Every Child Deserves a
Circle of Support
Charlene’s Circle of Support uplifts kinship caregivers and empowers youth
About Charlene's Circle of Support
Charlene's Circle of Support is a trauma-informed nonprofit in Maryland dedicated to uplifting youth and their kinship caregivers, often grandparents, relatives, and family friends who step in when parents are unable. ​
These caregivers are the front line of foster care prevention, ensuring children remain rooted with their families, cultures, and communities. We believe no child should be defined by their parent's challenges. That's why we walk alongside families, providing healing-centered programs, family care packages, and community connections to ensure they never feel unseen or alone.
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Rooted in resilience and hope, our dual-impact approach helps the entire family heal from past trauma, strengthen their bonds, and build the skills needed to create brighter futures together.
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We proudly advance Governor Wes Moore’s Kin-First Initiative, strengthening caregiver stability and promoting equity for Maryland’s kinship families.
Our Mission
"To empower kinship caregivers and youth impacted by a parent’s struggle with mental illness, substance use, or incarceration by building their resilience and well-being. "
Our Vision
“A world where every child and caregiver impacted by trauma and adversity receives the support and tools to thrive.”
"To know that someone who went through something like this is taking their time to support us is encouraging.”
— Sunny, Kinship Caregiver
Why We Exist -
The Reality:
The Hidden Crisis Most Don’t See
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2.5 million children in the U.S. are raised by relatives due to parental incarceration, substance use, or mental illness.
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In Maryland, more than 66,000 children are being raised in kinship care, and over 43,000 of them live with a grandparent.
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For every 1 child in foster care with a relative, 19 more are raised outside the foster system, without support.
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Our Solution:
Whole-Family Care
The CCOS Dual-Impact Model
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We advocate, equip, and uplift kinship families so they don’t face this journey alone.
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Holistic wraparound services addressing longstanding service gaps and basic needs for kinship families.
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​​Our Approach
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Healing: Mental Wellness & Creative Expression Workshops
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Stability: Youth & Caregiver Care Packages
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Connection: Peer Support & Empowerment Circles
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Access: Kinship Resource Navigation with Community Partners
