BC Federation of Foster Parent Associations
Annual General Meeting
May 23, 2009
Keynote Address - Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond Representative for Children and Youth.
Mary Ellen spoke about the need for all foster parents to be members of the Federation
in order to achieve a true collective voice, and can benefit from peer support, although
she was unclear around what the barriers to achieving that may be.
The CYR is currently looking at the demographics of caregivers as to ethnicity and
economic status. She is also looking at 25 serious or life threatening injuries or deaths
among CICs.
There has been a 30% increase in youth agreements. The CYR would like to see
stability for kids in care. In some parts of BC there is a higher probability of Foster
children being charged with an offence. This may be due in part to conflict in their home
environment. Foster Parents need to continue to be positive role models. Foster
parents are encouraged to continue bringing forward issues.
1.
Meeting called to order at 11:00 AM
2.
Welcoming Remarks were delivered with Melanie F.
3.
Introductions
a.
Melanie introduced the BCFFPA Board of Directors to the assembly.
b.
Heather Bayes introduced the staff
c.
Sheila Davis introduced Betty Davis, and Paul and Melanie Filiatrault as
Life and Honorary members.
d.
Melanie then introduced the Parliamentarian Barrie Lynch.
4.
Housekeeping
a.
Notice of Meeting – met
b.
Quorum of 43 voting members was met
c.
Agenda was passed by the assembly
d.
Rules of Order adopted by the assembly
5.
President’s Report
Welcome to the 2009 AGM. The Board and staff at your Federation have been working
diligently to make this event as successful as previous ones.
I would like to take this opportunity to send Minister Tom Christensen our best wishes as
he moves back to being a regular citizen. His dedication and true caring for children and
youth in BC has made a difference in their lives. Thank you for your support of the
BCFFPA and children and youth in this province.
