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Denali Family Services and AK Child & Family Join Forces to Recruit Therapeutic Foster Families Through ''Foster Care is Love'' Campaign
Anchorage, Alaska – In response to a growing need for therapeutic foster care in the state, Denali Family Services and AK Child & Family have teamed up to promote and train therapeutic foster parents across Southcentral Alaska through the Foster Care is Love campaign. This vital initiative is supported by a federal grant passed through the Municipality of Anchorage, aimed at expanding the availability of therapeutic foster homes for children with mental and behavioral health needs.
Alaska currently has more than 2,500 youth in foster care, and many of these youth require therapeutic foster homes to support their emotional and psychological well-being. Therapeutic foster care is a critical component in providing these children with the stability and support they need to heal, grow, and remain close to their communities. Historically, many children with severe mental health needs have been sent out of state or institutionalized due to several factors, including the lack of appropriate foster homes in Alaska.
“This partnership is an important step toward addressing the acute need for therapeutic foster care in our region,” said Dan Bigley, President/CEO of Denali Family Services. “By working together on this initiative, we can not only increase awareness but also provide the training and resources needed to empower families to care for children in need right here in Southcentral Alaska.”
Both Denali Family Services and AK Child & Family will provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to therapeutic foster parents. Families will work closely with a team of professionals, including case managers, therapists, and support staff, to provide individualized care tailored to each child’s unique needs. Therapeutic foster care is designed to help children develop essential life skills, rebuild trust, and find stability in a family setting.
“Becoming a therapeutic foster parent is not just about offering a home—it’s about offering hope,” said Anne Dennis-Choi, Executive Director of AK Child & Family. “With the support of this grant, we aim to equip more families with the tools they need to make a lasting difference in the lives of these children.”
Therapeutic foster parents can be single individuals, couples, or families with children of their own. The key requirements are a commitment to providing a structured, loving home and a willingness to work with a dedicated team to support the child’s healing and development. Foster parents receive specialized training, financial support, and access to community resources to help them succeed in their role.
To learn more about the Foster Care is Love initiative and how to become a therapeutic foster parent visit www.FosterCareAlaska.org.
About Denali Family Services
Since 1995, Denali Family Services (DFS) has been providing high-quality behavioral health services to Alaska’s youth and their families. The organization works to empower families, foster children’s development, and promote mental health within the community.
About AK Child & Family
AK Child & Family is a leading provider of therapeutic care for Alaska’s youth, offering a range of services including foster care, residential treatment, and educational programs. The organization is dedicated to helping children and families overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier futures.
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Denali Family Services
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JJ Harrier Director of Development & Communications
- November 12, 2024
- (907) 775-2886
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