Arizona's Children Association In Touch

Gifts of Hope made an impact statewide

2012-01-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

Across Arizona, individuals, companies and organizations stepped up to help the children and families we serve by collecting "Gifts of Hope.”

For many, the donated gifts were distributed to the child’s parents so that they could wrap the item themselves and give the gift as a part of their family time over the holidays. Some programs such as foster care and independent living often hold their own holiday parties. In Lake Havasu, their annual Mohave County Holiday Party for HRSS and STAR programs welcomed more than 250 people at the Parks & Recreation Rods and Relics Hall. Every year, community support is critical for this event. This year Lake Havasu City Frontier Communications sponsored the majority of the party expenses. Lowes of LHC came in with child friendly wooden crafts to build bird houses, games, etc. ~ lots of hammering going on! Members of the LHC Rotary Club set u[ a table with more than 200 cookies for the kiddos to decorate, plus there were 3 other craft tables, a bounce house, plenty of food and wonderful desserts, a D.J., and prize drawings. Last but not least, Santa came to visit with each child receiving a candy gift and a picture with Santa.

Stories like this came in from all over the state. In some of the Northern counties, gift donations even tripled from last year, allowing more kids than ever to benefit.
We are truly thank you to groups, large and small, and all the individuals who were involved in all of our holiday efforts. Below is a list of groups who were involved this year. Thank you to the dozens of individuals across the state who also participated. There are too many individuals to name here but please know that your support is very appreciated and you help to make the holidays brighter for our many families. Thank you!

If you are interested in participating in collection drives to collect the many items we need throughout the year, please visit www.arizonaschildren.org/drives.htm. If you are interested in Gifts of Hope 2012, please email Chris at cleblanc@arizonaschildren.org to request an informational letter about this event later in the year.

Northern:
Walgreens Employees (Prescott), Kappa Medical, County Bank, AZ State Savings & Credit Union, BTW Bikers of the Third Wheel, Yavapine Needles, FALA, Flagstaff Professionals, Zale Jewelers, Boy Scout Troop #210, Ross Stores Inc., ReMax Peak Properties, Little Caesars Pizza (Lake Havasu), Mohave P.C. , Frontier Communications, LHC Realtor’s Association, Havasu Regional Medical Center Auxillary, London Bridge Plaza Association, Chili’s Restaurant, Anderson Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Anderson Nissan, Anderson Toyota, Bling, Brooks and Clark, Bubba Jump, Elegante, ESSCO, ART Towing, Hair Cartel, Home Depot, Horizon Bank, IHOP, Jacklyns, Jamaica Elementary Honor Society, Lake Havasu Rotary, Lake Havasu Womens Golf Assoc., LHC Police Department, LHHS - Construction Students, LHHS – FCCLA, London Bridge Squares, Lowes, Mane Event/Lushes Lashes Salon, Men of the Moose, Relics and Rods, St. Michael's Church, The Shops - Management Team and Vendors, Titan's Fitness, Tri-State Pagent, Women of the Moose, Denny's (Kingman), Home Depot, Hot Locks Salon, Kingman Firefighters Union, Kingman Police Department, KPD 9111 Emergency Communications Center, MCC - Kingman Campus, Mission Bank, Route 66 Riders of Kingman, Bullhead city communities, Home Depot Associates, Horizon Bank - Fort Mohave, Lowes Associates, MCC - BHC - Administration, Faculty and Staff, MCC - Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, State Farm - Mavis Fulco's Office

Central:
Kimley Horn, Whole Foods (Raintree), Moments Salon, Perfect Power Solar, Crossfit Scottsdale, Norterra Salon & Spa, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Arizona Desert Goats Car Club, AZ Supreme Court, Celebrity Skin, Lillian Lottie Couture, Phoenix Fire Department, The University of Arizona Health Network - Health Plans, Phoenix School of Law- Hispanic Law Students Association, First Solar, Inc., Wesley United Methodist Church Young Adult Ministries, Stanley Consultants Inc, Manheim Phoenix, Sage, Key Club, Apache Junction Public Library, San Francisco-Federal Reserve Bank, Toolbox.com, Gap (Superstition Springs Center), Student Academy of Audiology-ATSU Chapter, A1A Vista Tech Inc.

Southern:
Carondolet Foothills Surgery Center, US Customs Office at DM, Mister Car Wash, Script Save, Pima County Procurement Office, Arizona Health Sciences Library, UA Health Network, UA Admin Services for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Rain Bird, First Solar

Thank you to those groups & organizations who were not included in the above lists. We try our best to thank all of our generous groups statewide and we apologize if you were not mentioned.

Reay’s Ranch Investors Surpasses their Goal to Help AzCA Kids and Families

2012-01-18T07:17:00.000-08:00

Reay’s Ranch Investors, Super Stop, Minit Markets and Gordon’s IGA announced this week that their 2011 campaign to raise funds for Arizona’s Children Association has set a new record. Their “To Infinity and Beyond” Campaign had a 2011 goal of $160,000 to support Arizona’s Children Association programs and services in the areas served by Reay’s Ranch Investors stores. After the last coin was counted from their “Change for Children” drive in December, Reay’s had raised a record $179,438 in 2011!“Our amazing customers, vendors and employees continue to show that even during uncertain economic times, that they are excited to support Arizona’s Children Association’s mission to ‘Protect Children and Preserve Families Across Arizona,’” said Richard Couch of Reay’s Ranch Investors.Elements of the 2011 fundraising campaign included a placard drive in stores, a golf tournament, an employee giving campaign, and two Change for Children drives. Reay’s fundraising efforts since 2006 have raised more than $656,000 for AzCA. “We continue to be blown away by the generosity of Reay’s Ranch customers, vendors and employees. They truly grasp the value of these programs to their communities and we appreciate everything they have done to support our work,” said Marc Kellenberger, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer of Arizona’s Children Association. In photo above: Left to right, Michael Coughlin, president of Arizona’s Children Association, Richard Couch, chief operations officer and general manager of Reay’s Ranch, and Fred Chaffee, former President of Arizona’s Children Association.

A Once in a Lifetime Trip for Kinship Families

2012-01-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

It's not easy being a kinship caregiver, yet in Arizona there are more than 198,000 children living in households headed by grandparents or other relatives (US 2010 Census). Instead of resting or retiring, these grandparents and relative caregivers took on the responsibility of caring for some of Arizona’s most vulnerable children. Many of these families find that relearning how to parent and adjusting to a new lifestyle can be emotionally, physically, and financially challenging. Kinship, Adoption, Resource and Education (KARE) Centers provide support to kinship caregivers all over the state. That support has taken on many different forms in different areas of the state, but the KARE group in Phoenix has had one goal above all others: a grown up dream for their children…to go to Disneyland! This past Thanksgiving, that trip became a reality. The group of 17 families, made up of 72 children and adults, had been planning and fundraising for four years to raise the money to take the once in a lifetime trip. Initially, they had thought this vision was beyond their grasp as many of these families have never been to Disneyland or never have had the opportunity to even visit California. However, they worked as team, created a fund and found creative ways to add to that fund. They've sold tamales and fry bread, washed cars, baked cakes and cooked lunches. A few weeks ago, after four years of hard work, they finally reached the $20,000 they needed to cover the cost of the bus trip, two nights in a hotel and their Disneyland admission.“It was amazing to see how excited not just the kids were to visit Disneyland, but the grandparents too,” said Kinship Coordinator Joanna Marroquin who escorted the large group on the trip. “This whole trip has such a special meaning to them because it has been four years in the making. I am so amazed by their commitment and they should be truly proud of themselves.”To learn more about KARE programs statewide, visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on “Permanency Programs.”

AzCA announces the formation of The Fred Chaffee Center for Excellence in Prevention Services

2011-12-15T07:38:00.000-08:00

After 20 years of service to the children and families of Arizona, Fred J. Chaffee will step down from his position as President and CEO of Arizona’s Children Association in January of 2012. Members of the Board of Directors of Arizona's Children Association (AzCA) announced this week that they are establishing permanent recognition of Chaffee’s dedication and leadership to the agency by incorporating his name into some of the many programs that he helped build and sustain.

The Fred J. Chaffee Center for Excellence in Prevention Services promotes the development of healthy children, strong families, and safe communities. A component of the Arizona’s Children Association, the Center unites programs and initiatives within AzCA and its family of agencies that enhance the well being of Arizona’s diverse population. The Center builds on the legacy of former Executive Director Fred Chaffee and honors his leadership in transforming AzCA to an agency that works to prevent problems as well as to treat them.

“I am proud of the significant increase in prevention services provided by this agency during my time here,” said Fred Chaffee. “Prevention services enable our staff to work with families to address problems at their base, before they become long-term and more expensive to address. We realized early on that we needed to go upstream to prevent problems, rather than waiting downstream for the problems to come to us and our families.”

In 1992, Fred Chaffee joined Arizona’s Children Association (named Arizona Children’s Home Association at the time) as Executive Director, bringing with him many years of experience in the field of child welfare and behavioral health management. The last 20 years have brought much growth and prosperity to this agency. It was during his tenure that Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA) grew from a $5 million agency serving 5,000 children and families annually into a $40 million agency serving 46,000 children and families each year. Chaffee’s role was critical in expanding services statewide and in the mergers of AzCA with each one of its now seven members of its family of agencies.

The prevention services programs of Arizona’s Children Association are diverse and span statewide. Particular AzCA facilities including The Parent Connection, Golden Gate Community Center and New Directions Institute for Infant Brain Development and limited additional AzCA locations will receive signage designating their role as providers of prevention services.

“The success of this organization and the fact that we have reached our centennial this year is due in large part to Fred Chaffee’s leadership and innovation through both good times and bad,” said Tom Knox, past chair of the board of directors. “We have truly been blessed by having such a committed and consistent leader throughout these last two decades.”

Shirts with a Message

2011-12-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of summer at Golden Gate Community Center, is the annual t-shirt design competition. For four years now, the challenge is on as kids of all ages put in their best effort to create a design to be chosen to represent the Center. The kids draw out their ideas on a t-shirt template and staff serves as competition judges. The various designs each year show just how connected these youth are to the Center.

The kids will tell you that the shirts they wear are a point of pride for them because it identifies them with the Center and they are proud to claim that the artist is their friend.

This year’s winner is 8th grader Angelica Herrera, shown here with her winning design which reads "Golden Gate Community Center, Another Word 4 Family." She has been coming to the Center for two years now with her sister and she participated in the summer activities daily.

The best part is that the staff is able to cover the shirt costs even with their limited summer budget. Grants for their summer budget have continued to decrease each year, but staff ensure that a portion is reserved for the production of the shirts so that everyone is included in the feeling of unity that these shirts provide.

To learn more about the programs and services offered by Golden Gate Community Center, visit www.goldengatecenter.org or call 620.233.0017.

A History of Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

In November 1921, the founding members of Arizona's Children Association, then called Arizona Children’s Home Association, realized their dream of building a receiving Home for the children of Arizona. One week before Thanksgiving, the agency moved from a modest 14-room rental house into a permanent two-story Home located on the south side of Tucson. This original building remains central to our agency operations and is now called “Angel House”.
The story that follows is an excerpt from the memoir of our most recognizable founding member, Mrs. Minnie Davenport. As she recounts the events of “Moving Day” and “Our First Thanksgiving” it is an opportunity to reflect, in thanksgiving, for all those who have made this agency possible.

"The [new] receiving Home faced east on south 8th avenue. The main floor consisted of a large living room, a hall-way leading to a large nursery room, two north rooms for children and a separate room for the nurse and matron. On the south end of the build was the dining room, kitchen, and pantry. In the basement was a laundry, playroom and furnace room. The second floor consisted of a girls dormitory, boys dormitory – room for ten single beds [each] – a room for the cook and housekeeper, two bath and toilet rooms, a clothes room with shelves and a small closet for linen and clothing. There were plenty of windows and radiators, so the place was properly ventilated and heated. The walls were tinted in light tan with white ceilings. The wood work was silver grey through-out the building. Two large homemade tables for the dining room were also painted the color of the wood work. The baths were in all white porcelain – tubs and showers.

All was in readiness for the move, as the city water had been piped on the premises. We paid to put in separate electric light and telephone extension, so besides the cost of a [thirty-five] thousand dollar building, funds were raised for all other necessities through friends. A new range was placed in the kitchen and through some grocery store closing out, we had an opportunity to secure a large ice box and Arizona Ice Company said they would supply us, gratis, all the ice we need. On November 14 [1921] we planned to move.

The ladies were placed on committees of three, to assist at ten o’clock. Mrs. N.C. Plumer, Mrs. S.M. Franklyn, Mrs. H.E. Heighton, Mrs. E.G. Spoerleder and Mrs. Geo. Reid, arrived [at the rental home] at 430 West 5th Street, filled their cars with bedding, groceries and linens. Then they placed the babies and children, too young to attend school, in the cars with the nurse and cook and went to the new Home. Mrs. Franklyn, Mrs. Plumer and Mrs. Heighton, were to oversee the placing and arranging of the furniture and all beds were to be put up in the nursery and two dormitories.

Mrs. Albert Steinfeld sent two 9 by 12 rugs, a couch, two rockers, and a wicker living room set, which made the place look homey....Each furniture store sent complete beds and cribs, small chairs, and dining room chairs. This, with the furniture we had from the old receiving home, made it possible to care for 50 children, but there were only three women on the staff: a nurse, housekeeper and cook. We had advertised for a trained matron whom we hoped to have there to take over, but illness in her family delayed her taking the position for ten days. Mrs. Geo. Reid and Mrs. Spoerleder made many trips to and from the two Homes. The Citizen and Tucson Transfer Companies gave us free service.

That day at noon, the children came from school and a picnic lunch consisting of sandwiches, cookies, milk and fruit was given them [at the rental home on 5th Street]. The lunch was furnished by Mrs. Blair, Mrs. Buchanan, Mrs. Spoerleder and Mrs. Davenport. After lunch the children returned to school and the women had about cleared the house of all boxes and furniture, leaving the laundry equipment, wood, coal and playground equipment, to be taken for the last load. After school, Mrs. Reid took the children to the [new] Home….Things at the Home began to hum, as the first Thanksgiving in the new Home was only a week off… We were in correspondence with Mrs. Williams of El Paso. She had retired as a field matron for the government Indian Service. She wired she would arrive on an early train Thanksgiving morning. She was to come direct to my home. Later she and I went to the Home and found a committee of women busily assisting in the preparation of the dinner, arranging the tables, and dressing the children who were all so good and bubbling over with excitement.

Two big turkeys and all the “trimmings” were brought out for the dinner, supplied by the Ladies of the Tucson Temperance Union. The children said “Yummm, yummm, yummm, it smells good, Mrs. Davenport, and won’t we eat!”…What a feast those children enjoyed. The cook baked a number of pies from the pumpkins the ladies furnished. Many lovely gifts came into the Home during the following weeks, but in spite of all, there were many articles needed."

To learn more about our agency's 100 year history, visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on "AzCA Centennial."

On November 4, Breakfast is the Most Important Meal of the …Night!

2011-11-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

Hickman’s Family Farms to Host Best Pajama Party of the Year with 15 Breakfast Restaurants in the State to Benefit Arizona’s Children Association

Hickman’s Family Farms has partnered with 15 of the most favorite breakfast restaurants in the Valley and around the state to celebrate the third annual “PJs & Eggs – a Breakfast for Dinner Event” on Friday, November 4, 2011, beginning at 5 p.m. to benefit Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA) foster care programs statewide. For a list of participating restaurants and more information on the event partners, visit www.pjsandeggs.net.

Customers who have “breakfast for dinner” at each participating restaurant on November 4, are asked to wear their pajamas and bring a new pair (any size for kids ages 0 - 18), which will be donated to children in the AzCA’s foster care programs. In return, customers will receive a certificate for a free dozen of Hickman’s Eggs. Participating restaurants will donate a portion of the proceeds from the evening to AzCA as well.

On the list of participating restaurants is: Over Easy (Scottsdale and Arcadia), First Watch (Scottsdale location) U.S. Egg (Chandler location), Matt’s Big Breakfast (Phoenix), Scramble (Phoenix), Kiss the Cook (Glendale), AZ Bread Co. (Tempe), Red Allen’s at the Wigwam (Litchfield Park), Chicken Noodle Café (Wickenburg), SueAnn’s Apple Pan (Prescott), Good Egg (Tucson on Oracle), Robert’s Restaurant (Tucson), Gus Balon’s (Tucson) and The Hungry Fox (Tucson).

Pajama collection will begin in October at participating restaurants and will continue through the night of the event. Again, Carter’s kids clothing has partnered with “PJs & Eggs” to collect pajamas at seven different locations as well as give great discounts on purchasing pajamas. A complete list of participating Carter’s locations is also available on www.pjsandeggs.net.

“The event is in its third year with continued support from many of our restaurants that participated in our first year,” said Clint Hickman, vice president of sales for Hickman’s Family Farms. “It’s great to watch the event grow to other parts of the state and continue to support Arizona’s children in foster care around Arizona.” Hickman added, “Not only is ‘breakfast for dinner’ a fun way to spend time with the family; the meal is quick, nutritious, economical and a great tradition to start in any home.”

AzCA’s adoption and foster care programs, offered in most areas of the state, are vital resources for matching children in need with safe and loving families. There are more than 10,000 children in Arizona’s foster care system ranging from newborn to 18 years old. “Most children come into foster care because of neglect and abuse with little more than the clothes on their back,” said Marc Kellenberger, senior vice president and chief development officer of AzCA. “With budget cuts affecting fulfilling the needs of these children and families, we are thrilled with the assistance by Hickman’s Family Farms and the participating restaurants in the third annual ‘PJs & Eggs’ event.”

Learning Responsibility through Gardening

2011-09-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

The S.T.A.R. Program in Flagstaff doesn’t shy away from unique and creative ways to teach life skills to the youth in their program. The S.T.A.R. Program, which is an acronym for Skills, Training and Respite, is designed to help youth who have behavioral health issues. The program offers a variety of services to reduce caregiver stress and increase the skill base of youth enrolled in the program.

Russ Chesson, the program supervisor, learned gardening skills in his youth and saw potential in using a gardening program to teach life skills to the youth. Russ felt that a gardening curriculum would be an excellent platform to teach the importance of a healthy diet, teach responsibility through daily care and watering, and teach environmental responsibility through recycling and composting.

Russ presented the idea to his team and the staff jumped on board. The staff made sure all the kids had a role to play in the project. The older kids in the program were responsible for the building of the gardening boxes and younger kids were tasked with the watering and maintenance of the plants. Outside groups, including the Sustainability Cooperative, have come in to teach various topics, such as composting. The youth built a compost bin and have been able to watch the transition of the compost materials.

“Many of the youth don’t really get outside their neighborhood or ever learn where food comes from or how it is produced,” said Russ. “We wanted to give them something that they wanted to take care of and they have definitely done so.”

The best part for the youth is seeing the results of their hard work. The youth made a homemade pizza recently and were able to use pizza ingredients from their very own garden! They also plan to make their own salsa as a gift for one of their sponsors, Vora Financial, who helped provide funding for them to purchase supplies.

S.T.A.R. Programs exist throughout the Northern and Western Regions of Arizona including: Mohave, Yavapai, Coconino, Navajo & Apache Counties. To learn more about the S.T.A.R. Program, please visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on “Intervention Programs.” If you’d like to help support the needs of the youth program, please contact Russ at 928.527.1000 ext.106.

Tucson Medical Center and the Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault join forces to provide crisis support

2011-09-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Tucson Medical Center and the Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault (SACASA) have teamed up in a unique collaboration to create the ideal resource and support center for recent survivors of sexual assault. Both agencies understand how important it is to respond immediately and professionally to the needs of a survivor or sexual assault, while also providing as much comfort as possible in such situations.

On September 22nd, community leaders and staff will gather for the grand opening celebration of this new state-of-the-art trauma forensic and support center. The grand opening begins at 9am and will begin with a ribbon-cutting celebration followed up by tours of the facility.

The Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault (SACASA), a member of Arizona’s Children Association family of agencies, has as its mission to reduce the trauma and incidence of sexual assault by providing treatment and promoting prevention of sexual abuse, incest, molestation and rape. The facility at Tucson Medical Center will provide the first step of medical support for recent survivors and SACASA staff will be on hand to provide emotional support services and conduct medical forensic exams.

“This center is a huge step forward in our community’s ability to provide the full spectrum of care that is so urgently needed in a crisis situation following an assault," stated Montserrat Caballero, program director of SACASA. “Sexual assault is a reality in Southern Arizona and it is our responsibility as a community to provide support. This facility will help meet the needs of survivors. This partnership is incredibly unique and highlights the level of compassion and care that Tucson Medical Center has for all survivors.”

The support facility, located in the Tucson Medical Center Emergency Department, includes a dedicated medical forensic examination room, a quiet space for family and friends, and a separate EMS entrance for additional privacy. All spaces and equipment have been generously donated to SACASA by TMC.

For more information or to RSVP for the grand opening celebration, contact Becky Holton at 520.327.1171 ext.2302.

Golden Gate youth ready for new school year thanks to Cox Communications

2011-08-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

Excited kids lined up this past Saturday as Cox Communications provided necessary school supplies for the youth at Golden Gate Community Center, a member of Arizona’s Children Association family of agencies. Students served within the Golden Gate Community live primarily below the poverty level, often doing without basic school supplies and uniforms needed, but Cox Communications has generously stepped in to provide needed items to start their school year off right.

In previous years, donations of school supplies for these children has been provided by another donor, but when they were not able to follow through this year, Cox stepped in at the last minute to ensure that none of these children headed to school empty-handed. Cox Communications’ support will allow nearly 100 children to start school with the basics and help relieve some of the financial stress that can burden families at the beginning of the school year.

“We are so thankful to Cox for making the back-to-school event a wonderful occasion,” said Joanna Marroquin, kinship coordinator for Golden Gate Community Center. “The families were so happy to have had this help.”

With a mission ‘to provide programs and services that improve the quality of life for children and families in west central Phoenix neighborhoods’, Golden Gate has always been a beacon of hope to those in the surrounding community. Golden Gate Community Center offers an array of fitness, recreation, health and education programs and classes for children, youth, adults and seniors.

For more information about the programs and services at Golden Gate Community Center, visit www.goldengatecenter.org or call 602.233.0017.

Golden Gate Community Center celebrates 75 years of providing services to children and families

2011-08-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

Golden Gate Community Center is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its founding in 1936. Local community members joined Golden Gate staff and supporters on Saturday, August 6 at the agency’s semi-annual health fair to honor those who have contributed to our success over the past 75 years and a commemorative plaque was presented to mark the occasion.

With a mission ‘to provide programs and services that improve the quality of life for children and families in west central Phoenix neighborhoods’, Golden Gate has always been a beacon of hope to those surrounded by poverty, gangs and much crime. Golden Gate has a tradition of working with the community and provides an excellent example of how to build and sustain community.

Golden Gate Community Center was founded in 1936 by the Episcopal Church as the East Madison Street Settlement. Incorporated in 1952 as a settlement house, Golden Gate was a true community center offering a well-baby clinic, sports activities, a home training course, and a kindergarten.

Displaced by the construction of Sky Harbor Airport in 1986, many residents of the old neighborhood were dispersed, but a significant number came with Golden Gate to rebuild their community near its new and current location at McDowell Road and 39th Ave. Sadly, most tight-knit communities, once disrupted, fail to hold together. The fact that Golden Gate has been able to do that and continues to prosper so many years later is a testament to its importance to the community.

In 2004, a merger with Arizona’s Children Association allowed Golden Gate to develop significant partnerships with organizations across the city and county, to bring unique and innovative programs to the center. In 2005, Congressman Ed Pastor, Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and Councilman Tom Simplot hosted a Tardeada celebration of Golden Gate’s service to the community and Governor Janet Napolitano proclaimed October 23, 2005: “Golden Gate Community Center Day.”

Golden Gate currently serves over 10,000 children, youth, adults, and seniors annually through a wide variety of minimal or no-fee programs and services for tots to seniors for the surrounding largely Hispanic neighborhoods. "We work with our community residents, of all ages, to determine the kinds of programs that are needed for our neighbors and then we go to work to make them happen," said Phyllis Habib, director of Golden Gate Community Center, “Golden Gate is a part of Phoenix’s legacy and a significant part of the state’s history.”

A brief outline of Golden Gate’s history including photos throughout the agency’s history can be found at www.goldengatecenter.org/aboutus.htm.

For more information about the programs and services at Golden Gate Community Center, visit www.goldengatecenter.org or call 602.233.0017.

Arizona’s Children Association donates historical archive

2011-07-19T14:43:00.000-07:00

Arizona’s Children Association recently donated a significant collection of historical materials to the Arizona Historical Society to increase accessibility of the information while ensuring ongoing preservation of the materials.

Arizona’s Children Association was founded in Tucson, in 1912, as a receiving Home for the dependent and neglected children of Arizona. The agency has grown tremendously over the years to provide a diversity of services now available within each county of Arizona. Their story is a testament to the people of Arizona who have remained committed to providing hope for children and families.

The bulk of the collection contains materials from 1915 – 1960 and includes early newsletters, Board minutes, business correspondence, accounting journals, a treasure trove of photographs and scrapbooks as well as the memoir of one of the original founders, Minnie Tevis Davenport. The oldest document in this collection is a scrapbook, from 1915, containing newspaper clippings from “opening day.” The donation does not contain case records or adoption information.

“We are very fortunate that our agency’s founders and early leadership had the foresight to preserve so many original materials,” said Arizona’s Children Association’s President and CEO Fred Chaffee. “As we celebrate our ‘First Century of Hope,’ we are also looking forward to the future and we recognize that it is our responsibility to ensure that these materials are protected and remain accessible for generations to come.”

The Arizona Historical Society Library and Archives’ actively collects and preserves materials that chronicle the history of Arizona. The story of Arizona’s Children provides a rare insight into the development of child welfare across Arizona.

“We are thankful to the Arizona Historical Society for their support of Arizona’s Children Association,” added Fred Chaffee. “Our agency has a proud and interesting history that will now be preserved as a significant part of the state’s history.”

To learn more about the history of Arizona's Children, visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on AzCA Centennial.

Discover How Infants and Toddlers Learn

2011-07-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

Why are the years from birth to 5 years old so important?

How does a child learn?

Parents and caregivers often struggle to understand the best choices for their child when there are so many products for sale that promise drastic changes in your child’s development.

These are the kinds of questions that New Directions Institute for Infant Brain Development (NDI) answers so that parents and caregivers can help children develop healthy brains. This information is provided in Wired for Success® Workshops that are provided free of charge at locations all over the state.

Wired for Success® explores brain development with a special focus on Security, Touch, Eyes (vision), Play, and Sound, the five key components of NDI's S.T.E.P.S. to Early Brain Development® curriculum. This workshop addresses new and cutting-edge developments in neuroscience and presents practical methods for stimulating healthy early brain development in children. It provides parents and caregivers with training and tools to help every infant, toddler and preschooler in Arizona develop a healthy brain and enter school ready to learn.

Upcoming dates and locations listed below. We invite you to please join NDI for one of these free workshops:

Tempe:
Saturday, July 16, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM,
Tempe St. Luke's Hospital, Tempe
(en español)
Sponsored by First Things First

Tucson:
Saturday, July 16, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
University of Arizona Medical Center
Sponsored by Freeport-McMoRan

For more information call 602-371-1366 or visit our website www.newdirectionsinstitute.org.

New schedule information updated regularly online.

Foster Parents of the Year Award

2011-06-02T08:31:00.001-07:00

May was National Foster Care Awareness Month and our foster care programs celebrated their families with events across the state. Among the celebrations, we are very pleased to announce that Lin LeClair-Turner and Dan Turner and Phillip and Theresa Michelle McNeal, two of our very own Arizona’s Children Association foster families, tied for the “Keith Smith Foster Parent of the Year Award” in Pima County. This award is given by the Child Abuse Prevention Awards (CAP) to honor those who have made a difference in the continued fight against child abuse.

Lin, Dan, Michelle and Phillip were honored at the Tucson Juvenile Court as a part of the 2011 March for Children activities. This distinctive award is given “to an outstanding foster parent(s) who has made an impact in the lives of children and youth in foster care.”

Lin and Dan have been foster parents since 2005 and have made incredible contributions to children over the past six years. They have taken in 26 children, most of whom have significant developmental delays and/or medical needs. Lin and Dan note that their goal has always been that no foster children will leave their home until placed in a permanent home. Lin and Dan have achieved this goal time and time again. Their AzCA licensing worker described them as “persistent and loving advocates for children between the ages of zero and five. They have a true understanding of the importance of healthy bonding and attachment for children within this age range.”

Although it is hard to believe that they would have time, the Turners are also long term, active members of the Foster Care Review Board and the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents where Dan also serves as Board Member.

Phillip and Michelle McNeal have been foster parents since 2006. Their AzCA licensing worker describes them as “a foster family who goes above and beyond in providing the children in their care with love, acceptance, and a sense of family.” Michelle and Phillip care for children of all ages, including youth with emotional or behavioral issues that are difficult for other families to handle. They never seem to refuse a placement, even if they are only given short notice.

Phillip and Michelle have cared for more than 40 children since they began. They have dealt with mental illness, mental retardation, aggression, oppositional behaviors, threats of violence, learning disabilities, drug use, and much more, yet they are able to remain positive and act as mentors to other foster families by speaking at trainings intended to recruit more foster parents to provide care.

Foster families are needed across the state. We will provide the training, resources and support your need to change a child’s life. To learn more about AzCA’s foster care program and find out how you can get involved, visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on ‘Permanency.’

University of Phoenix Provides Laptop Donation for Arizona’s Children Staff and Client Use

2011-05-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

The University of Phoenix recognizes the value of technological skills and positive learning environments for those in their communities. In an effort to encourage opportunities for those served by our programs, The University of Phoenix has chosen Arizona’s Children Association as the recipient of 20 lap top computers. All donated computers were refurbished, re-licensed and re-programmed for use by AzCA staff and clients.

Arizona’s Children Association will use the laptops for training staff and family partners in our more than 25 offices around throughout the state. “The donation of laptops from the University of Phoenix will allow families we serve across the state access to valuable tools and resources to improve their lives,” said Denise Ensdorff, Director of Operations for Central, Western and Northern regions. “This will touch many, many lives.”

“University of Phoenix strives to remove barriers to higher education,” said John Ramirez, University of Phoenix School of Advanced Studies associate campus director. “The laptop donation gives the University’s School of Advanced Studies an opportunity to donate valuable resources and provide access to necessary tools to make a difference in our community.”

Thank you to University of Phoenix for their support.

Left to Right, John Ramirez, University of Phoenix School of Advanced Studies associate campus director, Nick Galemore, Business Analyst, Denise Ensdorff, Director of Operations for Central, Western and Northern regions and Irene Blundell, Director, Public Relations. Photo courtesy of University of Phoenix.

Arizona’s Children Association Centennial Celebration honors Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall with the “Centennial Legacy” Award

2011-05-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

Arizona’s Children Association is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding in Tucson in May 1912, with a full schedule of Centennial Celebration events throughout the state and wrapping up with grand celebrations in Phoenix and Tucson in May 2012.

Local community leaders joined Arizona’s Children Association staff and supporters on Thursday, May 5, to honor the donors, volunteers, employees and families who have contributed to our success over the past 100 years. The celebration highlighted the sexual abuse support services offered by Las Familias Angel Center for Childhood Sexual Abuse Treatment, a member of Arizona’s Children Association family of agencies. The event was also an opportunity to celebrate Arizona’s Children Association’s commitment to providing a second century of hope to our communities. Arizona’s Children Association board members, Tom Knox and Pamela Traficanti, served as hosts for the event.

Among the highlights of the evening, Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall was honored with the “Centennial Legacy” Award for her dedication to ensuring that our community meets the needs of children and families who are victims of crime. More than 25 years ago, the Pima county attorney’s office was among the founding members of the development of Las Familias when they identified the critical needs of victims of childhood sexual abuse and recognized the need for specialized services. Since she joined the Pima County Attorney’s Office, Barbara LaWall has been a strong supporter of agencies like Las Familias and she has been a strong advocate for child victims of sexual abuse.

Guests at the Centennial Celebration were also asked to sign a “Book of Hope” to offer advice that will inspire future generations of children, families, volunteers, communities, staff members, business partners, elected officials, financial donors and Board members all working together to continue a legacy of hope for Arizona. The “Book of Hope” will travel to Centennial receptions across Arizona during 2011-2012 and then be preserved for Arizona’s Bi-Centennial.

A very special thank you to Community Partnership of Southern Arizona for their support of Arizona’s Children Association and our celebration of our 100 years of providing hope to Arizona.

Eat Out. Make a Difference. Dine Out for Safety on Wednesday, April 20

2011-04-18T15:34:00.000-07:00

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month. As a nonprofit with the mission of “protecting children, preserving families,” Arizona’s Children Association works tirelessly across the state to end interpersonal and family violence. We rely heavily on individual and corporate contributions to maintain the quality and efficiency of our programs to help make all our Arizona communities a safer, healthier place to live.

For the past 15 years, local restaurants, businesses, organizations and individuals have united with the Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault in Tucson in a unique and fun community wide experience to support services for survivors of sexual assault and children affected by family violence called “Dine Out for Safety.” Last year, AzCA expanded “Dine Out for Safety” statewide.

Plan to eat out and make a difference on Wednesday, April 20, 2011. Participating restaurants in Tucson, Flagstaff, Prescott and Yuma will generously donate up to 20 percent of their day’s proceeds to support Arizona’s Children Association’s services for survivors of sexual assault and children affected by family violence.

Generous sponsorships of Dine Out for Safety permit all proceeds to be directed to the Arizona's Children Association programs aimed to prevent family violence, child abuse and domestic violence in the community where the funds are raised.

To check out the yummy participating restaurants in your community, visit www.dineoutforsafety.com. To learn more about other Sexual Assault Awareness activities throughout the month of April, visit www.sacasa.org/saam.html.

My Name is Teri Hess

2011-03-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

A Personal Reflection by a Foster and Adoptive Mom

My name is Teri Hess and I have fostered 12 children and adopted seven through Arizona’s Children Association Foster Care Program. When I became a foster parent in 2003, I never expected that I would one day be the parent of eight children. I had one daughter, Tina, and had always wanted more children. As a single parent, adoption appeared to be a good option for me. Tina was at an age where I felt I had the time to give to a child.

Ashlee was placed with us in 2003. On my way to pick her up, I learned about her sister Mimi who was placed at a separate shelter. At ages 2½ and 1½, the sisters were separated and labeled as “violent.” I brought both girls home that day, and adopted them in November, 2005. While they have their sibling rivalries, I have never seen the “violent” behavior I was warned about.

Jillian was placed with me in June of 2004, seven days before her first birthday. She was returned to her mother in December of 2005, which was devastating to me, as I had hoped to adopt her as well. I was able to put my feelings into a letter to her mother, which lead to a positive relationship and we continued to keep in touch after Jillian returned home.

After Jillian left, Angelina was placed in my home. I was asked to adopt her and fully intended to do so. However, a year later, the case manager contacted me and informed me that Angelina was to be placed with a relative who had come forward. My family was once again crushed, but we went along with the case plan and Angelina went to her aunt’s home in August 2007. Four months later, the case manager called and asked if I would still like to adopt her. My answer was “YES!” and Angelina was adopted in March of 2008.

During this time, a three year old named Alexis was placed in my home. She was labeled as “withdrawn, antisocial, and unaffectionate.” Her two younger siblings were placed halfway across the valley. When I asked about the younger siblings, I was told that Lexi’s brother, Issac, had anger issues at age one. Her younger sister, Arianna, was less than a year old. I told my workers, “we have to get her siblings here.” In November 2006, Isaac and Arianna were brought to my home. I immediately saw a change in Lexi. It appeared as if she was finally able to relax, knowing her siblings were with her. What came next was a few years of court dates, and in November 2009, I adopted all three kids on National Adoption Day.

You would think this is where my story ends… but if you are keeping track, I have only talked about 6 of the 7 children I have adopted.

So here is what I call my “swan song” – in July 2007, Jillian was found in a parking lot in Payson. Her mom was struggling with mental health issues and was in a down cycle. The CPS case was transferred down to Phoenix, and since it had been over a year since Jillian had been returned home, reunification efforts were put into place again. At this time, Jillian was four years old and had spent half her lifetime in my home. As she watched her siblings get adopted, Jillian hoped that one day she, too, would be adopted into the family. Her wish came true in June 2010, when, at 6½ years old, she officially became Sierra Jillian Hess.

The past seven years have been a roller coaster of emotion for me. I have learned a lot about relationships and formed lifelong friendships. I am still in contact with many of my children’s “other mothers,” and we still talk about them to this day. We have nothing but positive thoughts towards them, and wish them the very best. Things happen for a reason, and while I was heartbroken each time a child left my home, I knew that there was another one who needed me at that time. There is always another child who needs you.

I have learned so many lessons along my journey. First of all, I have learned to not listen to the "labels" that are placed on children. What they really need is love and nurturing. I am so grateful that I took the time to form my own opinions about the children placed in my home. I have witnessed my only daughter grow from an awkward, rebellious teenager into an amazing big sister, then into a young woman, and now, a soon to be mother.

People often ask me how I manage as a single parent of seven young children. I tell them “I never wanted to adopt 7 kids, but God has a sense of humor. Some days are better than others, and other days are not as good as some.” My life revolves around my kids and I would not have it any other way.

As the Foster Care and Adoption chapter in my life closes, I know many of you are just beginning your journey. I wish you the very best and offer you this piece of advice: Follow your heart and do what is right for the kids – because you are their voice. Speak up and actively participate in every aspect of these children’s lives, because there is someone out there that can help, you just have to find them.

To learn more about foster care and adoption with Arizona's Children Association, visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on "Permanency."

We Call it "The Beanbag Place"

2011-02-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

Three year old Benjamin Wexler, and his parents Doug and Elyse and younger sister Sabrina, have been participating in classes and workshops at The Parent Connection since Benjamin was born.

Benjamin calls it "The Beanbag Place" because during circle time at the weekly playgroups, there's a song where the children throw beanbags. Benjamin also likes dressing up like a lion and giraffe in The Parent Connection's costumes, and that he and his parents "play some games" at the 'Beanbag Place." What Benjamin doesn't know, and his parents appreciate, is that all the fun will have a significant impact on his successful future.

"When Benjamin was born I got a flyer at the hospital about the First Steps program, a newborn support group for parents of newborns," said Elyse. "I was pretty new at parenting and was looking for other people who were having the same experiences."

During the First Steps program Elyse learned about TPC's "Parents as Teachers" program and now, a parent educator comes once a month to Elyse and Doug's home to answer their parenting questions and provide information and support. "My parent educators have really seen us through it all," said Elyse. "We work on sleeping, napping, discipline and all of the issues that come up in parenting. Mostly you realize that you're ok and that you're learning what you need to be a good parent."

For Doug, "The staff has been great. They're very friendly, very knowledgeable and they've helped us solve some problems."

Elyse and Doug also participate in the playgroups at The Parent Connection which include one hour of child directed playtime and ½ hour of circle time where families participate as a group. Doug is a teacher and attends playgroups during the summer when he's off school. A highlight of the playgroups is the "take a book, leave a book" program so that children leave each time with a new book to read.

Elyse returned to the First Steps group when her daughter Sabrina was born, and "really enjoyed it because I was a totally different person.

"Parenting can be isolating, and it's really hard to know if you're doing the right thing," added Elyse. "I have met some really nice people"

Doug adds, "The name The Parent Connection is great. We have connected with great people."

To learn more about The Parent Connection, visit www.theparentconnectionaz.org.

Yummy Restaurants Wanted to Participate in Dine Out for Safety

2011-02-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

To increase awareness about our vital services and raise funds to prevent family violence, child abuse and domestic violence across Arizona, Arizona’s Children will hold Dine Out for Safety on Wednesday, April 20 at restaurants across the state.

Restaurants in Flagstaff, Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma are invited to participate in Dine Out for Safety by committing a percentage of their proceeds for the day to benefit Arizona’s Children Association. Restaurant benefits include their name or logo on promotional materials printed for the event, recognition in the Arizona’s Children Association newsletter and the restaurant’s logo and/or name on the Dine Out for Safety website.

Interested restaurant owners can go to www.dineoutforsafety.com or e-mail Becky Wilson at bwilson@arizonaschildren.org or call (800) 944-7611 ext.2302 to learn more and register. In order to be included, we must have your completed restaurant commitment form by Friday, March 4, 2011.

AAA Arizona, KPHO and KOLD Stuff more than 1,500 Stockings!

2011-01-07T08:42:00.001-08:00

AAA Arizona, KPHO TV in Phoenix and KOLD TV in Tucson joined forces this year for a Stuffed Stocking drive that will brighten the holidays for more than 1,700 children served by Arizona’s Children Association in Phoenix, Tucson and Prescott.

AAA reached out to donors across the state to drop off their stuffed stockings at their local AAA location via television spots on KPHO TV and KOLD TV.

“We were thrilled to work with the Arizona’s Children Association and benefit such a worthy cause,” said Brad Oltmans, vice president of insurance for AAA Arizona. “AAA is committed to giving back to the community, and hopes these stuffed stockings will help spread a little cheer to children in need during the holidays.”

“The participation we have seen from the Stuffed Stocking drive speaks volumes about how much our community cares about its children. Even during these tough economic times, people are coming together and paying it forward to those in need. We at CBS 5 are proud to be part of such a wonderful program,” said JoLynn Houk, marketing manager, CBS 5 Phoenix (KPHO). “The Stuffed Stocking Drive underscores a spirit of giving in our community. It is wonderful to be part of a program that brings people together to help pay it forward to children who face daily challenges; the holidays are a time to put cheer into their lives.”

Photo: The Elves at the Tucson broadway AAA (left to right): Ruth Hughes, Cathy Lenox, Melody Watts, Debbie Kyle, Ellen Yasmer

Congratulations to Nehemiah and Amanda….

2010-10-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

And congratulations to the hundreds of children whose adoptions will be finalized this year. National Adoption Day is November 20, 2010. Your families love you, the uncertainty is over and your futures are bright.

And congratulations too, to Sara and Israel and Melissa and Jason, your lucky adoptive parents.

"The Miracle Baby"

Melissa and Jason first laid eyes on their 'miracle baby,' Nehemiah on the AdoptUSKids website. They will finalize his adoption next week. Nehemiah is no ordinary toddler. He's the 'miracle baby.'

When Melissa and Jason went to California in November of last year to visit him for the first time, "we fell in love with him at first sight," said Melissa. "We didn't want to leave."

Melissa returned to California to celebrate Nehemiah's 2nd birthday in December, and then their entire family, including six year old Jaron and seven year old Jaylynn went to visit the baby for New Year's. He came home to Arizona with his family in February, and immediately had to have emergency surgery and landed in the ICU for two weeks. Nehemiah has a neurological disorder and his brain isn't full developed on one side. He is never expected to walk and may not be able to talk. He requires 24 hour-a-day care including g-tube feeds, a suction machine and svn machine, and four to five therapies a week – speech, physical, occupational and vision, plus .

"When we brought him home, they told us he wouldn't ever be able to do much," said Melissa. "Now we call him our 'miracle baby.'" Nehemiah rolls over, scoots on his back, eats a jar of baby food a day and has started grabbing toys. "He is the happiest, most smiley baby. He's in love with our family and we are in love with him. He smiles and kicks when we come in the room, and he has learned to laugh out loud."

In October the family will travel to California to finalize Nehemiah's adoption, and then (what else!), go to Disneyland.

"We love her to Death"

Amanda's journey began at her birth in prison. She moved from home to home, family member to family member until the Escandon family picked her up from a CPS office in 2008. Amanda was 12 years old. "She thought we were weirdo's," said Sara. "Our sons were in the back seat of the car with Batman and Superman masks on and she thought my husband and I should have known more about her." Over the past two years, the Escandon family has "fallen in love" with Amanda, and her with them. "We have seen Amanda grow tremendously," adds Sara. "She's come so far. She's a beautiful girl. She's not afraid to speak up. She's amazing."

Amanda's brothers adore her and she and her sister share secrets and friendship bracelets and have developed a really great relationship.

"It was hard to blend at first, but they are all really great friends now," said Sara.

And Saturday, November 20 is National Adoption Day, a national day of celebration of adoptive families and an opportunity for courts to open their doors and finalize the adoptions of children from foster care. This year on November 20, families, adoption advocates, policymakers, judges and volunteers will come together and celebrate adoption in communities large and small all across Arizona. To learn more, visit www.nationaladoptionday.org.

"A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned" - Benjamin Franklin

2010-10-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

For many of us…a penny earned is a penny spent…which can result in not too many Benjamin's in our wallet for the things we really want. Golden Gate Community Center, in partnership with the Valley of the Sun United Way and Arizona Saves, is dedicated to turning financial instability around for the families it serves with a series of FREE Financial Stability Classes to help start families down the road to financial success. The content of the classes includes Banking Basics, Building a Better Budget and Taking Charge of Credit.

"The purpose of the program is to help our families move toward the goal of financial literacy armed with knowledge, clear direction and confidence," said Enrique Vargas, program director. "Through classes and individual assistance we will provide information about how to open bank accounts, establish savings and manage credit. It's information that every family can use."

Angelica signed up for the series of classes when they were first offered. "I was interested in the topic and had a general lack of knowledge about how to establish credit, federal and state programs that could help us buy a house, how credit cards work and how to establish a checking account and a savings account," said Angelica. "I learned in the classes about how important it is to set goals, get credit and make payments." Angelica’s financial goals include starting a small business, buying a home and having enough money to travel.

Enrique adds, "Angelica has changed the way she manages money. She has started saving money and establishing credit. She's much more confident about her financial future."

Enrique adds, "Unfortunately, many people are uncomfortable talking about their finances. They don't believe there's anything to learn. Our classes include information that will be helpful to everyone."

The next Financial Literacy workshops are scheduled at Golden Gate on November 4th to November 18th. Workshops take place from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Dinner is provided at 5:50 p.m. for workshop participants and daycare is provided. All classes are held in Spanish.

PJs and Eggs Returns Across the State

2010-09-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

In celebration of “World Egg Day” Hickman’s Family Farms, Arizona’s only commercial egg producer, is asking breakfast restaurants around the state to open for “breakfast for dinner” on one special night to benefit Arizona’s Children Association’s (AzCA) statewide foster care programs.

The second annual Hickman’s Family Farms “PJ’s & Eggs” – A Breakfast for Dinner Event – will take place on Friday, October 8, 2010 (“World Egg Day”) at participating restaurants from 5 p.m. – close (close time determined by individual restaurants). Restaurant customers and employees are encouraged to wear pajamas that night.

Customers having “breakfast for dinner” will be asked to bring a pair of new pajamas to the restaurant to be donated to AzCA’s foster care programs. In return, customers will be entered to win gift certificates from participating restaurants. They will also be given a “Free Dozen Eggs” certificate, courtesy of Hickman’s Eggs, to be redeemed at any grocery store where Hickman’s eggs are sold. Participating restaurants will be supplied with eggs from Hickman’s to ease their food costs for the night.

Participating restaurants will display a pajama collection container beginning the week of Sept. 13, 2010. Customers that donate pajamas any time leading up to the event will also be given a certificate for free eggs.

Participating restaurants will also donate a portion of the proceeds from “PJ’s & Eggs” to AzCA. Volunteers from AzCA and/or members of the Hickman’s family will be present at participating restaurants during the night of the event to assist with collecting pajamas, distributing the free egg certificates and collecting raffle tickets. Visit the event website for a complete list of participating restaurants at www.pjsandeggs.net

I'm Still Going

2010-08-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

Mario was 12 years old when he and his six siblings were abandoned by their drug-addicted mother, the only parent they had left after their father left the family in 2004.

His aunt and uncle, Victoria and Jeff, stepped forward and took physical custody of Mario and his younger sister, while the rest of his siblings were placed in the care of various other extended family members.

Victoria and Jeff came to Arizona’s Children Association to receive help in obtaining legal guardianship of the two children. The KARE Center walked them through the process and paperwork for guardianship as well as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, or AHCCCS, Arizona’s Medicaid program. In addition, Mario and his sister were provided with much needed counseling services to help them cope with their issues of loss, pain and abandonment. With the support of Arizona’s Children Association and the loving care of his aunt and uncle, Mario got through the difficult adolescent years.

Today, he is 17 and recently graduated from High School with As and Bs. He is proud to be joining the United States Army. When asked what he is most proud of, Mario says with a smile and sparkle in his eyes, “Although I have not yet made it, I’m still going. I have a family, a lot of friends and I’m proud that soon I’ll be serving my country.” To learn more about KARE programs statewide, visit www.arizonaschildren.org/karecenter.htm.

In My Shoes Joins Arizona's Children Association Family of Agencies

2010-07-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

The boards of directors of Arizona’s Children Association and In My Shoes proudly announce that In My Shoes has joined the Arizona’s Children Association family of agencies. The merger became effective July 1, 2010.

In My Shoes, is a Tucson-based, not-for-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that young people experiencing out-of-home care will be supported through their transitional years to develop the competencies to realize their potential as adults. In My Shoes was created by foster care alumni and representatives from the Young Adult Program, Casey Family Programs and the Tucson Foster Care Alumni and the Tucson Helping Our People Excel (H.O.P.E.) Council. In My Shoes offers one on one mentoring, group mentoring, signature events including a sibling picnic, and training and events that create awareness about the issues that face youth in foster care.

Christa Drake, executive director of In My Shoes, was its first employee in 2003. Christa and program coordinator, Eshawn Peterson, were once raised in the foster care system, as are all of the mentors and club facilitators for the agency. "The In My Shoes community began with a small group of alumni whose shared experiences of foster care allowed them to be a family," said Christa. "Kids in foster care dream of having a bigger family, and this merger with Arizona's Children Association will help us grow our family of brothers and sisters in foster care across the state."

For AzCA CEO Fred Chaffee, the fit for AzCA and In My Shoes is a natural. "The voice of youth in foster care needs to be heard by all of us and now it will," said Fred. "In My Shoes brings powerful voices and programs to support youth in reaching their potential." In My Shoes joins the Arizona’s Children Association family of agencies which includes Child Haven, Golden Gate Community Center, Las Familias, New Directions Institute for Infant Brain Development, The Parent Connection and Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault.

Country Music Star Tim McGraw Supports Arizona's Children Association on 2010 Tour

2010-05-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Country music superstar Tim McGraw is supporting nonprofits across the United States during his 2010 Southern Voice tour.

Through a sponsorship with Frito-Lay, McGraw’s charitable fund, Neighbor’s Keeper, has identified worthy nonprofit organizations which serve children and their families in select tour cities. Grants from this sponsorship will be made to local charities in 34 cities via The Neighbor’s Keeper Fund.

On June 3rd, the Southern Voice Tour makes a stop at Cricket Pavilion in Phoenix, where McGraw, Frito-Lay's Fritos brand corn chips, and Neighbor’s Keeper are making a grant to Arizona’s Children Association, an organization addressing the needs of local children and families.

“Faith and I feel it’s incumbent upon us to step in where we see a need,” said McGraw. ”It’s the way we were raised. In our homes, money was tight – my mom was working two and three jobs when I was in junior high - but the supply of goodwill was endless.”

In addition, tour partner Outback Steakhouse will support the Neighbor’s Keeper Fund through in-restaurant promotions and other merchandise sales. Through these corporate partnerships, McGraw’s Southern Voice tour is helping create awareness about the important work of nonprofits within select tour cities.

“We, at Frito-Lay, really value our sponsorship over the years with Tim and Faith and we are proud to be able to help such worthy causes. We know that these days it is important for all of us to be “Givin’ Where We’re Livin’” and are excited to be a part of this effort,” said Ken Partyka, Vice President, Frito-Lay.

Letter to the KARE Center

2010-05-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Chaffee:

I am writing you this letter to personally thank you and the K.A.R.E Family Center for making such a difference in my life and also my grandsons life.

There is no way I could have made it by myself, but your staff have been so supportive caring and helpful for the last four years.

When I took the responsibility of raising my grandson Emilio, I was completely overwhelmed with his special needs. I couldn't even participate in the first meetings I attended; I just cried. The KARE Family Center helped me to get the proper diagnoses and treatment for Emilio and taught me how to manage our lives with his ADHD.

Nicky Bird was immediately available and strong support for me when I was going through the roughest times. With her help I came to realize that if I was chosen to take on this responsibility it is because I'm the right person for my grandson's life.

Yolanda Sevillano spent so much of her own time helping me deal with courts, meetings with attorneys, arranging medical help and insuring that Emilio got the proper placement in school.

Joseph Aparicio helped me with my own health problems in dealing with stress. He kept me informed of diversionary activities for Emilio and holistic health classes for myself. Most of all, I just appreciate your caseworkers listening to me with compassion when I needed to vent. They had so much patience and time for me.

Time has gone by so quickly. My grandson turned five years old and our lives are organized and financially stable.

I thank God every day for providing me with your help. God knew what was best for both of us.

Sincerely,
Lupita G.

KARE Centers across Arizona provide help and support for families caring for children born to others. If you are a family member raising grandchildren, nieces or nephews, cousins or other relatives; an adoptive family or about to become one; raising children of a family member in jail or raising a child under 18 not born to you, the KARE Center can help. Services are provided in both English and Spanish. Visit www.arizonaschildren.org and click on "permanency."

Brain Box in a Bag Now Available

2010-04-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

Many of the unique items and activities that are included in a Brain Box are available individually in a "Brain Box in a Bag."

Brain Boxes were designed and patented by Dr. Jill Stamm, director of the New Directions Institute for Infant Brain Development to improve a child's ability to learn and succeed in school and in life.

Now, many of the unique items and activities that are included in a Brain Box are available individually.

Called "Brain Box in a Bag," each item has been specially selected from the more than 150 toys, books and activities in the patented 12-box set of Brain Boxes designed for children from birth to age 5 ½. Each item comes with easy to understand instructions that will guide you through its use with a child.

Brain Box in a Bag items are currently available at the Phoenix Children's Museum.

For more information on the work of the New Directions Institute for Infant Brain Development or the complete, patented 12-box set of brain boxes, contact 602.371.1366 or visit www.newdirectionsinstitute.org.

Stop Shooting, Start Living

2010-04-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Lance Taylor was just 23 years old when he was shot to death in February while confronting a man who was trying to steal beer from a Circle K store in west Phoenix. Earlier this month a peace march and candlelight vigil were held in his memory. At least 100 people gathered outside Golden Gate Community Center where the peace march began.

Members of the Mitchell Golden Gate Neighborhood Association were out in force. Phyllis Habib, director of Golden Gate Community Center calls GGCC a "safe haven.'" "This young man's murder highlights the importance of change in the neighborhood," Phyllis added. "Our community is poised to change in so many ways. We are working to stop the shooting and start living."

Fry's Food Stores Grants $35,000 to Promote Breast Health at Golden Gate Community Center

2010-03-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

Fry's Food Stores recently granted $35,000 through their “Giving Hope a Hand” campaign to fund breast-health classes and follow-up mammography appointments for the residents of the west Phoenix Golden Gate community. "The Mobile Onsite Mammography (MOM) van visits Golden Gate up to six times a year," said Phyllis Habib, director of Golden Gate Community Center. "This grant will allow under-served women who have an abnormal mammogram to get a follow up diagnosis and treatment."

The Giving Hope a Hand campaign allows Fry’s to give back to the communities it serves. With the help of vendors who share in Fry’s Food Stores commitment to eradicating breast cancer – and providing hope to those who fear it. Fry's has been a long time and generous supporter of breast health initiatives in Arizona – supporting research projects and educational outreach.

“What makes this campaign so special is that all of the funds raised are spent in the communities where our customers and associates live, work and raise their families,” says Pam Giannonatti, Fry’s Consumer/Community Relations Manager, whose mother and mother-in-law are both breast cancer survivors. “Fry’s is proud to continue its partnership with the Golden Gate Community Center, which is located just down the street from our Fry’s Mercado Store located on the northeast corner of 43rd Ave. and McDowell in Phoenix.”

Balancing the Budget on the Backs of Crime Victims

2010-02-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

The following guest opinion piece was submitted by the Directors of Las Familias and The Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault on behalf of Casa de los Niños, Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse, Homicide Survivors, Las Familias, MADD Arizona, Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault, Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center, and Wingspan in response to the Arizona State Legislators who may raid funds earmarked for victim’s of crime.

Balancing the state budget on the back of crime victims may not be criminal, but it should be. Unfortunately, that is exactly what our current legislators are doing. In an effort to balance the broken state budget, our elected officials are taking pots of money that don’t rightfully belong to them. Most recently, they have taken the funds that support crime victims. These funds are set up to assist victims of crime recover from the physical, emotional, financial and psychological injuries that they endure, due to no fault of their own, when they are victimized by criminals.

The revenues in the fund come from fines and fees collected from convicted criminals. Thus, they are not taxpayer monies and the legislators have no business raiding these funds. While we understand the need to balance the budget, it shouldn’t come on the backs of crime victims. Re-victimizing people who have already been significantly traumatized is simply wrong.

The legislature has already swept a significant part of these funds to help offset this year’s deficit and they are planning to take even more for next fiscal year. If we don’t make them stop, then thousands of crime victims will go without support and services they need to help them through one of the most traumatic events anyone can face.

Supporting crime victims is neither a liberal nor a conservative agenda. It is simply the fair and just thing to do. For those who claim the government should have no role, we remind them that the Crime Victims Fund was established under President Reagan’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, which led to the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). President Reagan understood that when innocent people are victimized, society has an obligation to help them on their road to recovery.

The organizations in jeopardy of losing funding, if the legislature has its way; include Casa de los Niños, Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse, Homicide Survivors, Las Familias, MADD Arizona, Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault, Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center, and Wingspan. The leaders of these organizations and programs that provide critical services to crime victims urge you to call and write your state legislators. The legislature must hear that what they are doing to crime victims is morally and ethically wrong and borders on criminal. If we don’t speak up now for those who have been victimized through no fault of their own, we will have no right to complain when there is no one to help us if, God forbid, this injustice befalls us.

Dr. Elizabeth Wong, Division Director, Las Familias
Michele Roland-Schwartz, Division Director, Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault

An evening with Grammy® nominated artist R. Carlos Nakai

2010-02-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

Save the Date. On March 27, 2010, the Tucson KARE (Kinship Adoption Resource and Education) Family Center Ambassadors are hosting an evening with world renowned Grammy® nominated flutist R. Carlos Nakai at the Desert Diamond Hotel and Casino in Tucson. This is one of Mr. Nakai’s very rare concert appearances in Tucson and proceeds will benefit the KARE program!

Also performing will be KARE’s own “La Familia KARE” Mexican Folklore Troupe (children aged 6-12) and Tucson-based youth mariachi group, Los Changuitos Feos. Special guests include Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup and Congressman Raul Grijalva. Miguel Ortega emcees the evening.

Since 2002, KARE has served thousands of grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings raising their relatives' children in Pima County. KARE’s goal is to keep children safe and stable with members of their own family, and keep them out of the foster care system. And they’ve been successful, keeping close to 8000 children out of foster care since 2002. Recent research has shown that the KARE Center’s services keep 1,400 children out of foster care each year at a potential savings to Arizona taxpayers of $4.2 million a year. The KARE Ambassadors are a group of Center grandparents who represent the needs of kinship caregivers in Pima County.

For ticket purchases or sponsorship information, visit www.arizonaschildren.org/events.

Mission Possible: Reay's Ranch Stores raise more than $141,000 to Benefit AzCA

2010-01-20T09:19:00.000-08:00

In January 2009 the employees of Reay’s Ranch Investors’ Super Stop and Minit Market convenience stores and Gordon’s IGA Markets in Southern Arizona challenged themselves to a Mission Impossible. Their goal, should they choose to accept, was to raise $100,000 to benefit vulnerable children and families served by Arizona's Children Association in Southern Arizona. The team went into action.

First, they sold $1.00 placards at their stores, which raised $53,217. Next was the first annual Reay's Ranch Golf Tournament at The Preserve Golf Club at SaddleBrooke, which raised $37,000.

With only $10,000 to go to their goal, the Reay's Ranch Investors team placed canisters in their Super Stop, Minit Market and Gordon’s IGA stores for three weekends, and asked customers to donate their change. The stores raised $33,742.

Amazingly, having topped their $100,000 goal by more than $23,000, the team took on a new mission. Employees made weekly donations through a new payroll deduction program. More than 72% of the employees signed up and raised $17,674.

At the completion of the mission, Reay's Ranch employees had raised more than $141,000 to benefit Arizona's Children Association.

"Reay's Ranch employees are very special people who work hard and achieve what they set out to do," said Rich Couch, COO and general manager of Reay's Ranch Investors. "We were blown away with the generosity of our customers, vendors and employees who took on a difficult mission and made it look easy. We never forget who these activities will benefit and how important Arizona's Children Association services are in the communities where we operate stores."

Reay's Ranch Investors owns and operates 46 stores including convenience stores, 2 IGA markets, A&W Restaurants and Subway stores in central and Southern Arizona. The company offers full management services to investor owned convenience stores including 24/7/365 responsibility and accounting services.

Six Million Pennies Means a Lot of Help for Families

2009-12-31T10:30:00.000-08:00

From country concerts to bowl-a-thons, penny pitch donors were more creative than ever this year.

The results are impressive. The 14th annual KIIM-FM Tucson Penny Pitch benefiting Arizona’s Children Association amassed 2,879,605 pennies ($28,796.05), more than doubling its goal of one million pennies. KIIM-FM set up in the Foothills Mall Food Court December 16th -18th, broadcasting each day from 6AM to 7PM, and invited the public to stop by and donate spare pennies. Other coins and paper money were also accepted.

The goal of the 12th annual KTTI Penny Pitch in Yuma was to raise 3.5 million pennies. Jay Walker, KTTI personality and driving force for the Yuma Penny Pitch, summed up the results, “As we all know, you can't say the word "Money", or "Charity" these days without hearing the phrase ‘Well, in today's economy…..’ Well, in today's economy Yuma Arizona gave more than they have in the past 12 years. The grand total in the three day's was $35,675.00.”

The ‘pennies’ raised in these drives will help families in emergency situations. We are overwhelmed and grateful. Donations can still be made at www.arizonaschildren.org.

From the Grand Canyon to the White House

2009-12-11T13:14:00.000-08:00

Grandparents in the Tucson KARE Family Center Arts group, "Las Fridas" and their grandchildren recently decorated ten Arizona themed ornaments that will hang on the White House Executive Residence Christmas tree. At the suggestion of Generations United in Washington DC, the White House sent the group 10" orbs to decorate with Arizona Points of Interest, and the group went to work, cutting out photos, painting and decoupaging. To see their work, and the decorated ornaments, visit www.arizonaschildren.org/XMasornaments.htm.

Las Fridas started as a grief and loss group for women burdened by their kinship care giving, and has evolved into a joyful art instruction activity for the women and their families. Las Fridas has exhibited at several Tucson area events. The group is provided with support of The Drawing Studio and volunteer instructor Pat Frederick, a retired veterinarian and metal sculptor.

Make sure to watch Oprah's Primetime Special this Sunday on ABC: The KARE ornaments in the White House are set to be a part of Oprah's special, "Christmas at the White House" airing Dec. 13.

Give the Gift of Hope

2009-11-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

Give the gift of hope this holiday season to children and families who need your help. Our ‘needs’ list is long and includes the wishes of children from birth to 18 years, and requests from their parents for groceries and grocery gift certificates. The families we work with do not receive any other help during the holiday season.

There are three ways to give:
~ Support an entire family. Purchase groceries or grocery store gift certificates and grant the gift wishes of the children in the family.
~ Put up a giving tree in your office or organization. We’ll bring ornaments with the wishes of children on them and your employees/
members may choose an individual from the tree.
~ Conduct a toy drive. Collect toys and items for children and we’ll pick them up and distribute them to the children and families
we serve. Toys are needed for children of all ages.
To give a “Gift of Hope” this holiday season, check out this link to find more info for your area: www.arizonaschildren.org/giftsofhope.htm

The Hardest Job You Will Ever Love

2009-11-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

Amy and Sarah were two and three when they were found wandering in their diapers in a K-Mart parking lot. Phillip was three and his sister Katie was nine when their mother abandoned them at a bus stop. At ten months old, Olivia never cried because no one had ever come to pick her up.

These, and thousands of neglected, abandoned and abused children come in to Arizona's foster care system each year. For most, there's a happy ending. Their biological parents put their lives together and their children come home. Loving grandparents or relatives step up to raise them. Caring adults become their adoptive parents.

For others, growing up in a loving family remains an empty dream. There are more than 200 children in Arizona's foster care system waiting for their forever family. Those who never find permanency often lead troubled lives. They are less likely to graduate from high school, and face greater risks for homelessness, imprisonment and reliance on welfare.

While I would love to urge every reader to go out and adopt a child from the foster care system, it is neither realistic nor practical for many. What is very doable, however, is to connect with a child in the state's foster care system and be their friend and mentor. Help them do their math homework and take them out to a movie. Throw a barbecue for the residents in their group care facility. Introduce them to your family and friends and let them know they need adoptive families. Find a way to help.

For those special few who are moved to adoption, get started. While adopting a child from foster care can be very challenging, in the words of many adoptive parents I know, "It's the hardest job you will ever love."

Visit www.adoptuskids.org to see featured pictures and short biographies of more than 12,000 children in need of a forever family. There is usually little or no cost to adopt children from the foster care system, and training is available to help new parents through the adoption process.

Foster and adoptive parents have a special calling. You know who you are. You're not any smarter or more dedicated than anyone else. You just know in your heart that vulnerable children need your help and you respond. Celebrate national adoption month this November by visiting the Arizona's Children Association website at www.arizonaschildren.org and getting started. The children need you.

Fred Chaffee
President and CEO
Arizona's Children Association

September 13 is Grandparents Day!

2009-09-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

September 13 is Grandparents Day! A great day to celebrate all of the grandparents here in our state who are caring for their grandchildren.

At the KARE Family Center in Tucson, a small group of grandparents wanting to “give back and go the extra mile” on behalf of KARE are training in advocacy skills and making appearances in the community to ask for more attention and support for this “hidden caregiver population”. Although all the members are considered “senior citizens” in age, their list of accomplishments is impressive. George Arevalo, Jose Velasco, Rosa Borbon and Jessie Hetherington have visited with legislators, staged a well-attended caregiver rally in Tucson, and are planning a spectacular fundraiser for the KARE Center for March 27, 2010 featuring Grammy nominated artist R. Carlos Nakai. Laurie Melrood, KARE –Tucson director, says: “These are caregivers who embrace the KARE mission of keeping children safe and stable with relative families, and want to make sure that kin families have a voice in the community.”

Check out www.arizonaschildren.org/karecenter.htm to learn more about KARE on our website or visit our YouTube site for our video on KARE.

PJs and Eggs A Great Success

2009-08-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

Hickman's Eggs recently celebrated its 65 year anniversary by asking breakfast restaurants in the Valley to open for "Breakfast for Dinner" on one special night to benefit Arizona's Children Association foster care program. Customers having "breakfast for dinner" were asked to bring a pair of pajamas to the restaurant to be donated to the AzCA foster care program. In return, they received a free dozen Hickman's eggs and a ticket for a drawing for a "PJ's and Eggs" breakfast party for 65 friends. More than 1,100 pairs of pajamas were donated and more than $2,700 dollars were raised in the event. Thanks to Hickman Family Farms and the PJ's and Eggs participating restaurants: Over Easy, First Watch, Bacon, Scramble, Stax/Breakfast Club, Matt's Big Breakfast, Kiss the Cook, TC Eggington's, and US Egg.
To see more photos from the PJ's and Eggs event, click here.

Good Things Come in Hundreds of Small Packages

2009-08-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

The first day of school was a little more exciting for hundreds of children who received new backpacks full of school supplies from the Goodyear White Tanks Rotary. On Thursday of this week, volunteers from the Rotary Club delivered 400 back to school backpacks loaded with school supplies to the Arizona's Children Association Surprise office, filling the biggest room in the office. Last year the office received a total of two backpack donations. Upon hearing the plight of this office which serves approximately 800 children who would otherwise go without school supplies for the first day of school, the Goodyear White Tanks Rotary Club came to the rescue with member donations of 300 backpacks and help from WalMart with another 100 backpacks. This is a mighty effort from a 60 member Rotary Club, that demonstrates that EVERYONE can make a difference in our community, especially in times of great financial need.

To work with Arizona's Children Association to conduct a drive for your organization or workplace, contact Leah Stegman at lstegman@arizonaschildren.org or call 800.944.7611, ext. 111.

There's a Better Way to Spend Your Time

2009-07-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

A movie called "Orphan" is slated to open this Friday. The plot involves a couple who adopt a troubled, older child who terrorizes their family. At the risk of seeming too easily offended by negative stereotypes of children who are adopted at an older age, I'm supporting the national adoption advocates who are calling for a boycott of this irresponsible film.

Arizona's Children Association was founded nearly 100 years ago by the Women's Missionary Society to "found a home in Arizona where orphaned and neglected children could be cared for and adopted." We've spent nearly 100 years finding loving, permanent homes for children of all ages whose parents are unable to care for them. The work of our agency will not be undone, or even affected by this insensitive movie. What I am concerned about is the continued negative impression left on children and teens in the foster care system who have already been victimized by those they should have been able to trust.

This weekend, don't go see "Orphan." There's a better way to spend your time. Do something constructive for children in the state's foster care system who've been marginalized by recent cuts to the Department of Economic Security. Find out how to volunteer to be a CASA or a member of a Foster Care Review Board. Volunteer at Arizona's Children Association to put together "Just for Me" bags or create Lifebook pages to celebrate the lives of children in foster care. This movie will be in and out of theaters soon. Your impact on a child is forever.

Fred Chaffee
President and CEO
Arizona's Children Association

Letter from a foster parent

2009-05-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

“Though no one can make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new end.” Anonymous

We have been a foster family for nearly eight years. During that time we’ve welcomed and said goodbye to many wonderful children who’ve changed our lives. At a party last weekend, a well-meaning new acquaintance commented on being a foster parent. “I could NEVER do that. I could NEVER give them up.”

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that comment and how, still now, it cuts to my core. What is the appropriate response? “Yes, I can do it because I don’t care when they leave.” “Yes, it’s easy to let go. We just move on to the next placement.” I never quite know how to respond so I smile quietly (not my style) and move on to a new conversation.

Here’s what I would like to say. As a foster family, we are dedicated to helping the children in our care ‘make a brand new end.’ Whether it’s with a relative who steps up, or a new adoptive family, or back in to their renewed, re-motivated and re-educated biological family. So when it comes time to say goodbye, and help our children transition to their ‘brand new end,’ we suck it up, we create a lifebook for their time here, we take a traditional trip to Chuck E. Cheese, we give them a copy of Dr. Seuss “Oh The Places You’ll Go” for their life going forward and we say ‘see you later’ (never goodbye). Then we close the door of the car and tearfully drive away. I have likened the experience to having a tooth pulled without novocaine. It never gets any easier.

May is foster care awareness month. I hope those who read this will take a few minutes to think about the more than 10,000 children in foster care in Arizona. Many are living with relatives, many are living in family foster care and too many are living in group care facilities and shelters. You don’t have to become a foster family to help. You can fill “Just for Me” bags for children for their first night in care. You can become a member of a Foster Care Review Board or a Court Appointed Special Advocate. You can become a mentor for a child in a group home. You can help a child create a ‘brand new end.’

(Kris is a foster family with Arizona’s Children Association)

Budget Cuts Impact Children and Families

2009-05-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

The recent deep cuts to the Department of Economic Security are having a significant impact on vulnerable children and families across our state. The damage will not be easily undone. Without a thoughtful and far-reaching analysis of what these immediate budget cuts will do, we are in danger of eliminating effective systems that have been put into place over the last 30-40 years.

In one instance, the reduction and elimination of "in home services" has resulted in 7,000 children who have been receiving services in their own homes and in their own communities, no longer having that support. Many will be in danger of moving out of their homes and into the foster care system, which is already overwhelmed with more than 10,000 children.

The state recently implemented budget cuts reducing payments to foster parents by 20% and cutting the foster care allowances by 50% for such items as clothing.

These kinds of cuts are not sustainable. Arizona's Children Association has survived and moved through very difficult times. This is one of the most difficult times of them all. We are seeing the dismantling of the child welfare system as we have known it and supported it over these many years in Arizona. We will eventually pay for all of these funding cuts in ways that will ultimately be far more expensive than the resources now required.

As a member of the board of directors of the Child Welfare League of America, I also have an opportunity to look across the country and see how different states are coping with this severe economic downturn. Not every state is slashing away at vulnerable children and families. More prudent efforts are ones that will allow us to continue to move forward in protecting our most vulnerable populations in ways that will prevent the kind of catastrophe that appears to be ahead of us.

Fred J. Chaffee, M.A., M.S.W.
President & Chief Executive Officer, Arizona's Children Association