In the realm of foster care, few voices resonate as deeply as that of Dr. John DeGarmo. As the founder of The Foster Care Institute, Dr. DeGarmo has dedicated his life to guiding families through the complexities of the foster care system. With a richly diverse educational background that includes a B.A. in History, Master’s Degrees in Media Technology and Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, his insights are backed by wide ranging knowledge and experience.
Dr. DeGarmo’s passion for fostering extends beyond academia; he has personally welcomed over 60 children into his home, embodying the spirit of unconditional love and support that every child deserves. His commitment to improving the lives of foster children is further demonstrated through his writing, including acclaimed works such as *The Foster Care Survival Guide*, the best-selling *Faith and Foster Care*, and the heartwarming children’s book *A Different Home: A New Foster Child’s Story*. His dissertation, focused on addressing the needs of foster children in rural schools, highlights his understanding of the unique challenges these children face in educational settings.
The Importance of Stability and Love in Foster Care
Dr. DeGarmo’s philosophy centers around the critical need for stability and love in a child’s life, especially for those in foster care. In an interview with Transfiguring Adoption, Dr. DeGarmo states, “When a child comes to our home, we give them what they need. We give them the stability. We give them the security. But we give them what they need the most, and that is someone to love them. We love them unconditionally. However challenging that may be – we love them unconditionally.” This approach is vital, as many foster children struggle with feelings of abandonment and insecurity, often moving between various homes and schools.
His training emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where foster children can form strong, loving attachments. By foster local children and allowing them to remain in the same school systems, families can help these children benefit from the continuity of having the same teachers who are already familiar with their needs. This stability is not just about keeping the same educational framework; it is about providing emotional security and fostering lasting relationships that can have a profound impact on their development.
Join the Conversation: Fostering Wellbeing Webinar
On Tuesday, September 10th at 7:30 PM ET, Dr. DeGarmo will be a featured keynote speaker at the “Fostering Wellbeing” webinar, hosted by America’s Kids Belong. He will be joined by an esteemed panel that includes Ellie Flowers, a foster parent coach, and Woody and Mindy Houser, who have fostered medically fragile children for 19 years. This event is a wonderful opportunity for current and prospective foster families to gain valuable insights and guidance from experts who have navigated the foster care landscape.
The panel will offer diverse perspectives on fostering, emphasizing the importance of community support, effective communication, and advocacy for the needs of foster children. Participants will have the chance to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions that address the challenges and triumphs of fostering. This interactive format allows attendees to seek advice on practical issues, share their own experiences, and learn new strategies for fostering success.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Support
Dr. DeGarmo’s dedication to foster care has not gone unnoticed. He has appeared on several television shows as an expert on foster care, sharing his knowledge and experiences with a wider audience. His accolades include the prestigious Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award and the Up With People Every Day Hero Award, both recognizing his unwavering commitment to children in foster care. His work is not just a job; it is a calling that strives to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
The webinar promises to be both informative and inspiring, with a focus on fostering resilience and well-being among families. Dr. DeGarmo and his fellow panelists are passionate advocates for children in care, and they understand firsthand the joys and challenges that come with fostering. Their combined experiences will provide attendees with actionable insights and encouragement to navigate the foster care system effectively.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
This webinar is a must-attend for anyone involved in foster care, whether you are a seasoned foster parent, considering fostering for the first time, or even a community member looking to support foster families. The insights and expertise shared during this event can help create a more compassionate and effective foster care system.
Register Below:
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 10th at 7:30 PM ET, and prepare to be inspired! Join Dr. John DeGarmo, Ellie Flowers, and Woody and Mindy Houser as they come together for FOSTERING WELL-BEING in an effort to help create stability and a better future for children in foster care. These webinars will be available on demand as well so you can watch later even if you can’t catch it live. Join us for this exciting event!
