Brewing Encouragement at RE: Conference ☕

We just wrapped up our 9th RE: Conference in Kansas City, and what an unforgettable weekend it was.

RE: Conference is more than an event — it’s a sacred space for foster, adoptive, and kinship parents to step away from the daily chaos and receive real encouragement, real connection, and real rest.

In years past, my wife and I have served in different ways. But this year, we decided to serve in a way that felt especially close to our hearts: We donated and brewed every single cup of coffee for 800+ attendees.

And wow — what a ride!

I was busier than I’ve ever been at the conference (coffee for 800 parents is no small task!), but it was one of the most meaningful ways we’ve ever given back to the foster and adoptive community. There’s something powerful about serving people in such a tangible way — especially a community that pours out so much every single day.

One moment from the weekend really stuck with me.

A mom came up and told me she loves good coffee… but she came with very low expectations for “conference coffee.” She laughed and said she was completely surprised. Not only was it good — it was so good she couldn’t stop drinking it. She told me it made her weekend extra special.

That’s why we do what we do.

Because sometimes encouragement looks like a keynote speaker.

Sometimes it looks like a quiet conversation.

And sometimes… it looks like a really, really good cup of coffee.

We’re honored to serve this incredible community — one cup at a time. ☕