Lessons in empathy: impacts and experiences of resource caregivers who completed the national training and development curriculum program

Few rigorously evaluated preservice training models for foster youth resource caregivers exist. The National Training and Development Curriculum was rated “promising” by CEBC after a 7-site pilot. This qualitative evaluation complements prior NTDC quantitative studies on satisfaction/knowledge gains. Six focus groups (n=20) were conducted April-July 2024 in Florida and Oregon. Data was analyzed using inductive/deductive thematic analysis (Cohen’s κ=0.96-1.00). Three themes emerged: accessibility/feasibility; personal/family preparation; and recommendations. Caregivers valued content but sought localized resources. Findings align with quantitative NTDC evidence; limitations include only two sites were evaluated, time between training and data collection, and lack of systematic reflexive analytical practices.