Keys to Success Stay
connected. If you have problems or concerns, talk to your social worker, attorney or mentor. Ask your social worker or children’s caregivers if there are ways you can be more involved with your children’s life.
Keep track of information. Put all documents
concerning your case in a secure place like a folder or briefcase. It helps to keep a schedule or a journal to record your thoughts and events as they happen.
Attend appointments. You need to go to all meetings, hearings, and court ordered services. If you cannot be there, call your attorney or social worker immediately and let them know.
Focus on your needs. Don’t worry about stuff you cannot control, like what people say about you. Pay attention to your issues or problems. Get to know your strengths and weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings.
Learn to nurture. Try to see the situation from your children’s viewpoint and keep their well-being in mind. Show others that you care for your children, by asking questions and talking about your struggles as a parent.
Build relationships. Whether you are having difficulties with a partner or connecting with your children’s other caregivers, stay positive and ask for help when you need it. Try to work together to find agreeable solutions.
Helping Other Parents Engage To learn more about HOPE contact:
Spokane Parent Advocacy Committee SpokanePAC@gmail.com P.O. Box 40306 • Spokane, WA 99220 This program was developed with the support of the Washington State Parent Advocacy Committee. With the assistance of Catalyst for Kids Director Nancy Roberts-Brenda and Parent Engagement Coordinator Brenda Lopez.
Jeremiah Donier Veteran Parent/Advocate 509-475-8404 Spokane County
Juvenile C ourt Services Designed by Jeremiah Donier • Veteran Parent • Spokane, Washington
Helping Other Parents Engage Guiding families through the child welfare system
Do you feel...Scared? Confused? Sad? Angry? You were given this to read because you likely had a child or children removed from your care. You might be asking yourself, “why me?” or wondering what happens next. Maybe you feel isolated or uncertain. You are not alone. We have been in your shoes. We were told our children were in danger or were harmed. We stood in front of the court and were told our children were not going home. The things we were accused of were horrible. We are parents who had our children taken away. We were charged with abuse or neglect. We know the challenges you now face. We know what it takes to endure. We took responsibility for our actions. We learned to care for ourselves and our families. We worked hard, we regained custody, and today our children are with us. By connecting with community services we found a safe place to nurture our children. We understand and we can help. We care; we are HOPE, Helping Other Parents Engage.
What is Helping Other Parents Engage? HOPE is a support program for parents who are who are just entering the child dependency system. It is organized by mentors; “veteran” parents previously involved with the courts and child welfare services. After facing charges, taking responsibly, and learning to nurture their children; these parents were reunited with their families and successfully transitioned out of the system. These parents now serve as mentors, offering guidance and encouragement to other parents. With the assistance of social service providers, HOPE educates parents through workshops, support groups, and social events. HOPE is a safe place for struggling parents.
Any parent who is interested in HOPE’s assistance is freely invited to participate in the Dependency 101 class. This is a chance for parents to learn about the dependency process and connect with a mentor. As advocates, HOPE leaders serve as a “voice” for families involved in the child welfare system. We are part of a secure network of parents working with social service agencies. On committees, in meetings, and at conferences, we promote positive ways for professionals to work together with parents involved in dependencies. Overall, we endeavor to discover and develop solutions to build better communities for all families.
HOPE can help...
E N G A G E
xplain how parent mentors confront challenges, care for children, and work with social service providers. ame the various roles of people that work with you and your dependency case. et you better connected with your social worker who deals with your needs and concerns.
ssist you by sharing “success” stories and nurturing tips that worked for other parents. uide you to connect with resources, when you are looking for answers and solutions.
ncourage you when you are coping with difficulties, and be a friend who is willing to listen.
c/o of Goodwill Industries 130 East Third Avenue Spokane, WA 99202 509.838.4286
www.discovergoodwill.org/programs/hope.asp