Pathfinders will officially open Foster Care Week on 13 September with two events – including a free session featuring international author and foster care advocate, Daryl Broughman.
Daryl grew up as a foster child in New Zealand, and by 1997 had attended 27 schools, been through over 30 social workers and lived in more than 30 different foster homes in New Zealand and overseas. His book, Through the Eyes of a Foster Child,is the story of his journey.
CEO of Pathfinders, Alan Brennan, said the public would have an opportunity to hear Daryl speak at a free event to be held at the Armidale Bowling Club.
“For anyone with an interest in the welfare of children, Daryl’s story is a salutary lesson on how we can all do better,” Mr Brennan said.
“We are delighted that Daryl has agreed to be our special guest to open Foster Care Week and his insights will give us a unique window into what it is like to be a foster child.”
More than 200 children are in foster care placements across the New England region, and demand for places exceeds the number of carers available. Foster Care Week is an opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful work of carers and to encourage others to apply.
Places for the free event are strictly limited due to space. To secure your spot please contact Pathfinders’ Foster Care Manager, Kim Smart on kims@pathfinders.ngo.
The second event, to be held following the official opening, will be a training session with Daryl. This workshop will be particularly relevant to those who are working in foster care, are interested or are already in working as foster carers or anyone with an interest in child welfare.
The two-hour workshop costs $75 and places are limited. For more information contact Kim Smart at kims@pathfinders.ngo or 02 6788 2119.
