Relative Caregiver Day at the Capitol

Get a feel for the power of our Relative Caregiver Day at the Capitol through this short video of the day.

Michigan’s Children, along with the Kinship Resource Center at MSU and our Legislative Co-Sponsors were proud to welcome more than 50 relative care-givers of all types, the young people they have cared for and the programs that serve them well to the Capitol last week to talk with legislators about the specific challenges and successes they face serving in that critical role to support children, youth and families around the state. They were welcomed by even more legislators, state department leaders, and other agency supporters as they shared their experiences and their recommendations for change. The evidence couldn’t be clearer that children and youth thrive in stable environments and that in so many cases, relatives are this stability. But it is also clear that those caregivers need support.

View the flier here. | Check out the lunch program here.

• Read a story about Brooke VanProoyen a supporter for relative caregivers who understands their impact, An Aunt and Uncle’s Unwavering Love Made All the Difference for a Troubled Teen here.
• Read a story about Brittany Barros, a 21-year-old who aged out of the foster care system and is now caring for her younger sister, Her Sister’s Foster Parent, Brittney Barros Finally Brings Her Family Home here.
• Read our story about how two very different women came to Lansing and how raising their voices has benefited those around them. A Day at the Capitol with Relative Caregivers: Two Women, Two Different Life Experiences, and the Power of Ordinary People with Important Stories to Tell here.
• Learn more about relative caregivers and their needs here.

Contact Michele Corey for more information on joining or supporting this growing network.