Vol. 8, No. 1• November 2003

A Reader Asks . . .

If you have a question about foster care or adoption in North Carolina, please write, e-mail, or fax your question to us using the contact information found here. We’ll do our best to respond to your question either in a direct reply or in a future issue of this newsletter.

Question: I’m having difficulty with my social worker.I am ready to switch agencies! What should I do?

There are some things you can do to improve your relationship with your social worker. There are also some things to consider before taking the drastic measure of switching agencies.

1) Determine the exact nature of the problem
Many issues can be addressed by first identifying what you need from your agency, and then articulating those needs to the agency. Many times it is natural to attribute “intent” behind your worker’s action (or lack of action) before knowing her side of the situation. For example, if your calls have not been returned, you may fear the worker no longer cares about your family when in fact situations beyond her control prevented her from responding to you.

2) Use the chain of command
Customer satisfaction is important to all agencies. Agency leadership wants to know what your experience is (good and bad) and your ideas for making it better. When faced with an issue you cannot resolve with your social worker directly, take the issue to this person’s immediate supervisor. If necessary, take the matter up with that person’s supervisor, and so on. Hopefully, in the end, the issue can be resolved.

3) Make use of North Carolina’s resources
NC Kids helps the NC Division of Social Services identify and (if possible) resolve obstacles parents face. Should you encounter an obstacle to fostering or adopting, please contact NC Kids toll-free at 1-877-625-4371 and talk to one of our representatives. In cases where you feel you would like the State’s opinion and/or intervention, you should call their toll-free CARELINE at 1-800-662-7030.

4) Weigh your decision to switch agencies carefully
Research the new agency you are considering. The agency may require you to attend its 30-hour training program to become a foster or adoptive parent. You may also experience some of the same obstacles you now face. You may feel like you are starting over.

The one thing to keep in mind when you are having difficulty with your social worker or agency is the question: “What is in the best interest of the children?” Is it in the best interest of the children to rush your assessment, or should the agency take as much time as needed to ensure the child will be placed in a safe, loving family? Is it in the best interest of the child to reduce the number of times social workers visit the children so the workers can spend more time in the office returning phone calls?

The “business” of adoption and foster care is tough. Patience and communication are required because ensuring the safety, permanence, and well being of children is a complex journey.

Response by Jeanne Preisler, Director, NC Kids.

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Question: I grew up in foster care. In fact, I didn’t leave care until I was 22, while I was in college. Now I want to go to graduate school, but I am not sure I can manage it financially. Do you know of any scholarships for former foster children interested in graduate school?

There are several things you can do. Your first step should be to contact the independent living coordinator for the state in which you live. For a listing of these coordinators, click here. You may also wish to visit the website of the Orphan Foundation <www.orphan.org>, which has some wonderful programs to assist youth and former youth. Keep checking their website for scholarships and other assistance. I would also recommend you connect with the Foster Care Alumni site at <fostercarealumni.casey.org>.

You’ve overcome some amazing obstacles! Keep going—you are a terrific role model for others!

Response by Nancy Carter, Program Coordinator, ILR, Inc.

Copyright � 2003 Jordan Institute for Families