Strong Families Start with Support.
373 W. Julian Street, San Jose, CA 95110 resourcecenter@kafpa.org
Our Story
Where it all began
A Grassroots Movement Built by Foster Parents
In the late 1990s, foster parents across Santa Clara County recognized a critical gap: families stepping in to care for children needed more training, stronger advocacy, and better support. Caregivers like Marianne Zeigler, Mary Jo Nakashima, and others came together with a shared belief that foster families—and the children in their care—deserved more than fragmented resources and limited guidance.
What began as a grassroots effort quickly grew into the first foster parent association in Santa Clara County. From 1998 to 2002, KAFPA was affiliated with the state association, helping elevate caregiver voices and create a foundation for collaboration. In 2002, KAFPA became an independent nonprofit organization, allowing it to focus more deeply on the specific needs of local families and children.
From the beginning, KAFPA has been shaped by those closest to the work—caregivers who understood that meaningful change starts when families are supported, informed, and connected.
Growing through partnership and leadership
Building a Stronger Support System for Families
Under the leadership of Executive Director Denise Marchu, KAFPA entered a period of significant growth and impact. Beginning in 1998, KAFPA strengthened partnerships with the Department of Family and Children’s Services (DFCS) and the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, helping improve caregiver training, expand family-centered events, and elevate advocacy efforts across the county.
In 2000, DFCS Director Will Lightborn recognized the need for a dedicated space where families could gather, learn, and receive support. That vision became a reality with the establishment of a permanent KAFPA Resource Center, which officially opened in 2002 with ongoing funding from the Board of Supervisors.
The Resource Center became more than a physical location—it became a trusted hub for connection, education, and advocacy. A place where caregivers could find guidance, where families could build community, and where children’s needs were met with care and consistency.
Continuing the work, together
Supporting Children and Families—Today and Into the Future
Today, KAFPA continues to thrive as a vital partner to families and agencies across Santa Clara County. Through collaboration with organizations such as Cakes 4 Kids, The Linus Project, and Care Portal, KAFPA helps provide essential items including diapers, clothing, bikes, toys, and gift cards—often during moments when families need support most.
Beyond material resources, KAFPA’s advocacy remains central to its mission. By working closely with DFCS, the Ombudsman’s Office, the Board of Supervisors, and Behavioral Health, KAFPA ensures that the voices and needs of foster youth and caregivers are heard, respected, and addressed.
While programs and partnerships have grown, KAFPA’s purpose remains unchanged: to walk alongside kinship, adoptive, and foster families with compassion, dignity, and unwavering support. As needs evolve, so does KAFPA—always grounded in community, always focused on helping children thrive in stable, loving environments.
