In February 2025, we came together at UBC for Kinship Stories: A Time to Be Heard — an event Last month, we gathered at UBC for an event that left a lasting impact — Kinship Stories: A Time to be Heard. It was an opportunity to elevate the voices of kinship families, share digital stories, and foster conversations that truly mattered. The energy in the room was undeniable, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
From heartfelt storytelling to an engaging panel discussion, every part of the event was designed to amplify the experiences of kinship caregivers and families. A huge thank-you goes out to Dr. Barbara Lee and her student team at UBC for their seamless organization and support in making this gathering possible.
A Room Full of Changemakers
We were honored to have a powerhouse group of professionals, advocates, and community members in attendance. A special shout-out to Susan Burke (UNBC), Catherine Talbott (MCFD), Jane Bouey (Parent Support Services), Shari Monsma (F4CRR) and Sharon Whiting (F4CRR), who brought invaluable insights to our panel discussion. Their contributions sparked meaningful dialogue about the realities of kinship care and the ongoing work needed to support these families.
Adding to the depth of the conversation, we were thrilled to welcome Jennifer Charlesworth (BC Representative for Children and Youth), Adrienne Montani (Executive Director, First Call), and Anne Towers (Executive Director, Belonging Network) alongside her colleagues. Their presence, along with journalist Marcie Good, social workers, and kinship caregivers, underscored the importance of collective advocacy and awareness.
Raising Awareness, Strengthening Connections
Beyond the formal discussions, the event was a beautiful moment of reconnection. Kinship caregivers and community members traveled from across the province — Mary from Salmon Arm, Sharon from Kelowna, Crystal from Gold River, Mandy & Dave from Victoria, Gail & Mark from Qualicum Beach, Susie and her granddaughter from Vancouver, and many more. Seeing familiar faces and meeting new allies reminded us of the strength and resilience within our kinship community.
Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and supported this initiative. Together, we are making a difference—ensuring that kinship families feel seen, heard, and valued. We can’t wait to see you at the next event!
