Join the All Children – All Families Learning Community, hosted by the National SOGIE Center. This learning community will be a dynamic space designed to support seal-recognized sites in deepening their inclusive practice. Through interactive sessions, expert-led workshops, and resource-rich “Resource Hours,” participants will explore critical topics like having conversations about SOGIE, family engagement, self-care, bias interruption, and more. Earn participation badges and continuing education credits, connect with peers across the country, and access tools that strengthen your direct service work. With expert Q&As and an interactive forum built into the course, this community is your hub for learning, collaboration, and continued growth.
This Learning Community is designed to actively engage current ACAF sites, prospective sites, and other child welfare agencies looking to improve their affirming practices. Participants will not only receive continued connection and support during this pivotal period, but will also have the opportunity to help shape future sessions, resources, technical assistance, and training offerings for years to come. Let’s keep moving equity forward, in community.
This learning community meets monthly. When enrolled, participants will get calendar invites to every session and can opt in or out of certain sessions if desired.
If you do not already have a free Learning Management account (LMS) with us, you will be prompted to sign-up first. If you encounter challenges signing-up in our LMS, reach out to acaf@sogiecenter.org.
Upcoming Session Descriptions for 2026-2027
An identity-affirming foundation for supporting young people experiencing gender dysphoria. Participants will explore developmentally appropriate approaches support that center the young person’s wellbeing and self-determination.
September 16th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Join us for an interactive session where we spotlight key programs, tools, and strategies to strengthen direct service work. This “Resource Hour” blends open office hours with curated presentations of resources you can use right away in the field.
October 21st, 1:00-2:00 EST
An examination of the data and systemic patterns behind LGBTQ+ youth overrepresentation in child welfare and other intervening systems. Participants will explore root causes and practical strategies for interrupting bias at the point of entry into care.
November 18th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Our ongoing Resource Hour continues with fresh tools, new programs, and responsive implementation strategies to support your direct work with youth and families. Come with questions or just come to gather ideas! This is also a great time to connect with peer sites.
December 16th, 1:00-2:00 EST
An exploration of the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity with disability and co-occurring mental health needs. Participants will build skills for providing affirming, individualized support that addresses the full complexity of a young person’s identity and needs.
January 20th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Our ongoing Resource Hour continues with fresh tools, new programs, and responsive implementation strategies to support your direct work with youth and families. Come with questions or just come to gather ideas! This is also a great time to connect with peer sites.
February 17th, 1:00-2:00 EST
A focused look at transition planning for LGBTQ+ youth aging out of foster care. Participants will learn how to build SOGIE-specific independent living plans that support housing stability, chosen family connections, and long-term wellbeing.
March 17th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Our ongoing Resource Hour continues with fresh tools, new programs, and responsive implementation strategies to support your direct work with youth and families. Come with questions or just come to gather ideas! This is also a great time to connect with peer sites.
April 21st, 1:00-2:00 EST
Strategies for recruiting and retaining foster and adoptive families who can affirm and support LGBTQ+ youth. Participants will explore recruitment messaging, screening practices, and ongoing support that build a stronger bench of affirming homes.
May 19th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Our ongoing Resource Hour continues with fresh tools, new programs, and responsive implementation strategies to support your direct work with youth and families. Come with questions or just come to gather ideas! This is also a great time to connect with peer sites.
June 16th, 1:00-2:00 EST
Practical tools for de-escalating conflict between affirming youth and non-affirming siblings or peers within a shared placement. Participants will practice mediation approaches that protect the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ youth while working toward household stability.
July 21st, 1:00-2:00 EST
Recorded Past Session Descriptions
This session introduces a practical coaching framework designed to empower staff to engage in open, respectful, and effective conversations about Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE). Participants will gain tools to foster trust, reduce discomfort, and support inclusive dialogue in their work environments.
Explore how to compassionately support young people during the coming out process. This session covers developmentally appropriate support, navigating family dynamics, recognizing crisis points, and promoting youth self-care and provider sustainability throughout.
This wellness-focused session is dedicated to you. Learn practical strategies for managing burnout, processing emotional labor, and integrating self-care into your daily routine so you can continue to show up fully for the communities you serve.
Go beyond surface-level responses to bias. This session invites participants to dig deep into the underlying beliefs, systems, and experiences that drive biased behaviors. Learn how to guide transformative conversations and address issues at their core.
Language shapes reality. This session explores how critically conscious communication can be used to disrupt bias and promote equity. Learn how to choose words with intention, context, and impact, especially when discussing identity and inclusion.
Families play a crucial role in the well-being of young people. This session offers strategies for engaging caregivers, building trust, and reinforcing family support as a protective factor.