Family Member or Agency Member
If you are a family member or concerned citizen:
The most important reason for joining OFCA is because the more families that belong to OFCA, the louder our voice and the better our chances of positively influencing policy decisions that affect our families and the children we serve.
However, there are other reasons for belonging to OFCA including:
- Gaining a sense of belonging, and the opportunity to commune with other families that are struggling with many of the same issues that you are facing;
- Receiving regular updates about proposed legislative changes to the programs that affect you and your family;
- Having regular access to an on-line connection to other resource families in Ohio who you can bounce ideas and questions off of;
- Having the opportunity to advocate at the state level on behalf of abused and neglected children and the families who care for them;
- Participating in discussions that could lead to an improved system of care for children in out-of-home placements;
- Receiving regular updates on cases before the court that could establish legal precedents;
- Receiving reduced fees for educational conferences;
- Receiving assistance in the organization of a local support group or regional association to provide support to families in your area.
- Participating in opportunities for children to come together with children from other adoptive, foster and kinship families;
- … and much, much more.
If you are an Agency Representative
The most important reason why an agency should consider joining OFCA is because it demonstrates your agency’s support for families and recognizes their need to connect with other families.
It recognizes the importance of having a statewide Association that serves as the voice of resource parents and the children in their care.
Other reasons include:
- It acknowledges that families are excellent advocates when they have access to information regarding issues that may affect them;
- It recognizes that families who feel a sense of belonging will likely remain active members of the system of care for children. (Studies have shown that families who are involved in associations continue as care providers longer.)
- Your agency will have access to information about family concerns on policy or practice issues through regular newsletters;
- It offers educational opportunities for families based on best practices around the nation;
- If offers speakers for member agencies;
- It helps families understand the important role that they play in the passage of local child welfare levies.