A better way?

As a new foster mama, I just wonder when is enough, enough with the foster care system.  I understand the need for foster parenting as I am currently helping to recruit for more foster families.  In the course of meeting with other foster/adoptive mamas, I have learned of an agency that is trying to come into the state of Wisconsin to help prevent kids from going into the foster care system called Safe Families.  I firmly believe in this organization that I am trying to help the Milwaukee Director help change the state laws for Wisconsin in regards to this matter.

Here is the history of Safe Families from their website:

Safe Families for Children provides a loving sanctuary where parents can safely and voluntarily place their children in times of need. Founded in 2002 by LYDIA Home Association, a Chicago based Christian social service agency, Safe Families for Children has partnered with the local church to grow to a network of over 1000 volunteer families serving as many as 1000 children and families last year alone.

Successfully established in more than 13 states, Safe Families partners with host agencies, local churches, ministries, as well as community and government agencies to intervene in the lives of children and families that would otherwise be forgotten. 

Of course there would be screening, background checks and a home study involved if you choose to be a host family.  You can find out more information about joining SFFC here.  Why not consider becoming a Safe Family and help care for children who may otherwise end up in foster care unnecessarily?

Foster Parenting in Your Future?

Here is a great article about 10 Things You Can Do Now to Be Ready To Do Foster Care Later. Thanks to Carrie Craft @ about.com for this article!

Adoption Resources of Wisconsin

If you have not already, check out Adoption Resources of Wisconsin, located in the Metro Milwaukee Area.  I highly recommend using their calendar to see what training resources are available to you.  Or check out their online library!

Northern & Western Wisconsinites!

Are a pre-adoptive or post-adoption family, regardless of where your kiddos came from?  Then check out this picnic happening Monday, June 20th in LaCrosse!

Waiting Children in Wisconsin

There are quite a few children waiting for their forever family right here in Wisconsin.  Click on these links and pray about if your home is the one they call home, forever.

Adoption Resources of Wisconsin

Heart Gallery of Wisconsin

Foster Parent Pre-Placement Training

Did you know that you could complete some of your foster parent training online?  Check it out here.  I firmly believe in getting as much education as possible, PRIOR to being placed with a child or children.  Yes, the need is great out there for foster parents, and each child is different.  We all know that children don't come with manuals.  So why not obtain as much information as possible, in the convenience of your home before being placed with children, and it counts towards your foster license?