January CASA Trainings: Strengthening Support for Youth and Kinship Families

CASA of El Paso is starting the year with two important January training opportunities designed to strengthen advocacy for children and families involved in the child welfare system. These sessions focus on youth housing stability and kinship caregiving, providing CASA advocates, staff, and community partners with practical knowledge and valuable resources.

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Youth Outreach & Housing Support Services

Presented by Beatriz A. Marin-Olivarez, MA, LCCA Youth Outreach and Housing Division Director, El Paso Center for Children

January 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM

This training will highlight the Youth Outreach and Housing Support Services offered by the El Paso Center for Children, with a focus on youth and young adults experiencing housing instability, family conflict, or crises.

Participants will learn how trauma-informed, youth-guided services promote safety, stability, and long-term well-being. The session will also explore how outreach, housing support, and collaboration with community partners help youth build resilience and move toward independence.

Register for this training:https://zoom.us/meeting/register/U1jbj3bpREKzemqPkb48QA

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Supporting Kinship Caregivers: An Overview of CPS Kinship Services

Presented by Araceli Aguirre, Region 10 FGDM Specialist & Kinship Supervisor, Child Protective Services

January 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM

This session will focus on the role of kinship caregivers and the supports available through Child Protective Services. Araceli Aguirre will provide an overview of the CPS Kinship Department, including how kinship placements help children maintain family connections, cultural identity, and stability.

Attendees will gain insight into the benefits of kinship care, available services and resources for caregivers, and how CASA staff and advocates can collaborate with CPS to better support kinship families.

Register for this training:https://zoom.us/meeting/register/LEP8vVHNStqLdzb7t5kwMA

Join Us and Stay Connected

These January trainings reflect CASA of El Paso’s commitment to ongoing education, collaboration, and strong advocacy. We encourage all CASA staff, advocates, and community partners to register and attend as we continue to build knowledge, partnerships, and impact together.