The MASSB Minute

Greetings, everyone. This month we have an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the selfless and tireless efforts of foster parents and social workers. National Foster Care month is a time to recognize and raise awareness about the thousands of children and youth in foster care. Within the context of providing a safe and loving home to them, foster parents, social workers, advocates, and other professionals work together to ensure that every child is safe and has opportunities to thrive.

In light of all their significant contributions, foster care is a critical part of our state's and nation's child welfare system, providing a temporary home for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other types of trauma. As we know, however, there is a shortage of resources and foster parents. Because of these challenges, we must continue to support those who are considering becoming foster parents. Moreover, we have the power to pursue innovative programs to support foster care in our own communities.

One way we can do so is by collaborating with community organizations and businesses to create support networks for foster families. Please read about Carroll County's initiative below. Their innovative program was recognized as MASSBF's 2019 Innovative Program of the Year, and they continue to have success today. To plant the monetary seeds for such innovative programs, MASSBF offers the Innovative Programs Award as part of the MASSB Annual Conference. It's not too early to start thinking about nominating your county's initiatives and possibly win funds to further your efforts.

Best,
Tony

Two of our talented Directors have been selected to serve in the new administration of Governor Wes Moore. Congratulations to Anne Arundel County's Carnitra White, who will serve as the DHS Deputy Secretary of Programs, and Howard County's Stephen Liggett-Creel, who will serve as Senior Advisor to the Secretary. Best wishes to both as they continue in their careers dedicated to serving Marylanders.

Recruitment of new board members was the focus of last month's community meeting and MASSB Minute. Frederick County has been successful soliciting nominations from local social services organizations by sharing a short description of board activities and expectations of board members. Click here for a great example you can tailor to your board's needs.

View Recruitment Notice Example

Esther Slack-Metellus, Advisory Board Treasurer

Esther Slack-Metellus learned about the advisory board during the height of the pandemic. Her work supporting one of the many nonprofits collaborating to provide aid brought her into contact with the Frederick County DSS Director, Debbie Marini. Esther's passion is assisting underprivileged and underrepresented populations, so when Debbie told her about the advisory board, she knew she wanted to apply. Since her appointment, Esther has assumed the role of treasurer and is spearheading a fundraising effort. Esther is an active member of her board while also working at the Frederick Community College Foundation and raising two school-aged children. She is grateful to her board for understanding the competing demands on younger board members.

The Frederick board is currently recruiting members to fill multiple vacancies. Esther shared that many new families are moving to the area resulting in a community that is young and vibrant. The board's approach to supporting Esther will serve them well in successfully recruiting and retaining members that represent this changing demographic.

When asked what she would share with prospective board members Esther said, “Board members do not need a background in social services. If you have a passion for helping people in need – this is the place for you.”

May is National Foster Care month and a great time to remember our 2019 Innovative Program Award Winner. This initiative continues to deliver success to Carroll County families.

The Problem: A growing need due to the opioid crisis but only 12 licensed homes. 60% of Carroll County foster youth sent out of county.

The Idea: Increase community awareness through outreach and education. A $4,500 grant to support an informational movie, social media, a foster care walk, tee shirts, information boxes, and “foster dolls” in local businesses.

The Results: Hundreds of partners, businesses, and leaders are aware of the need. Thousands of residents educated with ongoing community engagement. Selected to participate in the Center for Excellence for Foster Family Development (CfE), a 4-year federal grant awarded to Maryland DHS to increase placement stability and improve reunification. 17 licensed homes including 7 homes receiving CfE support. Improved ability to support in-county placements.

“Coffee Corner for Fundraisers” presented by Maryland Nonprofits. 12 May 2023, 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM, and every 2nd Friday of the month. Location: Virtual.
“Board Member Recruitment & Screening Workshop for Smaller Organizations” presented by Maryland Nonprofits. 1 June 2023, 09:30 AM – 12:30 PM. Location: Virtual (note: requires participation of 2 board members and bylaws, board member job description/expectations, and list of board members with terms noted for reference).

E-mail trustee@massbfoundation.org to register.

Register for Coffee Corner Register for the Screening Workshop