About Us

Pioneering Change for Alberta's Caregivers & Children

We’re more than an association. We’re a movement. And we are determined to amplify the voices and needs of foster and kinship caregivers throughout Alberta. 

Bridging gaps, providing critical resources, and championing advocacy–AFKA empowers every caregiver and ensures every child feels cherished. Together, we’re creating a future where hope and healing thrive.

The Stark Reality

We Wish We Didn't Have to Exist

In an ideal world, every child in Alberta would grow up in an environment filled with unconditional love, understanding, and security. And every caregiver would have the innate wisdom, resources, and community support to navigate the complexities of raising children who’ve faced challenges. 

But that’s not our reality. Many caregivers are thrust into roles without adequate guidance or a supportive network. The weight of past traumas, societal judgements, and the daily challenges of providing for a child’s unique needs can become overwhelming. 

AFKA’s very existence is a testament to the gaps and challenges present in our system. While we’d love to live in a world where families didn’t need our support, we’re here. Unwavering in our commitment to bolster every caregiver and child, ensuring they have the resilience and resources they need to thrive.

Our Driving Force

Dedicated to Every Foster and Kinship Caregiver in Alberta

At the heart of AFKA lies a single, unyielding purpose: championing the cause of Alberta’s foster and kinship caregivers. Every child deserves the chance to grow, heal, and prosper in a loving environment. 

By equipping foster and kinship caregivers with the proper knowledge, tools, and a steadfast support system, we aim to ensure these heroes can provide the best possible care to the children they nurture. 

While every child’s journey is unique, our ultimate hope is that they can reintegrate into their biological families (when in their best interest), having benefited from the stability, love, and resilience fostered in their time away.

Tailored Resources & Programs for Alberta's Caregivers

Training & Education

Feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of caregiving? Our comprehensive training and educational sessions equip caregivers with the necessary insights and strategies, turning uncertainties into confident actions for the children’s best interest.

See Virtual Learning Opportunities >> 

AFKA Support Services

Dedicated support services ensure no caregiver feels isolated. We’re here to guide, advise, and offer a listening ear, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.

Visit Caregiver Support >> 

Community & Networking

The path of a caregiver can sometimes feel isolating. But with our vibrant community events and networking opportunities, caregivers find a space to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Transform solitude into a community of understanding and support.

Become a Member >>

Specialized Programs

Every caregiving journey is unique, as are the challenges that come with it. Our specialized programs address these needs, ensuring caregivers have the right tools and resources. Turn those roadblocks into stepping stones with AFKA’s tailored support.

See AFKA Programs >>

Events & Conferences

Our curated events and conferences allow caregivers to dive deeper, learn from experts, and be at the forefront of best practices. Transform your caregiving journey with cutting-edge insights and peer interactions.

View AFKA Events >>

Impact by the Numbers

Behind every statistic is a story of transformation, resilience, and hope. Each number reflects our unwavering commitment to caregivers and children.

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Caregivers Supported by Programs

Enhancing caregivers’ ability to provide nurturing care for Alberta’s children and youth.

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Training & Network Sessions Conducted

Fostering skill development and community building among foster and kinship caregivers.

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Bursary Dollars Awarded

Empowering futures and investing in the education and aspirations of Alberta’s youth.

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Alberta AFKA Members

…and growing. Each member contributing to a brighter future for Alberta’s children and youth.

Faces of AFKA

Together, We Elevate Caregiving

Melissa Jones

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

Cassandra Bencz

Manager - Events and Promotion

Yvonne Smits

Manager – Caregiver Supports

Stacy van Cingel

Caregiver Support Team Member

Jenny Brewer

Caregiver Support Team Member

Serena Widynowski

Member Services Intake Coordinator

Ashley Byrne

Accounting Officer

Danielee Hope

Executive Assistant

Jolaine Kochisarli

Member Engagement and Communications Coordinator
Our Support Team Across Alberta

Roxanne
Droppo

Caregiver Support Team Member

Marlene Robertson

Caregiver Support Team Member

Sara
Foley

Caregiver Support Team Member

Cindy
Margetts

Caregiver Support Team Member

Sharon Lindstrom

Caregiver Support Team Mentor

Mike
Robertson

Caregiver Chat Facilitator

Kimberly
Walker

Caregiver Chat Facilitator

Elizabeth
Ley

Caregiver Chat Facilitator

Interested in a career with AFKA?

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of Alberta’s children and caregivers? We’re always looking for dedicated individuals eager to create lasting change. Explore current job postings and consider joining the AFKA team.

Meet our Partners

Fueling Initiatives and Amplifying Impact

These corporate allies power crucial programs and extend our capabilities. Their commitment bridges gaps, supporting caregivers and children in tangible, transformative ways.

Be a Catalyst for Change

You have the power to make a difference. Whether you volunteer, donate, or become a corporate partner, your contribution improves the lives of caregivers and the children they serve. Get involved today.

Melissa Jones

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

Melissa is no stranger to the foster care world. Having been a bio-child in a foster home since she was 15 years old, she has witnessed and felt the emotions that come with countless scenarios. Her experiences have guided her on a path of striving to do better for those she can; vulnerable children, her own children, bonus siblings, extended family, and herself. Melissa is so very proud of her family and her AFKA team for their strength to stay true to their values, persevere through challenges, empathize for others, and commit to doing their best with what they have. Melissa is a lifelong learner, knowing increasing awareness and knowledge is the foundation to doing better for others. Loving a challenge, Melissa decided a few years ago to learn the cello; you are never too old to learn something new! Playing the cello provides her a space to practice mindfulness daily, feeling the healing vibrations and deep rich sounds of a beautiful instrument. What a great way to end the day!

Cassandra Bencz

Manager - Events and Training

Cassandra was born in Hungary and moved to Canada when she was 8 years old, diving into learning English and adjusting to the new life! Discovering her talent for writing, she was first published at 13 years old and has since become a short film maker, scare actor, and is continuing work on her book. Her other love includes billiards; she has become a world’s champion bringing home 4th place and the coveted ‘Charlie’ in 2022, on top of winning the cities division with her team for the past 3 years in a row. Cassandra, having learned much about herself and life through strife, difficulties and challenges, lives life with one motto: do better each day and do it on purpose. She loves her job, loves to laugh, is a haunter through and through, sings but only in the shower, and is a spectacular whistler! One more thing…if she could, she’d rescue every animal in the world.

Yvonne Smits

Manager – Caregiver Supports

Yvonne was born and raised in Alberta and feels fortunate to have been in Edmonton for the last few decades. She loves being a caregiver and being a part of the caregiving community. She also loves music, art, watching CFL football, and can be found at least twice a day out in the community being pulled around by two rambunctious and lovable rescue dogs.

No stranger to adversity, Yvonne feels driven to make a positive ripple in a world that needs people to stand up and work towards a safer and kinder environment for all. She seems to have a boundless energy, often bouncing or humming as she goes about her daily tasks.

She has learned a lot of mindfulness techniques that help her to stay present and grounded, but sometimes does struggle to remain patient when stuck in traffic or when she is running late for something. Yvonne believes that when hard things happen, there are opportunities to learn and heal from them; when good things happen, she takes some time to appreciate and be thankful.

Stacy van Cingel

Caregiver Support Team Member

Stacy joined the Caregiver Support team at the Alberta Foster and Kinship association in June 2022. She is passionate about her support role, advocating for the best possible outcome for foster and kinship caregivers in Alberta.

Stacy and her family have been providing foster care since 2007 and have had several bonus children enter their lives. She and her husband both originate from New Brunswick and although Alberta has been home for 30+ years, they try to get back to the East Coast often.

They love to camp and go quadding, and for 6 months out of the year you’ll find them creating memories with friends and family on crownland here in our beautiful province. Many a problem has been solved around a brilliant campfire, and Stacy encourages all to give it a try.

Jenny Brewer

Caregiver Support Team Member

Jenny is a valued member of the AFKA’s Caregiver Support Team and feels very blessed to be a part of the team. Jenny grew up in a small town with her siblings and in foster care. Later, as an adult, she became a kinship home that provided permanency through adoption. These experiences have given Jenny a unique way to see solutions and connect in an understanding and compassionate way. Her role on the AFKA Caregiver Support Team is not just a job to her, it’s her passion to help those going through difficult times and who just need a friendly person with perspective to turn to.

Serena Widynowski

Member Services Intake Coordinator

Serena is an incredibly passionate and dedicated individual who possesses an unwavering love for life and all its adventures. Raised in British Columbia, she spent her childhood barrel racing horses and shredding the slopes at the local ski hill. For over two decades, Serena has called Alberta home. As a mother of two, she proudly juggles the demands of parenthood with the firm belief that coffee is a perfectly acceptable substitute for water. Music, road trips to the mountains and hiking are the fuel for her heart’s song. Whether caring for others or pursuing her own goals, she puts her heart and soul into every endeavour. She finds immense joy in helping others and making a positive impact in their lives.

Ashley Byrne

Accounting Officer

Ashley graduated from Memorial University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Her accounting journey took her west to Alberta where she has worked in both public practice and industry. She is a self-proclaimed numbers and problem-solving enthusiast. She loves the challenge of a great puzzle, whether it’s numbers, words, or just a lot of pieces. In her free time, Ashley enjoys watching her kids play hockey and ringette. She is an active volunteer within both her kids’ community sports associations and currently sits on the Board for Sherwood Park Ringette Association.

Danielee Hope

Executive Assistant

Danielee has over 9 years of experience in the field of supporting organizations as an Executive Assistant. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree and a Post Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management and has a passion for children, women, the less fortunate and the mentally challenged.

She contributes to AFKA by fostering positive relationships both internally and externally and is committed to facilitating efficient operations to assist the team with doing our part to end systemic racism, biases, and advocate for the betterment of foster and kinship care families.

Danielee Hope

Jolaine Kochisarli

Member Engagement and Communications Coordinator

Jolaine lives in Edmonton, has three children, and three granddaughters. Originally a graphic artist and marketing consultant, she earned her Public Relations certification from MacEwan University in 2006.  A background in business administration, she has held positions in Event Planning, Hotel and Trade Show management, and operated her own restaurant for six years.

Dedicated to her work in cause communications, she is committed to creating impact to benefit the non-profit sector.

Her interests include information technology, travelling to Turkey to visit in-laws, downhill skiing and camping with family and friends. Jolaine is a “news junkie” with a passion for public relations and the pursuit of realizing truth and reconciliation for Canada’s First Peoples.

Caregivers, We See You!

Know an incredible foster or kinship caregiver? Nominate them (or yourself!) for the ultimate getaway prize—a luxurious Fairmont stay and $250 for travel.