FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2005
Contact: Michael Corby
904.632.3310

MAPP a path to foster or adoptive parenting: Family Support Services and Florida Community College to provide state-mandated training series
Joining forces to find safe, dedicated care for infants, children up to five years

Family Support Services of North Florida (FSS) and Florida Community College are partnering in an effort to identify new, potential foster and adoptive parents to help approximately 3,000 children in need of safe, caring homes. FSS and the College will provide “Model Approach to Positive Parenting” (MAPP) courses, training that is a state-required component for almost anyone wishing to become a foster or adoptive parent.

“This partnership is an inspired model of community support, founded not only to provide homes to those children in need, but also to educate the public about the responsibilities — and joys — of foster and adoptive parenting,” said Jim Adams, CEO of FSS.

The 21-hour course will be offered 14 times through the end of 2005. Classes are available to accommodate almost any schedule. The first class begins July 18, with orientation July 15. Classes will initially be offered at Florida Community College’s North Campus. The classes are offered free of charge, and child care is available.

The hope is that increased training accessibility will be incentive for people who have the economic and emotional resources to consider becoming a rescuer of a local child, or children, in need of a loving, caring and stable home. The College will provide curriculum enhancement as well as the training for potential parents.

“We are especially focusing on finding parents for children, infancy through pre-kindergarten, as they are the ones who need more direct care than their older counterparts,” said Kim Morton, training coordinator with FSS. “We also try to keep siblings together. In many cases, the children who need foster care have siblings close in age.”

For more information, call 904.448.4746.