January 2015 Issue - Alberta Foster Parent Association

January 2015
THE NEWSLETTER OF THE ALBERTA FOSTER PARENT ASSOCIATION
THE BRIDGE
A New Website to start off the New Year!
Come check us out at
www.afpaonline.com
NOTICE
FEATURING...
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Children’s Mental Health Learning Series - Part 2
Protect Yourself from Influenza
FASD Caregiver Survey
Canadian Publication Mail Agreement
Number 40036752
Deadline for submissions for next BRIDGE
March 1, 2015
Return undeliverable Canada addresses to:
Alberta Foster Parent Association
9750 - 35 Avenue NW
Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6J6
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
President’s Report .............................................
Page 2
Executive Director’s Report .............................
Page 3
Board Member’s Reports .................................
Page 4
FAST Members ...................................................
Page 5
AFPA Conference Pictures ..............................
Page 6
AFPA Awards & Banquet Pictures ...................
Page 7
Children’s Mental Health Learning Series.......
Page 8
AFPA Conference Thank You ..........................
Page 8
My.Health.Alberta.ca Video Library ...............
Page 9
AFPA Provincial Mentorship Program...............
Page 9
Family Time Recipes ..........................................
Page 10
Kids These Days: The Gift of Good News ........
Page 10
Protect Yourself from Influenza ......................... Page 11
FASD Survey ........................................................
Page 11
Membership Application Forms ....................... Page 12
AFPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT
DIRECTOR - CENTRAL REGION (West)
Heather Guard
Norm Brownell
RR1, Site 2, Box 24
13719 Deer Run Blvd. SE
Winfield, AB T0C 2X0
Calgary, AB T2J 6L3
(780) 682-2272 (h)
(403)271-9011 (h)
VICE-PRESIDENT
Sylvia Thompson
Box 7873
Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1S9
(780) 727-3745 (h)
DIRECTOR - CENTRAL REGION (East)
Rene Rajotte
Box 3213
Wainwright, AB T9W 1T2
(780) 842-2098 (h)
DIRECTOR - ABORIGINAL CENTRAL
Treaty 6
Vacant
DIRECTOR - EDMONTON REGION
Linda Krauskopf
9505 - 95 Street
Morinville, AB T8R 1H9
(780) 939-5035 (h)
DIRECTOR - ABORIGINAL SOUTH
Treaty 7
Peter Strikes With A Gun
Box 13
Brocket, AB T0K 0H0
(403) 965-2241 (h)
DIRECTOR - SOUTH REGION
Marlin Meyer
2127 - 16 A Avenue
Coaldale, AB T1M 1J9
(403) 345-4128 (h)
DIRECTOR - CALGARY REGION
John Starkey
606 Oakhill PL SW
Calgary, AB T2V 3X8
(403) 281-4691 (h)
DIRECTOR -NORTH CENTRAL
REGION
Joyce Golding
14528B TWP RD 532A
Yellowhead County
Edson, AB T7E 3G5
(780) 723-2855 (h)
DIRECTOR - NORTHWEST REGION
Mary Legeyt
RR# 2
Sexsmith, AB T0H 3C0
(780) 568-2186 (h)
DIRECTOR, NORTHEAST REGION
Vacant
BRIDGE EDITOR
Norm Brownell
PUBLISHER
Melissa Jones
Norm Brownell
With winter in the air and Christmas not too
far away, it’s getting to be very busy at the
Brownell house.
Our 41st annual training conference and
annual general meeting in Jasper was very
well attended with registrations around 330.
We were very pleased that the Honourable
Heather Klimchuk, Human Services Minister, attended our awards
banquet at the conference. We look forward to working closely
with the Minister and Children’s Services staff in supporting foster
and kinship homes in the province.
The AFPA has entered a new direction with our Provincial Mentorship
Program. We are now available to department and agency, foster
and kinship homes across Alberta.
The AFPA had the pleasure of hosting the Canadian Foster Family
Association’s conference in Edmonton from June 9th to the 15th.
Delegates came from across Canada to discuss issues and share
information. Mark Hattori, Assistant Deputy Minister attended the
Saturday evening banquet as our key note speaker. A special thank
you to the department and AFPA staff who helped make this a
wonderful conference.
We have had a lot of activity and changes to our AFPA camp.
George Paquette has decided to move on after many years
working at the camp. Our new maintenance person is Ronald
Jenner, who started on June 20th, and survived the hectic summer
rental season. We are very pleased with Ron and his commitment
to our camp. Each year we continue to make improvements to the
camp through donations and volunteer help. Thank you to all who
help make it nicer.
Our 15th Annual Aboriginal Awareness Weekend, held on
September 19th to the 21st, was another great weekend learning
about aboriginal culture. A special thank you to Karen Tweedle and
her committee for arranging the weekend. “We are happy to give
back to the community”; nice words, Karen.
There are a number of groups that I wanted to thank for their
contribution to our organization:
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The AFPA Board
AFPA Office Staff
FAST Representatives
AFPA After-Hours Support Line
Mentors
Camp Volunteers
Newsletter
Casino Volunteers
Katherine Jones is recovering very nicely from major surgery. We all
wish you a speedy recovery and looking forward to your return as
our (fearless leader) Executive Director. It has been a real pleasure
working with you the past 20 years.
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and holiday
season and that 2015 will be filled with good health and prosperity.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Katherine Jones
I would like to start my report for the January edition of the Bridge by saying thank you to the wonderful
foster and adoptive families of Alberta. I truly admire you for your dedication and commitment to the
children and youth of our province who need a family to care for them, if only for a short period of time.
I am always amazed at the stories I hear of what many of you do to overcome the many issues you are
faced with on a daily basis. I am proud to be involved with such loving, caring and selfless people who put
other’s needs before their own.
I am aware of the negative media attention we hear and see regarding foster care. I want you to know that the individuals who
criticize foster parents have absolutely no idea of what they are talking about. They assume a number of things that just are not
reality. Do not let them influence your decision to continue on your chosen path to provide love and care to those in need. I believe
there are more people out there who truly understand the commitment and care it takes to do what you do for Alberta’s children
and know that you do it for the right reasons. It is so easy to criticise others for stepping up, but perhaps it would be better for them to
“walk in your boots” before criticising.
I regret to say that I was unable to attend our 41st Annual Training Conference and Awards Banquet in Jasper this year due to illness. I
hear it was a big success and everyone walked away with some new skills, a sense of renewal or just feeling relaxed and ready to get
back to what they do best; look after the children they have opened their homes to. I also regret not having had the opportunity to
meet with our new Minister of Human Services, the Honourable Heather Klimchuk, and hope I will soon have that opportunity.
I look forward to our continued working relationship with Alberta Human Services staff to ensure that children and youth in care are
receiving what they need in order to feel safe, respected and cared for.
Thank you to my staff for another year of hard work and commitment. I am so honoured to work with such caring and committed
people. I want you to know that you are very much appreciated.
Last but not least I thank Norm Brownell, President and Sylvia Thompson, Vice President and the Board of Director’s for their hard work
and dedication to the Alberta Foster Parent Association. Our membership and our province are so lucky to have such wonderful
volunteers who step up to the plate and go beyond what is expected of
them in ensuring foster, adoptive and kinship families have the supports
AFPA OFFICE STAFF
needed to care for Alberta children and youth. Thank you for all you do.
I am blessed to be working for and involved with such good caring
people.
Vice President’s Report
Sylvia Thompson
While we have missed Katherine, our Executive Director, both at conference
and at work, it is awesome to see her looking so well. Keep up the good work
Katherine. We miss you.
Many events were held province-wide during National Foster Family Week and
it was my privilege to attend some of the citation events. It was amazing how
different they all were; all were specific to the area and the participants. A lot of
thought and hard work goes into the planning of these events, so thank you very
much for allowing me to be part of them. It is such a pleasure to see fellow foster
parents receiving recognition for long time service.
Conference 2014 was a blast. Thank you to those who filled out the evaluations.
We read every one of them. Any suggestions for future training, keynote
speakers, entertainment, etc. are greatly appreciated. Planning for Conference
2015 is underway, so if you have any suggestions please let us know.
We continue to work with government on many projects and committees to
make a difference for foster parents and children. If you have some issues,
please contact your Regional Director. If we do not know about the issues, the
AFPA cannot help resolve them.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Katherine Jones (Direct Line 780-701-4089)
ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Melissa Gee (Direct Line 780-701-4090)
ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Brenda Rabie (Direct Line 780-701-4091)
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM COORDINATOR
John Sander (Direct Line 780-702-7242)
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Amey Carey (Direct Line 780-701-4088)
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Darci Janzen (Direct Line 780-701-4092)
RECEPTION
Shelly Morin (780-429-9923)
AFPA CONTACT INFO
LOCAL (780-429-9923)
TOLL-FREE (1-800-667-2372)
FAX (780-426-7151)
E-MAIL: info@afpaonline.com
WEBSITE: www.afpaonline.com
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AFPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORTS
SOUTH REGION
Marlin Meyer
In November the AFPA had their 41st annual training conference in Jasper.
Our region had the greatest attendance at this conference that I have
seen. It was fabulous! A number of workers and foster parents attending for
the first time were certainly impressed and enjoyed themselves to the fullest.
The conference committee did a fantastic job. Thanks to them all!
Saturday January 24, 2015 is our annual foster parent bowling night at
Holiday Bowl in Lethbridge. The time is from 5 to 7pm. RSVP early because
space is limited. See you there!
EDMONTON REGION
Linda Krauskopf
Another year is over and what a great year it was! The Edmonton Region
had another successful conference, with another great conference in the
works scheduled for May 1 and 2, 2015.
We had around 200 families celebrating 5 years or more for fostering at our
Regional Citation Banquet in October. It was held at the Double Tree with a
fabulous meal. Award recipients received their appreciation gift of a $30.00
gift card to enjoy dinner out. Please enjoy!
Great ideas for next year coming next year. Regional Council meeting was
held on December 17, 2014. Find out future dates and plan to attend, as
there is always great information and interesting company. If you have
any interesting ideas or topics to discuss or share at these meetings, please
let us know. An election will be held for treasurer and secretary, if you are
interested in either position let Paulette or Stacey know. Interesting things
will be happening in the New Year!
Executive members are as follows.
Stacey Van Cingel
PH: 780-484-8958
Cell 780-887-4211
Also, April 17 – 19, 2015 is our North Central Regional Conference at
the Sawridge Hotel in Jasper. Get your registrations in early, as we are
expecting it to fill up quickly. If there are any concerns, feel free to contact me at (780)723-2855.
TREATY 7
Peter Strikes With a Gun
Okie! Wishing everyone a healthy winter season. Just a thought that
the holidays; the spirit of Christmas is, as origins of this land, to renew the
constitution of our sacred covenant as customs are valued and sustained.
My presentation at Treaty 7 education conference held in Calgary,
November 13th was recognized. The understanding of customs and
governance was one of the highlights of its success. The Minister of
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, Pearl Calahasen, was
impressed with the pamphlet regarding customs and governance. Also on
November 12th, I had a meeting. The apprehension of a child is to bring
hope and a secure environment. The power of the child will change from
a positive nature to rejection and they will become silent. This message
derived in a gathering I facilitated on November 12th with Treaty 7 Elders.
The senior members grieve about the process of medical prescriptions so
freely distributed. The escalated problem of drug dealers coming on to
reserves has resulted in the destruction of communities and families.
I was also a speaker in Siksika Nation on November 1st where I spoke mostly
about the needs of children who seem to be the targets at the end as a
result of drug addiction/alcohol and abandonment.
On November 17th I was also a guest speaker in the declaration and
opening of National Addiction Week in Calgary. My topic was to build the
trust needed by the children. I feel a child is a very significant part of our
responsibility, as a parent and community, to make it safer for our children.
I felt my role was sufficient to reach as many people beyond the comfort
zone; to go directly into the areas where these crisis have affected the
members I have spoken to.
Joanne Crowley
PH: 780-939-2576
Cell: 780-966-9942
Paulette Kopp
PH: 780-921-3393
Cell: 780-916-8447
Linda Krauskopf
PH: 780-939-5035
Cell: 780-940-4465
NORTH CENTRAL REGION
Joyce Golding
Happy New Year! Here’s hoping everyone had a blessed and happy
holiday season.
Reflecting back on 2014, I can’t help but be amazed at the caregivers I
have had the privilege to meet. People who daily lay down their lives and
give of themselves for the children in their care. Many who also are an
encouragement and help to the natural families of the children in care.
Kinship, foster and adoptive families, as well as social workers, support
workers, and office staff who go the extra mile(s) to ensure that their families
have what they need to be successful. I count myself very privileged to
associate with you. When it comes down to the bottom line, it really is “all
about kids”.
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Upcoming in February, The Edson Caregivers are holding a Family Day
Dance and Fun Day at the Legion.
Unfortunately, no plans were made for National Foster Family Week. Our
elected councillors did not renew the contract of our Director in charge.
I took part in some early family planning with Lethbridge and Blairmore
to resolve some confrontations relating to a family. I was also invited to a
home where 7 of the children are in foster care. They were united for this
one day in their mother’s home. Jeannie and I spoke to them of comfort
and the sacredness of a life given. The feeling was positive as each child
had their face painted, smudged along with prayers. We had social workers
present and some representatives from the school.
We also felt it was very important that we had a Halloween party on
October 24th for the children. The hall was packed and there were
many children dressed in their Halloween best! Dancing, games and
even lunch was served with very good support and participation by the
general membership and to promote sobriety of an alcohol and drug free
gathering.
On December 4th we were also involved with the “save our children”
conference, held at our school, featuring a world renowned rap star who
is a recovering addict who shares his stories through his music and the near
fatal experience that he had. The high schools in the surrounding areas
will be at the conference and I have been appointed to do the opening
blessings and opening remarks.
Just to enlighten, our children that we have were chosen in Treaty 7 to go to
a spelling bee. We are very proud!
FOSTER ALLEGATION SUPPORT TEAM MEMBERS (F.A.S.T.)
Alberta Foster Parent Association is responsible for the F.A.S.T. Program.
Alberta Foster Parent Association
9750 - 35 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB T6E 6J6
Tel: (780) 429-9923 Fax: (780) 426-7151
Toll-Free: 1-800-667-2372
E-Mail: info@afpaonline.com
CHAIRPERSON
Marie Brownell
13719 Deer Run Blvd. SE
Calgary, AB T2J 6L3
Tel: (403) 271-9011
Fax: (403) 217 - 3029
SOUTH REGION
Linda Faye Campbell
2209 - 19th Avenue S
Lethbridge, AB T1K 1E7
Tel: (403) 380-6528
Andrew Kippers
Site 10, Comp 20, RR8
Lethbridge, AB T1J 4P4
Tel: (403) 394-2478
James & Marie MacGregor
5204 - 51 Street
Taber, AB T1G 1M3
Tel: (403) 223-0423
David Maiers & Bev Tailfeathers
Box 593
Cardston, AB T0K 0K0
Tel: (403) 737-2014
Jeffrey Solberg
Box 921
Raymond, AB T0K 2S0
(403) 388-9711
Heather Thibault
PO Box 1763
Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0
Tel: (403) 737-3967
David Chow
27 Valleyview Drive SW
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 7K5
Tel: (403) 548-6890
Christy Parsons-Donnelly
28 Rossmere Bay SE
Medicine Hat, AB T1B 2L7
Tel: (403) 580-2066
Lynette Slack
2392 Hatcher Drive NE
Medicine Hat, AB T1C 1X5
Tel: (403) 527-8084
Cindy Margetts
35 Terrace Crescent NE
Medicine Hat, AB T1C 1Z9
Tel: (403) 580-3494
Marlene & Mike Robertson
57 Kennings Crescent
Red Deer, AB T4P 3M8
Tel: (403) 346-1487
Pat Mahe
Box 129
Vincent, AB T0A 3B0
Tel: (780) 635-2648
CALGARY REGION
Marie Brownell
13719 Deer Run Blvd. SE
Calgary, AB T2J 6L3
Tel: (403) 271-9011
Sylvia Thompson
Box 7873
Drayton Valley AB T7A 1S9
Tel: (780) 727-3745
Joanne Ruck
19 Lyons Crescent
Whitecourt, AB T7S 1B9
Tel: (780) 706-7397
Samara Stonehocker
RR#1
Wainwright, AB T9W 1W1
Tel: (780) 842-3419
NORTHWEST REGION
Roxanne Droppo-Treme
Box 1048
Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0
Tel: (403) 946-0054
Doreen Heide
Box 562
Cochrane, AB T4C 1A7
Tel: (403) 637-3911
Verna Isley
RR#1
Airdrie, AB T4B 2A3
Tel: (403) 948 - 4558
Rick Thornton
Box 56
Chipman, AB T0B 0W0
Tel: (780) 764-2636
EDMONTON REGION
CENTRAL REGION
Kathleen Burnett
RR1
Clive, AB T0C 0Y0
Tel: (403) 784-2412
Graham Jones
170 Blackburn Drive West
Edmonton,AB T6W 1B6
Tel: (780) 432-7442
Paulette Kopp
Box 539
Bon Accord, AB T0A 0K0
Tel: (780) 921-3393
Brenda Day
RR1
Sundre, AB T0M 1X0
Tel: (403) 556-3895
Vina McKee
10112 - 171A Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5X 4L4
Tel: (780) 456-8665
Heather Guard
RR1, Site 2, Box 24
Winfield, AB T0C 2X0
Tel: (780)682-2272
Linda Krauskopf
9505 - 95 Street
Morinville, AB T8R 1H9
(780) 939-5035
Wade & Debbie Holland
Box 1627
Hanna, AB T0J 1P0
Tel: (403) 854-2217
NORTH CENTRAL REGION
Charleen Leslie
3 Spruce Close
Lacombe, AB T4L 2L3
(780) 782-7503
Seth & Holly Barnfield
Box 4, Site 4, RR2
Sexsmith, ABT0H 3C0
Tel: (780) 568-4009
Sara Foley
PO Box 179
Whitelaw, AB T0H 3T0
Tel: (780) 596-3016
Sheila Wolfe
Box 11
High Level, AB T0H 1Z0
Tel: (780) 926-3437
NORTHEAST REGION
Northeast Region is currently being
serviced by FAST Reps from other
Regions.
If you are interested in becoming a FAST
representative for your region, please
contact the AFPA for more information.
Brian & Joyce Golding
14528B Township Rd 532A
Yellowhead County, AB T7E 3G5
Tel: (780) 723-2855
Susan & Stephen Lander
Box 96
Cherry Grove, AB T0A 0T0
Tel: (780) 594-0904
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AFPA 41st Annual Training Conference
Opening Ceremonies
November 6, 2014
Friday Night
Entertainment
“SaFire Dance”
November 7, 2014
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AFPA 41st Annual Awards Banquet
2014 AFPA Foster Family & Human Services Worker of the Year
November 8, 2014
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Children’s Mental Health
Learning Series
Part Two ~ 2015 Series
Upcoming Sessions
THANK YOU
2014 AFPA CONFERENCE DONORS
A very big thank you to the following individuals and companies
for their generaous donations toward the 2014 AFPA Conference:
All sessions run from 9:15 am to 10:45 am and are available via live
webcast or in-person in the city listed below. You do not need to reside Able IT INC.
in the hosting city and anyone can attend via webcast. If you are
unable to attend via webcast at the assigned dates and times, register
for the event and be able to watch on a later date at your convenience!
There is no fee to attend, but registration is required.
Supporting Mental Health in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and
Transgendered Children and Adolescents EDMONTON, January 6, 2015
Managing Children and Adolescents with Severe Anxiety Issues: A
Toolbox of Strategies –
RED DEER - February 3, 2015
Connected or Disconnected: When media and social media affect
adolescent mental health –
CALGARY - April 14, 2015
Helping Children Recover from Eating Disorders EDMONTON - June 2 or 9 (to be confirmed) 2015
To register for these online or in-person sessions, or to view
completed sessions for Part Two, go to:
http://www.research4children.com/theme/common/page.cfm?i=10001522
View the following videos and accompanying resources from
Part One of the series at:
http://www.humanservices.alberta.ca/family-community/cmh-learning-series.html
Aussie Rules
Baker Hughes
Dan Borchert
Beryl Anne Hodgins
(memoriesaremade.ca)
Blowey-Henry Wholesale
Brenda Rabie
Burnco Rock Products
Buffalo Wild Wings
Calaway Park
Calgary Flames
Calgary Foster Parent
Association
Calgary Hitmen
Calgary Roughnecks
Cam Clark Ford
Canuck Amusements
Cathy Hatt
Cool Toys for Tots
Country 105 Calgary
Creative Wood Co.
Edmonton Eskimos Football
Club
Enviro Consult Inc.
Frits & Margaret Wortman
Fyi Doctors (St. Albert)
Gypsy Rose Tattoo
Health Education
Heather Guard
Holiday Inn ~ Macleod Trail
John and Sue Nicholls
Katherine & Graham Jones
Kids up Front
Kites and Other Delights
Leduc Chrysler
Linda Krauskopf
Lloydsadd
Lorraine Blanchard
Sawridge Inn & Conference
Centre
Lynda Knelson
Mac Tools- Kris Kosteck
Mackay.ca
Margaret Lachance
Micaela Olson-Herd
Millwoods Family Dentistry
Mountain Air
Norm and Marie Brownell
Northstar Ford
Ottoman Enterprises
Paulette & Hugh Kopp
Ron and Catherine Ryan
Carrie & Shane Vande
Cappelle
Ron’s Man Cave LTD.
Sidestreet
Snap-on - Shayne Bartel
Tenaris Algoma Tubes
The Camera Store
Theo Fleury
Toy Travellers
Toyz 4 U Inc.
Trail Appliances
Village Honda
Western Varieties Wholesale
Inc.
Younique - Terri Grills
Session 1: The Core Story of Child Development
Session 2: From Kids at Risk to Kids at Hope
Session 3: Healing the Traumatized Parent and Child
Session 4: Resilience in ADHD; Promoting the Positives in
Challenging Children
Session 5: Vicarious Trauma in Front-Line Service Providers and
Parents
Session 6: Creating Healthy Relationships and Settings to Prevent Peer
Bullying and Victimization
Our sincerest apologies if we have missed a name on this list. Please advise
Session 7: Ameliorating psycho-social risk among mothers with
staff at the AFPA office if we have done so. Thank you!
intellectual disabilities and their children
Session 8: Baby Steps and Giant Leaps: Infant Preschool Mental
Health
Session 9: Promoting Social and Emotional Well-Being in Children
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MyHealth.Alberta.ca Video Library
AFPA Provincial Mentorship Program
Visit the MyHealth.Alberta.ca website for health information
and resources, including videos on the following topics:
Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Use
Allergies and Immune System
Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Baby Health
Before and After Surgery
Bone, Joints and Muscles
Brain and Nerves
Cancer
Child Health
Diabetes and Endocrine System
Digestive System
Ear, Nose and Throat
Eyes and Vision
Female Health
Fitness and Exercise
Healthy Living
Heart and Blood Vessels
Immunizations and Vaccines
Infectious Diseases
Injuries and Wounds
Kidneys and Urinary System
Lab and Diagnostic Tests
Lungs and Breathing
Medications
Mental Health
Nutrition
Pain
Physical Rehabilitation
Planning Ahead
Pregnancy
Seniors Health
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Skin, Hair and Nails
Traveler’s Health
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/Pages/healthvideoplayer.aspx
The Bridge Newsletter
will be going completely online!
LOOK WHAT’S NEW!
The AFPA Provincial Mentorship Program is now available to
foster (department and agency) and kinship homes across
Alberta, with three program options.
Long-Term Support *:
Long-term support provided for new foster and kinship parents in Alberta
* AFPA Provincial Mentorship Program available province-wide, with the exception of long-term support
for new foster families in the Calgary Region, as the Calgary Region has their own official mentoring
program in place for new foster parents.
Temporary Support:
Short term support provided for all foster and kinship parents in Alberta to
receive temporary support as situations of need arise
Group Mentoring:
For all foster and kinship parents in Alberta, facilitated by regional
mentors venues to collaborate, share stories, and network with other
foster and kinship parents
Approval and matching of mentors and mentees will be completed
through the AFPA Provincial Mentorship Program.
The program is in need of mentors for Alberta
department, agency, and kinship homes.
If you are interested in becoming a mentor, download the application
form from our website, www.afpaonline.com, or please contact the
AFPA office for more information.
To access support from a mentor, please contact the AFPA office for
more information.
Alberta Foster Parent Association
Provincial Mentorship Program
www.afpaonline.com
1.800.667.2372
melissa@afpaonline.com
JohnS@afpaonline.com
At this time, The Bridge can be found on our website
(www.afpaonline.com) on a quarterly basis.
PLEASE NOTE: If you would prefer to have a version of The
Bridge mailed to you, please contact the office ASAP to be added
to a mailing list. Your information needs to be provided in order to
receive the newsletter in this format.
To receive The Bridge via email, please contact our office to be
added to the email list. When you are added to our email list you
will receive current issues of The Bridge, in addition to updates
regarding Ministry and AFPA programs and upcoming training/
workshops that come our way!
Fax, Email, or Phone-in consent to:
FAX (780-426-7151)
E-MAIL: info@afpaonline.com
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Family Time Recipes
Pita Chips
8 whole wheat pita bread1 tbsp (15 mL) oil
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) garlic powder
Cut pita bread into wedges. Brush lightly with oil and sprinkle
with garlic powder. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes until
crisp.
Hummus Dip
16 oz (437 mL) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (no salt
added)
2-4 cloves garlic
2-3 tbsp (30-45 mL) olive oil or tahani
3 tbsp (45 mL) lemon juice
Rinse chickpeas in water. Crush garlic and place in bowl with all
other ingredients. Mash with wooden spoon or use a blender.
If dip is too thick, add water until you get the texture you
want.
Baked Apples
2 medium cooking apples
1 tsp (5 mL) margarine
2 tbsp (30 mL) brown sugar, packed
¼ tsp (1 mL) cinnamon
¼ tsp (1 mL) lemon juice
1 tbsp (15 mL) raisins
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) nutmeg
Remove the apple core, cutting from the top of the apple. Do
not cut through the bottom. Prick the apples with a fork. In
a small bowl, mix together the other items and spoon into the
centres of the apples. Place apples on a dish and microwave
them on high for 1½ minutes or until apples are tender.
You can also place the apples in a baking pan with 2 tbsp (30
mL) of water and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30 minutes.
Visit:
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Healthy-holiday-eating.aspx
for more healthy recipes to share with the family!
Kids These Days: The Gift of Good News
By Dr. David Rideout
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. What
does that look like to you?
For me, it brings up many fond memories of
Christmases past. When I was a child in our small
outport village in Newfoundland, Christmas meant
searching in the nearby woods for that elusive,
perfectly-shaped evergreen that would meet my
mother’s high standards. It meant studying the Christmas catalogue for gifts to
give (and marking the ones I hoped to receive). And it meant carrying out an
old Newfoundlander Christmas tradition called “mummering”—dressing up in
old-fashioned disguises and going door-to-door at night.
For us in Children’s Services, Christmas came a little early this year when we
were able to reconnect with some of the children who once upon a time had
been in our care. These were children who lived with foster families, with
kinship caregivers, or in group homes. These children are grownups now—gone
from our system, but not forgotten.
We invited them to share their stories publicly, which they did with unabashed
honesty. They told us all about where life had taken them, what they had
learned, how they had fared since becoming independent adults. It seems
fitting to share their stories with you now, because they are a gift we want to
pass along. Their experiences are a testament to the strength that comes from
adversity; a reminder that every child has promise.
Brian came into care when he was only seven years old. His foster mom
described him as “the angriest little boy you’ve ever met.” Thanks to the
compassion of his foster parents and the kindness of two high school teachers,
Brian’s life changed immeasurably. His teacher, Mr. Sekyer, encouraged him to
use the same discipline he applied to sports to his studies. Brian’s social studies
mark went from 53 percent to 89 percent. His football coach taught him to set
goals, which Brian did—achieving not one but three journeyman certificates.
And foster parents who think of Brian as their own son gave Brian the family
life he so needed and deserved. You can watch Brian’s story at https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=vVv9eRQUOqI&feature=youtu.be.
Yvonne was a little girl at extreme risk, often found alone late at night in the
playground when she was just four years old. After being seriously injured
in a family violence incident, she was taken into the foster home of Joyce
and Brian Golding. She learned to ride and care for a horse, and in doing
so, gained confidence in herself. When she grew up, Yvonne vowed to “pay
forward” the love and compassion she experienced. She now works at a
group home for troubled youth, with whom she has a special connection
born of shared experience. See Yvonne’s story at https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=vVv9eRQUOqI&feature=youtu.be.
Those are just two stories in a series of “good news” videos we produced,
entitled “How Far You’ve Come: Profiles of Former Children in Care.” Their
stories remind us that we all have a role in helping children reach their full
potential. That with love and compassion, every child can be transformed. It’s
a story we never tire of hearing, like a gift that just keeps on giving, and we’re
pleased to share it with you.
Merry Christmas.
Dr. David Rideout is a former teacher, principal, and school board superintendent. He is a father of
two adult sons and the CEO of the North Central Alberta Child and Family Services Authority.
Feedback or comments are welcome and can be sent via email to david.rideout@gov.ab.ca
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Protect Yourself from Influenza
Get Immunized:
Getting your influenza immunization every season – and as early in each
season as possible – is the single most effective way to arm yourself against
influenza.
All Albertans six months of age & older should be immunized each season.
Simply, without immunization, you are at risk.
Get protected, not infected.
Cover your cough:
Stories from Caregivers
For many months, the AFPA has been collecting stories,
written by foster families, shared with our association. These
stories can be found on our website, www.afpaonline.com. They
depict wonderful examples of the dedication, care, and support
for children and families in care.
We would love to receive as many stories as possible to
share with people across the country ~ the celebrations and
successes we rarely hear about in foster and kinship care.
If you have story you would like to share with our association,
please forward them to:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing.
Alberta Foster Parent Association
9750 - 35 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6E 6J6
ATTENTION: Melissa Gee, Assistant Executive Director
or
email: melissa@afpaonline.com
If you don’t have a tissue, always cough or sneeze into your arm, not into
your hands.
Throw away tissues after wiping your nose or covering a cough, and wash
your hands.
Clean your hands:
Using soap and warm water, wash your hands thoroughly and often,
including after coughing, sneezing, using tissues or the washroom, and
before eating or preparing foods.
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

Alcohol-based hand rub or sanitizer can also be helpful if hands are not
visibly soiled.
Make a point of keeping hands and fingers away from your eyes, nose and
mouth.
Stay home when sick:
If you have symptoms of illness, including fever, cough, headache and
extreme tiredness, stay home from work, school, daycare, or any social
function.
Please also refrain from visiting family, friends or loved ones in hospitals,
care facilities or seniors lodges, until you have fully recovered from any
illness.
Information shared from Alberta Health Services, http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/9523.asp
The Bridge Newsletter
will be going completely online!
At this time, The Bridge can be found on our website (www.afpaonline.com) on
a quarterly basis.
PLEASE NOTE: If you would prefer to have a version of The Bridge mailed
to you, please contact the office ASAP to be added to a mailing list. Your
information needs to be provided in order to receive the newsletter in this
format.
To receive The Bridge via email, please contact our office to be added to the
email list. When you are added to our email list you will receive current issues
of The Bridge, in addition to updates regarding Ministry and AFPA programs
and upcoming training/workshops that come our way!
Fax, Email, or Phone-in consent to:
FAX (780-426-7151), E-MAIL: info@afpaonline.com
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Added reasons to join the AFPA Membership:
Special Pricing is available to AFPA Members at The Brick, Hughes Car Wash and Gas Diesel Bar, West Edmonton Mall (Choice Passes), SilverBirch Hotels and
Resorts, Chateau Louis Edmonton, AVIS Car Rentals, Canar Rock Products Edmonton and Red Deer, Minute Muffler & Brake Calgary, and Koch Ford Edmonton
AFPA Membership Application
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
NAME
INDICATE CLASS OF MEMBERSHIP
WITH “X” IN THE CORRECT BOX
ADDRESS
CITY
PROVINCE
Regional Authority Name
DEPARTMENT FOSTER/KINSHIP HOME
Regional Authority Number
POSTAL CODE
Classification
TELEPHONE
EMAIL ADDRESS
Name of Agency
DATE
PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS
TO ENSURE ACCURATE INFORMATION TYPE OR PRINT
1.
2.
3.
AGENCY FOSTER/KINSHIP HOME
ASSOCIATE MEMBER
LIFETIME MEMBER
Method of Payment
RETURN FORM AND MEMBERSHIP FEE TO:
Alberta Foster Parent Association
9750 - 35 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6J6
Phone (780) 429-9923 / 1-800-667-2372
Fax (780) 426-7151
NEW
RENEW
PLEASE MARK “X” IN
THE APPROPRIATE BOX
NAME
MASTERCARD
VISA
CASHCHEQUE
Credit Card Number
Authorized Signature
Expiry Date
CLASS OF MEMBERSHIP
Foster/Kinship Home Member: an individual who is licensed by Alberta Human Services or equivalent
Associate Member: an individual or agency that is not a licensed foster parent
Lifetime Member: appointed lifetime members of the AFPA (fee waived)
The membership fee is $50.00 per household per year (one card for each parent will be issued). A fee of $10.00 will be charged for all NSF cheques.
If you would like your membership card laminated, please enclose an additional $0.75 per card.
Canadian Foster Family Association
Donor Membership Application
April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016
New MemberRenewal
Foster/Kinship FamilySocial WorkerOther
Name(s):
Address:
City/Town:
Mail this form and membership fee to:
Prov./Terr.: Postal Code:
Phone: ( )
Email:
CANADIAN FOSTER FAMILY ASSOCIATION
c/o Sharon Joyal
Membership Chair
Box 1 Group 25 RR2
Ste Anne, Manitoba R5H 1R2
Family Membership Fee: $20.00 OR $100.00 for 6 years
Method of Payment:
ChequeMoney order
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