Foster parents recognized
One way of "giving back"
Adoptive and foster parents are often behind-the-scenes heroes who never get the recognition they deserve. That changed for a few families on April 16, 2002, when special honors were given for those who work to better the lives of children.

The 19th annual Special Recognition Awards 2002 was an opportunity for the Michigan Federation of Private Child & Family Agencies to honor people who have an extraordinary gift of building families and caring for unique children.

In this awards ceremony, Jim and Sandy Blouw were named the Foster Parents of the Year and Galen and Mary Ellen Vernon were named the Adoptive Parents of the Year.

Jim Blouw is part of the Support Services team at Right to Life of Michigan's State Central Office.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, "We are proud of Jim and Sandy's dedication to children. Their work is an encouragement to others and sets an example for our society."

The prolife movement, at times, is criticized by people who accept abortion as a solution to an unplanned pregnancy. Some say, prolife people do not take care of children after they are born. This statement could not be further from the truth. Jim and Sandy are a perfect example of prolife people reaching out to children in need.

The Blouws are using their award to educate others on the number of children still in need of foster parents. Jim and Sandy Blouw currently have 2 foster children and over the years have fostered 50 children. They have also adopted 10 of their foster children. Jim and Sandy also work as mentors and counsel other foster parents. They are still in contact with many of the foster children who lived with them and continue to remain as an extended support system to those who grew up and thrived in their home.

The Blouws give their foster children unconditional love because that is something that many of these children have never had but something they desperately need. Sandy says, "Most kids really want to be loved" and feels that fostering is "our way of giving back."

The Vernons have been involved in adoption for 25 years. In that time, they have helped parent more than 400 children through adoption, foster care, and guardianship. The Vernons continue to be active in the adoption process.

 

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