Saying Thanks to People Who Give All Year Round

Being a foster parent is a commit­ment of both time and love, and it’s not always easy. JCCA’s annual Foster Appreciation Dinner is an opportunity to thank the men and women who make such a difference in a child’s life, providing the stability and caring that young people need to flourish and grow.

This year’s dinner brought together nearly 200 people—foster parents and their guests, JCCA staff and workers from the Administration for Children’s Services —who have one thing in common: their dedication to the well-being of the children in their care.

It was a fabulous night of laughter, dancing, great food and some pretty amaz­ing raffle prizes. JCCA’s specially trained foster parents care for over 500 children each year, making us one of New York City’s largest child care agencies.

The highlight of the evening was the Award for Excellence, presented annually to outstanding foster parents. Winners this year were: Wanda Davis and Carmen Gutierrez from the Bronx; and Magalie Jean-Gilles and Fannie Wright from Brooklyn. “We love what we do, but it’s nice to have one night where it’s all about us!” was how one foster mom summed up the evening.