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Wisconsin Department of Health Services

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Governor's office media room
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2008

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CONTACT: Stephanie Marquis, 608-266-1683

Foster Parent Heroes Recognized for Work with Foster Youth

MADISON - Today, six foster parents and the statewide foster parent association were honored for their work with foster youth in Wisconsin. This is the first year of the Governor's Foster Parent Awards.

"These individuals - and many other across this great state - contribute to the lives of children in tremendous ways," said Reggie Bicha, Secretary-Designee of the Department of Children and Families. "I'd like to thank all foster parents who have shared their homes and given their time to help foster children succeed. It is my privilege to honor these individuals for their steadfast commitment and dedication to Wisconsin's foster children."

At an event held at the State Capitol earlier today, the following individuals received the 2008 Governor's Foster Parent Awards:

  • Carol and Carl Novack from Portage County
  • Bernadette and Lionel Norton from Dane County
  • June and Charles Brown from Milwaukee County
  • Karen and Jim Garnett from Eau Claire County
  • Paul and Delores Senn from Manitowoc County
  • Rose Skora and Martin Geffen from Milwaukee County
  • Wisconsin Foster and Adoptive Parent Association

The foster parents were nominated from their county departments of social/human services for their dedication, ability to work with children's families, commitment to children, assistance with foster parent training, flexibility, and being an ongoing resource for youth after they have left their homes.

This year marks the 20th year celebrating May as Foster Care Month across the nation. More than 513,000 American children are in foster care because their own families are in crisis and unable to provide for their essential wellbeing. In Wisconsin, there are approximately 7,200 children and youth in foster care in a given year.

For more information about out foster care, contact the Foster Care and Adoption Resource Center at 1-800- 947-8074 or visit their website at www.wifostercareandadoption.org.

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Last Revised:  July 12, 2010