Keeping Kids Free From Cyberbullying

While bullying has been an issue for children for a very long time, the ability to use technology to remain anonymous has allowed bullies to be much more brazen when harassing their peers. Now that over 80% of teenagers use cellphones and other mobile devices, the issue of cyberbullying has become far more common and

RAS: Review and Approval Staffing

What Is A RAS? In our region, you will hear us refer to a “RAS” over and over again… so what is a RAS anyway?  Our region has shortened “Review and Approval Staffing” into “RAS.”  So now that you know was RAS stands for, what exactly is it? A RAS is the way Region 6

Reducing the Impact of Negative Stress

The Toll Stress Takes We are all under extreme amounts of stress these days, even if we don’t realize it. That stress can take a physiological and psychological toll. I was reminded of this recently. My teenaged son was desperately seeking more social connection after the rigors of staying home from school and sports. As

#BlackOutTuesday

The death of George Floyd has saddened our community and, for many, has exacerbated the fears and anxiety already being experienced as we face both a health and economic crisis. Arms Wide Adoption Services acknowledges the fact that much like many other structures in our communities, the child welfare system disproportionately impacts our African American

Saluting Parents During Foster Care Month

Every May, during National Foster Care Month, we salute the compassionate people who make a difference in the lives of children and families throughout the year. We wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for the work you are doing to care for children. By opening your home and heart, you play a vital

Welcome From DeJuana Jernigan

Arms Wide Adoption Services families, friends, and supporters: My name is DeJuana Jernigan, and I am honored and excited to join Arms Wide Adoption Services as the new President and CEO. As I begin my journey with you, I want to first thank Vikki Finley. For the last 22 years, Vikki has worked tirelessly with

Abuse Cases May Rise During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Child welfare experts and abuse advocates across the globe are worried that the COVID-19 crisis could put child abuse victims at an even greater risk. While numerous sources claim that child abuse reports are expected to rise during the pandemic, others argue that we will see a decrease in reported cases as children, as well

May is Foster Care Month

Every day, Arms Wide Adoption Services works tirelessly to create better lives for the more than 20,000 children in the Texas foster care system. As May marks national #FosterCareMonth, we can draw special attention to these children in need. We are calling on individuals, families, and communities to become more involved as foster parents, respite

#GivingTuesdayNow is May 5th

#GivingTuesdayNow is a global day of giving and unity taking place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. At a time when we are all experiencing the pandemic, generosity is what can bring us together in a safe way allowing for social connection while still practicing physical