Director's Corner

In Memory
Our staff, our Foster Parents and our Care Providers give me much pride in the caring compassionate service they offer to the community. As many of you know, we provide 24 hour care for individuals with many special needs. This may be someone with medical needs, a developmental disability, a behavioral concern or an emotional need. Every day each of our staff members and our foster parents and care providers work directly or indirectly to provide the best service they can offer to assist each individual in our programs.

Because we form close relationships with those whom we serve, when tragedy happens, we are all affected. Recently two foster children and a foster parent passed away within the space of three weeks. One of the children who died suffered from a degenerative condition which took his life at age three. The second child died as a result of a tragic accident. She was four years old. Our foster parent had worked with us for five years. He and his wife became a foster family for a young woman who came to their home as a young teen. She successfully completed high school this spring and has continued her studies. The foster family also guided other teens through difficult times.

We grieve with our families who have recently experienced these tragedies. I have been privileged to witness some of the beginning healing and reconciliation in each case. Despite their own grief, families and staff members have reached out with dignity and compassion to others who are also hurting. Staff members who have been less directly involved in each situation have shown much understanding and have reached out to those who provide direct care.

These acts of kindness are an important step in the healing process. I am thankful for the gift of association with such caring individuals and families. This is also the time to remind each of us to value and treasure our loved ones and show our care for them each day.

Sue Bentley
Executive Director
DePaul Family Services



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