My Home, Your Home Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Walker, (the founders) being foster parents themselves, were the example of blending and creating a loving and caring home and work enviroment. They raised their children to care about the needs of children, who were homeless. Their example reflects in their daughter, Connie, who also adopted a child and understands the struggles our Treatment Foster Parents deal with each day. When Mrs. Walker passed, Connie became the CEO. Her mother mentored her to be a strong woman and to lead the organization to the next level. After 2-3,years of hard work, we are accredidated. Our standards and expectations are raised to provide the best services to our clients. When I came to MHYH there was just Lissy's, TFC and Wraparound. We have expanded to include ATR, AMAD's, Nurturing and Mentor Programs. We have had our growth and set backs, like any organization. We have been concerned about marketing ourselves in the community. We are getting better at that. People are recognizing our name and our strong work ethics. We still lack a fund development plan to raise money, but we are not afraid to try something new. Our luncheon this year was a step in a new direction and reaching out to new people in the community. We have to keep exploring and trying new things to keep our name out there and building relationships. Our Board has come a ways but has a long way to go in helping us reach our potential. They are getting more involved, which inspires staff committment to the agency. Board members were more committed to the luncheon and are not afraid to give a helping hand like our phon-athons, giving up 1-2 evenings to call supporters. Trainings have expanded in the agency for staff and parents. Mandatory trainings are listed and given to parents and staff at the begining of the new year. Managers, Leads and staff are offered opportunities for trainings, and conferences to encourage professional growth. Treatment Foster Parents are provided with more quality trainings and opportunities to develop a better understanding and skills to meet the needs of the children we serve. I take great pride that I work for MHYH. I am proud to work with a staff that is dedicated to our families. Our families and children are struggling but they always seem to see a light at the end of the tunnel, that things will get better in time. They have amazing strength. We are not perfect, but we are working towards a better and stronger organization. A great day is when someone you have worked with gives you a hug and you see the scars from the cigarette burns are disappearing and they can talk to you about their day, when once they did not speak.