Okay.. I must share a wonderful opportunity that I have. There is a non-profit here in Portland that Paige and I worked with a bit when there was the possibility of her transitioning to a home with her sister. During that difficult time, I was very impressed with the work of Kinship House. At the time, I noticed that they had a need for people to join their Board of Directors. I was interested even then, but knew that it would not work out since Paige was accessing services. Well.. about a month ago I thought about this desire again and decided to give them a call to see if they currently had a need. The Director returned my call and after I shared my story and passion she set up a lunch right away. About a week later I met with the Director, Ann, and one of the founders of the group, and learned more about the heart and mission of Kinship House.
The group is made up of six counselors who work with children who are in foster care and are planning to transition to an adoptive home, or who have been adopted and need help in the adjustment. The approach is very holistic with an emphasis on everything from art therapy to family therapy. As I said, I was very impressed from my first hand experience.
When I mentioned that I would be very interested in any speaking opportunities that they may have, Ann and Karen were very excited. It seems like perfect timing in that Karen had recently brought up the idea of starting a Speaker's Bureau. AND right after our lunch, Ann had a meeting with the Children's Investment Fund based here in Portland, and they asked Kinship House to join their Speaker's Bureau, so I will have a chance to be a part of that.
On top of that.. one of my interests in grad school is to look into ways that we can better equip teachers in public school concerning the needs of children in foster care. This is also one of the desires of Kinship House, and they have already started working in this area. So, I not only will I likely be able to connect with teachers through trainings, but it will also help me in my area of research.
So.. it is very exciting indeed. It is funny how the wheels start to turn when things fall into place!
I will be sure to keep you posted!
Feel free to check out their website...
http://www.kinshiphouse.org
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My ten year old son was part of a community service project a few months ago through the homeschool co-op we are a part of. They raised money for Kinship House. They had a fund raiser and made covered photo albums for the kids. Rhonda Kay Leonard led the class. I think she was the director there for awhile.
It does sound like a wonderful outreach. It is awsome how God has placed you in the right place for your involvement.
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