The Parents 4 Parents (P4P) program provides peer support to parents whose children have entered the child welfare system. A key component of the program is Dependency 101, an educational class that helps parents understand the dependency court process, their rights and responsibilities, and the steps needed to work toward family reunification.
Research on Parents 4 Parents programs in Washington State has found positive outcomes for participating families. Parents who complete Dependency 101 report a better understanding of the child welfare system, greater confidence in navigating court and case planning, and reduced feelings of fear and isolation. Studies have also shown that parents who receive peer mentoring and attend Dependency 101 are more likely to engage in required services, communicate effectively with caseworkers and attorneys, and actively participate in their children’s cases. These improvements contribute to stronger family engagement and can support more timely reunification when it is safe and appropriate.
The program is important to the community because it strengthens families during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. By helping parents understand the system and connect with someone who has successfully navigated it, Parents 4 Parents builds trust, promotes resilience, and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes for children and families. Successful reunification reduces the emotional and financial costs associated with prolonged foster care, while helping children maintain safe, stable connections with their families whenever possible.
Reunification Days
Last month, the FESS Parents 4 Parents team lead by Natalya Kinder helped organize our Annual Reunification Days in Lewis, Mason, and Thurston Counties. These events celebrate the hard work and dedication of parents to reunify their families after CPS involvement.
Over 100 families as well as caseworkers, judges, prosecutors and Sheriff Derek Sanders joined us for these celebrations.
