Fostering Great Ideas salutes our 100 mentors who develop meaningful relationships with youth in foster care. We share 4 bright stories from April.
We can all positively affect another person’s life. Now, more than ever.
Fostering Great Ideas Founder and CEO shares a few words of inspiration.
Fostering Great Ideas is focused on innovative approaches in Foster Care.
Our staff has been proactive in adjusting to COVID-19 life changes. Here are notes from some members of the team.
“In my work with the recovery community of moms dealing with substance abuse, structure and routine keep these women moving forward. That has all been disrupted. Services and resources are hard to access, if even available. I have continued to hold my groups, providing needed interaction (while still following health guidelines). It is important that these women know that they are not forgotten and that we can make it through this tough time together.”
~ Dena Garzone,
Peer Support Specialist for Moms Matter
“If I hear a child is struggling, I ask, ‘How can I help?’ I drop off care packages to them with a note, letting them know they are not alone. I’m mailing note cards to kids and encouraging them to write to their brother or sister also.”
~Julie Eaton,
Program Manager for Sib-Link
“I have doubled the interactions. We have two virtual calls a month, ensuring that each student knows that I am here for them. My role in their lives is to guide and inspire them, and I intend to do so more now than ever.”
~ Hope Coudayre,
Education Advocate for College Fellows
“Care2Foster has a weekly virtual support group for SC foster parents. One foster parent said, “I need this right now more than ever. But I realize that I need this ongoing support even after Coronavirus passes.”
We also started the Coronavirus Collaborative – connecting child welfare professionals to share ways they are adapting to meet changing needs. A space for people to say, “Here’s a way I think we can help foster parents and help improve the care of children, what do you think?”
~ Kaley Lindquist,
South Carolina Director for Care2Foster