and refer the caller to local resources that can further support their well-being. Furthermore, Lifeline callers leave the call feeling more hopeful and stable.
If you are like many of us, we are experiencing the post-holiday blues. With the holiday season over and all of us solidly back to our real lives, we can all be a little sad. The magic of the holiday season is a time to reflect on what we appreciate, spend time with our loved ones, and look forward to a new year. And okay, it can be a little stressful. We still always get a little sad when it is over.
For Savio families, it can be more than a little bit stressful. On top of all the regular holiday challenges, Savio families are working hard to improve their mental and behavioral health and improve relationships. And many of these low-income families cannot afford to provide a traditional holiday experience for their kids, which stresses them out even more.
This holiday season however, these families got a little bit of a break thanks to the generosity of some amazing community members who supported our annual Adopt-A-Family program. 85 individuals, 30 companies, and one remarkable condo community made sure that these families got to experience the joy of the holiday season and took one thing off the parents’ plates.
This year we saw an unprecedented number of families submit wish lists. We received over 475 lists. Between those who went shopping to provide these items and those who made cash contributions so our staff could shop for the remaining families, all had their holiday wishes filled.
Let us tell you about some of the families that were helped by this program:
Kenna is only 20 years old, but she is the mother of five children under the age of five. On top of raising her children, she just completed her GED. When she heard about the program from her Savio staff member she was so excited that they might finally be able to have holiday presents. Her therapist pushed her to include a few things for herself. In a text to her therapist she said, “Even if I don’t get anything, it was really fun to think about. Christmas ended for me a long time ago.” All she had asked for was slippers and a candle.
Her children received toys, clothes, and educational materials. And she got a present for the first time since she was a young girl.
Andrea and Eric are raising two little boys annd money is tight. They were one of the first families to turn their wish lists in. Andrea was determined that her sons would have presents no matter what. She kept calling to check and see if their list had been selected online, because if not she was going to go shopping with money meant to pay their electric bill, which was already past due and at risk of being shut off. Once their list was selected she rushed to bring their electric bill up to date. The boys got their holiday presents, and the parents breathed a sigh of relief that their bills were paid.
Izzy and Alexis are in their early teens. Their mother, Molly, has struggled with substance use their whole lives, leading to housing instability. The girls had been crashing with friends hoping that their mom would be able to get the help she needed. This year, Molly had completed her substance use treatment, found stable employment, an apartment, and strengthened her relationship with her daughters. All that was left was for her daughters to come home. Their wish lists consisted of bedding for their new room.
The girls got to ring in the new year in their newly decorated bedrooms with their mother there to say goodnight.
Items like new bedding, slippers, or a toy that isn’t a hand-me-down may seem small to many. To the Savio families, however, they can mean the world of difference. To the parents, providing their children with a small holiday wish can relieve an immense amount of stress. And to the kids, having something that makes them feel special or like their peers can change their outlook on the year to come. This relief gives them the opportunity to focus on the mental and behavioral services that will help their family achieve long-term stability and success.
Thank you to the Adopt A Family program supporters! Your generosity ensured that Savio families could feel the spirit of the season.
Savio helps families with critical items like cribs, bedding, and diapers all year round. Want to be alerted when the next family needs bedding or a crib to bring their child home? Sign-up to be part of our action team below and you’ll be notified when a child or family has an urgent need.
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You can help a child experience the joy of the holidays by providing gifts through Savio’s adopt-a-family holiday program.
Roseanne and her husband Anthony have been foster parents with Savio since 2006. During this time they have provided temporary homes to over 20 teenagers working to address their mental and behavioral health.
Roseanne and Anthony specifically chose to support teenagers because they felt like this was the age where they could have the most impact. Roseanne had experience in mental health and substance use with teens. Anthony had worked supporting youth involved in the justice system. The teens that the couple support are a part of Savio Treatment Foster Care, meaning that they have been placed because of concerns for their behaviors.
Roseanne enjoys this age because they are old enough to understand that they need to make a change, and with the right support they can begin to work towards being strong and self-sufficient. And a foster parent can be that support.
Roseanne’s Things to Remember about Foster Children
- They are scared.
- They need a safe, calm, and caring home. Something that they have probably never had before.
- You just have to show them that you care.
- They are just kids.
Caring for teens can be challenging, especially teens with behavioral health concerns. Roseanne and Anthony have had their fair share of challenges over the years. Roseanne pointed to a specific time when she struggled to connect with one of the teen boys in her care. It is common for children to connect more with one of their foster parents over the other. This particular boy was incredibly reactive any time they would have a positive interaction, getting aggressive for seemingly no reason. He felt like he was betraying his mother by getting close to his foster mother.
Rossanne’s Advice to Foster Parents
- Take care of yourself.
- Use your resources.
- You are the parent, take the word foster out of it. Treat them as you would want someone to treat your own child if they were in a similar situation.
With each challenge, comes the opportunity to completely change a child’s future. Roseanne and Anthony have supported children through some of the most important times in their life. And the children remember this impact. The family recently had a former foster child come by, she had gotten her GED and wanted to show them. She said without them, she never would have gotten there.
Rossanne’s Advice to Foster Children
You might feel scared, coming into a home that you don’t know, with people you have never met before. It might be hard to trust them. We want to make this safe space for you and us as well. We are trusting you.
Rosseane and Anthony, and all of the foster parents at Savio have the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child who just needs safety, stability, and consistency. If this is something that you would be interested in, you can read more about the process of becoming a foster parent here.
In honor of Foster Parent Appreciation Month, make sure to say thank you to any parents that you may know who are providing temporary homes to children when they need it the most.
Positive family outcomes are incredibly important to organizations like Savio. They help tell potential supporters that we can provide families with the services that they need to be successful, allowing for us to get funding. They demonstrate that we are using the correct interventions that give families the best possible chance at improving their mental and behavioral health. And most importantly, a positive outcome means that one more family has been able to strengthen their relationships and heal together.
What defines this positive outcome?
At Savio, families help to determine what success means to them. A positive outcome has two requirements, that the family can complete the program by reaching most their individualized treatment goals and that the children are not removed from the home, or were able to find stability in their current home.
These individualized goals can be anything. For some families it includes addressing a teen’s truancy rate, helping a child learn to communicate their feelings and needs, or providing the parents with the tools that they need to be able to manage their children’s behavior. Savio staff work with families in 11 different evidence-based models to provide them with the best way to make these goals a reality.
For Ashley, and her eight-month-old daughter Janae, these goals included completing three of the parenting protective skills sections in one of Savio’s preventative models, SafeCare.
Ashley and Janae were referred to Savio when a nurse expressed concern during a pediatrician appointment. While there was no need to open a child welfare case, it was apparent that Ashley needed help learning how to be a strong parent to her daughter. Ashley had experienced domestic violence and although she was currently sober, had struggled with alcohol use disorder in the past.
The first section that the family completed was to improve parent-infant interaction. This helped Ashley to strengthen her skills by structuring daily activities and schedules, increasing positive interactions, and preventing challenging behaviors. The next section that the family completed was the health section, this helped Ashley to be able to identify common childhood illnesses and injuries and learn how to care for Janae when she was sick. The final section that the family covered was safety.
For Ashley and Janae, the safety section took a little bit deeper of a dive than for most families. Most families work to eliminate safety concerns around the home and to fully childproof their home. Ashley however, voiced her concern about some of the behaviors of her live-in boyfriend. She was beginning to see some of the warning signs she had seen previously in her life before experiencing domestic violence.
He was yelling a lot. And he was trying to financially control Ashley. He would slam his hands down on the counter in bits of rage.
Her therapist conveyed to Ashley how important it was for her and her daughter to be safe, and how much of an impact domestic violence could have on Janae’s development. She told her how important it was for Janae to have a strong, happy, healthy mother.
One morning, Ashley called her therapist. They had left their home late last night and were now staying in a hotel. Ashley’s boyfriend had been shouting, and she was worried he was going to get physical.
She had seen this before, but this time she had support telling her that she would be capable of leaving. Ashley remembered everything her therapist said about protecting her daughter’s safety, packed up their things, and left.
Savio was able to provide Ashley with some financial support for her to travel to Nebraska and be closer to her family. Her and Janae are staying with her parents until she can get a job and get back on her feet. She has reached out to a local SafeCare provider about continuing the program.
Ashely, successfully demonstrated what parent's can do to protect their children when they receive the support that they need. Her goal may have been to complete the three SafeCare sections, but in the end, Ashely did so much more. She kept her daughter, and herself, safe.
Interested in learning more about family outcomes? Submit the form below to be added to the mailing list for our annual report!
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Guest Written by Nicolette Ayden
As difficult as it may be to believe, child abuse occurs more frequently than you might think. Over 618,399 cases of child abuse were recorded in the US in 2020 alone, and the most common form of maltreatment by far is neglect.
With so many factors contributing to child abuse, you and other parents or caregivers may be wondering how exactly to spot signs of such mistreatment in a child. Below we discuss a few key indicators and list a few ways you can stop it from happening.
Types of child abuse and their symptoms
Physical abuse
When you think about child abuse, this is probably the first kind of mistreatment that comes to mind. It occurs when children receive intentional physical harm from others, whether it be family members, peers, or other prominent figures in their lives. Injuries are likely to stem from physical abuse if their origins are inadequately or inconsistently explained.
Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse can be caused by everything from exposing a child to pornography and fondling to oral or genital intercourse. Sadly, statistics prove that family members are the most common perpetrators. Signs include a child exhibiting inappropriately-advanced sexual knowledge or behavior, traces of blood in their underwear, admissions from the child of said abuse, or unwanted pregnancies and STD transmissions.
Mental abuse
Below the surface, children may also be experiencing emotional turmoil as a result of verbal assault, isolation, or exposure to violence inflicted upon others. Some signs include stunted emotional development, depression, a persistent want of affection, and self-isolation or a lack of interest in daily activities.
Neglect
On the other hand, a parent or caregiver may not be providing a child basic necessities such as food, shelter, education, or medical care. This can be ascertained if a child wears ill-fitting, weather-inappropriate, or dirty clothes, attends school or medical appointments infrequently, is growing slowly, or has a tendency to steal necessities like food from others.
What you can do about it?Call the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
844-CO-4-Kids - Available 24 hours a day, every day. Don't hesitate to call and get help. Anyone witnessing a child in a life-threatening situation should call 911 immediately.
Consult a social worker
Regardless of whether you're a relative of the child or not, it's best to seek advice from the professionals who form the immediate front line against child abuse. Social work matters in these cases because there are experts that are specially trained to advocate for the marginalized, such as children, across a wide range of issues. Educators can direct kids to school mental health professionals with a background in social work who are equipped to deal with any mental health- or behavior-related concerns. Meanwhile, families can talk with community outreach workers to see if there are any community programs that meet their needs.
Look for signs of abuse in yourself
As difficult as it may seem, parents and other caregivers must often look inwards to see if any of their actions are unintentionally harming their child. If you have trouble controlling your anger, can't relate to your child's emotions, or find it difficult to meet your child's needs, or have had others voice out their concerns about your treatment of your child, make sure you work to resolve these issues. Aside from contacting social workers, you can attend classes, read books, or attend seminars to learn new parenting techniques. If the issues go much deeper, we've previously recommended family therapy as a way to jointly address parental behavior and any negative behavior children develop as a result.
Seek emergency help
However, some cases may warrant immediate attention. Grievous injuries may be sustained from physical or sexual abuse, and mental abuse or neglect may result in suicidal behavior. Depending on the circumstance, you may need to contact the family physician, the local police department, or child protective services. Do not hesitate to call 911 if the situation is urgent. Finally, medical professionals who come across probable victims must note that they are legally required to report any suspicions of child abuse to the local authorities.
Child abuse will negatively affect a child and their development, likely for the entirety of their life. As exemplified from the above discussion, however, effectively breaking the cycle of abuse is a community effort — one that you can play a part in. Interventions are available to help children and families heal and move forward from abuse and neglect.
April is Diversity Month, and we here at Savio love the opportunity to celebrate the diverse staff, families, and supporters with whom the organization partners. This month we will be highlighting several staff members, and how they feel their unique identity has allowed them to become stronger clinicians and support Colorado children, youth, and families. These unique identities allow for them to help families consider how their own identities may impact their experiences and mental health.
LaDaiju Velez’s identity is central to how she approaches all of her work. She is a mother, an African American woman, a Christian, a wife to a law enforcement officer and a Savio Child First therapist. As a member of Savio’s Accountability Coalition for Equity, she works to ensure that the organization hears, believes, and honors people’s lived experiences. The coalition recognizes the opportunity to facilitate communication and make resources for clients, employees, and systems to understand the value of diversity and role of identity in treatment. The coalition is dedicated to building a culture of accountability, conversation, learning opportunities, and action.
“Most of the families we work with have identities that can lead to marginalization. Substance use, mental health, race, and socioeconomic level, all can be a part of what make family fear that they will not be treated fairly by the ‘system’. And historically that is correct,” Velez pointed out.
There are large racial disparities in the child welfare system for families of color. Black children are three times more likely to be separated from their parents than white children. While organizations like Savio are working to change this on a systemic level, individual families still face the fear that they may lose custody of their child because of unconscious bias. Social work has typically been considered a white woman’s field. As a black therapist, Velez has also seen how impactful it can be for families to see themselves in the professions they are inviting into their lives.
Velez made sure to clarify that she was not suggesting that families should only have therapists that share the same identity as them, “A lot of the families just want to know that you understand what it feels like to be considered different. You do not have to share the same identity as them, but you do have to be able to tell them that their identity will not be a reason that they do not receive adequate support to heal their family.”
When asked which aspect of her identity strengthens her work the most, Velez replied, “I am a mom. I understand the stressors that these parents are facing. I know what it is like to be exhausted from work, trying to address my own mental health, and then having a toddler who does not want to put their shoes on.”
Her identity as a mother allows her to empathize and build trust with her clients. An important step in all Savio’s therapeutic models, but especially important in the model Velez specializes in, Child First which addresses multigenerational trauma. Often the parents she is working with were involved with the child welfare system when they were children. Now facing the same system as parents, they often fear being treated differently because of their identity.
The Child First model is known for being collaborative. Partnering a clinician with a care coordinator adds additional perspectives from each of the members of the team. These unique perspectives help to strengthen the sense of acceptance and understanding as families work with the team. Savio is grateful to have therapists like LaDaiju Velez, who are bringing the strengths that come from their own identities to improve the services that the organization is able to offer to Colorado children, youth, and families.
Colorado families struggling with substance use will soon have access to an innovative new program to provide holistic, full family care. With the passing of the Federal Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations package, Savio will receive $300,000 towards creating the first treatment program in the nation that allows the entire family to remain together while one or both parents seek addiction treatment.
U.S. Rep Ed Perlmutter spearheaded the submission of ten Community Project Funding requests totaling $7.6 million for Colorado’s 7th Congressional District. Thanks to his efforts, Jefferson and Adams Counties will benefit from infrastructure improvements, critical support for domestic violence victims, retrofitting a new health clinic for children, and funding to support STEM education and workforce development programs.
“Each of these projects have the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives and support critical investments in our communities,” said Perlmutter.
The Community Project Funding program is a return to allowing representatives and senators to directly request federal dollars for projects in their states and districts. Traditionally called earmarks, these projects were stopped due to concerns about wasteful spending and have often received negative publicity. With a more transparent process in place and stricter qualification guidelines, the program will use federal funding to support local community projects that need it the most.
The allocated funds will allow Savio to reimagine addiction treatment beyond addressing just the substance misuse of a caregiver. The organization’s new Family Residential Program serves entire families most likely to be unsuccessful in current models of care: those impacted by housing instability and addiction. The program will feature supervised housing for six families, each residing in their own three-bedroom townhome. Construction of the Family Residential Campus in Lakewood will begin in the summer of 2022.
“We are honored by Congressman Perlmutter’s advocacy for families in his district impacted by substance use. Federal support for this project demonstrates our government’s desire to end generational cycles of addiction. The project will be the first in the nation to provide a safe and stable living environment for an entire family while they receive the support they need to heal,” said Norma Aguilar-Dave, Executive Director of Savio.
Click here for additional information about the 7th Congressional District’s Community Projects.
For more information about the Family Residential program, please contact Robyn Meeks at rmeeks@saviohouse.org or 720-974-6204.
Moving into the new year, many of us are excited about a fresh beginning. The Martinelli family is no different.
Last year, the family faced many difficulties. Mom felt overwhelmed, and it was impacting her ability to parent. She felt like she was failing, and it just made her want to give up. These issues had started to lead to behavioral issues for the children.
Out of concern for their safety, they were connected with Savio. Mom moved out of the home while Dad became the sole caretaker. Mom worked to build on her parenting skills during supervised visitation. Her biggest struggle was building confidence around her ability to be a good mom. She told her therapist how frustrated she felt by her kid’s behaviors, and how helpless she felt being unable to stop them
She was starting to shut down, instead of responding to her children’s needs.
Near the top of the issues was that her son, Gabe, had a hard time understanding personal space, was stealing items from other kids at school, and lying more than is typical for a child his age.
Savio helped mom understand her son’s behaviors and see ways to teach him about telling the truth, respecting personal space, listening to requests from his parents, and asking permission before using items. Gabe truly wanted to improve his behaviors, and working with his therapist gave him the confidence to believe that he could. At the same time, mom was working on developing the skills that would allow her to address any behaviors from her children. She and her therapist worked to implement a system that she could use to rewards her kids’ positive behaviors and sets clear boundaries for negative ones.
Gabe was often embarrassed by his “sticky fingers” and didn't understand why he would take other kids toys and school assignments. He would get visibly upset about returning items to classmates, and he knew that it was making it difficult for him to make friends. During his final session with his therapist, he was excited to announce that he had not stolen anything in 10 days!
Throughout her time working with Savio, mom built confidence in her parenting skills and saw a positive way forward. This month, she moved home with a continued plan to improve her parenting skills. Her husband saw her efforts to become a better parent, and it helped to heal their relationship as well.
All their hard work has allowed the Martinelli's to start 2022 with the best possible chance to be a happy, healthy family.
Here at Savio, we believe that those who are willing to do the work deserve a fresh start. The families that receive services through us prove this every day by taking the steps to improve their relationships, address their trauma, and heal from complex challenges. The start of the new year reminds us all of the possibilities that come with a fresh start. Many of us are inevitably thinking about what these possibilities might look like, and planning how we can achieve them.
Whether you do New Year’s resolutions, vision boards, or just lay up at night thinking about the possibilities for the upcoming year, you have plans for what you are hoping to achieve. Do these plans include how you are going to support your community? We have a few suggestions on how you can be there for local families when they need it the most.
Get Involved New Programs And Projects
We would love the opportunity to invite you to be a part of an innovative way to support families impacted by substance use. You can schedule a call with Development Associate, Robyn Meeks. We are planning to launch a program that will represent a fresh approach to substance use treatment. In fact, it will be the first program in the nation to support the entire family while one or both parents are treated for substance use disorder. You can start your year by being one of the first to learn about how you can help these families when they need it the most.
Schedule a Monthly Donations
If planning your giving is a part of your new year’s plan, schedule a monthly donation to your charities of choice. If this is Savio, you can set it up online at saviohouse.org/donate. It doesn’t matter if it is $1, $5, or $25. Every dollar goes directly to providing family preservation services, trauma therapy, and youth behavioral support. Services at Savio are provided at no cost to families, ensuring that regardless of income, they are able to receive family-focused treatment when they need it the most.
Become More Informed About How to Identify When A Family is in Need
Do you know the signs of abuse and neglect? Do you know what number to call when you are concerned for a child or family’s safety? If not you might consider learning more about the resources that are available to community members who are interested in preventing abuse and neglect. The Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Public Awareness Campaign has a wealth of information including 50+ Ways You Can Help Strengthen Families.
Do you have any new years resolutions in support of families that are not included on this list? We would love to hear about them! Tag us in social media posts of your vision board or email us your list of new years resolutions!
Due to the overwhelming response to our Back to School Drive, Savio is launching a Family Needs Committee. This group will work to provide access to things that many of Savio’s low-income families find just out of reach such as a new outfit for the first day of school, holiday presents, or a fun family experience.
With the generous support of community members, Savio students were able to start of the new school year feeling confident and prepared. As most parents are all too aware, students were extra anxious about returning to school this fall. After a year of virtual learning, ever-changing COVID 19 policies and procedures, and a lot of uncertainty, students deserved to feel prepared and excited for the first day of school. Savio put out a request to our community to help make this possible, and your response was unbelievable.
Students were able to submit a wish list that included any of the items that would make them feel confident and ready to go back to school. Some students requested a first-day outfit, the fees for their soccer team, or a new pair of shoes that they would be able to wear all year.
Over 130 students submitted a wish list, and every single one of them was paired with a community member who helped provide the items on the list.
Savio families work very hard at the therapies that will allow for their long-term stability and success. For many of Savio's low-income families, a new outfit for the first day just wasn’t in the budget. A child's anxiety over their appearance and a parent's frustration about not being able to provide these items can prevent the family from focusing on their treatment plan.
By providing families with items that boost children’s self-confidence and allow for parents a little bit of stress relief our community showed how something that many of us take for granted can change a family’s outlook on returning to school.
Thank you to all who were paired with a student to provide their wish items for the new year!
Interested in volunteering to help families in need?The generosity and support from members of our community has inspired Savio to launch a Family Needs Committee. This group will be dedicated to proving families with items that will help to provide them with joy and hope as they face incredibly challenging issues such as mental and behavioral health concerns. The group will help to organize our annual “Adopt a Family” program around the holidays, leverage their personal networks to connect Savio with others who are interested in supporting children and families, and serve as advocates for Savio’s mission.
There will be a virtual informational meeting on October 12, 2021 at 9:00 am. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Robyn Meeks at 720-974-6204 or rmeeks@saviohouse.org to receive the link for the meeting.
You can help a child experience the joy of the holidays by providing gifts through Savio’s adopt-a-family holiday program.
Do you remember laying out your outfit the night before the first day of school, knowing that you were about to have a great year?
We all know how empowering have a new outfit for the first day of school can be for students. Feeling confident can change their entire attitude about going back to school.
Savio families are working hard to overcome behavioral and mental health challenges, improve their relationships, and provide for their families. Juggling all of these pieces sometimes means that items we take for granted can be out of reach.
In the past, our generous supporters have stepped up to ensure that these families are still able to receive gifts for the holidays, have their basic needs are met, or receive a luxury item that our low-income families cannot afford. This support can help to ease parents’ worry and provide youth with the hope that they need.
Building on our beloved holiday Adopt-A-Family program, Savio is launching a Back-to-School Drive this year to benefit low-income children and youth in our community! Fill out the form below to help a student put their best foot forward as they walk into the new year.
Are you interested in “adopting” a student in need to help them get ready for back to school? There are several ways that you can help!
- Fill out the formbelow in order to be matched with a student.
- Use Social Media to spread awareness of our drive! Post a photo from your first day of school and tell your friends about a time when getting ready for that first day felt like the most important thing in the world. You can include a link to this site, so those who are interested can learn more. Make sure to tag Savio!
- Make a monetary donation that will be used to ensure that all students receive the items they need to be ready for the new year! Please reach out to Robyn Meeks at rmeeks@saviohouse.org or 720-624-9704 if you have any questions!
Fill out the form below to be matched with a student
Name
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First Name
Last Name
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Subject
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Message
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Thank you!
Make A Donation
If you are considering applying to become a foster parent, you may have all sorts of questions. Do I have to be a stay-at-home foster parent? How will I know if I will be a good foster parent? Will any of my own past experiences prevent me from being able to foster?
It is important to recognize that when you make the decision to become a foster parent you are making a commitment to a child to be there for them, however they need, through their entire foster placement.
These are all very important, and ones that Savio works to answer with all potential foster parents during the Home Study process. Savio uses the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (S.A.F.E) Home Study to determine not only if fostering is the right choice for you and your family, but also which foster children would benefit the most from your care.
“A thorough home study should be a critical analysis of families who come forward to foster that provides a truthful view of the families strengths as well as what children they can parent successfully. A well-done home study protects both the children and applicants”
— S.A.F.E Website
When going through the home study process, it is important to answer all the questions truthfully and not just the way that you think our social workers would want you to. For example, you may think that disclosing any personal trauma that you have experienced will prevent you from being able to become a foster parent when it might be what makes you uniquely qualified.
These children don’t need perfect foster parents, they need someone to understand them and be there for them no matter what.
Answering these questions truthfully also protects you as a potential foster parent. A lot of these children have experienced trauma and face many complex issues. If they have been through something that might be triggering for you it could be in your best interest to foster a different child. Being a foster parent is challenging, but it should be a positive experience for you and your family, the home study helps to make sure of that.
Questionnaire:
The first step to the Home Study process is a questionnaire. This will set the tone for what more information the evaluator will need from you as the process moves forward. It will look at how you were raised, how you behaved when you were a teenager, your relationships not just with your partner but also with extended family and the community, and can even go into your mental and physical health. It can seem super invasive, but it all helps to build an understanding of what type of foster parent you could be.
References:
During the information-gathering phase, an evaluator will also ask for references. These should be people close to you who will know how you might react to any situation that could come up as a foster parent. They will send these letters directly to the evaluator without you seeing them, so it can be a little nerve-wracking. Select people who know you well and can speak to what unique qualities you have that will make you a great foster parent.
Interviews:
There will be at least three interviews. If you are a two-parent household there will be four with the final interview done separately. Anyone else living in your home will also need to be interviewed, including children. This just helps us get a full picture of what your family dynamic is like and how that could benefit a child. Each of the interviews will last no more than an hour and a half and must be done seven days apart. They will be done in your own home to make you comfortable and allow you to show your most authentic self.
From here, an evaluator will know what questions they need to ask you when you meet in person. They will dive deeper into each of these questions to truly get an overall sense of how you might respond to different situations that could happen as a foster parent.
● How old were you when you first moved away from your parent(s) or primary caregiver(s) home? What were the circumstances that led you to leave?
● How often do you argue with others?
● How helpful and supportive do you feel members of your extended family are/will be to you as a parent?
● Have you ever been hospitalized or had surgery?
The question about hospitalization or surgery will help tell an evaluator if you can care for a child that might require more physical abilities, such as a child with special needs. Questions about your extended family will show if you have a support network that will be there for you when things are challenging.
Assessing your potential as a foster parent:
Next, an evaluator will generate a structured report of your life. They go into hard and traumatic events, but also the positive and rewarding aspects that will make you a well-rounded supportive foster parent. This is a long report, roughly 30 pages, highlighting your strengths and what will make you a good foster parent. It also shows where you might struggle, this is not meant to be critical but instead to give to prepare you and your future caseworker where you may need to develop your skills a bit.
This report is meant to prepare Savio staff for the final step, determining if you are an appropriate fit for a specific child.
Matching you with a child:
To determine compatibility we will look at your strengths and the child’s needs to make sure that you are able to support them in the best way possible. You might not be the right fit for this child, and that is alright. The goal is to make sure that they have exactly what they need until they are able to be reunited with their family.
This process may seem long, but it is designed that way for a reason. It is important to recognize that when you make the decision to become a foster parent you are making a commitment to a child to be there for them, however they need, through their entire foster placement. A thorough home study helps to prepare you for what that will really mean and make sure that you are ready. By the time the process is complete, you will have all of your questions answered and are well on your way to helping a child by giving them the safe home they need while their family heals.
Interested in becoming a foster parent or being home-studied? Fill out the form below to get started!
Name
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First Name
Last Name
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Phone
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(###)
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Questions/Comments
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Thank you!
“Although LGBTQ youth are estimated to make up 5-7% of the population they represent 13-15% of those involved in the juvenile justice system.”
— The Trevor Project
Antonio’s parents both immigrated from Central America. They were already struggling with the cultural differences that come with raising a child in the United States when Antonio told them that he is gay. Antonio’s father, Nicolas, grew up in a culture that didn’t approve of same-sex relationships and struggled to embrace his son’s identity. Feeling unsupported by his parents, Antonio withdrew and became verbally aggressive. Antonio’s mother was upset about Nicolas’s response, and it strained their marriage creating further problems for the family.
The family started MultiSystemic Therapy (MST) with a bilingual therapist, who understands how cultural differences can impact a family. MST specializes in treating youth who are involved or at-risk of becoming involved in the justice system. According to the Trevor Project, although LGBTQ youth are estimated to make up 5-7% of the population they represent 13-15% of those involved in the juvenile justice system. Like all youth, LGBT youth need a safe and stable place to live; freedom to express themselves; and structure and guidance to support them in becoming responsible, healthy adults.
It took Nicolas a while to buy into the process and feel comfortable to speak about his emotions openly. Antonio and Nicolas went with their therapist to get ice cream when Nicolas announced he had something very important to say. He had come to understand that even though being gay was not accepted where he is from, his son is still the same, good person that he raised.
Nicolas told Antonio that he will love him no matter what. They both fought back tears as they finished their ice cream quietly and then they ended the session joking about who picked the best flavor.Without the correct therapies, Antonio could have become more aggressive and ended up involved in the juvenile justice system. Feeling loved and accepted by his parents will provide him the strength he needs as he grows into a resilient adult.
Savio families are working very hard at the treatments that will lead to long-term stability and success. With the help of their therapists, they can use summer activities as a real-world application of the skills that they have been working on during sessions. The lessons learned from summer camps, sports activities, and part-time jobs will help them build on their strengths and demonstrate to families what they are capable of.
They may feel like they can't join these summer activities. The cost of camps, access to transportation, and lack of a support network can all make it hard. Families have to learn how they can overcome these challenges. This is where Savio staff come in, helping families apply the skills that they have been working on during sessions to set up for a successful summer.
These families deserve to have the opportunity for positive social interactions to help motivate them. It can also be very rewarding for these families to see how this hard work can impact all relationships in their life, including the ones that they gain through summer activities.
Fifty percent of Savio families have an income of less than $30,000. For these families, the cost of many summer activities seems out of reach. Therapists can provide guidance on applying for scholarships to summer camps, ask sports teams about sliding scale payments based on income, or help develop a plan to save money from a summer job. Each of these tools will allow for families to continue to participate in the future and provide them the confidence that they need to know that they can provide opportunities for their children.
Families often have teens that are at the age where getting a summer job can be rewarding, not just for the chance to have some spending money but also for the important lessons that it teaches. Teens benefit from having the support of Savio staff members who are constantly sharing information on potential job opportunities. Therapists can also work with teens to build the tools that are needed at a summer job, including how to deal with conflict, communication, and dedication. Armed with these skills, the teen will be more prepared for when they enter the adult workforce.
Additionally, all of these activities can help youth focus on positive social interactions. Having a set schedule will make it more difficult for them to participate in concerning behavior. While taking the time to set up summer activities may not feel like parents’ first priority, doing can prevent parents from having to take more time out of their already stressful schedule if their child ends up having to run-ins with the law.
Savio families are processing complex issues, such as substance abuse, mental and behavioral health concerns, abuse and neglect. The hard work that they are putting into their relationships can be very heavy and very straining. These families deserve to have the opportunity for positive social interactions to help motivate them. It can also be very rewarding for these families to see how this hard work can impact all relationships in their life, including the ones that they gain through summer activities.
With a solid plan, the right tools, and a little support, Savio families are working to make sure that they not only are working toward long-term stability and success but also having a summer to remember.
Last week, 9News and The Colorado Sun publicized a three-part investigative series on residential treatment in Colorado, prompted by the tragic deaths of two children who ran from local facilities.
Though Savio was not one of the organizations highlighted, Savio was founded as a residential home and the question of how to best care for children and families is central to our mission and journey to offering community-based services.
Discussions on how best to support youth involved in gangs can be difficult as this is a very often misunderstood population. Children seek out gangs for many reasons whether it is intergenerational influences with kids being raised in a culture of violence, trauma from community violence, or a search for connection and stability.
“This is a group of kids being pushed aside based on public perception of their choices. The community needs to realize that it is not exclusively criminality but also linked to poverty and trauma,” said Cheryl Perez, a Program Coordinator with FamilyStrong. It is Cheryl’s job to ensure that Denver’s youth get connected with the individualized services that they need to be successful and prevent future involvement in the juvenile justice system.
Your donation to Savio to support children and families can qualify for your Colorado’s Enterprise Zone Tax Credit. This benefit provides a 25% tax credit to monetary donations of $250 or more.
Family therapy can help when parents and teenagers are struggling with unwanted behaviors. Problems can look different in every child and family. It could be the child is not listening to their parents and having trouble in school. Or the teen could be using drugs and alcohol, acting aggressively, or getting arrested. These behaviors involve and affect the entire family, so it is best to use a family-centered approach to help.
But for Jeremiah, who had grown up without family support, even this small sense of belonging gave him a glimpse that there was more to life than what he’d known. And this emotion overshadowed the fact that he was about to return to the detention facility.
You can help children experience the joy of the holidays by providing gifts through Savio’s adopt-a-family holiday program.
“Just leave me alone, Mom! You don’t understand and you’ll never understand because you’re not even trying!” Rosa shouted for what seemed like the tenth time this week. She felt a pain in her heart every time she shouted but she also felt like her mother couldn’t begin to comprehend what it is like to be a teenager, in Denver, with a boyfriend and the social, educational, and mental pressures all around her.
And she was right, her mom, Maria didn’t understand. When she was growing up in Mexico, parents and elders were revered, respected and you wouldn’t think of talking back, let alone shouting. The conflict between Maria and her daughter was intense most days - but she brought Maria and her two siblings here, to make a better life for them, and with that came the adoption of the American culture. Maria and Rosa had to find a way to communicate and bridge the gaps between the cultures they grew up in.
It was a Tuesday afternoon in May when Maria received the phone call from her daughter’s school that Rosa had been found off school campus, with three other children including her boyfriend, drinking. Appalled and shocked do not begin to explain Maria’s emotions. I was brought in as part of the Savio team to help this family through not just this specific situation of truancy and underage drinking, but to get to the heart of what was pushing Rosa’s behavior.
One of our core values at Savio is to treat children and their families together in the comfort of their own home in order to understand their physical environment and to strengthen the family and the communication between them. With Maria and Rosa the challenge was to bridge the cultures of these two worlds together and help Maria understand Rosa and vice versa. I work on a team with all-Spanish speaking therapists that specialize in these types of cases which allows us to work more effectively with our families from the very first visit.
Specifically, we utilized our well-proven program of Multi-Systemic Therapy, or MST, with this family. Sounds complicated? It is, but at the same time it isn’t - we look at multiple (multi) parts (systemic) of the family’s life - usually the family, school, peers, neighborhood - to provide treatment that addresses all aspects of the individual and the family. None of us live and work in a vacuum - we live and interact in our family, at school or work, in our neighborhood, in our city, and so on.
The area of focus with Maria and Rosa was primarily on communication. With Rosa this meant sharing with her mom her feelings about challenges with school, friends, and a boyfriend and how it is different from what she experienced growing up in Mexico. For Maria it was helping her to understand that Rosa can have, hold and honor Mexican cultural values but they need to be merged with her American lifestyle.
In talking with both of them, we all agreed their mutual love of cooking, a significant part of Mexican culture, was a perfect place to start. They worked together to pick recipes and meals and used that time together, to talk about their daily lives, their feelings, and their challenges. This did not happen or change overnight by any means. I visited with Maria, Rosa, and the other siblings in their home, three times a week for four months. Bringing people together and learning to communicate effectively takes time and practice. Just like any other skill, you have to work at it.
Maria wanted to be able to listen and understand Rosa and her life and struggles without judging and criticizing her. And Rosa needed help with how she communicated with her mother. She had to not only share her particular situation but also how it “is” in America for teens - a different world from her teen years. We worked together so Maria could get to know and trust some of Rosa’s friends’ parents so she had other adults she could count on to watch out for Rosa. Perhaps the biggest challenge for Maria was Rosa’s boyfriend. I told Maria she didn’t necessarily have to like that Rosa had a boyfriend (she felt she was too young) but she had to respect the different ways in today’s society compared, again to how she was raised. Boys did not come to the house when she was young.
This wasn’t easy for either of them. But over the next four months we were able to not just get Maria and Rosa to a place of communicating but to trust. Maria educated herself on issues she was concerned about for Rosa (like pregnancy and STDs). Instead of Maria shutting down the relationship with the boy, she grew to trust Rosa and her ability to make more mature and sound decisions for herself. In the end, Maria was seeing and appreciating Rosa’s maturity as a personal strength and grew to trust that Rosa would be responsible in her actions. This was a great achievement for both of them as they had both been afraid to discuss these things.
Ultimately my role was to help Maria with her confidence in her existing skills as a mother but to have a box of tools she could pull from to help her when needed, which included communicating but also included discipline, which was still needed. Additionally, Maria wanted to be and needed to be someone that Rosa could trust.
While my weekly visits to this family have concluded, they have and know they can reach out to me, as needed for tips and help along the way. The journey of the relationship between parents and children is always evolving - and we are always here to help.
Olivia RossMST Therapist
My heart hurt for this family - knowing how terrifying it must have been for those children to be victims of sexual abuse at such a young age – and seeing how it made even a mundane trip to the grocery store impossible.
While it was an awkward transition, welcoming 2 elementary aged kids into our home, we quickly came to realize that what foster kids wanted were the exact same things that we wanted.
Four sisters ages 9-16, chronic homelessness, mental and physical abuse, and a mom struggling with drug addiction. They moved in with their Aunt and Uncle who were also trapped in addiction and abusive behaviors. Is this possibly a real story? Happening here in Denver? It is real and these brave young girls are fighting their way back from a situation they didn’t choose - that no one would choose or want.
Rebecca, Savio’s Child Placement Agency coordinator, picked up this case from a county director who had called her to beg that she take this on the challenge of these girls. The county knew Savio, namely Rebecca and her team, were the only ones who could give these girls what they needed. Even after years of seeing so many seemingly unreal stories, even for Rebecca, this was an incredibly sad situation. These sisters needed an immediate foster home. Their mother had long struggled with drug addiction and the family barely survived it. They alternated between living on the streets, with relatives, and motel rooms. Their mother tried to get sober but wasn’t able to maintain it for long. The only thing that remained constant in these girl’s lives was the continual mental and physical abuse, as well as insecurity over housing and when they’d get their next meal.
Rebecca’s mind started racing about how to help these girls. She knew they couldn’t take any more loss and needed to stay together. These girls had nothing – except each other. That bond needed to be maintained to avoid more heartbreak for these girls. With over 10 years of experience, Rebecca was all-to-familiar with the shortage of foster homes that would accept siblings. It is hard to find a family to take two siblings into their home, let alone four girls, whose traumatic past had led to mental health concerns. She scanned the information from the county director and read the section of “known mental health problems.” She read that all four girls were experiencing “night terrors” and gulped. She could feel the passion for her job stirring inside of her. She couldn’t help but think of her own daughter who was the same age as Alicia, the third oldest of the four girls.
Happily, the Smith family, who has a long history as an outstanding foster family with Savio, was happy to have the girls in their home. With their chronic homelessness now resolved, it was time for the girls to get to work. Rebecca and the home’s case manager helped coordinate the enormous task of supporting the foster family while they began guiding this family of sisters on their journey of recovery. With the Smiths providing a consistent, loving, supportive, and safe environment, the girls are working hard to triumph over their PTSD symptoms - including the night terrors and vivid hallucinations about being back in unsafe situations.
Since being placed in the Smith’s home, the girls are starting to trust and experience true stability. The home, with the support of Rebecca and the rest of the girl’s treatment team, is encouraging them to find their own voice and who they are as individuals rather than just being part of "the sisters." While they desperately needed each other during the years of trauma, part of the recovery process is bringing out their individuality. Additionally, the girls have regular daily schedules, clear expectations, participation in extracurricular activities (Girl Scouts and dance classes), support around academics, access to healthy snacks when they want them, and 3 meals a day. Everything that may seem like human rights we should all have, and that studies show are critical to healthy physical and mental growth. They also have two incredible foster parents that have consistently shown the girls that they are loved, wanted, and supported, even when they’re having bad days.
Their parents’ rights have been fully terminated, and the foster home is planning on adopting the four girls as soon as it's therapeutically appropriate. No matter what a child goes through, having consistency, support and love in a safe environment can help them find the capability to work through their past hurts and work toward a bright future.
Special thanks to Rebecca Carpenter, Child Placement Agency Coordinator, and her team, for their incredible work with these girls, and the Smith Family for opening their homes and hearts to four girls who needed a forever family.
Interested in changing the lives of young people by becoming a foster parent? Contact us here for more information.
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Sharon and Alison’s StoryA daughter, a loving mother - a seemingly “healthy” family who were moving through day-to-day life at school and work, like most of us. But what we see on the surface is not always the reality. Instead this was a mom struggling with addiction and a daughter emotionally detaching. Sharon didn’t intend to or envision herself or her life as one with “addiction” in it - that happened to other people. But not anymore. Now it was her reality.
Sharon doesn't recall at what point she went from a “casual drinker” to someone with an alcohol addiction. Things in her life had changed over the past several years. She was a single mom and her “little girl” was growing into a teenager and building her own life with her friends, sports, and growing closer with her maternal Grandmother all while she was “losing” her mom to alcohol.
There was so much baggage in Sharon’s past, trauma in her childhood that had never been addressed, and she was now burying her pain in alcohol and inadvertently pushing her daughter further away. Alison was now living with her Grandmother and they were both in dismay at Sharon’s drinking and both of them constantly asking, “why don’t you stop,” “don’t you care about anyone else?” Broken, Sharon didn’t know the answer to those questions or how to stop. And she felt like she deserved their words - she felt ashamed and defeated. But all she really wanted was to be healthy, free of her own pain, and have her daughter back in her life.
There is no greater pleasure as a therapist, than to facilitate a moment that changes everything between people struggling. This moment happened about a month into our therapy sessions. We were talking in the grandmother’s living room when I asked Alison to talk about her feelings instead of her talking at her mom with blame and anger. As she talked about her feelings, she fell to the floor crying, sharing how she felt so angry and confused over the years.
It was then that Sharon felt she could do the same - she talked about her own pain, her childhood trauma and then, in that moment - Alison and her Grandmother “got it.” Fearful in the past to share her feelings, to not make things worse for her mom, Alison was instead part of the problem of blame and judgment and not understanding addiction. Everyone had the right intentions, but they had been fighting the wrong battle. When we shifted the focus away from blame and anger by Alison and her Grandmother, and helped Sharon begin to let go of her guilt and shame, it all changed.
Addiction, trauma, and recovery. Getting sober is only one step, and Sharon was doing everything she could to feel safe and stable, while her daughter was reeling from years of feeling dismissed, confused and angry. It’s been almost a year since we worked with this family and they are now back together and looking forward. Alison is back home with her mom and stepdad, creating new loving memories together. Sharon and Alison both continued with individual therapy sessions to keep communication positive and to continue to heal. This story ended with a young girl, who learned to talk about her feelings sometimes, and a mom who learned to forgive herself, most times, and a relationship that was rebuilt with some grace and understanding
This is one of thousands of examples of families that we help, every day at Savio. Feel a connection to this story? Or would you just like to help us continue our work? Click the donate button below. Thank you for reading my story. I love my job and feel blessed to be able to carry their story in my memories and my heart.
Pema White, LPC, CAC III
Family Functional Therapist, Lead Therapist
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The Story of A Mutual Care Home Lids slowly turned the dial on the dishwasher, while Elizabeth explained why different water temperatures and cycles were necessary when doing the dishes. They talked about how much detergent to use and why and when you use “spot free rinse”. “All dirty dishes are not created equal,” Elizabeth said as they both enjoyed a nervous laugh. For the first time, Lisa was learning a fairly simple task, something a lot of kids learn at a far younger age. And certainly long before they are a parent themselves. But Lisa is not like a lot of kids.
In many respects, Lisa has been a parent her whole life. From the time she was very young, she had been taking care of her younger siblings. Her home life was chaotic on the best of days and some days she lived a life that would be unimaginable for most. Her parents struggled with substance abuse and there were frequent arrests and regular domestic violence in the home. To say her childhood and home life was unstable, would be an understatement.
Homeless and pregnant at 17 years old. This is not a movie or a fiction book. This is the story of Lisa finding her way through life, soon to be a parent, and without any support around her. High school had been difficult for her; feeling like she didn’t fit in she dropped out and with a baby on the way she knew she had to do something to make sure that her baby didn’t end up “in the system” - because of her. She spent most of her childhood feeling scared, not able to count on her parents, and wondering what the future would hold. Lisa was determined to make sure that wasn’t the case for her baby.
Fortunately, Lisa recognized she needed help and reached out to Denver Human Services while at the homeless shelter. Elizabeth, a Savio foster parent, and her family welcomed Lisa and her baby, Kelly, in their home. Elizabeth knew that Lisa would need to learn many necessary skills for independent living. This was not just about doing the dishes - this was learning to find an apartment, pay your rent and bills, and also give your baby the love and attention she needed. Over the next year, Elizabeth guided Lisa through all of the critical skills needed to one day take the leap out on her own.
Patience is key. Teaching a teenager like Lisa how to run a dishwasher might seem like a small task to us but to Lisa, it meant so much more. Lisa’s family was not equipped to properly care for themselves and their children let alone, teach her life skills. She’d spent her childhood learning to be an adult on her own - the patient help from Elizabeth meant everything to her.
Lisa wanted to be a good parent but was afraid to ask for help - but when she finally did - her whole world opened up. Elizabeth and her family gave Lisa a chance to live a "normal", stable life as well. She was surrounded by secure caregivers who wanted nothing but success for her and her baby. That feeling of love, security, and support is something most people have on a daily basis and naturally take for granted because it’s always there. And for the first time, Lisa was feeling that too.
Today, Lisa’s former life is nothing but a stepping stone to where she is now. She and her baby moved into their own apartment recently. She is working on GED, has a job, and has successfully secured childcare for Kelly. Elizabeth was able to help this woman with a strong, independent personality, bring that to the front to set the stage for a new path for her family.
Lindsay Emerson
Case Manager and Family Therapist
Savio Foster Care
We often see situations like that of Lisa and Kelly: a teenage mother and her baby in need of a supportive home. Are you able to provide a safe home for a small, young family?
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May is Foster Care Awareness Month! Here are five things to know about foster care and how you can help!
1: Who is it for?The foster care system is designed to provide a safe, temporary residence for children who have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or other factors in their family of origin that place them at high risk of harm.
2: How does it work?When a child enters foster care, they are immediately placed with a licensed foster family, a biological relative, or a group care facility. Most often, this transition is quick and unexpected by the child.
Foster care is best used as a temporary way of supporting children and their families. Each child is assigned to a specific social worker who creates a permanency goal and a reunification plan, working with the court and the birth family if possible to establish a safe living environment. If the situation does not permit reunification with the birth family, the social worker sets up a plan of long-term fostering with the hope of adoption.
3: Why is it needed?In the United States, there are roughly 400,000 children in foster care at any given time. When the state is able to provide the children with a safe family unit through a loving foster care placement, the children are given the space to find healing in the nurture and safety of a family. Without great foster families, law enforcement officials, social workers, and volunteers, the outcome for children in foster care would be fearfully uncertain. A safe haven is an incredibly important resource to children as their reunification and/or a permanency plan is created.
4 Who are the children in Foster Care?Foster children represent the diversity of Colorado and include all ages, every race and ethnicity, and ability levels. Some have special developmental, medical and emotional needs. They often have siblings and want to stay united with them.
Foster children are in every community in Colorado. They are living in your neighborhood and attending your child’s school.
Every foster child needs stability and the same love and nurturing that all young people need.
5: How can you help?Become a foster parent, provide respite care, or donate!
The greatest need is for qualified families to become licensed foster families. There are between 500-100 foster families needed to provide a foster home for every child that needs one in Colorado. You can change the life of a child and the trajectory of a family by becoming a foster parent!
You can also help by providing respite care. Families providing respite care need to be licensed. Contact us below if you’re interested in supporting foster families and children in this way!
Not able to have a child in your home? Please donate to help us provide the support to foster families that need to provide a safe and stable home for children!
Interested in becoming a Foster Parent?
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Interested in becoming a foster parent but wondering about the cost of fostering? Here’s the information you need!
Do Foster Parents Get Paid in Colorado? The cost of caring for a child can cause potential foster parents to hesitate. Fortunately, the foster parents are provided a stipend from the State of Colorado to help support the basic needs of the child including food, clothing, and childcare.
The state calculates this monthly stipend based on the needs of the child. As of July 2021, Children in Savio’s foster program typically come with a tax-free stipend of $1,200-$2,300 per month. This stipend is intended to support the needs of a child.
Fostering is not intended to be a career. You do not need to be rich or own home, but families need to have another source of household income to be able to support their own needs.
What About Health Insurance?Colorado provides every child in foster care with Medicaid. This state insurance covers medical, dental care, and any behavioral health care that the child needs.
Foster parents are generally responsible for transporting foster children to medical appointments and court hearings. Savio generally provides therapy in the foster home for children who are receiving services.
Are there any Other Financial Supports Available?School-aged children receive free school lunch. Most school fees, such as athletic fees, are waived as well. There are also a number of programs in Colorado that can connect you with free or inexpensive items that you need to support the child. Foster youth are eligible for special grants and scholarships as well.
Savio will help connect you before you have a child and throughout the placement, so you are familiar with resources available.
What Expenses Should I Consider?The safe home study will help you identify what you need before being able to accept a placement. This may include a bed and a mattress, car seats, medical supplies, diapers, infant formula, baby bottles, and other essential items. Foster children often come with few belongings. You may need to provide age-appropriate toys and clothing to care for the child.
Does it cost anything to become a foster parent? All foster parents receive pre-certification trainings to enhance your ability to care for children with a wide range of backgrounds and needs. At Savio, we provide these trainings free of cost.
Certification also requires a background check. Savio does not pass this fee on to families either.
Is there a cost to adopt a child from foster care? At Savio, we believe – and research proves – that reunifying families whenever possible creates the best outcomes for children and caregiver alike. We promote reunification whenever possible.
There are times when children are not able to be reunited safely with their parents, and foster parents are interested in adopting the child. In these cases, Savio is happy to connect the foster parent(s) and child to an agency that can facilitate adoption.
Costs for adopting a foster child vary based on the situation, but financial support is often available. Typically, adoption through foster care is far less expensive than adopting through a privacy agency.
More questions? Fill out the form below and we will be happy to talk with you!
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Does fostering children really matter? Here’s three stories about foster parents who helped children when they need it most.
Families often think about fostering for months or years before starting the certification process. Many fears and questions that prevent people from providing a safe home for children in need can be answered quickly.
Here are some of the most common questions we receive - as well as some of the questions families are afraid to ask!
Remember, you are always welcome to contact us to ask your questions specifically. Every situation is different! We also encourage you to get started - there is no better way for both you and Savio to determine if foster care is right for you and your family than beginning the certification process.
The first time you mentioned to a friend or family member that you were interested in becoming a foster parent, you may have met a long list of reasons not to do it. These concerns can be valid - nearly half of foster parents nationwide quit in the first year.
Your hope is that these situations never happen for you, but it is important to consider the risks involved and why some of these challenges exist. At Savio, we go the extra mile to make sure your experience is what you hope it will be.
Here are the top 3 reasons foster parents quit, and how we can prepare you and your family to be successful:
1 - They underestimate the impact of the child’s trauma:Few people would disagree that a child’s parents are the most important people in the world to them. Consider what happens when they lose that - losing a parent is the most traumatic event a child can experience. This experience, no matter how traumatizing the home may have been, will interfere with a child’s normal development and functioning.
Children cope and react to their trauma in different ways - some healthy and some unhealthy. Often, this includes behaviors that may seem too young for their chronological age, even if they are developmentally on track in every other way.
Our foster parents tell us that it is best to adjust your expectations about how that child should behave and start your parenting from a place of working to understand how to meet the children where they are. The good news is that, like any child, foster children are not bad kids by nature - and trauma can be addressed through treatment and support in a safe environment. To make sure that you’re as prepared as you can be to support the youth placed in your home, Savio provides free trainings that will help you gain the skills to parent in these situations.
2- They don’t have the support they needWe are regularly contacted by foster parents who have previous foster experience outside of Savio. One thing that we hear consistently is that in their previous experience, there were times where they felt like they were fostering alone.
At Savio, we never want you to feel like you are alone, and this is the driving cause behind Savio providing extensive support for foster parents and youth. This includes:
- 24-hour support line, giving foster families access to our deeply experienced staff at any time it’s needed
- Free pre-certification trainings for future foster parents
- A continuum of care under the Savio umbrella to keep treatment under the same agency when possible
- Online and in-person foster family support groups
3 - Confusion about the role of foster parents.Foster care is designed to be a short-term solution, as Savio recognizes the research that shows that when possible, the best place for any child is to be at home with their family as soon as it is deemed a safe and healthy environment. While they are in foster care, children need love, stability, and safety while also having support in their love for their family of origin and care and understanding that the process of returning to them can involve a rollercoaster of emotions.
This is a crucial role in helping the child and their family reunite. Our foster care families create space in their homes and their lives for these children, who benefit greatly from consistency, caring, patience and support of both the youth themselves, but also of the parents to an extent in the foster family’s communication with the biological parents. The impact on both the youth and the family can be profound. This important role is valued and foster parents need to be viewed as important partners.
Unfortunately, too often foster parents feel left out of informing important decisions that are being made about the child. Savio recognizes this important role, and not only strives to build strong relationships with each of its foster families but also strives to ensure that you always have a seat at the table.
Interested in becoming a foster parent with Savio? Fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch.
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In episode 2, Gabby’s foster mother Dianne shares her journey fostering teenage girls. Dianne talks about the successes and challenges during her five years providing a home for teenage girls through Savio’s Treatment Foster Care of Oregon program.
In our first episode, Gabby reflects on her childhood, after spending most of her life in foster care. Joined by her foster mom Dianne, the two provide an intimate look at the life of a foster family.
“This is starting to feel different”, Marcus thought to himself as he sat on his living room floor, his mom in her wheelchair to his left, and Melissa, his Savio therapist sitting with him on the floor to his right.
It wasn’t the feeling of the hardwood floor beneath him that felt different. He had gotten used to that – his family didn’t have a couch, or a kitchen table to sit at. His family was recently homeless and there hadn’t been any furniture in his family’s apartment since they moved.
Norma Aguilar-Dave, Savio’s Executive Director, was sitting in her office on a typical Friday afternoon when she received a phone call from a colleague at a local mental health center.
“I’m hoping you can help a fourteen-year-old boy in a bad situation,” the woman began. The caller sounded exasperated, which told Norma this was a severe situation.
It was the Monday morning after the long Thanksgiving weekend, and Britton was just easing back into the work week. Her phone rang, and she glanced at her caller ID and saw it was her client Kristi reaching out unexpectedly. Britton had been working with Kristi since March as part of a voluntary program for parents and children who become involved with Jefferson County as the result of child maltreatment related to a parent’s use of drugs or alcohol.