Foster care parents honored during ACFS’ second annual banquet
12/16/2014 11:00:00 AM - Tribal Observer

Anishnaabeg Child and Family Services staff honored foster care parents at the second annual foster care banquet Saturday, Oct. 11 in the Eagles Nest Tribal Gym. Appetizers were served at 4 p.m., with speakers during the 5 p.m. dinner.

Chris Harris, of Center for Foster Success and director of Seita Scholars Program from Western Michigan University, was the main speaker. He discussed his experience as a foster parent.

He also discussed the Seita Scholars Program which allows selected foster children to attend college at no cost. “Thanks to (the ACFS) team for having me speak at the foster parent appreciation dinner...,” Harris said. “It was a wonderful time. Having been in the business off and on for more than 21 years, this is the first time I have seen foster parents appreciated in this way.”

Two massage therapists from Naturopathic Institute of Therapies and Education gave chair massages and two Behavior Health employees did acupuncture. “It was great to see our foster parents come out and enjoy themselves for the night,” ACFS Administrative Assistant Samantha Strand said. “It was our hope to honor and celebrate them and try to show them just how much they truly are appreciated… We are grateful to each and every one of our foster parents for all that they do for our children. We look forward to continuing to work with them in the years to come…”

Foster care parents were honored with Pendleton blankets and the Indian Child Welfare Committee was also recognized and gifted with a fleece jacket. “It’s great to honor our people, they are our unsung heroes,” Indian Child Welfare Specialist Eliza Owl said. “They are there whenever we need them, even if it’s 3 a.m. We need more foster parents. If you have space in your heart and home, please give us a call (989-775-4906).”

Tribal Youth Council also put in time and effort, providing child care during the event.

Carole Tally was one of the foster care parents in attendance. “I enjoy being a foster parent,” Tally said. “The joy of having a child in my home is a blessing. I will continue to do this as long as I am able. The love of a child: Priceless. I can’t express enough the need for foster homes in the district. Positive love is around us.”

The event was a success in honoring those who open up their hearts, as well as their homes.