President’s Report
February 2007
2007 has started with a bang and here it is, the end of February. Where did the last two months go!
As we journey along let us reflect on how life comes full circle. The snowy days of winter are leading to the
rebirth of nature in spring as evident by the snowdrops blooming in the yard. Yet there is lots of snow in the
nearby hills.
Your board has been doing much since the last newsletter. Here is a brief update:
Debbie Drewitz has been appointed Nominations Chair for the upcoming election of officers at the
AGM in May.
Rick Nelson is Communication Director and sits on the non-smoking committee. He will be working
at ways to raise the positive profile of the BCFFPA and Foster Parenting in general.
Louise Dol has been appointed Education Chair and, along with Willy Neal, is working with the
Provincial Education Partnership initiative to rewrite the Foster Parent Education Program.
Heather Bayes has been leading development of the Rights Of Foster Parents’ document and sits
as the Membership Chair. She is investigating ways to increase membership and make it more
valuable to Foster Parents.
Tom Leboe, as Treasurer, is working to keep the Board accountable to the membership. He
continues to investigate fundraising initiatives
Sheila Davis is the chair of the BCFFPA/CFFA committee, and has been working diligently on the
upcoming 40
th
anniversary AGM.
Sheila Durnford has been the Board’s liaison with the CFFA, working with Sheila Davis on planning
a tremendous event. Registration forms and information are now posted on the BCFFPA website at
attend this event. Please contact your regional representative or the BCFFPA office at 1-800-663-
9999 for further information
The Board has developed an ambitious Business Plan which includes improved communications,
fundraising and networking plans for the next three years.
I would also like to bring to your attention the issue of Quality of Care Protocols. This protocol was
abolished in December 2002, although some regions are continuing to use it. If you would like a
copy of the letter sent from MCFD Division regarding this issue, please contact the Federation
office.
The BCFFPA has partnered with the Federation of Aboriginal Foster Parents and the Adoptive
Families Association of BC on a Fostering and Adoption recruitment campaign. You will see ads in
various newspapers, magazines and via radio and tv over the next several weeks. As you are
aware, there is a critical need for more foster homes in BC. This campaign was made possible
through a grant from the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Other joint initiatives
continue with MCFD and partners in the areas of Recruitment and Retention of foster homes.
Last, but absolutely not least, Willy Neal has been filling in for me at meetings in Vancouver and
Victoria while I have been dealing with family health issues. She attended the Federation of Child
and Family Services of BC AGM in Victoria, and was able to greet the new Child and Youth
Representative, Mary Ellen Turpel - Lafond who we will be meeting with in the near future to
discuss her plans around services to families. She also met with Minister Tom Christensen and
shared with him, concerns voiced to the BCFFPA Board of Directors by Foster Parents from
throughout BC. By the time you get this newsletter, all foster parents should be very pleased with
the outcome of your Board’s negotiations with the Ministry of Children & Family Development.
“Let no one come to you without leaving happier and better.”
Mother Teresa
Your input is always welcome and appreciated on any issues. This allows our Board to better represent
foster parents.
Melanie Filiatrault
