Spreading Love: Our Foster Parenting Workshop in Bhadrak, Odisha
- 30 Jan, 2024
Recently, an event unfolded in the district of Bhadrak, Odisha on the 18th and 19th of January 2024. Love Without Boundaries, in collaboration with the Bhadrak District Office, orchestrated a transformative Foster Parenting Training Workshop. This initiative aimed to empower 12 compassionate couples, poised to open their hearts and homes to vulnerable children yearning for love and security.
The event kicked off with an inaugural ceremony graced by key stakeholders, including representatives from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) chairperson, and a dedicated member of the CWC. Alongside them were 2-3 Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), all of whom brought their experience and wisdom to enrich the proceedings.
The two-day workshop was nothing short of a profound exploration into the world of foster care. Our participants dived into various topics, ranging from the fundamental principles of foster care to understanding the intricate dynamics of child behavior, attachment, and the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment.
What made this workshop truly special were the hands-on activities woven into the sessions. The “game of thread” This activity tried to showcase the procedure of the movement of a child from the Child care institutions, towards a loving space of foster care. The prop used was threads, which were held by a set of individuals depicting various people and organizations involved in the entire process. It included the child, a CCI, DCPO, DM and lastly foster parents. The threads were cut off one by one from each organisation, until the child’s thread was only with the foster parents. Another touching activity had couples joining hands to create a protective circle, symbolizing the commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the children they’ll soon welcome into their homes.
Facilitated by seasoned experts, the workshop not only provided practical insights but also showcased the collaborative nature of this significant work. The Director and staff of LWB added depth to the discussions, emphasizing the importance of community and shared responsibility.
As the workshop came to an end, a sense of hope lingered in the air. These 12 couples, armed with knowledge, skills, and a newfound confidence, are now ready to embark on a transformative journey. They are the embodiment of love without boundaries, rewriting the narrative for countless children seeking solace.
The workshop may have concluded, but the journey toward brighter futures has just begun. To those who feel the call to make a difference, we extend an invitation. Join our community and be a part of this transformative journey. Together, let’s create a world where every child stays within loving and caring families. Every child deserves a family.
If you’re ready to join hands with us, click the link below: