Volunteer Spotlight: Jennifer, Parent Support Group Facilitator

At Parents Helping Parents (PHP), we rely on volunteers to help us create safe spaces where parents can be part of a supportive community. Many of our volunteers have first-hand experience as parents, which allows them to help empower parents and make an impact. Today, we are spotlighting another one of our incredible volunteers. As a long-time support group facilitator, Jennifer has helped parents and caregivers navigate parenting challenges with a passion for helping parents with children in foster care.

A Personal Mission to Support Parents

Having experienced involvement within the child welfare system when her children were young, she vowed to help other parents in similar situations. "PHP support groups are vital to help those parents know they are not alone," Jennifer shared. "I can share my knowledge of the system to help ease their involvement with it."

Jennifer has been an in-person support group facilitator for eight years and continues to facilitate online groups. She also served on PHP's board for over five years, contributing her insights and expertise to help shape the organization's growth and impact.

When asked what keeps her motivated, Jennifer spoke about the emotional and psychological toll the child welfare system can take on parents and children alike. "The child welfare system hurts parents—and often their children. These parents often feel vilified by the system and need to know that they are not alone and can make it through their involvement," she explained. "I have knowledge and compassion to share, and it gives more meaning to my life."

The Power of Connection and Growth

One of the most rewarding aspects of her volunteer work is being a part of the growth of parents participating in the support groups, especially when they reach out to help each other. "I've seen parents, full of anger and frustration, come to grips with their emotions and learn to communicate more effectively with their caseworkers. Using tools learned in the group, they can show their growth, address concerns, and ultimately close their cases."

Jennifer's work with PHP has also informed her advocacy efforts outside the organization. She collaborates with a group working to reform the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from within. She uses insights from PHP group participants to understand how the system has evolved—and where it still falls short.

Jennifer encourages anyone considering a volunteer role with PHP to trust in the power of compassion and empathy. "Your ability to listen to parents and acknowledge that parenting is a hard job can bring about positive change," she said. "Parents need a place where they can be honest with their struggles and not feel condemned. As a facilitator, you can make a huge difference in a parent's life."

A Black Belt in Compassion (and Karate!)

Outside of her volunteer work, Jennifer has a surprising talent: she holds two black belts in karate—in two different styles! We are inspired and grateful for Jennifer's dedication and compassion in everything she does. Parents face some of life's most difficult challenges, and her story reminds us of the power of lived experience in building a compassionate and understanding community.

Interested in volunteering with PHP? Learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.