For kids who've suffered abuse or neglect, finding a loving foster parent who will care for them can make a lifelong impact. Lucas County Children Services wants to meet the growing need for volunteers who can make this impact on area children by offering free foster care training sessions through November. While the economic downturn led to a decrease in volunteers in recent years, the need for foster parents continues to grow. Families receive a broad range of support from the agency, including a stipend to use for the child's care, and training to "teach you the skills of parenting a child who has been quite likely abused or neglected, because there are some challenges along the way," says Julie Malkin, public information officer for LCCS. Potential foster parents may be single or married and live in an apartment or modular housing — sexual orientation is not a factor. "We're looking for everyday families, the people that make Toledo great," Malkin says. Training sessions are available Tuesdays and Thursdays September 4 through October 11, from 6-9pm; they're also offered Saturdays from October 13 through November 17, all at the LCCS office at 705 Adams St. "The is the best way that somebody can give back to the community," says Malkin, "because they are helping to play a role in shaping our future." —AO
Foster the future
For kids who've suffered abuse or neglect, finding a loving foster parent who will care for them can make a lifelong impact. Lucas County Children Services wants to meet the growing need for volunteers who can make this impact on area children by offering free foster care training sessions through November. While the economic downturn led to a decrease in volunteers in recent years, the need for foster parents continues to grow. Families receive a broad range of support from the agency, including a stipend to use for the child's care, and training to "teach you the skills of parenting a child who has been quite likely abused or neglected, because there are some challenges along the way," says Julie Malkin, public information officer for LCCS. Potential foster parents may be single or married and live in an apartment or modular housing — sexual orientation is not a factor. "We're looking for everyday families, the people that make Toledo great," Malkin says. Training sessions are available Tuesdays and Thursdays September 4 through October 11, from 6-9pm; they're also offered Saturdays from October 13 through November 17, all at the LCCS office at 705 Adams St. "The is the best way that somebody can give back to the community," says Malkin, "because they are helping to play a role in shaping our future." —AO
