THE IMPACT OF SIBLINGSEPARATION
A CLE hosted by Jackson County CASA
Anyone is welcome - we will provide a training for Lawyers, Caregivers, CASAs, Youth and other advocates on Sibling Connections. The examples cover the whole country with extra examples on Missouri. This will help advocates anywhere and give real tools to use in court. Join Us!
Tuesday, November 10th, 2026
11:00 AM-1:00 PM PST
Webinar Via
Microsoft Teams
Missouri CLE Credit:
2.4 Hours
Program Moderators:
Meredith Mazza, JD, MBA Managing Attorney
Tiana Griffin, MSW, Program Manager.
This session explores the critical role sibling and kinship connections play in child well- being, placement stability, permanency, and long-term outcomes for children involved in the child welfare system. Participants will examine the research supporting the preservation of sibling relationships, the legal framework governing sibling connections in foster care and adoption, and the responsibilities of attorneys, guardians ad litem, CASA volunteers, and social workers to identify, maintain, and strengthen these family bonds throughout a case.
Through the lived experiences of individuals separated from their siblings, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the lasting impacts of separation on identity, mental health, cultural connection, and permanency. The program will also explore how
effective implementation of sibling and kinship connection laws can support Missouri's efforts under A Home for Every Child by expanding placement options, reducing unnecessary family separation, and promoting lasting permanency. Participants will leave with practical advocacy strategies, a stronger understanding of applicable laws and policies, and a renewed appreciation for the importance of protecting sibling relationships whenever safely possible.
Program Speakers
Lily Colby
Founder and CEO of The National Network for Fostering Sibling Connections. Separated from her brothers in care, she graduated from Yale
and Berkeley Law to drive state and federal advocacy for child welfare reform.
Ivory Bennett
Program Manager of Youth Voices Rising. With 17 years in foster care, she brings profound personal and professional expertise to advocate for equitable care, sibling preservation, and the inclusion of lived experts in decision-making.
Erica Hickey
A dedicated policy expert and former foster youth. After experiencing separation from her three siblings in care, Erica successfully led legislative efforts in California to strengthen
sibling connection protections.
Tori Schuler
Foster care Lived Expert and fierce advocate. A sister to 8, Tori helped pass Colorado's Sibling Bill of Rights and currently champions sibling connection and preservation nationwide through
advocacy and volunteer work.
