“Who you are is not your fault, but it is your responsibility.”
Who you are is not your fault, but it is your responsibility. This quote really resonated with me during a recent conversation with local License Child Placement Agencies (LCPAs) about foster family retention rates. As I listened to their struggles with retaining foster families, it reminded me of the importance of taking responsibility for improving the child welfare system, rather than finding fault.
The reality is that the child welfare system we have today is not our fault. It is the result of a complex set of issues and historical circumstances. But it is our responsibility to address the challenges facing vulnerable families and children. And it is encouraging to see that the Director of Indiana’s Department of Child Services, Terry Stigdon, and her team are taking responsibility for improving the state’s foster care system.
Recently, Director Stigdon announced a $2 million state grant opportunity to support the recruitment and retention of foster families in Indiana. This is a welcome step towards addressing the 50% retention rate for foster families, which has been a major challenge for LCPAs in their efforts to provide stable homes for the children they serve.
But it’s not just about the grant opportunity. It’s about the willingness of Director Stigdon and her team to take immediate action when the data showed a clear need for improvement. This is the kind of leadership that is needed to transform the foster care system and create a better experience for Hoosier children and families.
As an Indiana LCPA, I strongly encourage you to consider how this grant opportunity can help improve your foster family recruitment and retention efforts. The deadline to apply is January 20, 2023, so there is still time to act.
We cannot change the past, but we can work together to shape a better future for vulnerable families and children. By taking responsibility for improving the foster care system, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
