Often as foster parents we feel that we have no voice. NFPA can be that voice. Most of the other agencies and departments that work with children in care are focused, quite rightly, on the children. But those of us who have chosen to care for and raise other people's children need a voice too. We need a champion, moral support, and more. I was shocked to learn how few foster parents in my state are members of the NFPA. It's certainly not a matter of cost... a year's membership for a family is only $35. They have wonderful resources available for raising awareness of foster parenting issues and concerns. They have a quarterly online magazine: The Advocate. [Click here to see the December 2010 issue.]
I am running a write in campaign hoping to represent Region 1 [Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts] a position that is currently vacant. Wish me luck.
Image credits: nfpaonline.org
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I haven't read about NFPA in detail, but the Texas FPA is very active right now because it's a legislative year (odd # yrs) and there are quite a few bills proposed - some good, some to cut funding. They have organized foster parents to testify for committee hearings. Good luck in your run.
ReplyDeleteI have moved my website to http://foster2forever.com
Come stop by!
Hi Penelope! I love your new site! You are very lucky in many ways. Texas foster parents seem VERY active. The NFPA President is Irene Clements from Texas. I am familiar with it because the co-author of the new book I am working on lives in Texas. Her name is Pat Miller and if you ever get to attend one of her trainers you will see why I am so excited about our book!
ReplyDeleteI signed onto your new site as a friend, though the picture makes me look like I am missing a front tooth! Dang...
Thanks for following Penelope
Gail