Volunteer Appreciation Spotlight We would like to thank our volunteers for all the outstanding work they do. This month we are focusing on Jan Patton a dedicated foster parent and ECHO Every Child Volunteer. If you would like to be a volunteer, please sign up here. There's always something for everyone. ECHO: What motivates you…
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Shyla’s Story
I entered foster care at the age of 16 with my 4 younger brothers that were 6 years old and younger. Our parents had serious drug problems and were very violent to each other and we didn't have a lot of money. We lived in cars, shelters, friends and family's houses. DHS said our house…
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DHS Visitation Room Makeovers in Lane County
Oregon DHS Makeover from Christian Hartwell on Vimeo.
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Choices
Bittersweet is an understatement. Giving a child back to their mama more than 500 days after they arrived in your home feels impossible. Every night, books are read, songs are sung, prayers are prayed, and we gently close this door saying, "Goodnight, _____. I love you." Soon enough, the door will stay open. No more…
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You Are Loved. You Are Safe. You Are Special.
Last year, a timid wobbler walked into our home with her caseworker on a dark, dreary December night. Her curly hair stood straight up, and her big brown eyes were wide and frightened. As her caseworker set her down, she stood for a moment...then slowly toddled over to me and put her arms up--the universal…
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This Place is A Great Place…
This note was found in a DHS office in Southern Oregon, written by a child in foster care. To see more stories like this, please follow Every Child Oregon on Facebook.
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Grace
On Friday at 4:30 I picked up the phone and heard my DHS certifier’s voice, Emily, on the other end. I adore her. She works hard, advocates fiercely and speaks gently and professionally. It had been 18 months since she had celebrated with my family at the courthouse in downtown Multnomah County. Emily was there…
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