AFCC-MN Important Board Message

AFCC-MN Members,

As the situation in Minnesota continues to change in uncertain and unexpected ways, many of us are feeling its weight acutely. We have also witnessed the impact of compassion, unity, and care shown by our communities in the face of fear, confusion, and concern. The strength we find in one another is both comforting and inspiring.

As an organization focused on the well-being of children and families, AFCC-MN and its membership are profoundly aware of the physical, emotional, and financial toll that recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities are having on our communities. Supporting family well-being and upholding human dignity has always been the mission of our organization. During this time of uncertainty, we stand with families most affected, particularly those whose safety and stability are at risk. AFCC-MN also denounces all violent acts inflicted on our fellow Minnesotans, as these actions further traumatize the families and communities our membership supports throughout the state.

AFCC-MN recognizes the critical work being done by nonprofit organizations, advocates, attorneys, mental health providers, and community leaders to support healing and protect vulnerable families. The challenges are significant, but our organization’s experience shows that when family professionals collaborate with respect and a shared commitment, we can make a meaningful, positive impact.

Our chapter is committed to supporting our members and partners in their efforts. We know that those working directly with families are closest to the immediate challenges and long-term impact of these actions. As many of us know, community violence is deeply connected to adverse childhood experiences, as repeated exposure to unsafe environments can shape a child’s sense of security, impact emotional development, and increase the risk of long-term mental and physical health challenges.

While members of AFCC-MN fulfill varied roles all of our work is ultimately rooted in listening, connecting and providing the tools and support needed to help people respond to adversity and crisis thoughtfully and effectively. AFCC-MN also recognizes the toll such work takes on practitioners themselves, as exposure to trauma, whether direct or secondarily through those we support, can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress. In these moments, mutual support within our family law community is essential to maintaining our ability to provide compassionate care.

We encourage family professionals to lead with care and responsibility by:

• Listening to and centering the voices of affected families and communities

• Supporting both immediate relief and long-term family stability

• Upholding dignity, safety, and trust in all interactions

• Practicing ongoing collaboration

• Practicing self-care

AFCC-MN remains dedicated to strengthening the interdisciplinary community of family professionals, ensuring that together we can continue to provide resolution, resilience, and healing for children and families throughout Minnesota. We are also committed to addressing the issues children and family are facing in our community through education, resources, and outreach. We have attached a working list of resources and will be reinstating our Community Chats for members to gather and discuss. We will also be working with our Education and Values committees to offer special educational Lunch & Learns that are timely and topic specific.

Resources and Education

• AFCC-MN Community Chats

• Friday February 6th, 10am – Carol Hornbeck, LMFT and Racheal Howitz, President leading an open forum. With more dates to follow, watch your email and our website.

• Here is a resource list of organizations - a resource list of organizations providing services or mutual aid to affected families, if you wish to volunteer your time or provide financial support.

• Additional list of resources included here Click for Resources

AFCC-MN Board of Directors

AFCC-MN Values Committee