Program Spotlight: 
Caregiver Education

For the adults caring for children, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. FamilyForward’s Education team provides the knowledge, skills and confidence caregivers need as they navigate foster care, adoption, kinship care and reunification.

It’s a small but highly skilled team, bringing deep expertise and empathy to every learning experience. They create spaces where adults can ask questions, share their experiences and connect with others who understand their journey.

That expertise reaches families across Missouri. Virtual classes make specialized training accessible to caregivers in rural communities, while some participants travel more than an hour to attend classes in person. It’s a reflection of the value of the education and the trust caregivers place in the team.

For parents participating in Nurturing Parents, the eight-week experience may begin with uncertainty. Many are navigating multiple systems and services, and may not know what to expect when they walk through the door. Joy and Marvis, who lead the groups, are committed to creating a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment where parents feel comfortable opening up, learning and connecting with others.

Parents’ feedback reflects the impact of that approach:

“The class was very informative. They made me feel comfortable about opening up.”

“The staff has been such an excellent help. I am sure they have made many people proud to be parents, for I am even more proud to be a parent.”

“Joy and Marvis were exceptional, positive, and a breath of fresh air. I will never forget them for as long as I live.”

For the Caregiver Education team, that sense of connection is an important part of the experience. The hope is that parents leave feeling proud of what they accomplished, more confident in their parenting skills and more comfortable seeking out additional resources and support for their families.

You're invited to our Community Fundraisers

Our Community Fundraisers are getting underway, and we are excited to see our community come together to support children and families at FamilyForward. Save the dates for these upcoming opportunities to dine, enjoy a meal, and make a difference:

Hi-Pointe Drive-In
 September 18, 2026
951 S Kirkwood Rd.,

Kirkwood, MO 63122

Shake Shack 
September 30, 2026
17312 Chesterfield Airport Road

Chesterfield, MO 63005

St. Louis Bread Co.
October 5, 2026
10550 Old Olive Street Rd. 
Creve Coeur, MO

Every visit is an opportunity to support FamilyForward while enjoying a favorite local spot. We are grateful to the businesses and community members who are helping turn everyday moments into meaningful support for children and families.

Want to host a Community Fundraiser of your own? Learn more about how you can get involved and bring your idea to life with FamilyForward.

What a Day of Giving!

Thanks to our incredible community, Funding Futures raised $64,183 for children and families - surpassing our $60,000 goal.

And because every gift was matched, your generosity went even further. Each donation helped amplify the impact of this one-day giving effort, bringing more support to the children and families who count on FamilyForward.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who gave, shared, encouraged others to participate, or simply helped spread the word. You showed what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose.

Thank you for helping fund futures and create possibilities for children and families. 💙

Your Coffee Adventure Starts Here

Fall is the perfect time to discover a new favorite coffee shop. The FamilyForward Coffee Passport invites you to explore participating cafés across St. Louis City and Jefferson County, all while supporting children and families in our community.

From neighborhood favorites to new spots worth discovering, there’s always another stop to make. Grab your passport, find your next cup and start exploring!