tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85398322055527193012024-03-14T02:34:31.907-04:00National Foster Parent AssociationSupporting foster, adoptive and kinship parents nationally...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-73545997219818285892015-10-20T21:33:00.001-04:002015-10-20T21:33:43.824-04:00NFPA Blog has moved to http://blog.nfpaonline.org<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1MxPYn227E/Vibqq93al2I/AAAAAAAAAP8/3QDaCxG_uC8/s1600/NFPA_logo_transp1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1MxPYn227E/Vibqq93al2I/AAAAAAAAAP8/3QDaCxG_uC8/s200/NFPA_logo_transp1.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
The National Foster Parent Association blog has moved. See the new <a href="http://blog.nfpaonline.org/" style="font-weight: bold;">NFPA Scoop</a> blog at <a href="http://blog.nfpaonline.org/">http://blog.nfpaonline.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Also remember to subscribe to <a href="http://news.nfpaonline.org/">The Informer</a>, our newsletter.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-77770856916974102772014-10-22T11:01:00.000-04:002014-10-22T11:01:12.311-04:00Workshop presenters needed for 2015 convention<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKMdNV785IYr3uAsdCdWyitH8M9eTW-r7AfTKYtOM7bD3-8L3OVBfPvl0DhXfu8Z3JEGC8tfhOJabdFmoPlHS9GMMhXyn5snRrbBWMtvAVsAI4hZFeMV-5i7bNKarKXROMGf045UDxm-j/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-19+at+7.09.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKMdNV785IYr3uAsdCdWyitH8M9eTW-r7AfTKYtOM7bD3-8L3OVBfPvl0DhXfu8Z3JEGC8tfhOJabdFmoPlHS9GMMhXyn5snRrbBWMtvAVsAI4hZFeMV-5i7bNKarKXROMGf045UDxm-j/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-19+at+7.09.34+PM.png" height="640" width="497" /></a></div>
<br />
Do you have a passion for training leaders? We need you!<br />
<br />
NFPA is searching for workshop presenters for its 2015 convention taking place June 25-28 in Norfolk, Virginia. Topics are unlimited and can include social media; bylaws development; conflict management; Robert's Rules; effective communication when dealing with legislators/media; grant writing, etc. These sessions will be geared to our association leaders so they can effectively manage their state or local associations.<br />
<br />
Have other child welfare related topics you'd like to present, such as family engagement, kinship care, adoption assistance, mental health or developmental services? We welcome you to submit those topics as well!<br />
<br />
View the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/Resources/Documents/Confr2015/NFPA%202015%20Convention%20-%20Call%20for%20Presenters.pdf" target="_blank">Call for Presenters information here</a>. You will find a draft schedule, and information on 2015's theme and how workshops are scheduled. When you are ready to submit your information, <a href="https://www.formstack.com/forms/nfpa-presenter2015" target="_blank">please utilize our online Presenters' Application here</a>. Deadline is November 10, 2014.<br />
<br />
Need general information about the convention? Visit <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/convention2015" target="_blank">NFPA's 2015 convention page here</a>.<br />
<br />
See you in Norfolk!T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-9035621213055133712014-10-15T10:50:00.000-04:002014-10-16T14:57:23.157-04:00Foster children are not for sale<center>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #a7a7a7; display: inline-block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; max-width: 380px; width: 100%;">
<div style="height: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0; position: relative; width: 100%;">
<iframe border="2" frameborder="0" height="253" img="" scrolling="no" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/505633283?et=OpB9VeG_ROFTX9MomNkaeg&sig=BlrtgJ9JNuZiOIfRiqxQSL05b4Y21hpRO4ZM4H79rBs=" style="display: inline-block; height: 100%; left: 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; top: 0px; width: 100%;" width="380"></iframe></div>
<div style="margin: 0;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0 0 0 10px; padding: 0; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/505633283" style="border: none; color: #a7a7a7; display: inline-block; font-weight: normal !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</center>
<br />
Human trafficking is a real threat to society, and many of our foster children are at risk of being caught in the web. Every state agency should develop policies and procedures for identifying and determining appropriate services for foster youth who are believed to be at risk of becoming a victim of sex trafficking. The <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">National Foster Parent Association</a> has developed the following document to highlight components of Public Law 113-183, the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act, to help you understand the importance of this law.<br />
<br />
<b>PL 113-183 Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act Highlights</b><br />
<br />
The bill has three titles:<br />
<ul>
<li>Title I focuses on the provisions to help states identify, track and develop services for children who are believed to be in danger of being trafficked.</li>
<li>Title II includes a series of child welfare provisions related to improving the Adoption Incentives program and extending Family Connections Grants.</li>
<li>Title III improves the process for getting international child support by allowing tribal governments and authorized foreign agencies to access the Federal Parent Locator Services.</li>
</ul>
<a name='more'></a><br />
Key Provisions:<br />
<ul>
<li>Family Connections grants are extended through FY 2014. There is no longer a requirement that 1/3 of the allocation be used to support kinship navigator programs.</li>
<br />
<li>Reinvestment for Savings of Post Permanency supports: States must calculate the savings gained from de-linking Title IV-E adoption assistance and how they were applied to other child welfare services. States must use 30% of the savings for post adoption/guardianship services. The savings must be used in addition to, and not instead of, other Title IV-E/B funds.</li>
<br />
<li>Guardianship assistance is portable (i.e., follows the child) to a successor guardian if the guardian dies and a successor has been named.</li>
<br />
<li>States must develop policies and procedures regarding services for children who are suspected of being involved in sex trafficking.</li>
<br />
<li>States must make a report of a child missing from foster care to the police, NCIC and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within 24 hours of a child missing from care.</li>
<br />
<li>States must establish a “reasonable and prudent parent standard” for foster parents to approve the child to participate in age and developmentally appropriate activities without social worker pre-approval.</li>
<br />
<li>APPLA (Another Planned Permanent Living Arrangement) will only be allowed as a goal for children who are 16 and older.</li>
<br />
<li>Children 14 and older must participate in the development of their caseplan. The child may also choose 2 people who are not their foster parents or caseworker to be a part of their planning team.</li>
<br />
<li>Caseplans for youth 14 and older must contain a document which outlines their rights and there must be a signed acknowledgement by the youth that they have received the documentation.</li>
<br />
<li>Youth who are leaving care must be provided a birth certificate, social security card, medical records, health insurance information and a driver’s license or state ID when they leave care.</li>
<br />
<li>Agencies must notify the parents of a child’s siblings when the child is removed from a parent’s care. Agencies must now also notify adoptive parents of a sibling as they are considered kinship/relative parents for a sibling who needs placement.</li>
<br />
<li>The Adoption Incentive Program is renamed the Adoption and Legal Guardianship Incentive Payments Program and is authorized through 2016. States may now receive payments based on the number of guardianships as well as special needs adoptions. The categories and amounts have also been changed to include $5,000 for foster care adoptions, $7,500 for pre-adolescent adoption and guardianship, $10,000 for older child adoption and guardianship, and $4,000 for foster child guardianship. The incentives are now based on the rates of adoption and guardianship rather than the previous fixed baseline. These provisions take place as if the law was passed in October 2013.</li>
<br />
<li>States must analyze and collect data on children who re-enter foster care from adoptive or guardianship placements and report via the HHS regulations.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<i>** This document was produced by the National Foster Parent Association with the assistance of Generations United and the National Foster Care Coalition documents.</i><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-45579935203301079572014-10-07T09:41:00.001-04:002014-10-07T09:41:58.709-04:00NFPA seeking kinship care committee members<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l6h76haQrNgOC7JZIpWURKNV5ESlC3X6p0efoRvNdy7fVMs5DnW0D0D1VTXDeTHa_XQjjQVaOsRQ3-mONZUQ2Jts352jQUqxBRztSZ7mbYE8P8VQGWuIwmArQ-8CuF9ZuU40bCmzndyz/s1600/dreamstime_xs_11502582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l6h76haQrNgOC7JZIpWURKNV5ESlC3X6p0efoRvNdy7fVMs5DnW0D0D1VTXDeTHa_XQjjQVaOsRQ3-mONZUQ2Jts352jQUqxBRztSZ7mbYE8P8VQGWuIwmArQ-8CuF9ZuU40bCmzndyz/s1600/dreamstime_xs_11502582.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>by Jan Wagner</i><br />
<br />
The number of children living with kin is increasing across the country and, when abuse or neglect is involved, relatives are finding themselves connected with the foster care system. In some jurisdictions, relatives are being asked to be certified or licensed. Therefore, at its June 2014 board meeting, the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">National Foster Parent Association</a> voted to make Kinship Care a full committee. NFPA wants kinship families to know that the vital role relatives have in the child welfare system is valued and supported.<br />
<br />
If you are a member of NFPA and you are passionate about kinship care, please join the new NFPA Kinship Care Committee. Whether you are a kinship caregiver, a foster parent, an agency-based child welfare worker, a member of another advocacy organization, or whatever your role is -- there is a place for you on our committee.<br />
<br />
This is an excellent opportunity for you to join us at the beginning of this initiative and help establish objectives for the future. For example, recommending and developing a special kinship care track at the NFPA 2015 national conference in Norfolk, Virginia, would be a great start. We need your leadership and membership to be successful. So please, let us know of your interest by <a href="mailto:wagnerjan@live.com" target="_blank">sending me an email ASAP</a> with the following information:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Your name</li>
<li>Your city and state</li>
<li>Your email address</li>
<li>If you are a kinship caregiver, an agency staff member working with relatives, or whatever your role may be</li>
<li>If you belong to a local or state foster/adoptive/kinship association (and which one)</li>
<li>What you would like to see NFPA accomplish on behalf of kinship care -- policies, practices, programs, resources, etc. </li>
</ul>
<br />
We plan to convene a conference call meeting no later than the end of October so we can report to the NFPA Board of Directors at its mid-November meeting. If you have any questions or suggestions, please email me at wagnerjan(at)live(dot)com.<br />
<br />
Everyone is welcomed and needed! Thanks!T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-45177759365087674132014-06-23T10:00:00.000-04:002014-06-23T10:00:01.164-04:00Don't forget: Advocates for Families First Policy Agenda June 25<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" height="59" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Advocates for Families First fifth webinar — Advocates for Families First Policy Agenda — will be held June 25 at 1 p.m. EST (10 a.m. PST; 11 a.m. MST; 12 p.m. CST).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
In this session, participants will be introduced to the policy agenda and recommendations of Advocates for Families First, a collaboration of Generations United, National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) and North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC). During this session, presenters will explain the benefits to your organization and constituents in joining this national advocacy effort on behalf of foster, adoptive and kinship families and their children. Learn where our mutual interests fit into the current political landscape – trends, opportunities and ongoing advocacy efforts.<br />
<br />
The session will be presented by Joe Kroll, executive director of NACAC and Jaia Peterson Lent, deputy executive director of Generations United and program partner on Advocates for Families First (a collaboration of the North American Council on Adoptable Children, the National Foster Parent Association, and Generations United). If you cannot attend in person, you can access a recording.<br />
<br />
Register for <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4848197923641806337" target="_blank">Advocates for Families First Policy Agenda here</a>.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-84284054878480975062014-06-02T16:08:00.002-04:002014-06-02T16:08:37.526-04:00What is it really like to be a foster parent?We asked our Facebook community what it is really like to be a foster parent and wow, what great responses! Check out the post below.<br />
<br />
<div id="fb-root">
</div>
<script>(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));</script>
<br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=776556385711412&set=a.114311218602602.10875.110874858946238&type=1" data-width="466">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=776556385711412&set=a.114311218602602.10875.110874858946238&type=1">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalfosterparentassociation">National Foster Parent Association</a>.</div>
</div>
T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-7631596553519661822014-05-27T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-27T10:00:03.467-04:00Don't forget: Effective Legislative Advocacy Strategies May 29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" height="59" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Advocates for Families First is offering a series of free webinars designed for leaders of support groups and organizations that work with kinship, foster, and adoptive families. The fourth session will be Effective Legislative Advocacy Strategies May 29 at 1 p.m. EST (10 a.m. PST; 11 a.m. MST; 12 p.m. CST).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
In this session, participants will be introduced to the successful Florida advocacy effort to create a more supportive and normative growing up experience for children and youth in foster care through passage of the “normalcy bill,” which allows for foster and kin caregivers to make prudent parental decisions about activities that their foster and kin children participate in, without having to seek the approval of the child welfare agency. Presenters will share:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The strategic planning process;</li>
<li>Shaping the message;</li>
<li>Necessary and effective steps in being “heard” by legislators;</li>
<li>Identifying and engaging community partners; and</li>
<li>Youth and adult partnerships.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Robin Rosenberg, deputy director of Florida’s Children First, Inc.; Geori Berman, coordinator of Florida Youth Shine; and Florida Youth Shine youth members will present the session.<br />
<br />
The webinar will be recorded, so even if you can't make it in person, you can benefit from the training. Simply register as usual and after the session is over, a link will be sent to everyone who was not able to attend.<br />
<br />
Register for <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8047437011088201729" target="_blank">Effective Legislative Advocacy Strategies here</a>.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-69821567130861276402014-05-21T17:19:00.001-04:002014-09-26T17:15:38.039-04:00Walk Me Home ... To The Place I Belong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0YyTMhJY1Rdt24nP6z5us_t0IWlvsK-Wi0h6X838vqbqI0TcZL3QqtdYOaYWjFR2pOPOEX11HmgkNbdbEzbnjwpE2vE6tK7Jdk1pjHNL7oj8fMCyUKBgWQ7cnNHkOUpIXiGZqGe_6pRVz/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_CorrieLynne.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0YyTMhJY1Rdt24nP6z5us_t0IWlvsK-Wi0h6X838vqbqI0TcZL3QqtdYOaYWjFR2pOPOEX11HmgkNbdbEzbnjwpE2vE6tK7Jdk1pjHNL7oj8fMCyUKBgWQ7cnNHkOUpIXiGZqGe_6pRVz/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_CorrieLynne.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>by Corrie Lynne Player</i><br />
<br />
Foster parents today are part of a great support system that keeps families together -- to love and nurture children while their biological parents have a chance to learn or be rehabilitated. If rehabilitation isn’t possible, foster parents either support the search for kinship care or adopt the children they love unconditionally.<br />
<br />
Experts agree that if enough effective foster homes are found now, future needs for prisons and police will be reduced. More victimized children will be salvaged and turned to thriving, happy lives.<br />
<br />
As a long-term foster/adopt parent and vice president of the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">National Foster Parent Association</a> (NFPA)’s Region 8, I want everybody to know that fostering is a uniquely satisfying job, as are all jobs associated in any way with foster families.<br />
<br />
I also want to invite you, my family, friends and colleagues to help raise awareness about the needs of foster children and the homes that help them not just survive awful situations but thrive.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Over the past decade, NFPA’s <i><a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/wmh" target="_blank">Walk Me Home ... To the Place I Belong</a></i> campaign has given ordinary people the opportunity to join in accomplishing extraordinary things. <i>Walk Me Home</i> takes place around the nation: foster families and those who love and support them come together in their communities to walk, run, ride bicycles, and push strollers to raise funds that support local foster care groups.<br />
<br />
This year, many members of NFPA’s board of directors have decided to conduct <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">“virtual” walks</a> -- an example anybody can follow. Raising funds allows us to be more effective in bringing communities together across state and regional boundaries.<br />
<br />
Please visit my <i><a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/corrielynneplayer/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">Walk Me Home</a></i> page and see how you can support our educational and networking programs, as well as our scholarship and lobbying efforts.<br />
<br />
My goals for <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/corrielynneplayer/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">my fundraising page</a> are quite modest -- I hope to raise at least $500 which I will match with a scholarship for a foster parent in Region 8 to attend the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/conference2014" target="_blank">NFPA conference in June 5-8, which is being held in Orlando, Florida</a>.<br />
<br />
<i>Corrie Lynne Player, who has been an active member of the National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) since 1990, has made family issues and child advocacy her life’s work. She and her husband are the parents of nine children, including three adopted from the foster care system, and grandparents of 39.</i>T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-75100839870219268922014-05-08T16:14:00.000-04:002014-09-26T17:16:04.970-04:00Have you registered for the 2014 virtual walk yet?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvFUT3xX7piCBHKe-9ey7iCGG4Dhwhq9y4fm1hfJM06lQCeSoobFeG1Jq8Lgsaa-xCONiFeSCKHKvz8ZOjU8H2BNuOD7WkbpHIM2ovluSB2vicSztX2lAbcD-1qImjiPn8cBcpmCKuAJnY/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_Pam2.png" height="400" width="400" /><a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014</a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-78175822342240545592014-05-07T13:07:00.001-04:002014-05-07T13:23:25.211-04:00Two upcoming webinars for support group leaders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBTir7BsB39KAySe1qcwXuG2BcLhge2TKxj2_EVpTYupDS4JLielIyxOkJKQZ94_zDImm_WipitXZYWiSKJwPbpaLUOaZXbK2VCXSL76OAJqs15n8qkhwpDVgcD9ywHh2WeelBElAyjyE/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" height="59" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Advocates for Families First is offering a series of free webinars designed for leaders of support groups and organizations that work with kinship, foster, and adoptive families. The fourth session will be <b>Effective Legislative Advocacy Strategies</b> May 29 at 1 p.m. EST (10 a.m. PST; 11 a.m. MST; 12 p.m. CST).<br />
<br />
In this session, participants will be introduced to the successful Florida advocacy effort to create a more supportive and normative growing up experience for children and youth in foster care through passage of the “normalcy bill,” which allows for foster and kin caregivers to make prudent parental decisions about activities that their foster and kin children participate in, without having to seek the approval of the child welfare agency. Presenters will share:<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<ul>
<li>The strategic planning process;</li>
<li>Shaping the message;</li>
<li>Necessary and effective steps in being “heard” by legislators;</li>
<li>Identifying and engaging community partners; and</li>
<li>Youth and adult partnerships.</li>
</ul>
Robin Rosenberg, deputy director of Florida’s Children First, Inc.; Geori Berman, coordinator of Florida Youth Shine; and Florida Youth Shine youth members will present the session.<br />
<br />
The webinar will be recorded, so even if you can't make it in person, you can benefit from the training. Simply register as usual and after the session is over, a link will be sent to everyone who was not able to attend.<br />
<br />
Register for <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8047437011088201729" target="_blank">Effective Legislative Advocacy Strategies here</a>.<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
The fifth webinar — <b>Advocates for Families First Policy Agenda</b> — will be held June 25 at 1 p.m. EST (10 a.m. PST; 11 a.m. MST; 12 p.m. CST).<br />
<br />
In this session, participants will be introduced to the policy agenda and recommendations of Advocates for Families First, a collaboration of Generations United, National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) and North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC). During this session, presenters will explain the benefits to your organization and constituents in joining this national advocacy effort on behalf of foster, adoptive and kinship families and their children. Learn where our mutual interests fit into the current political landscape – trends, opportunities and ongoing advocacy efforts.<br />
<br />
The session will be presented by Joe Kroll, executive director of NACAC and Jaia Peterson Lent, deputy executive director of Generations United and program partner on Advocates for Families First (a collaboration of the North American Council on Adoptable Children, the National Foster Parent Association, and Generations United). If you cannot attend in person, you can access a recording.<br />
<br />
Register for <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4848197923641806337" target="_blank">Advocates for Families First Policy Agenda here</a>.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-70853392610262624642014-05-01T13:38:00.001-04:002014-05-01T13:38:11.970-04:00Thank you, foster parents!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGUd6FSEv-5-Yt6n_JvkfZp97Fqg7oBcf-vtRmlKwEp5-CYM6udONRuE6B4i9CwKQgwpNZ0DRycOewejlKNE3sWfuoP-nV_dZlSywxzPqDyIUxwcg1djnDsznF-5yqujY__EWgZDa-t1WZ/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_7.png" height="400" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<i>By Irene Clements</i><br />
<br />
Please join the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">National Foster Parent Association</a> in celebrating <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/" target="_blank">National Foster Care Month</a> by honoring the dedicated foster families across the country and celebrating the amazing children/youth who, through no fault of their own, are experiencing foster care services.<br />
<br />
Children and youth who are placed into foster care are there due to significant abuse and neglect and cannot be safe in their own homes. Foster families step up to provide the love and healing these resilient children/youth need and deserve. Foster families and caseworkers, along with educators, therapists, CASAs, judges and others, work as a team to help families reunite when possible and when not possible, they help each child find permanency as soon as the child is ready. Every child deserves a forever family to rely on as they grow and mature.<br />
<br />
Congratulations and thank you to foster parents who, according to one former foster youth, Rhonda Sciortino, provide "big-hearted, radical hospitality to each child they welcome into their family." Vera Fahlberg, a well-known child development expert and advocate stated: “Every child deserves an irrational advocate.” <br />
<br />
Will you step up and consider becoming a member of this very honorable group of people -- foster parents? Look around in your home town or community and join in the celebrations. Perhaps next year, the celebration will be for you, too.<br />
<br />
<i>Irene is the president of the National Foster Parent Association.</i>T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-40169764299833319872014-04-30T12:24:00.002-04:002014-09-26T17:16:27.706-04:00Join us May 24 for the virtual walk!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKftan-jmARhcL9QqnnUazWRsUbKmYA1AQ20MEBgb8y37MI7-cH94Uno_H5-i6woH9fx9RqI6ZvZEKIU4SGy2wUsPfIlJLl6faLk4TsaB6weJkvbnEiup-u3bFgGVdZ4Ff82xLWb8Lkjt/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_5.png" height="400" width="400" /><a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014</a></div>
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-91554834015679887352014-04-27T17:25:00.001-04:002014-04-27T17:25:24.887-04:00Sign up by May 1 to get T-shirt for walk!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_wcD1HktSaww9dKB7xdwC-Gwkz3GtnzsHHa5-GMXrsS-iYIpBqnIsTHQnJAFvYvVImVWT-8gyhB30QsFHjOuOt4Z4fl85daCp4JRYUjRYctDtI5RSsq80rZSL16BGLJCOsWq8vOFZ4PVd/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_4+(2).png" height="400" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014</a></div>
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-4898861882481711892014-04-24T16:48:00.001-04:002014-09-26T17:16:40.023-04:00Join us May 24 for Walk Me Home virtual walk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuHrhdr8T6Jb-ULWz1M59JCrAzuYwBmfNFcGhSL418XyMNFAt0AjEHshCDP5_IxGsew6XPquyMVwF7-KFQR1khITHsCyRDZXf7upHLv23YCXAHxRP9lOXUrX2gNXNJmpPjr66i1WL101j/s1600/Optimized-WhyIFosterCare_6.png" height="400" width="400" /><a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014" target="_blank">http://www.firstgiving.com/walkmehome/Nfpa2014</a></div>
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-80082088504817023522014-04-08T08:37:00.000-04:002014-04-08T08:39:40.226-04:00NFPA's blue bracelets are back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8zNIBJqny3q1BB1BplE3FAmyAfasTReZOkmixIQej7zSIdft8xZJ50rj7o8rDBQm6TblbME3e4wYx4yVIhFf_OApWpRH4fIhLyl2kMoKvnh_cQUGaqXNtpvMT55NBRjZfVlQbw0BHR_2/s1600/Optimized-National+Foster+Care+Month.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8zNIBJqny3q1BB1BplE3FAmyAfasTReZOkmixIQej7zSIdft8xZJ50rj7o8rDBQm6TblbME3e4wYx4yVIhFf_OApWpRH4fIhLyl2kMoKvnh_cQUGaqXNtpvMT55NBRjZfVlQbw0BHR_2/s1600/Optimized-National+Foster+Care+Month.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
State affiliates, we're offering you <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/Resources/Documents/2014/2014%20Letter%20for%20National%20Foster%20Care%20Month%20Blue%20Bracelets%201%2002152013.pdf" target="_blank">50 FREE blue bracelets for National Foster Care Month</a>! These bracelets were a huge hit for 2013 so we're bringing them back. Just email Rachel Mertz at <a href="mailto:rmertz@nfpaonline.org">rmertz@nfpaonline.org</a> to take advantage of this offer. If you would like more than 50, you must pay for additional bracelets in advance at the member rate of $37.50 per 50 bracelets ordered.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Local affiliates and agency members, you can order the bracelets at our member rate of $37.50 per 50 bracelets ordered. If you are not a member of NFPA but would like to order bracelets for your agency or organization, the non-member rate is $50 per 50 bracelets ordered.<br />
<br />
All orders must be sent to Rachel at <a href="mailto:rmertz@nfpaonline.org">rmertz@nfpaonline.org</a> and include your name, address to which bracelets are to be sent, and a credit card number with expiration date. Bracelets feature "Foster parents make a difference" and "NFPA." Orders will be shipped on a first come, first serve basis.<br />
<br />
As advocates for caregivers, it's never too early to start planning for National Foster Care Month so don't miss this great opportunity. Get your orders in today!<br />
<br />
<i>*Note: The terms "state affiliates" and "local affiliates" apply to state and local foster parent associations that are members of NFPA.</i>T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-83339478404525667922014-02-26T07:52:00.000-05:002014-02-26T07:52:09.669-05:00Survey on foster children and the use of prescription medication <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifusmKJdzTc09lGIY8LqgIsRDte2iDUjadDCVc4jydwIDzZ4h6eO2mr4jutSpdb4Kdf3QCJ9Ap1EL1U9EvehqPl6mZ1EECkNQ-YVDty1uf8vmGRIfPS4fhZyYx7Ym376_SukbXDV8CTLIY/s1600/medium_490128769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifusmKJdzTc09lGIY8LqgIsRDte2iDUjadDCVc4jydwIDzZ4h6eO2mr4jutSpdb4Kdf3QCJ9Ap1EL1U9EvehqPl6mZ1EECkNQ-YVDty1uf8vmGRIfPS4fhZyYx7Ym376_SukbXDV8CTLIY/s1600/medium_490128769.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ckaiserca/490128769/" target="_blank">ckaiserca</a> via <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/" target="_blank">photopin</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hello foster parents! <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
My name is Anna Yelick and I am a second year doctoral student in the College of Social Work at Florida State University. I am inviting you to participate in a brief study on foster parents’ views on the use of prescription medications as part of a care plan for children’s behavioral concerns. Participation in this study is completely voluntary. In addition, I will not have any way of knowing specifically who participates and who does not, therefore, you will remain anonymous.<br />
<br />
I am interested in learning more about foster parents’ motivations for giving prescription medications to their foster children. While it is likely you do not have the right to make medical decisions for your foster child (as that right is retained with the biological parent or the agency/state), you as the foster parent are likely involved in the discussions regarding the decisions to medicate your foster child. In addition, there may be times when you, as the foster parent, would prefer not to give prescription medications to your foster child. Therefore, this scale examines when you would be or would not be likely to agree to give prescription medications to your foster child, if given the choice.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
If you are interested in participating in this study, you will be asked to complete a survey, which will take most people approximately 30 minutes or less. You can opt out at any time prior to or during the survey. In order to participate in this study you must be at least 18 years old and currently be or have been a foster parent to at least one child for more than one consecutive month. If you are willing to help me learn more about this important topic, please click on this link (or copy and paste it into your web browser):<br />
<br />
<a href="https://fsu.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8wfeOKiu3IIIY6x">https://fsu.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8wfeOKiu3IIIY6x</a><br />
<br />
If you would like more information, I would be happy to answer any questions, comments, or concerns you may have. Please email me at: amy12@my.fsu.edu.<br />
<br />
Thank you.<br />
<br />
Anna Yelick<br />
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-50289703418731842432014-02-21T10:11:00.001-05:002014-02-21T10:17:39.014-05:00Free webinar for support group leaders<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDdGkay40ryVNujRJFs3MtUGAVgmJHjaFbor41L0IlRHamSErl1IOnaBUySCLm44QSAZFRaEre7yz0BTXVTWReSZY8eOpxLUE1nQmYbnThUWgWVxD-bCwXq1LAHfnLdqueAorTKRqqe6uu/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDdGkay40ryVNujRJFs3MtUGAVgmJHjaFbor41L0IlRHamSErl1IOnaBUySCLm44QSAZFRaEre7yz0BTXVTWReSZY8eOpxLUE1nQmYbnThUWgWVxD-bCwXq1LAHfnLdqueAorTKRqqe6uu/s1600/AdvocatesForFamiliesFirst_cropped.jpg" height="72" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As part of an effort to build a strong support and advocacy community for foster, adoptive and kinship families, Advocates for Families First is offering a series of free webinars for leaders of organizations that serve this community.<br />
<br />
The first webinar — Starting and Enhancing Support Groups for Adoptive, Foster, and Kinship Families — will be held on <b>February 24</b> at 2 p.m. EST (11 a.m. PST, 12 p.m. MST, and 1 p.m. CST). The session is designed for those who are new to support group leadership as well as those seeking to infuse their group with new energy or hoping to take the next step in group development.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
This webinar on starting, nurturing, and maintaining support groups for adoptive, foster, and kinship families will provide you with tools and ideas. The session will be presented by Kim Stevens, director of Advocates for Families First, which is a collaboration of the <a href="http://www.nacac.org/" target="_blank">North American Council on Adoptable Children</a>, the <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">National Foster Parent Association</a> and <a href="http://www.gu.org/HOME.aspx" target="_blank">Generations United</a>.<br />
<br />
The webinar will be recorded, so even if you can't make it in person, you can benefit from the training. Simply register as usual and after the session is over, a link to view the recording will be sent to everyone who was not able to attend.<br />
<br />
Register <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3399185633608257282" target="_blank">here</a> for the group leader webinar.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-39202499026948390742014-02-12T10:15:00.000-05:002014-02-12T10:15:44.923-05:00NFPA Foster Parent Tip: Placement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7PMaICLlXRu1TomrNcMb_sjTWJEeQtMCSMQl4FZhe1EGEbvmOxHxNDeeUC6SD6b_I5Iw8VAMIdu6Za3UaolTjXx1hT8eJ5LXItZkP5-7mlwBQyci_pSg4dNgu7m8onpKYPLZjgDL2XEj/s1600/FosterParentTip_Placement_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7PMaICLlXRu1TomrNcMb_sjTWJEeQtMCSMQl4FZhe1EGEbvmOxHxNDeeUC6SD6b_I5Iw8VAMIdu6Za3UaolTjXx1hT8eJ5LXItZkP5-7mlwBQyci_pSg4dNgu7m8onpKYPLZjgDL2XEj/s1600/FosterParentTip_Placement_1.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-49752736954481660202014-02-04T11:11:00.000-05:002014-02-04T11:35:24.445-05:00We've got mail!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0zvc1D_GeG6k8exK5zdG9DV6yHmgqSBKlfiX7hcam4vGOBHWZrWoJ44nqF9fT2erBkInokFNuT3YPdYfnmAB5HNN9m2i4ZJJAhrQWO4dzsb9VhuPVmVlztQJBXnb5EctKD1AXsCBHFul/s1600/Optimized-NFPA_mail.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0zvc1D_GeG6k8exK5zdG9DV6yHmgqSBKlfiX7hcam4vGOBHWZrWoJ44nqF9fT2erBkInokFNuT3YPdYfnmAB5HNN9m2i4ZJJAhrQWO4dzsb9VhuPVmVlztQJBXnb5EctKD1AXsCBHFul/s1600/Optimized-NFPA_mail.png" height="237" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Hello Friends of Foster Parents,</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Back in the summer of 2005, our foster son was recognized in your magazine as the Gordon Evans Scholarship recipient of Oklahoma to Oklahoma State University. I would like to say "thank you" once again for helping this very deserving young man take an important step into the future that now waits before him as a hopeful promising career is on the horizon. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Though Jacob took six years to complete his undergraduate (part of the residue of being a child separated from biological family and changed from many homes in the foster system until reaching our home), he finally achieved a biology degree that then led him to Argosy College in Minnesota where he studied ultrasound technology. This month he completes his internship at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas and will be fully certified as a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. We are proud of his accomplishments and of the future that is in store for him and his beautiful wife, Megan. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Thank you "Gordan Evans" and NFPA for helping to encourage foster children/students all over America!<br /> <br />Blessings,<br />Rev. Marilyn Merle<br />Oklahoma</i></blockquote>
<i><br /></i>
Note: NFPA has also been informed that Jacob will be performing mission work this month before starting his full-time job. Way to go Jacob!T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-7960434482683349752014-01-23T16:59:00.000-05:002014-03-21T10:56:48.553-04:00Nominate your peers for our NFPA awards!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0gpO9UUN5P37Rop_RqWC9BZH03p6mYFpQHiz2UwHKAZl1Du6r2j5dWfUZI73dFl7dF7MKfRBqenCZaR5T5hSs95AMl3r3qWEMoy7OgrWvUtgKv0WbUeqHE5eyKxeqXMoh8VLpwSsEF9C/s1600/best_of_the_best.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0gpO9UUN5P37Rop_RqWC9BZH03p6mYFpQHiz2UwHKAZl1Du6r2j5dWfUZI73dFl7dF7MKfRBqenCZaR5T5hSs95AMl3r3qWEMoy7OgrWvUtgKv0WbUeqHE5eyKxeqXMoh8VLpwSsEF9C/s1600/best_of_the_best.jpg.jpg" height="257" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We're looking for a few good people who have gone beyond the call of duty to improve the world of foster care. Do you know someone in your family, your neighborhood, your city or your state who deserves to be honored? Nominate them for an NFPA award!<br />
<br />
Our 2014 award categories are:<br />
<br />
<i><b>NFPA Foster Family of the Year Award</b></i><br />
The Foster Family of the Year Award recognizes a foster family that has gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety, permanence and well-being for the children in their care.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>NFPA State Association of the Year Award</b></i><br />
The State Association of the Year Award recognizes an NFPA state affiliate that has provided extraordinary service and resources to the families it serves.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>NFPA Local Association of the Year Award</b></i><br />
The Local Association of the Year Award recognizes an NFPA local affiliate that has provided extraordinary service and resources to the families it serves.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>NFPA Advocate of the Year Award</b></i><br />
The Advocate of the Year Award recognizes a recipient (person or organization) who has made outstanding strides to advocate for foster parents and/or children in care.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>NFPA Social Worker of the Year Award</b></i><br />
The Social Worker of the Year Award recognizes an exceptional direct services worker in a public or private child-placing agency.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b>Gordon Evans Merit Award for Service to NFPA</b></i><br />
The Gordon Evans Merit Award for Service to NFPA, selected by the Board of Directors, recognizes an NFPA board member for noteworthy service to NFPA.<br />
<br />
<br />
The awards will be presented at the NFPA/FSFAPA National Conference June 5-8, 2014 in Orlando, Florida, and NFPA will waive conference fees for award winners to attend workshops and events. Find out more on our <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/conference2014" target="_blank">conference page</a> or go directly to the <a href="https://www.formstack.com/forms/nfpa-awards2014" target="_blank">award nominations page</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>Deadline is March 28</b>.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-42942412784841578962014-01-20T13:00:00.002-05:002014-01-20T13:00:43.282-05:00From our mailbag: University of Phoenix scholarship thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Bgzy2zsgaSEAX-zkZ1Kxc-Fnvik5RPqhFj0hiG9pxQ7aMz5W1uE9J7-U36sL4FucbA4CLebBvl3bXBb0xjcCWI3wVHcThnTTVqaoi2VknqtA81ZAqcCJEK2imCgKVdc7-FxfcNl3x1rb/s1600/letters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Bgzy2zsgaSEAX-zkZ1Kxc-Fnvik5RPqhFj0hiG9pxQ7aMz5W1uE9J7-U36sL4FucbA4CLebBvl3bXBb0xjcCWI3wVHcThnTTVqaoi2VknqtA81ZAqcCJEK2imCgKVdc7-FxfcNl3x1rb/s1600/letters.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Take a peek at this great letter of thanks from our mailbag:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Hello President Clements,</i><br />
<i>I was awarded a full tuition scholarship by the National Foster Parent Association in the spring of 2013. I am now in my third course of the Masters in Psychology program at the University of Phoenix.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Please express to the leadership of NFPA my deep appreciation for this opportunity to pursue an advanced degree. It would not otherwise be possible for me to earn a graduate degree. It is my sincere hope that this NFPA scholarship program will continue for a very long time. There is no doubt in my mind that it is making some dreams come true.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>It is my hope to apply what I learn in my career and in my leadership role in the Vermont Foster and Adoptive Parent Association.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Sincerely,</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Dan Boyce</i><br />
<i>Vermont Foster & Adoptive Families Association</i><br />
<i>Board Member at Large</i></blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdQEIyH5iqrNIsVwBQ2Fz0u4uEjTyKkufwatSAdOyBppCWroxl-HImo8dn_-oFANmxtQTtm-6j7tT_FzDXMAnBnSJREhYkyVfmp6kX2w7KdTODKsD-vBmuqcC5as3PdzvRrCT4CEsGayG/s1600/uop_logo_header_upx.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdQEIyH5iqrNIsVwBQ2Fz0u4uEjTyKkufwatSAdOyBppCWroxl-HImo8dn_-oFANmxtQTtm-6j7tT_FzDXMAnBnSJREhYkyVfmp6kX2w7KdTODKsD-vBmuqcC5as3PdzvRrCT4CEsGayG/s1600/uop_logo_header_upx.png" height="75" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-87492365245409135802014-01-16T12:38:00.000-05:002014-01-16T12:38:46.443-05:002014 NFPA Youth Scholarship application now available!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rgXcFKiGzhT0DlsC-I60SOvlv3jmi8hfuHG-SqaZECnF_0sg3UWy7K0ssO9uXNawJqkS89UiTgOrKn36_HyfPRn7HRZFCfv1ep-tSrDJk-d-87kfraoovFL5G99x9Ou6wSRffJfQNjoG/s1600/scholarship_application.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rgXcFKiGzhT0DlsC-I60SOvlv3jmi8hfuHG-SqaZECnF_0sg3UWy7K0ssO9uXNawJqkS89UiTgOrKn36_HyfPRn7HRZFCfv1ep-tSrDJk-d-87kfraoovFL5G99x9Ou6wSRffJfQNjoG/s1600/scholarship_application.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) Youth Scholarship Fund was established to benefit foster, adoptive and birth children of NFPA members. Up to five scholarships are awarded annually based on available funds.<br />
<br />
Visit NFPA's <a href="http://nfpaonline.org/nfpascholarship" target="_blank">Youth Scholarship page</a> for more information. Deadline to apply is March 14, 2014.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-45827254661479599442014-01-07T14:42:00.001-05:002014-02-06T01:09:35.427-05:00Play It Forward: Win a free CedarWorks playset!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkJnjZ0P2KokXgteW14fi24LtmBJwYwkjIznV3USv-uU6Zj4yPF1REimYVpL08d7QnLskpJJtuc_cO1f7qB4fjE2FPboSi3nnRnhEtKshbTEOGRbCkpFfeD1Lw7_rhaPMt07QGylZPfKm/s1600/series_outdoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkJnjZ0P2KokXgteW14fi24LtmBJwYwkjIznV3USv-uU6Zj4yPF1REimYVpL08d7QnLskpJJtuc_cO1f7qB4fjE2FPboSi3nnRnhEtKshbTEOGRbCkpFfeD1Lw7_rhaPMt07QGylZPfKm/s1600/series_outdoor.jpg" height="174" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Every kid "just wants to have fun." Give your children in care a chance to have fun on a beautiful and sturdy playset by participating in the Play It Forward contest!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cedarworks.com/" target="_blank">CedarWorks</a> created the Play It Forward program to give back to those who go above and beyond each day to bring hope to the lives of young people. The company has teamed up with the National Foster Parent Association to provide lucky foster families across the United States with CedarWorks playsets.<br />
<br />
Here's how to enter:<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<ul>
<li>Must be a <a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/Default.aspx?pageId=907851" target="_blank">member of the National Foster Parent Association</a> to apply</li>
<li>Download <a href="http://www.cedarworks.com/givingback/play_it_forward/" target="_blank">application from CedarWorks' website</a></li>
<li>Read official Play It Forward rules (located on application)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.cedarworks.com/givingback/play_it_forward/" target="_blank">Complete the Play It Forward Entry Form</a> (including the 250-word essay)</li>
<li>Application must include a letter of reference from your licensing agency</li>
<li>Email completed application to <a href="mailto:info@nfpaonline.org">info@nfpaonline.org</a>. Include "Play It Forward" in the subject line of the email.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Complete entry form must be received by NFPA by <b>March 15, 2014</b>. Entries received after March 15 will not be eligible. Notification of Play It Forward playset recipients will begin May 9, 2014.<br />
<br />
Please contact <a href="mailto:info@nfpaonline.org">info@nfpaonline.org</a> with questions/comments.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-66975558520401348742014-01-07T10:59:00.000-05:002014-02-06T01:08:47.193-05:00Help us identify media that portrays foster parents in a negative light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCkeuirQIA2y_m47hwD6KugGDlwzWIgUoFT0WKxlLna5xeGC-Rjf23cxYz4XmrTHpcfMssBF-ZXWx58EBMJLUShrHObAYfe5u_gHhWzH9a6ff2YLmVR0iaVlUBZ520LDDmkzRpBrDNVkq/s1600/media-hi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCkeuirQIA2y_m47hwD6KugGDlwzWIgUoFT0WKxlLna5xeGC-Rjf23cxYz4XmrTHpcfMssBF-ZXWx58EBMJLUShrHObAYfe5u_gHhWzH9a6ff2YLmVR0iaVlUBZ520LDDmkzRpBrDNVkq/s1600/media-hi.png" height="200" width="193" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nfpaonline.org/" target="_blank">NFPA</a>, along with North American Council on Adoptable Children and Generations United, is working on a grant to help state and local associations to better meet the needs of foster, adoptive and kinship caregivers. The grant will help us advocate for better laws, policies and practices, and help us improve the image of foster parents and foster care in general.<br />
<br />
One of the components of the grant is to obtain an accurate picture of what people are producing, writing and filming in regard to foster care and foster parents. We need to identify television shows and/or movies that have portrayed foster parents/foster families in a negative perspective.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
If you are aware of a program (television or film), please make note of the title, air date, etc. and send to NFPA. We need to prove that the negativity exists and then work with television and movie producers to change this terrible practice.<br />
<br />
Please send any comments to <a href="mailto:iclements@nfpaonline.org">iclements@nfpaonline.org</a> by February 15. Also, please spread the word about this project so we can make a true difference in how media portrays our families.T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8539832205552719301.post-2921058358314947832014-01-07T10:42:00.000-05:002014-01-07T10:42:16.850-05:00Taxes and foster/adoptive parenting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVHnaZ1pH-4MUdpmoy3qZmYtWmcqvZ3jxsWax6i8bcM1ZItMSDXys-7Fd1pkz_rhEudn1dIepZRPhYKRVfakZcrhSDYLCkUE1zJR8Pqc9sAlCPA_D97naf4XBsJ8XzYvujP1e0hdcfqmY/s1600/taxes_art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVHnaZ1pH-4MUdpmoy3qZmYtWmcqvZ3jxsWax6i8bcM1ZItMSDXys-7Fd1pkz_rhEudn1dIepZRPhYKRVfakZcrhSDYLCkUE1zJR8Pqc9sAlCPA_D97naf4XBsJ8XzYvujP1e0hdcfqmY/s1600/taxes_art.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Josh Kroll, with the <a href="http://www.nacac.org/" target="_blank">North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC)</a>, recently shared this post with NFPA on Facebook:<br />
<br />
I have had a few questions recently about taxes and foster/adoptive parenting.
<br />
<br />
<i>1. Claiming children as dependents - foster parents as well as adoptive parents may be able to claim children as dependents.</i> To claim the children you must meet all five tests - age, relationship (foster and adoptive parents are just fine), residency, support and joint filing tests.<br />
<br />
The two big issues are support and residency. In 2005 the support test changed to the child can't provide more<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"> than half of their own support--foster care payments are not support provided by the child (and subsidy should be treated the same way). Residency is the other big issue, you have to have the child with you more than half the year (if the child was born or died during the year, then more than half of the year that they are alive).</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">Sometimes another parent (birth or foster) may claim the child before you, in that case the IRS will kick it out. You then need to challenge and document you had the child more than half the year.<br /><br />Read more here: <a href="http://www.irs.gov/publications/p501/ar02.html#en_US_2013_publink1000220886" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.irs.gov/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>publications/p501/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>ar02.html#en_US_2013_publink100<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>0220886</a><br /><br />
<br /><i>
2. Do I report my foster care payments or adoption subsidy as income to the IRS?</i> No, in rare circumstances foster care payments may be considered taxable income. Basically if you have 5 young adults over the age of 19 in your foster family you count it as income. Or if 10 children under the age of 19 in your foster family who qualify for difficulty of care rates, the DOC rates is taxable income. Also if you are paid to maintain space in your home for emergency foster care, then you must report ath income.<br /><br />Go to this page and scroll up just a little bit to read the whole section: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fpublications%2Fp17%2Fch12.html%23en_US_2013_publink1000172097&h=cAQHdxtcAAQHoX4nvM_PKF2KOY0wmxp-9HlveDRVRi0xLbg&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.irs.gov/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>publications/p17/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>ch12.html#en_US_2013_publink100<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>0172097</a><br /><br />Adoption subsidy has not been directly expressed in IRS publications for years. But NACAC has the 1974 Revenue Ruling as well as two Private Letter Rulings (1988 and 2008) and Chief Counsel Advice (2002) that says that adoption is not taxable for the IRS.
</span>T. LaShaun Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08257816806485217248noreply@blogger.com0