Support for Rhode Island Parents Navigating DCYF Involvement
You’re not alone in navigating this.
Whether you’re working toward reunification, navigating family court, or staying connected to your child during a time of separation, support is available.
We’re here to walk alongside you—without judgment.
Parents involved with child welfare often feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unheard. This community was created by people with lived experience who understand those challenges firsthand.
We believe support, connection, and advocacy can help families heal, reunify safely, and create lasting change for future families across Rhode Island.
Our Mission
The Rhode Island Birth Parent Advisory Board works to elevate the voices of parents with lived experience in the child welfare system through peer support, leadership development, advocacy, and systems collaboration.
Our goal is to strengthen families, support reunification whenever safely possible, and help improve outcomes for children and parents across Rhode Island.
Birth Parent Support Group
Our peer-led support groups aim to provide a safe and welcoming space for parents impacted by DCYF involvement and family separation.
Groups are facilitated by trained birth parent leaders using the Circle of Parents leadership model and focus on connection, encouragement, advocacy, and healing.
Parents are welcome whether their case is open, closed, reunified, or ongoing.
Leadership Opportunities
Birth parents with lived experience can grow into leadership roles that support peer groups, advisory work, systems improvement efforts, and community advocacy.
Leadership development opportunities help parents strengthen their voice, share lived expertise, and support positive change for Rhode Island families.
Additional leadership eligibility guidelines apply and membership is reviewed collaboratively with DCYF.
Join the Advisory Board
The Birth Parent Advisory Board creates opportunities for parents with lived experience to partner with community organizations, child welfare leaders, and advocacy efforts to improve systems and strengthen family support services.
Board members help shape conversations around prevention, reunification, parent voice, and family-centered practices in Rhode Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Birth parents impacted by child welfare or DCYF involvement are welcome to connect with support groups and learn more about the advisory board.
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No. Birth parents may participate whether their case is open, reunified, closed, or ongoing.
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Yes. Groups are facilitated by trained birth parent leaders with lived experience.
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Yes. Fathers and all caregivers impacted by child welfare involvement are encouraged to connect.
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We work to create supportive and respectful spaces for parents to connect and share experiences safely.
Birth Parent
Support Group
First Thursday Monthly 5:30-6:30 PM
FREE. No sign-up needed.
Your Experience Matters
Parents with lived experience bring insight, strength, and leadership that can help improve outcomes for children and families across Rhode Island.
Join a supportive community where your voice can create change.