CASA of Imperial County proudly supported the first-ever Foster Parent Symposium, hosted on May 29, 2025, by the Imperial County Department of Social Services in partnership with the Imperial County Foster Parent Association. This full-day event, held in El Centro, was dedicated to informing, empowering, and celebrating the essential role of foster parents in the community.
“Foster parents are the foundation of care for children facing unimaginable challenges,” said Alex Cardenas, Executive Director of CASA of Imperial County. “By supporting this symposium, CASA is reinforcing its commitment to ensuring foster families are informed, empowered, and connected. Events like this help build stronger systems of care, and we’re proud to be part of that effort.”
The symposium featured educational sessions packed with vital information and resources aimed at helping foster families navigate the child welfare system and access the services available to them.
Attendees were treated to a warm, celebratory atmosphere that included a barbacoa lunch, an elote bar, prize giveaways, and a live mariachi performance sponsored by CASA of Imperial County.
“We really want the foster parents to get more involved and know all of the resources that are available to them,” said Maria Cano of the Imperial County Foster Parent Association, who co-hosted the event. “I think it’s very important that foster parents have access to as much information as possible—for the safety and well-being of these children who need us, need our support, and need our love.”
“I enjoyed it very much, and I learned a lot. I have a lot of information that I can use. Now I wish I would have got it before, but I’m glad I got it today. So, yes, I enjoyed myself here, and the information that’s been given to me,” said foster parent Carolyn Bowie.
CASA of Imperial County continues to advocate for the well-being of foster children by supporting those who care for them. Events like the Foster Parent Symposium highlight the importance of collaboration between agencies and families to ensure every child receives the support they deserve.
