LGBTQIA+ children and youth in social services often experience rejection, isolation, and stigma, which increase risks of trauma and negative outcomes. This training equips professionals with actionable strategies to promote affirming care and allyship among foster families, chosen families, support networks, and caseworkers. By implementing inclusive practices, professionals can strengthen protective factors, reduce harm, and create environments where LGBTQIA+ youth feel safe, valued, and supported.

Learners will:

• Identify three key impacts of affirming care and allyship on the well-being of LGBTQIA+ youth in social service settings.
• List four practical strategies to engage foster families, chosen families, and support networks in creating inclusive, affirming environments.
• Demonstrate two communication techniques to advocate for affirming practices among caseworkers and organizational systems.

Who should attend: All staff of family resource centers (FRCs), child abuse prevention councils (CAPCs), community-based organizations, and other child- and family-serving systems.

IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

• This is an interactive training. Please be prepared to participate in activities such as group discussions, breakout rooms, and/or demonstrations. Your training experience will be best with the use of a webcam, audio, and a training environment conducive to active participation.
• This training will be recorded. The recording will be available to registered learners within 2 days of the training.
• California privacy laws mandate consent for recording conversations using AI applications. To ensure a respectful and secure learning environment for all participants, AI assistants are not allowed in CalTrin training. We value an accessible learning environment. If you require an accommodation to support your learning, please email us at least three business days before the training.
• By registering for a CalTrin training, you consent to be added to the CalTrin mailing list.