The Power of Showing Up for Families Before They Fall Apart

What if families had support before a crisis led to foster care? In this episode, we talk with Dr. David Anderson, psychologist and founder and Executive Director of SAFE Families for Children, about a community-based model that helps keep children safe while supporting parents through difficult seasons. Dr. Anderson also serves as Executive Director of Lydia Home Association in Chicago and has been recognized as an Ashoka Fellow and Prime Movers Fellow.


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In this episode, we talk about:

  • For someone new to SAFE Families, how would you explain what it is?
  • Can you share a little about yourself and what drew you to create SAFE Families?
  • Who are the families you serve, and what situations bring them to you?
  • Why is a program like SAFE Families especially needed right now?
  • What happens to families when this kind of support isn’t available?
  • How is SAFE Families different from traditional foster care?
  • What kinds of training and screening do volunteers undergo?
  • What support do volunteers receive along the way?
  • What are the main ways people can get involved?
  • Can you share a story or two that captures the impact of SAFE Families?
  • What do families or volunteers often say after being part of this?
  • Who tends to be a great fit for this kind of role?
  • What hesitations do you hear most, and what would you say to those concerns?
  • If one of our listeners is interested in serving this community, what’s the first step to get involved?
  • For a parent or caregiver listening today who feels underwater or overwhelmed, what encouragement can you offer?


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Music Credit: Michael Ashworth; Podcast Producer: megownsoundworks.com; Photo by Kampus Production from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-family-sitting-at-the-table-8729970/