Mission Statement

The Illinois Foster Adoptive Parent Association (IFAPA) is THE nationally recognized body for our state. Our common commitment is to help all children enjoy the benefits of a loving and caring family, and to promote the ideals of the individual in a free society. It is the natural birthright of all children to have the opportunity to have a benevolent family environment in which to develop and mature. When this right is impaired, all the resources available must be utilized to remedy the causes and detrimental results of that impairment.

Our mission is direct and powerful:

1)   To provide personal enrichment and exceptional support to foster/adoptive parents and families on a continuous basis.

2)   To review new laws, regulations, and funding proposals by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the state legislature.

3)   To advocate actively for foster/adoptive parent towards positive change in the child welfare system; by identifying, delineating, and lobbying areas of advantageous reform.

4)   To interface with established child welfare organizations; becoming more innovative and responsive to all clients, while streaming efforts and coordinating resources.

5)   To actively seek private funding for members to facilitate educational, workshop, and conference participation.