Description

Are you an aunt, uncle, cousin, sister, or brother raising a relative?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself. Raising children as a relative (other than a grandparent) comes with its own unique challenges. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings often face different struggles than grandparents—whether it’s juggling work and parenting at various stages of life, blending kinship children with your own kids, or adjusting to the sudden changes in your family dynamic.

That’s why we created Kinship Connections: Kin Raising Kin Group—a welcoming space designed specifically for relatives who are not grandparents. This group focuses on the needs, challenges, and strengths that matter most to you, offering a place to share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others who truly understand your perspective.

This group is led by Janie Murphy, a seasoned Kinship Care provider with over two decades of lived and professional experience supporting children and families through complex transitions. Janie is concerned in helping children by understanding their behaviors and practicing restorative care. As a caregiver, Janie facilitates compassionate guidance when things can feel very uncertain—offering stability, affirmation, and support. Janie believes the kinship caregiver needs to be supported and encouraged to be their own family advocate.

This group will start as a weekly group meeting for 12 weeks and will meet every Wednesday at 12 PM EST for 12 weeks, and participants will be eligible for a financial stipend for their time and feedback about the group experience. The group will begin meeting once a minimum number of participants are registered, ensuring a strong and connected group experience. Join us for supportive time to talk and bring your lunch! We are excited to meet you!

This Kinship Support Group Pilot will begin once we have enough participant registrations.