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Upcoming events

  • Expecting & New Parent Support Group (Winter 2026)

    • 01/04/2026
    • 03/01/2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Zoom
    • 13
    Register

    Expecting & New Parent Support Group


    Description: Rainbow Families is delighted to continue our Support Group for LGBTQ+ people who are currently expecting a child (via adoption, surrogacy, pregnancy, or foster), or new to parenthood with a child under 9 months.  This program is facilitated by a licensed psychologist who specializes in reproductive health.  These are peer-based groups and not to be considered a replacement for therapy or counseling.

     

    Dates: Sunday, January 4th | Sunday, February 1st | Sunday, March 1st 

    Time: 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM 

    Cost: $40 per family for Rainbow Families non-members | Free for Rainbow Families members

    (If you are not a Rainbow Families' member and would like to be considered for a fee waiver, please reach out to us at info@rainbowfamilies.org). 


    Additional Terms & Conditions:

    • Registration closes at 5:00 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026
    • All sessions are virtual and open to participants nationwide
    • Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy, and safety for participants.
    • No refunds will be issued after the start of the first session
    • Dates and times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately. 
    • Please see Rainbow Families full Terms & Conditions located on our website https://rainbowfamilies.org/rules-and-terms/. 


    Facilitated by:  Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington

    Show details

  • Pre-Conception Support Group (Winter 2026)

    • 01/04/2026
    • 03/01/2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Zoom
    • 12
    Register

    Pre-Conception Support Group


    Description: Rainbow Families is pleased to continue our Support Group for LGBTQ+ people seriously considering or going through Assisted Reproductive Technology as part of their family planning journey.

    This program is facilitated by a licensed psychologist who specializes in reproductive health.  These are peer-based groups and not to be considered a replacement for therapy or counseling.

    Dates: Sunday, January 4th | Sunday, February 1st | Sunday, March 1st
    Time: 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM
    Cost:     $40 per family for Rainbow Families non-members | Free for Rainbow Families members
    (If you are not a Rainbow Families' member and would like to be considered for a fee waiver, please reach out to us at info@rainbowfamilies.org). 

    Additional Terms & Conditions:

    • Registration closes at 5:00 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026
    • All sessions are virtual and open to participants nationwide
    • Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy, and safety for participants.
    • No refunds will be issued after the start of the first session
    • Dates and times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately. 
    • Please see Rainbow Families full Terms & Conditions located on our website https://rainbowfamilies.org/rules-and-terms/. 



    Facilitated by:  Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington

    Show details

  • Single Parent by Choice Support Group (Q1 2026)

    • 01/08/2026
    • 03/05/2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Zoom
    • 13
    Register
    Single Parent by Choice Support Group
    Description: This support group is for current LGBTQ+ single parents and for prospective parents planning to become single parents by choice. We discuss the joys, concerns, questions, even frustrations of being an LGBTQ+ parent, PLUS doing so without a partner. Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy, and safety to interact. This group is facilitated by a licensed therapist from Lavender Therapy.
    Dates: Thursday, January 8th | Thursday, February 5th | Thursday, March 5th
    Time: 7:00 - 8:00 PM ET
    Cost: $40 per person for non-members | Free for Rainbow Families Members
    (If you are not a Rainbow Families' member and would like to be considered for a fee waiver, please reach out to us at info@rainbowfamilies.org.) 

    Additional Terms & Conditions:

    • This support group is a closed group, so registration for this three-series of sessions closes at 5:00 PM ET on Wednesday, January 7th.
    • All sessions are virtual and open to participants nationwide.
    • Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy, and safety for participants.
    • No refunds will be issued after the start of the first session.
    • Dates and times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately. 
    • Please see Rainbow Families' full Terms & Conditions located on our website (https://rainbowfamilies.org/rules-and-terms/).
    Show details

  • DC January Playdate

    • 01/18/2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Marion Park in Capitol Hill,E St SE & 6th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
    Register

    DC January Playdate*

    Sunday, January 18th, 2026
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

    Marion Park in Capitol Hill
    E St SE & 6th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

    These casual get-togethers are vital for our community to come together to chat, talk about schools, diapers, shoes, anxiety - whatever you want! Please come along to this wonderful park and meet some other local Rainbow Families. More dates and locations to come. *Weather permitting (will not be held if raining or too cold)

    *NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED*

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  • What to Expect When You're Adopting

    • 01/22/2026
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Virtual via Zoom
    Register

    What to Expect When You're Adopting

    Thursday, January 22nd 7:00 - 8:00 PM
    Virtual via Zoom

    Adoption is a lifelong journey and understanding what to expect can help families enter the process with clarity and confidence. Led by author, adoptee, Ph.D. Tony Hynes, this workshop will take you beyond the logistics of the home study to explore the deeper emotional experiences that often shape an adoptee’s life. We’ll discuss how grief, loss, identity, and attachment show up both before and after placement, and why these themes matter for parents to understand from the very beginning. Participants will gain practical insight into what adoption may look like day-to-day, how to create an emotionally safe environment for their child, and how to support their family’s growth over time. Whether you’re just starting to consider adoption or preparing for the next steps, this discussion will help you build a strong, informed foundation for your journey.

    This webinar is a collaboration between Rainbow Families and C.A.S.E.


    Show details

  • Maybe Baby - Winter 2026

    • 01/25/2026
    • 03/01/2026
    • 5 sessions
    • Virtual via Zoom
    • 22
    Register

    Maybe Baby - Winter 2026

    Sundays 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

    Jan 25  |  Feb 1  |  Feb 8 |   Feb 22  |  Mar 1 

    Registration is open until Friday, January 23, 2026 at 5:00 PM

    Zoom links are sent in advance. Registration is limited to 26 individuals/families and is open until Friday, January 23rd. There will be subsequent sessions in Summer 2026 if you are not able to join this Winter.

    Rainbow Families' Maybe Baby was designed over 30 years ago for prospective LGBTQ+ parents (single, married or partnered or poly, all gender identities, all relationship status') thinking about parenthood and interested in learning more about the many options and considerations in building a family. The safety and value of programs like this, created BY our community FOR our community, are tremendous.

    We cover a broad range of topics including readiness for parenthood, overview of creating family through adoption, assisted reproduction and foster care/older child, financial and legal issues, building a support network, interracial and intercultural families, the joys and challenges of being an LGBTQ+ headed family and more. The class is designed to provide a balance of active discussion and sharing, as well as to gain practical information that helps set the foundation for moving forward. Like all Rainbow Families programs, this is a safe and welcoming space.

    No Price Increase -  5 years running

    Financial Assistance: If the registration fee presents a hardship for you, please email our Executive Director, Ted Lewis at ted@rainbowfamilies.org.

    Cancellation note: Cancellations received 15 or more days prior to the course start will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations received 14 days or less are not eligible for refund.  NOTE: We reserve the right to reschedule/postpone should minimum participation numbers not be met.

    Agenda:

    • Sunday, January 25th: Getting Started, Introductions, and Readiness for Parenthood with Kyle Collins at HeartWerq
    • Sunday, February 1st: Adoption 101 with Pam Hoehler at Paths for Families; Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) 101 with Dr. Carter Owen at CCRMIVF
    • Sunday, February 8th: Supporting & Creating Family with Older Children with Kathleen Stines at DC Child & Family Services Agency; Creating Family Across Race & Culture with Beth Wheeler and Tony Hynes
    • Sunday, February 22nd: Financial Considerations - Expense, Debt, & Protection with Brandon Clark at the Toler Financial Group; Legal Considerations for Prospective LGBTQ+ Parents with Catelyn Slattery at Foster + Bloom Family Formation Law Group.
    • Sunday, March 1st: Parent Panel with Current LGBTQ+ Parents; Wrap Up and Closing
    Show details

  • Grief & Loss Support Group (Winter 2026)

    • 01/27/2026
    • 03/31/2026
    • 3 sessions
    • Virtual
    • 19
    Register

    Grief & Loss Support Group

    Description: Grief and loss as it relates to family building is often not discussed, or worse, dismissed. This is particularly true for the LGBTQ+ community. This group, facilitated by a deacon in The Episcopal Church who is also a community member, helps explore paths to healing, coping, and more. Sessions are held monthly in 3-month cycles. Like all Rainbow Families support groups, this is a safe and welcoming space.

    Dates: Tuesday, January 27th | Tuesday, February 24th | Tuesday, March 31st
    Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Eastern
    Cost: $40 per family for non-members | Free for Rainbow Families' members.
    (If you are not a Rainbow Families' member and would like to be considered for a fee waiver, please reach out to us at info@rainbowfamilies.org). 

    Additional Terms & Conditions:

    • Registration closes at 5:00 PM ET on Monday, January 26, 2025
    • All sessions are virtual and open to participants nationwide.
    • Space is limited to help maintain a sense of privacy, intimacy, and safety for participants.
    • No refunds will be issued after the first session.
    • Dates and times may be subject to change; any changes will be communicated immediately.
    • Please see Rainbow Families' full Terms & Conditions located on our website https://rainbowfamilies.org/events/.
    Show details

  • Virginia Playdate @ Toy Nest

    • 01/31/2026
    • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    • The Toy Nest, 125 N. Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046
    Register

    Virginia January Playdate 

    Saturday, January 31st, 2026
    1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 
    Cost $12 for first child, $6 for each child after
    Payment is due on the day to our partners at the Toy Nest

    The Toy Nest

    125 N. Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046

    These casual get-togethers are vital for our community to come together to chat, talk about schools, diapers, shoes, anxiety - whatever you want! Please come along to this wonderful toy library and meet some other local Rainbow Families. Register here, and we'll send you information on signing up and paying on the Toy Nest website. The cost is $12 for the first child, and $6 per child thereafter. Our fabulous Rainbow Families' volunteer, Laura, has arranged a block of time for Rainbow Families (there is a minimum number). 



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  • Divorced & Separated Support Group

    • 02/02/2026
    • 12/07/2026
    • 11 sessions
    • Virtual via Zoom
    • 17
    Register
    Divorced & Separated Support Group

     The Divorced & Separated Support Group is a peer-based, informal support group for divorced or separated LGBTQ+ parents going through divorce or separation (or who already are divorced).    Non-parents are welcome to participate, with the understanding that discussions will include topics of parenthood & divorce/separation.

    This is an excellent  opportunity to come together as a community to discuss and share resources, laugh and learn about commonalities and differences, as well as dig deeper into the experiences that unite us.    Meetings held virtually.

    Available to participants nationally.  Rainbow Families membership not required
    first Monday of every month, 8:00pm ET

    NO COST for Rainbow Families members | $40 for non-members     



    Show details

  • Annual Valentine's Craft Party

    • 02/07/2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Sheridan School, 4400 36th Street, NW, DC
    • 74
    Register

    Annual Valentine's Craft Party

    Saturday, February 7th 1:00-3:00pm

    Sheridan School, 4400 36th Street, NW, DC


    Valentine’s Craft Party (with Slime)

    Join us for a fun, laid-back Valentine’s celebration with crafts, cards, snacks, and plenty of good vibes. Kids can dive into our slime-making station to whip up their own colorful, glittery goo as well as make Valentine cards for friends and family all while everyone hangs out, laughs, and enjoys the afternoon together. It’s all about love, community, and a little messy fun!

    This event is free for Rainbow Families' members and $10 for each non-member adult, all children under 18 are free. Not yet a member? Click here to learn more about Rainbow Families' membership.


    Show details

  • Family Protection Planning for Your Rainbow Family

    • 02/18/2026
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Virtual via Zoom
    Register

    Family Protection Planning for Your Rainbow Family
    Jumpstart your Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, & Family Legal Recognition


    Wednesday, February 18th
    7:00 - 8:00 PM ET
    Virtual via Zoom
    Free & Open to the Public

    This interactive workshop is designed specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals and families who want to take meaningful steps toward protecting the people they love most.We’ll break down estate planning, special needs planning, and family legal recognition in plain language—no legal jargon required. You’ll learn why these tools matter, what documents to prioritize, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can leave families vulnerable during times of crisis. Whether you’re just starting to think about planning or you’ve been meaning to update existing documents, this workshop will help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to take the next step.

    During this session, you’ll learn:

    • What core estate planning documents every LGBTQ+ family should have (wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives)
    • How to protect non-biological and non-adoptive parents through proper legal recognition
    • Planning strategies for families with children or loved ones who have special needs
    • How to plan for incapacity or emergencies so your wishes are honored and your family stays in control
    • Common mistakes that can unintentionally leave partners, children, or chosen family unprotected

    Maria Bates

    Maria Bates is a DC and Florida licensed attorney (Maria Bates Law PLLC) who builds and protects families and organizations (assisted reproduction, child welfare & adoption, estate & special needs planning, business & nonprofit development, issue advocacy). Maria received her BA in Human Development from Eckerd College, her JD from Stetson University College of Law, a LLM in Business Law from Florida State University and is in the process of finishing her LLM in Wealth Management from Texas A & M University. Maria started her career as a counselor for teens with addictions and mental health issues, then went on to special projects consulting before returning to law school and founding two adoption agencies and her law practice. Maria is a very proud single mom through adoption of 4 amazing children. She is a member of the Family Law Institute of the National LGBT Bar Association and has been working on LGBTQ+ advocacy for over 30 years.


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  • Nurturing Belonging in Interracial Adoptive Families

    • 03/04/2026
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Virtual via Zoom
    Register

    Nurturing Belonging in Interracial Adoptive Families

    Wednesday, March 4th 7:00 - 8:00 PM

    Interracial adoption adds layers of complexity to a child’s experience of identity, culture, and belonging. In this workshop, adoptee and scholar Tony Hynes, Ph.D. draws on research insights and personal lived experience to guide families and professionals through the realities that children in interracial and transracial adoptions often navigate.

    Together, we will explore how race, culture, and adoption intersect—and how these intersections shape a child’s developing sense of self. Topics will include identity formation, navigating environments where a child may be racially isolated, responding to bias or racialized comments, and the importance of connection to a child’s birth culture and community. Participants will learn practical ways to build racial awareness within the family, support healthy identity development, and create a home environment where children feel seen, safe, and understood.

    This webinar is a collaboration between Rainbow Families and C.A.S.E.

    Show details

  • Great Wolf Lodge Weekend in Baltimore, MD

    • 03/20/2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • 03/22/2026
    • 11:00 AM
    • Great Wolf Lodge Baltimore, 1240 Chesapeake Overlook Parkway Perryville, MD 21903
    Register

    Great Wolf Lodge Weekend in Baltimore, MD

    Friday, March 20th 4:00 PM Check-In
    Sunday, March 22nd 11:00 AM Check-Out
    Great Wolf Lodge Perryville/Baltimore, MD
    1240 Chesapeake Overlook Parkway
    Perryville, MD 21903
    Discount Price - $379 per night for a Family Suite

    Reservations must be made by March 5, 2026 to receive the discount from Great Wolf Lodge Baltimore. Space is limited and Rainbow Families members can register starting December 15th while non-members can register starting January 1st. 

    Rainbow Families is heading back to Great Wolf Lodge in 2026, but this time we are headed to the brand new lodge in Perryville/Baltimore, MD! Join us for a fabulous weekend getaway with your family and Rainbow Families. Enjoy the wonderful indoor waterpark and explore countless activities for the whole family while ensuring your family isn’t the only LGBTQ+ family at the park. 

    Rainbow Families has secured a courtesy block for our families at Great Wolf Lodge Baltimore for Friday, March 20, 2026 to Sunday, March 22, 2026. Each family is responsible for making their own reservations and is financially responsible for room fees, meals, taxes, and any add-on services you wish to take advantage of at the lodge. The special discount price is $379 per night for a Family Suite.

    Rainbow Families will be creating an activity and meals schedule for all participating families. These voluntary events provide an opportunity for families to connect and our kids to play together. We have also secured a large cabana in the indoor water park for all families to enjoy on Saturday, March 21st. The schedule of activities and meal times will be available soon!

    Once you register with Rainbow Families you will receive a confirmation email with instructions for how to make your reservation with Great Wolf Lodge Baltimore. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ted Lewis at ted@rainbowfamilies.org.



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Rainbow Families DC tm

5614 Connecticut Ave NW #309

Washington, DC 20015-2604

P: (202) 417-8897   

E: info@rainbowfamilies.org         

Copyright 2018-2023  All rights reserved
Rainbow Families, the Tree logo, and Maybe Baby are trademarks of Rainbow Families DC.  Use of our logo or name are prohibited without express permission.


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