Chosen Families

What’s this program about?

Chosen Families is a unique, multi-faceted support program for adoptive families. The program goal is to provide the counseling, education, and support needed for parents and children to develop and sustain safe, secure, and nurturing relationships for families formed from adoption.

How will it benefit my family?

You and/or your child will receive services from a comprehensive team working to assist your family. These intensive services, including counseling, parenting support, respite and advocacy, focus on helping you to not only preserve your child’s adoption, but to establish and strengthen the bonds between you and your child. These services are not limited just to your adopted children; any of your children living in your home are eligible to participate.

What makes us unique?

Each member of the Chosen Families team is certified adoption competent. We understand the unique experiences your family may face. Our team combines the expertise of 3 local agencies: Family Enrichment Services provide counseling and Parenting Matters provides parenting support, educational advocacy, respite care and family service coordination. In addition, we offer support groups and an 8-week program, Charting The Course.

How much does it cost?

Fees range from $10- $30. Fees can be reduced or waived on an individual basis. No insurance is required. Our goal is to serve all families, regardless of income.

Who can participate?

Manatee County residents who have a finalized adoption for children between birth and 17 years old qualify for our program. This program is for families formed from all types of adoption (domestic, private, child welfare, international, step-parents, and relatives).

How does it work?

Parents typically begin with the plan to meet for 24 weekly, hour-long sessions. After a period of time, some parents and their parenting educator may decide that less frequency of visits works better for them. Toward the end of the program, visits may be as infrequent as monthly. Some parents need more than 24 visits to learn all they desire, some less.

This program is individually tailored to each family, not only for frequency, but for location of meetings and parenting topics discussed. Some visits are in parks or local libraries to broaden parents’ knowledge base of activities kids like to do that foster bonding (play) and literacy.

How can I get started?

Our Family Service Coordinator will meet with you to understand your needs and help you access desired services. Your family can participate in all of our services or just one. We can also work in cooperation with other agencies your family may be involved with. Our goal is for your family to receive the services you want and need. To get started email programs@parentingmattersfl.org or call 941-756-3007

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