February 2025 Issue 83

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. It presents the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and reflect on the strides that Black/African-Americans have made and to connect the children in your care with their culture.

As most foster caregivers are aware, Arizona has more children in DCS out-of-home care than it has foster homes, even though the number of children in out-of-home care continues to decrease. The number of licensed foster caregivers has been trending down for the last several years, and the shortage has now reached a critical level. As of November 2024, there are 7,870 children in DCS out-of-home care with 75% of those children residing in a family setting, which includes both licensed foster and unlicensed kinship homes. Although some of the remaining 25% of children in out-of-home care are in alternative settings, that leaves approximately 1,500 youth in congregate care (standard group homes, shelter, and QRTP settings).

Within the population of children in DCS out-of-home care, there is disparity in the racial make-up of this population. Although Black/African-American children are only 5% of Arizona’s population, they make up 20% of our out-of-home care population. The Department's goal is to safely reduce the disparity ratio of Black/African-American to White from 4 to 3.8 (of every 1000) by August 2029.

In order to meet the overall objective of reducing the disproportionality of Black/African-American children in out-of-home care, DCS needs the support of our community. Here’s how the foster care community can help:

1. Encourage family, friends, coworkers, other community members to become foster caregivers. Approximately 20% of children in out-of-home care are in congregate care settings, which means that we need more family homes. Caregivers do not need to be married. There is not an income threshold, nor do prospective caregivers have to own their home. They can learn more via the DCS website.

While the foster community needs safe, caring homes and will welcome families of all backgrounds, a vital part of meeting a child’s needs is ensuring that their culture is maintained as much as possible. Children that live with families that share their racial, ethnic, and cultural background can help minimize their trauma. Black/African-American children represent 20% (1,587) of our out-of-home population, however less than 17% (331) of our licensed foster homes have at least one caregiver that identifies as Black/African-American.

2. If you are a licensed foster caregiver, consider adjusting your placement preferences. Of the 1,500 children currently in congregate care, the majority are teenagers, with approximately 25% being Black/African-American children. We all know that adolescence can be challenging for any youth. Taking on the unique needs of teenagers who have experienced the trauma of abuse and neglect, as well as navigating the foster care system, can be daunting.

Teenagers often just need someone in their corner, someone to meet them where they are and support them into adulthood. Adolescents in out-of-home care are as valuable and lovable as any other teenager; they need someone who is willing to take a chance on them. Please consider opening up your age range and making the conscious decision to foster teens. Reach out to your licensing worker, as there are often open referrals for teens to move out of group homes into family homes, but if there is no immediate availability, the referral eventually expires without being fulfilled. Your licensing worker will reach out to the DCS Placement Administration on your behalf. If you need assistance facilitating this communication, email Warmline@azdcs.gov.

3. Additionally, if you are currently a licensed foster caregiver, support family connections. Statistically, Black/African-American children are less likely to be placed initially with kinship caregivers. When possible and appropriate, advocate for family members that come forward, whether they are interested in becoming a caregiver for the child or just want to be involved in the child’s life. Family connections are vital, particularly when a child is placed with a caregiver who does not share their cultural background. Encourage and facilitate contact as much as possible. Share information, ask questions, and support these natural connections.

4. There are plenty of other ways to support youth in out-of-home care if you are not able to open your home to them. Reach out to your local school. The school or district social worker will be familiar with the group homes in the area and can connect you with the group home manager. Perhaps you can plan and sponsor activities in the community for the youth or assist them with home cooked meals. If you would prefer to connect one-on-one, Arizonans for Children has a mentorship program and can pair you with a child in out-of-home care. If you are a member of a community organization such as a church or club or even your business or employer, you can organize activities for the children or arrange a drive for clothing, toys, etc. Each quarter, DCS hosts a Children’s Heart Gallery event where children who are available for adoption gather for a photo shoot and interview to be posted on the website to share with families interested in adoption. Volunteers are always appreciated, and you can email Volunteer@azdcs.gov for more information on these events or becoming involved in other ways.

There are several ways to connect the children in your care to their culture or teach them about a different culture. Use Reasonable and Prudent Parenting Standards to determine what is age-/developmentally-appropriate for the children in your care.

• Read an educational book with them. There is a plethora of books that have been written for the sake of educating children about Black/African-American history and culture.
• Watch a movie with them. Film is a medium that can help introduce children to complex topics that are best experienced in a visual manner.
• Check out the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The Smithsonian recently launched the Searchable Museum, which has digitized the museum’s historical narratives, collections, and educational resources. NMAAHC also offers free online educational events on topics such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., The Black Panthers, African-Americans in World War II, and so much more.
• If you’re in the Phoenix area, the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center is worth a visit. It is a national historic site dedicated to the collection, documentation, preservation, study, and dissemination of the history and culture of African-Americans in Arizona. Just be sure to schedule your tour in advance!

There are also events throughout the state that everyone is welcome to attend to learn about and celebrate Black/African-American culture:

• Phoenix: Black History Month: Influential Figures Throughout History - 9am-4pm, daily through February. Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. 7th Street, Phoenix. Admission prices vary. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org - Visit Star Bar on the 2nd floor to read and learn more about prominent African/Black individuals and their contributions, both past and present, in celebration of Black History Month!
• Phoenix-Tucson: A Taste of Melanin - Feb. 1-22. Locations across Phoenix and Tucson. atasteofmelanin.org. - The second annual A Taste of Melanin is a month of events celebrating Black contributions to art, music, history and wellness. Events include Miles and Melanin, celebrating health, fitness and community with BLK AZ RUN CLUB; a silent disco to explore Black culture’s impact on music and protest songs; and a hip-hop karaoke exploring the intersection of spoken word, poetry and hip-hop.
• Tucson: Merchant & Mission-Focused Marketplace - 5-7 pm, Feb. 5. The Dunbar, 325 W. Second St, Tucson. Free. abctucsonaz.org - The event will feature more than 30 vendors, community service providers, and local agencies that serve the community. Poems will be read to kids and JujuBey International African Dance Ensemble will perform.
• Chandler: Music - The Legendary Black Love Language - 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. Check website for pricing. chandleraz.gov. - Celebrate love, music and community with South Chandler Self-Help's special Valentine's Day event honoring Black History Month. Enjoy live music, dance showcases and treats in a celebration of Black culture, history and love.
• Phoenix: Black History Community Event - 11am-2pm, Feb. 15. Verde Park Recreation Center, 916 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix. Free. phxsoul.com - Learn about the past, shape the future, and learn about where you come from. Please join us at our Black History Month Community event, where you can enjoy football, basketball, track and field, vendors, free snacks, and purchase some Southern BBQ from Sweet Magnolia Smokehouse.
• Phoenix: Celebrate Hip Hop at the Musical Instrument Museum - 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15-16. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. Included with museum admission of $10-$20 (free for age 3 and younger). mim.org. - Dive into the roots of hip-hop during a weekend of workshops, live performances and other activities at the Musical Instrument Museum. This event explores the artistry and culture of hip-hop through DJ showcases, breakdancing battles and more.
• Phoenix: Can I Kick It? - Saturday, Feb. 22. Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. dtphx.org. - This outdoor experience includes a screening of the classic movie "Men in Black" scored live by DJ duo Shaolin Jazz. There also will be shopping at the Buy Black Marketplace by Archwood Exchange and a fashion show hosted by the Garment League. Bring a blanket and enjoy a night that blends film, music and fashion in the heart of downtown.
• Tempe: Golden Collab Block Party - 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. SRP PERA Club, 1 E. Continental Drive, Tempe. Free. phxsoul.com. - Celebrate community, culture and connection at the third annual Golden Collab: Mind, Body and Soul Block Party. This free, family-friendly event is hosted by the SRP African American Cultural Committee and will have local vendors, live music and food and drinks. Proceeds benefit APEX Fresh Start Living, a south Phoenix nonprofit that supports individuals overcoming challenges related to sobriety and substance abuse.
• Scottsdale: I, Too, Sing America Film Festival - Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 22-23. Scottsdale Baha’i Faith Community Center, 6910 E. Shea Blvd. Free. scottsdalebahai.org. - The I, Too, Sing America Film Festival brings people together to explore the African American experience through cinema. Hosted by the Baha’is of Scottsdale in partnership with the NAACP-Maricopa Branch, this event builds on a decade of work promoting human rights, interfaith understanding and racial unity. Through films and meaningful conversations, the festival aims to foster connections across different perspectives while working toward a racially just and unified community.
• Phoenix: Black History Month Soul Food Competition - 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. 4401 N. 16th St., Phoenix. Cost to enter is $20-$25 per dish. eventbrite.com. - The Black History Month Soul Food Competition invites food enthusiasts and culinary masters alike to enjoy and showcase traditional and modern soul food recipes. Hosted by Crowned Lioness Social Club, this event promises an afternoon filled with delicious dishes. The competition will be split into categories such as meats, side dishes, cakes and pies and best chili.
• Chandler: Family Fun Night Black History Month Celebration - 5-6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Basha Library, Basha Barn, 5990 S. Val Vista Drive, Chandler. Free. chandleraz.gov. - Bring the family to celebrate Black History Month with storytime, songs and a craft. This program promotes literacy skills through storytelling, singing, talking, writing and playing — fun for all ages.
• Phoenix: Centered. at Desert Botanical Garden - 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. $14.95-$34.95. dbg.org. - Desert Botanical Garden will host Centered., an event honoring the legacy and impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Organized by Centered.PHX, this event will feature personal stories from HBCU alumni and students, celebrating their resilience, growth and pride in shaping Black history and culture.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed annually on February 11th, is a celebration of the achievements of women in science and a call to action for greater gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Women have made remarkable contributions to science throughout history, yet they remain underrepresented in STEM professions. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to challenge stereotypes, break gender biases, and inspire girls to pursue careers in science-related fields. By encouraging diversity in STEM, we unlock new perspectives and innovative solutions to global challenges.

As we commemorate this day, it's crucial to encourage and inspire the next generation of female scientists. Parents play a pivotal role in fostering their daughters' interest in STEM activities.

• Provide Positive Role Models: Introduce your daughters to successful women in STEM. Share stories of renowned scientists, engineers, and technologists to inspire them and showcase the diverse opportunities available in these fields.
• Expose Them to STEM Experiences: Attend science museums, workshops, and STEM events. These experiences expose children to the excitement of science and provide them with real-world examples of STEM applications.
• Support Their Interests: Identify your daughter's specific STEM interests and support them. Whether it's astronomy, coding, biology, or engineering, nurturing their passions will help build confidence and enthusiasm.
• Connect with Female Mentors: Seek out mentorship opportunities with women working in STEM. Connecting with role models can provide valuable insights, guidance, and encouragement for aspiring young scientists.
• Foster Curiosity: Encourage curiosity by engaging in hands-on STEM activities. Create a learning environment that allows experimentation and exploration, sparking an interest in scientific concepts from an early age.
• Coding and Programming: Introduce basic coding concepts through games and interactive platforms. Websites like Code.org offer engaging resources for children to learn programming skills.
• Robotics and Engineering Kits: Invest in age-appropriate robotics or engineering kits. These hands-on activities allow children to build, design, and problem-solve while learning fundamental STEM principles.
• Nature Exploration: Take nature walks and explore the environment. Use the opportunity to discuss biology, ecosystems, and environmental science, fostering a connection to the natural world.
• STEM Books, Movies, and Documentaries: Read STEM-themed books and watch movies and documentaries together. Choose materials that showcase diverse perspectives and highlight the achievements of women in science.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as a reminder that every girl has the potential to contribute significantly to the world of STEM. By actively supporting and encouraging their daughters' interest in science, parents can play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive and diverse future for women in STEM fields. Through engaging activities and positive reinforcement, we can empower the next generation of female scientists and innovators.

Funding for classes/lessons, clubs/groups, camps, or certain park/event admission (aquarium, museums, etc.), may be available through Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation.

Arizonans for Children Free Foster Festival

SWAPPOW Professional Development Series

Foster Cooperative Training

The Mayfly Project

Prescott-Area Foster Families: FREE Monthly Events

Sponsored by The League of Extraordinary Grandparents, volunteer grandparents will guide children in making crafts, painting, storytelling, games and more!

• WHO CAN ATTEND: Children in foster care, ages 4 – 10. Bio siblings may also attend, as long as they are between ages 4 – 10. All children must be registered in advance.
• WHEN: Every 3rd Saturday of the month in 2025 – February 15, March 15, April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, December 20.
• LOCATION: Prescott Valley (details will be provided upon registration)
• TIME: 9 AM – 12 PM
• SNACKS: Snacks and drinks are provided.

Helen's Hope Chest

Parenting Classes

Adoption Tax Credit

Tax season is coming up quickly. Be prepared and knowledgeable regarding how foster care and adoption affect your tax preparation. Note: DCS employees are NOT tax professionals and CANNOT answer tax questions. Your assigned Specialist can provide you with the SSN of the children in your care or a letter stating placement dates if an audit occurs. Consult a tax professional for further questions.

• IRS Topic 607: Adoption Credit
• IRS Publication 4694: Raising Grandchildren
• IRS Qualifying Child Rules
• 1040.com Foster Parent Tax Guide

FAS/KSS Provider & Foster/Kinship Caregiver High Five Nomination Form

OLR Supports is focused on the fostering community in the areas of recruitment, retention, and recognition. We believe that it is important to promote an engaged and inspired fostering culture.

We appreciate the fostering community’s dedication to the children and families that are in DCS care, and we want to hear all of the good works so that we can give recognition and thanks for the impact you have on this community every day.

Please complete an FAS/KSS Provider & Foster/Kinship Caregiver High Five Nomination Form when you want to recognize a foster family, a licensing worker or agency, DCS Specialist/Supervisor or other employee, community partner, attorney, CASA, judge, mentor, or other fostering community member.

ASA Now

ASA Now is a non-profit organization that ADVOCATES for, SUPPORTS, and ASSISTS children and families impacted by foster care. We are passionate about providing support to families and professionals by restoring hope and empowering them to better serve these children in need.

Warmline Supports Kinship and Foster Families

The Foster Parent Warmline is available for kinship families and licensed foster parents. While not an emergency number, Warmline staff can assist with information, timely communication, and support. It is not intended to discourage or replace direct and regular communication between the DCS Specialist and the out-of-home caregiver. You can reach the Warmline by calling 1-877-KIDSNEEDU (1-877-543-7633). Please be prepared with your name, the child's name, DOB, and dates of placement/departure, as well as an explanation of the issue. The Warmline is manned by staff Monday-Friday 8am-5pm (AZ time), excluding state holidays. You may also send an email to Warmline@azdcs.gov and include the above information.

Children's Heart Gallery

More than 70 percent of the children in need of forever families are adopted by their relatives or foster parents. For the remainder, special recruitment efforts like the Heart Gallery are used to connect them with a forever family.

The children featured in the Heart Gallery represent all ethnic groups and range in age from toddlers to teenagers. Some have special behavioral or medical needs, some are without siblings, and others are in groups of siblings.

Ariana and Christopher