What Is Parents 4 Parents?

Parents 4 Parents (P4P) is a peer mentoring, education, professional training, and family reunification program that supports parents and families involved in the child welfare system.

The program connects parents who have successfully navigated the child welfare system with parents who are newly involved with Child Protective Services (CPS). By sharing their experiences and providing guidance, Parent Allies help other parents understand the process, engage with required services, and work toward family reunification.

Our goal is to support parents, strengthen families, and promote positive outcomes for children.

How Does the Program Work?

P4P provides early outreach, education, and peer mentoring to help parents navigate the dependency court system and engage with their court-ordered plans.

Mentoring is provided by Parent Allies (PAs)—parents who have successfully navigated the child welfare system and are committed to helping others succeed. Parent Allies receive training and supervision to prepare them for this important role.

P4P is described by the organization as a promising practice based on the University of Washington’s Evidence Based Practice Institute and findings from Washington State’s King County model.

Why Is Parents 4 Parents Important?

Peer mentoring can help parents feel supported, informed, and better equipped to navigate the child welfare system. The program aims to:

  • Encourage positive engagement with child welfare professionals and other stakeholders.
  • Support participation in court-ordered services.
  • Help parents better understand and engage in the juvenile dependency court process.
  • Support parents as they work toward stability and safe family reunification.

By helping parents address the challenges that contributed to their family’s involvement with the child welfare system, P4P works toward stable homes and positive outcomes for children.

Parents 4 Parents Program Components

Parents 4 Parents (P4P) provides peer mentoring, education, and ongoing encouragement to parents navigating the child welfare and dependency court system. The program includes three key components:

Parent Allies (PAs) meet with parents at the courthouse during their first hearing following the filing of a child protection petition. Parents may feel overwhelmed, confused, or alone during this difficult time.

Parent Allies offer understanding and hope by sharing their own experiences navigating the child welfare system. They also provide information about available resources and invite parents to attend a Dependency 101 class.

Dependency 101 is a one-time, two-hour class led by Parent Allies. It helps parents understand the dependency system, their roles and responsibilities, and the steps involved in working toward family reunification.

Parent Allies share personal experiences, while child welfare professionals explain the system and discuss resources available to families. The class aims to give parents practical information and tools to help them navigate the process.

Parent Allies provide continued encouragement and support to parents attending subsequent dependency hearings. Follow-up and telephone support help parents navigate challenges, connect with resources, and remain engaged throughout their case.

Contact Your Parent Advocate

XChange Recovery serves as the local host agency for the Parents 4 Parents program.

Parent Advocate: Jammie Lea Havens
Service area: Clark, Klickitat, and Skamania counties
Phone: (360) 831-7489

Contact the Parent Advocate to learn more about the program and available support.