First Person with Alumni Member, Patrick Plourde

I first heard about FCAA from Board member Chauncey Strong. He described FCAA as a new organization building unity among foster care alumni. From my work (in independent living) and my own foster care experience, I understood how important it is to create lifelong connections. We teach our foster youth to do exactly that - build relationships with responsible and trustworthy adults who will be there for them, regardless of whether they mess up. Everyone deserves to know and feel that they are loved.

When I was growing up, I had regular reminders of the need for changes to foster care. When I had the chance to change the system from the inside, I knew I could make a difference. I am always asking, “what else can I do?” or “how can I ensure our young people have a good or better footing in life?”, and “are we are progressing?” I tell young people who feel the system failed them to join FCAA. I want them to voice their concerns and make the system better for the young people who are in foster care and those who will experience foster care later.

I worked with Chauncey and other FCAA members to help start our Virginia Chapter. We needed a local support system that offered a platform for alumni, young and older, to use our experiences to bring about needed change. Chauncey also made a strong case about having alumni trained and ready to speak out for changes right here in Virginia. Many of us met in person for the first time at the fall 2008 Alumni Family Reunion.

Knowing there are youth out there thirsting for an opportunity to learn more is a tremendous motivating factor. One way that we can impact lives is if we can share our experiences.

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