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June 9, 2026
Audience: Professionals
Building/Address: Itasca Resource Center (IRC)
1209 SE 2nd Ave Grand Rapids MN 55744
*Located behind strip mall across main road from Culvers. Building is set back in about a block.
Room: 120
When entering the building follow the hallway to the first left turn. Room is the first room on the left.
Parking: In front of building.
Nursing room: Located up the stairs to the right as you come in the main doors. Room is at top of steps, second door on left.
Schedule:
State Adoption Exchange (morning)
Session will include a review of the State Adoption Exchange (SAE) requirements and timelines. This training will provide a general overview from start to finish of the State Adoption Exchange registrations process, requirements in SSIS, the role of Foster Adopt Minnesota and the web-based application. We will review/discuss the State Adoption Exchange process including completing the SSIS SAE Registration Verification, creating narratives and tips and tricks to use to streamline the process.
Post Adoption Search Request (morning)
Session will describe the difference between birth records and adoption records. It will include a brief overview of DCYF and Foster Adopt Minnesota role in search and connection process. This session also will examine current requirements and best practice of child placing agencies. It will explore the impact of the 2024 birth record law change that went into effect July 1, 2024. Topics will include change to Birth Record access effective July 1, 2024; contact preference form, requirement of placing agencies to inform adoption record searchers of the change; and changes to adoption record access.
Permanency Support Unit Contract Services (morning)
The Minnesota Department of Children Youth and Families contracts with non-profit organizations, counties, Tribes and private child-placing agencies for supportive services for children, youth and families in Minnesota. The contract services are available at no cost via grant funding and include, but are not limited to: adoption services, assessments, education, recruitment, supportive services, relative search and post-adoption services. Learn more about contract services and how these partnerships maximize strengths and resources to ensure children, youth and families receive the support they need.
Northstar Kinship Assistance (afternoon)
This training will provide a review of policies and procedures related to establishing eligibility for Northstar Kinship Assistance and legally finalizing a transfer of permanent legal and physical custody (TPLPC) for children in foster care. It will include a general overview from start to finish of the Northstar Kinship Assistance program. There will also be some review of relevant SSIS documentation and also tips and tricks to use in order to help achieve timely permanency for children in out-of-home placement.
Relative Search (afternoon)
This training will provide an overview of relative search and notice requirements, specific to permanency. There will be information on relative search requirements, relative engagement, and permanency decisions. Resources will also be shared.