BFT’s latest news and stories

Family Support Specialist | Parenting+Plus Program Team At Bringing Families Together, some team members don’t just ease into their role — they jump right in and get to work making an impact from day one. That’s exactly what makes Kelly Selby our April Employee of the Month! 💜 Kelly joined BFT in July 2025 as part of our Parenting+Plus Program Team, and has already become a trusted, hands-on presence for the families she serves. Whether she’s supporting parents in building s

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, strengthen families and remind our community that every child deserves to feel safe, supported and cared for. At Bringing Families Together, this month was more than a campaign. It’s a reflection of the work happening every day. Throughout April, we shared messages focused on prevention, support and action. We talked about the importance of protective factors—like strong relationships, access to resources an

At Bringing Families Together, we know parenting can be both rewarding and challenging. That’s why we are excited to announce something new for our community: in-person Parent Cafés. For years, our virtual Parent Cafés have provided a welcoming space for parents and caregivers to connect, reflect and support one another. Now, we are expanding this opportunity by offering in-person gatherings at our office, creating another way for parents to build community and strengthen the

At Bringing Families Together, we know parenting is both rewarding and challenging—and no one should have to navigate it alone. That’s why we’re excited to announce our 2026 Winter–Spring Parent Cafés, a series of FREE virtual workshops created to support and uplift parents and caregivers. Our Parent Cafés provide a welcoming, judgment-free space where you can connect with others, share experiences, and gain practical tools for everyday parenting. Each Café is rooted in the F

Bringing Families Together is excited to announce our next Parenting+Plus Parent Support Class Series , beginning this March! 💜 This supportive, skill-building series is designed to help parents strengthen relationships, build confidence, and develop positive parenting strategies that support family stability and reunification. If you’re ready to grow, learn, and receive encouragement in a welcoming environment, Parenting+Plus is here for you! 🗓 Class Details Wednesdays beg

We’re thrilled to introduce Kelly Selby , who joined our Parenting+Plus Program in July 2025 as a Family Support Specialist ! Kelly brings with her a wealth of experience supporting parents and children with disabilities, trauma and mental health needs—including work with families involved in foster care. For the last eight years before joining BFT, she has dedicated her career to helping families strengthen relationships, build resilience, and find hope through education an

Community Services Coordinator | Parenting+Plus Team This month, we’re proud to celebrate someone whose work has shaped Bringing Families Together for nearly two decades — Karen Johnson , our Community Services Coordinator and Internship Coordinator . Karen joined BFT in September 2007 , and for 18 years , she has been a cornerstone of our mission to strengthen families and support lasting reunification. She leads with both heart and expertise, combining her background in edu

Lead Family Support Specialist | Home Visitation Team At Bringing Families Together , our Employee of the Month is chosen by the people who know the work best—our team. That’s why this recognition is extra special: it’s a reflection of respect, trust, and appreciation from peers. And this month, the spotlight shines on Dawn Mathes ! Dawn joined BFT in August 2021 and has been a cornerstone of our Home Visitation Team ever since. With a B.S. degree and a strong background a

At Bringing Families Together , we understand that parenting comes with both challenges and joys. That’s why we host Parent Cafés —a welcoming, judgment-free space where parents and caregivers can connect, share, and support one another. Rooted in the Five Protective Factors —resilience, relationships, support, knowledge, and communication—our Parent Cafés offer real conversations, practical strategies, and authentic encouragement. Whether you’re fostering, adopting, or paren

Sometimes it’s the quiet, thoughtful touches—the ones that don’t scream for attention but leave a lasting impression—that tell you the...

Bringing Families Together was honored to take part in the Lincoln County Community Baby Shower on April 24, a joyful event celebrating...

At Bringing Families Together , we believe every child deserves a safe, stable, and loving home. During National Foster Care Month , we...

At Bringing Families Together , we’re serious about supporting youth, foster families and birth families—but we also know the importance...

At Bringing Families Together, we know parenting isn’t always easy—but you don’t have to walk the journey alone. That’s why we host...

Bringing Families Together is excited to welcome families to our Parenting+Plus Parent Support Class , a free in-person series designed...

Curious about fostering or adopting but not sure where to begin? Bringing Families Together (BFT) is here to help! We understand that...

At Bringing Families Together , there is nothing more joyful than the safe reunification of families—and this month, we have twice the...

At Bringing Families Together (BFT), we believe that strong families create strong futures for children. That’s why we are thrilled to...

Bringing Families Together and the State of Missouri are moving to update the foster parent training curriculum. The current STARS...