Create regular events and camps where separated siblings can come together and have fun.
How to do this
Host a monthly (at least) event for separated siblings. Make it fun and seasonal. It could be as simple as meeting at a playground or petting zoo, or an existing community event like an outdoor kids' concert. Your foster parent support groups may be able to volunteer to coordinate events, or at least suggest locations or existing events to join.
Invite separated siblings to existing events. If you are already having a community event, invite the families of separated siblings to all attend.
Send separated sibling groups to regular camp. You don't need a special camp for separated siblings; you could raise funds or provide grants to send siblings to existing camps.
Create a summer camp for separated siblings. This can be challenging to start, but you can collaborate with local non-profits, existing summer camps, and models from other states with existing sibling camps to create a pilot program for next summer. It could be an afternoon in the park with agency employees running activities at first; it doesn't have to be a week-long sleepaway camp.
Anticipated costs and benefits
Costs
Benefits
varies
More opportunities for separated siblings to spend time together and make memories
Can be a neutral location for the resource families of separated siblings to first meet
Who's doing this
4 of 54 states and territories have implemented this recommendation.
Maryland has Camp Connect, a sleepaway camp for siblings in foster care. Department employees can sign up to work shifts at the camp and receive their normal salary during this time.
San Diego County, CA has Camp Connect for siblings to have fun together. It also has other activities throughout the year like beach day and SeaWorld Day. All siblings qualify for camp connect.
Frederick County, MD hosts events like a petting zoo for siblings to get together. Parents are invited, too!
Michigan hosts fun events, such as taking families to the movies or trampoline park, that include siblings, even if those siblings are not in care.