Picnic in the Park

On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, the Alameda County Foster Parent Association (ACFPA) hosted its annual picnic. In a special partnership with the Children’s Services Department, this year’s event also served as a membership drive for Resource Families across Alameda County, welcoming both existing members and newcomers alike.

Families enjoyed a vibrant lineup of entertainment, featuring face painting by Torta X Face Painting Arts, interactive games, and activities for all age groups. Children and families were also treated to free train ride tickets and colorful, custom ACFPA T-shirts printed with uplifting messages.

Departing from the traditional barbecue and potluck format of previous years, attendees enjoyed a delicious, authentic Mexican feast provided by Rico’s Taco Truck. The generous spread included a variety of tacos, beans, rice, and fresh vegetables, capped off with plenty of sweet treats for dessert.

The picnic achieved a stellar 75% attendance rate, successfully serving 46 local families. ACFPA was also honored to welcome distinguished guests who came out to show their support. Attendees included Sherri Justice Cook, the North Coastal Region Vice President of the California State Foster Parent Association (CSFPA), and Michelle Love, Alameda County’s Assistant Agency Director of Children and Family Services.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this event possible, especially our wonderful volunteers who assisted with setup, staffed the tables, and led the day’s activities. Finally, thank you to all the families who joined us to create a beautiful day of fellowship and community.

ACFPA Board

See Gallery for more pictures

Member Only Easter Giveaway

ACFPA hosted its annual Easter Giveaway on March 28, 2026. As in past years, this was a drive-up event. With the help of our generous donors, ACFPA Board members and volunteers created beautiful Easter bags filled with new books, coloring/activity books, crayons, puzzle games, Easter eggs, stickers, toys, stuffed animals, rubber duckies, skin care samples, Mary Kay products, gift cards, journals, fruit snacks and more!

One hundred and nineteen (119) children in care received Easter Fixin bags during this event. What a joyful day. Thank you to all who helped and contributed to this event.

Happy Easter. ACFPA Board

Fun Summer Activities

We are so lucky to live in the Bay Area where the weather is great and activities are plentiful. Here are a few ideas for finding family friendly activities:

510 Families: This website is a great resource, with seasonal guides, playground reviews, and weekend planners.

Bay Area Kid Fun: Features a detailed “Special Events” tracker alongside a free weekly newsletter highlighting the top family activities for the upcoming weekend.

East Bay Regional Park District: Park and Rec Districts offer a ton of activities, special events, classes and camps. Check your local park website. For example, here is a link to Hayward Park and Recreation, where you will find a lot of fun information.

Libraries routinely post free, drop-in puppet shows, toddler music hours, and craft workshops. Be sure to check them out as well.

Most importantly, no matter what you decide to do, be safe and have fun.