FOSTER CARE & ADOPTION E-NEWS

May 2013

Annual Foster & Adoptive Parent Appreciation Luncheon & Training –  May 18th

Each year in May, Children’s Bureau holds the Annual Foster & Adoptive Parent Appreciation Luncheon.  On Saturday, May 18th, from 9:00 a.m until  3:30 p.m., Children’s Bureau certified foster and adoptive parents are treated to a continental breakfast and six hours of inspirational training.

This day is a perfect time to socialize and network with other parents and social workers as well as to receive six of your 15 hours of annual required training and/or support group. Relax and enjoy the Children’s Bureau family for the day!  Call Helen Flores at (213) 342-0165 by 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 3 to R.S.V.P. as seating is limited!

Our foster care/adoption team looks forward to seeing you at the luncheon!

Support Groups are for You!

Children’s Bureau provides support groups with facilitators for our families!  Not only do participants get useful ideas on handling current challenges, they also add to their support network.  A large support system contributes to the success of families as they provide a empathetic ear and sounding board.  Please attend our support groups – you will have a meaningful experience and receive training hours!  Check your training calendar for dates & times.

Martian Child – Foster Care & Adoption Film of the Month!

Martian Child, filmed in 2007, stars John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Joan Cusack, Angelica Huston and Bobby Coleman.A widowed science fiction writer considers whether to adopt a hyper-imaginative 6 year-old foster child who believes that he is from Mars.

Children’s Bureau gives this film a Four-Star rating!Certified families are able to receive training hours for viewing a film and writing a paper on how the issues reflect your experience.  Note if the film was helpful to you and what events provoked serious thought.

Get Rewarded for Referring a Foster or Adoptive Family!

Just a reminder that Children’s Bureau offers a $500 referral fee for each family our certified families refer.  $250 is paid at the time of certification and a second $250 is paid at the time a child arrives at the home of the new family!  This is our way of thanking you and encouraging you to continue to recruit families who have the ability, willingness and resources to protect and nurture the needs of children.  We have pride in our families and look forward to having you join us.Also, many thanks to those of you who have referred family, friends, co-workers, church congregations, etc. to learn about our program.  Your effort is greatly appreciated and has a true impact on the lives of children in need.  Keep those referrals coming as we continue to have children in need of a safe and nurturing family.