Enroll a Child...

How it Works

Kinship Partners can give your child the opportunity to spend time with a positive adult role model that will spend 2-3 hours per week for at least one year. They will participate in activities that they both enjoy, such as fishing, baking, hiking, biking or just hanging out. The emphasis is to spend time and not spend money.

* The parent and child will each complete a brief application for Kinship services. A staff person will contact you once your application is received. They will set up a time to visit with you and your child. This is an opportunity for Kinship staff to get to know you and your child to insure the best possible match.

* Your child may be placed on a waiting list. In some instances it takes time to find the right mentor for your child. Unmatched kids are encouraged to participate in all Kinship activities.

* Our volunteers go through a thorough screening process which includes: application, BCA (Bureau of Criminal Apprehension) background checks, 3 references, interview, and on-going training and follow-up.

* Once a match for your child is found, you are given a summary of the potential volunteer(s). If it is felt this would be a good match for your child, a match visit would be scheduled for you and your child to meet the potential mentor, along with the Kinship Partners coordinator. If you are comfortable with the person, the match is made and the first visit with your child and their new mentor is set.

* Volunteers and families are provided with a Kinship Partners Coordinator who is assigned to their match to provide support and help with any situations that may arise.

* Parent and child commitment is important! The parent must agree to support the child in their match by having the child ready for the match get-togethers, be present when the child is picked up and brought home, and communicate with both the mentor and with the Kinship Partners coordinator. Your child must be willing to accept this mentor as his/her new friend.

* Kinship Partners serves children in Crow Wing and southern Cass counties. This includes the following communities: Brainerd/Baxter, Crosby, Ironton, Deerwood, Emily, Pillager, Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Crosslake, Pine River, Backus, Garrison, and Fort Ripley.

* If you would like your child to be a part of the Kinship Partners Program, download and fill out the following forms. Child Information Form and Parent Information Form. Click Here