How to Access Free Training and Advocacy Information on nfpaonline.org
Updated
The National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) website offers two main entry points for what you're looking for: NFPATI Free Training, described as "learn anytime, anywhere, 24/7 access," and an Advocacy Dashboard for tracking legislation and related resources. Both are highlighted directly on the homepage, so you can reach them without digging through menus. The sections below explain what each offers and how to find it.
Free Training Through NFPATI
The homepage features a dedicated "NFPATI FREE TRAINING" block with the line "Learn anytime, anywhere, 24/7 access." This is the site's main training gateway.
- What it is: NFPA describes its training as "nationally recognized caregiver training" delivered through trauma-informed education, webinars, and practical online resources.
- Who it's for: New foster parents, experienced kinship caregivers, adoptive families, and professionals supporting children and families.
- How to get there: Use the NFPATI Free Training link or button on the homepage. The site also notes that "NFPA & Centene present our NFPA Training," so some training content is presented in partnership with Centene.
- What to expect: The 24/7 framing means training is self-paced and available on your own schedule rather than tied to live session times. The site does not publish a course catalog or completion requirements on the homepage, so check the training section itself for the current list of offerings.
Advocacy Information via the Advocacy Dashboard
The homepage's "Advocacy Priorities" block links to an Advocacy Dashboard, described as offering "insight into legislation we are following & resources to stay informed."
- What it is: A tracking page for the legislation NFPA is monitoring, plus resources to help you stay informed.
- How to use it: Open the Advocacy Dashboard from the homepage link. Use it to see which bills or policies the organization is following and to find background resources.
- Who it's for: Caregivers and professionals who want to understand policy developments affecting foster, kinship, and adoptive families.
Other Homepage Resources Worth Knowing
| Resource | What it provides | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| ConnectU newsletter | "The most recent ConnectU newsletter" with organizational news and updates | ConnectU link on the homepage |
| Membership ("JOIN THE NFPA") | Access to a national community, best-practice sharing, and member resources | Join link on the homepage |
| Leadership info | Introduction to Executive Director Arnie Eby and the Board of Directors | "Meet Executive Director Arnie Eby & Our Board Members" section |
| Contact | A way to get in touch with the organization | "GET IN TOUCH" link |
Practical Tips
- Start with the two labeled blocks. "NFPATI FREE TRAINING" and "Advocacy Priorities" are the clearest signposts; the homepage is organized around these calls to action rather than a deep menu tree.
- Check membership boundaries. The site mentions that "members also gain access to a supportive national community." Training is labeled free, but some community features may be tied to joining NFPA—read the membership page before assuming everything is open.
- Use ConnectU for updates. If you want to follow advocacy changes over time rather than check the dashboard repeatedly, the newsletter is the recurring touchpoint.
Bottom Line
For free training, go to the NFPATI Free Training entry on the homepage and expect self-paced, 24/7 access. For advocacy, open the Advocacy Dashboard to see tracked legislation and related resources. Both are first-level links on nfpaonline.org, and the ConnectU newsletter keeps you current between visits.