Support & Discussion Groups

This is a casual discussion group meant to support adoptive, fostering, & kinship parents that revolves around 1-2 chapters of a book. We use books to help us cover a larger variety of topics related to adoption, to increase our knowledge and awareness of the information that is out there, and to maximize resources for families. There is No requirement to read all the chapters or to come to all discussions. This group offers a safe place to share individual opinions and personal experiences, and ask questions openly and honestly about relinquishment and adoption-related issues.

The group meets monthly, is facilitated by at least 1 Adult Adoptee and 1 Adoptive Parent, and has childcare available for those in need (pre-registration is required for childcare)

-NOTE- Encompass Adoptees encourages critical thinking that takes into account all triad members in regard to all books and resources. Book discussions or reading lists in no way imply agreement with all portions of a book, nor does it indicate any endorsement of the author/s, their programs, techniques, etc.

Parent Self Care Time (Respite)

Encompass offers a Resilience Building Group for Youth who are Adopted, Fostered, or in Kinship Care which is intended to double as an opportunity for respite, for parents to have time for much needed self care or a date with their partner.

This program is created, planned, and facilitated by Heather Gonzales, LPC (adult adoptee), along with other lived experience mentors, and is designed for adoptees and foster youth. It combines elements of both a support group and a mentoring opportunity that helps build social-emotional learning skills, increase resiliency factors, and incorporates artistic activities to increase fun, group engagement, self-expression, and learning.

Adoptive Parent Retreats

These retreats hope to continue to be offered biennial (depending on sponsors). In response to numerous requests and surveys, these retreats are generally designed as a relaxing getaway weekend for parents.

You are encouraged to make your own schedule and participate in the activities as you choose. Meals are provided and will be served at specific times, but you can choose to skip these or eat alone.

Often held at a State Park with: trails, pools, lounge, all day coffee, scenic overviews, outdoor firepits & indoor fireplace, restaurant, kayaks or canoes, quiet cozy corners, beach, bar, and tennis courts.

Family Picnic, Art Show & Other Events

In addition to our more regular scheduled activities, we have special events such as family picnics, an annual Art Show, part art workshops, adoption related educational workshops, and/or community work days.

Check the Calendar for upcoming activities and dates.