Becoming a foster parent is a significant decision that requires dedication, compassion, and a commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children in need. For my husband Brandon and me, this journey began just over two years ago, and it has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. As licensed foster parents, we have had the privilege of caring for children who need a temporary home, and our one-year-old biological son has been part of this journey with us.
Our Foster Care Experience
We are currently fostering our very first placement: a brother and sister who are now two and three years old. Being licensed to foster children aged 0-4, we have also provided respite care for 9-month-old twins. Fostering young children comes with unique challenges and joys, and each day brings new experiences and learning opportunities for our family.
The Role of AFFCF in Our Journey
One of the significant aspects of our foster care experience has been the support from Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF). This organization has made a substantial difference in our lives and the lives of the children we care for. Specifically, AFFCF has funded swim lessons for our foster children at Hubbard Family Swim School.
Transformative Swim Lessons
The swim lessons funded by AFFCF have had a profound impact on our foster children’s development and confidence. Our three-year-old foster son, who was initially very apprehensive about leaving his younger sister’s side and participating in activities independently, has grown remarkably. The swim lessons have helped him become more self-assured and eager to learn. He now confidently enters the pool area, ready to have fun and show off his new skills to family members who come to cheer him on.
Similarly, our two-year-old foster daughter has become much more adventurous since starting her swim lessons. Initially afraid to go underwater, she now confidently jumps in and has learned essential survival skills, such as turning over on her back and climbing out of the pool. These skills are not only important for her safety, but also are achievements that she will carry the rest of her life.
Lifesaving Skills and Lasting Impact
The water safety skills our foster children have acquired are lifesaving. Beyond the physical skills, the lessons have also significantly boosted their self-esteem and independence. These experiences have given them a sense of accomplishment and joy that extends beyond the pool.
The Foster Parent’s Perspective
As foster parents, our goal is to offer the children who join our family—whether for a short time or longer—opportunities and experiences that enrich their lives. The financial assistance from AFFCF has been instrumental in allowing us to do this. It has allowed us to provide activities that foster development, confidence, and happiness in the children we care for.
A Call to Action
While becoming a foster parent may not be for everyone, there are numerous ways to support children in the foster care system. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering time, or simply being a listening ear, everyone can make a difference. Organizations like Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation play a crucial role in offering opportunities that children in foster care might otherwise miss out on during challenging times.
Fostering has been an incredibly enriching experience for our family, and the support from AFFCF has been a key part of this journey. We are grateful for the positive impact they have made in the lives of the children we care for, and we encourage others to get involved in any way they can to support foster children in Arizona. Thank you, AFFCF, for making a lasting difference in these precious children’s lives!