For young people who are navigating through challenging life experiences, having a strong support system can make a difference in helping them move on from the past, prosper in the present and look towards a promising future.
In many cases, that change starts with having a safe and nurturing family home to rely on for that constant source of security and encouragement.
With over four decades of experience, PLEA Community Services has built positive support networks for youth in need, enhancing the lives of both the young people they serve and the families who open their hearts and homes to them.
Many foster family caregivers discover the profound joy that comes from welcoming youth into their lives. Tina Shea felt the call to embark on this life-altering journey after her children had grown up.
“I had always cared for others in some form or another; running a daycare when my own kids were young, and then caring for seniors for the past 10 years as a personal support worker,” Shea says.
After learning about PLEA and the opportunity to support youth in need, she offered herself as a foster caregiver to help enable other young people to grow and thrive.
“I was ready for a change in my career. I wanted to make a difference, to be a mentor and role model, to be the person we all wish had walked into our lives when things were tough.”
As a foster caregiver, Shea aims to be the one to plant seeds of hope in the minds and hearts of those in her care, teach them new ways to live and enjoy life, and have them laugh and have fun.
“I wanted to set an example for them, set a fire in their soul and watch it grow,” Shea adds. “I wanted to be there as a friend - someone who understands what they are going through, without judgment.”
Even though Shea came from a background of caregiving as a vocation, she welcomed the preparation PLEA provided her, and others in the program, to help ensure the best possible environment for those in her foster care.
“PLEA is like a cocoon. We are the protective layer; the supporting layer to this transformation process,” she says. “PLEA makes you feel like you are part of a team; an important team! From my very first day it always felt like someone was right there with me - from understanding what to expect from the youth and the challenges they may face, to preparing my home for their arrival.”
Shea adds all family caregivers work very closely with their services coordinator from PLEA who is there for day-to-day support.
“They work with you, they listen and understand,” she says. “And most of all they make you feel appreciated. It is a team effort to help these youth reach their potential; to grow wings to fly.”
As her journey as a foster family caregiver progressed, Shea marveled at the profound impact the youth made on her life.
“Watching them learn new skills and embrace new experiences has been incredible,” she reflects. “Seeing them share my words of wisdom, playing and laughing like children again and building trust and safety has been immensely rewarding.”
Shea offers heartfelt advice for those considering becoming a foster family caregiver.
“Connect with someone who is already a caregiver or speak with someone from the PLEA team,” she suggests. “These young people may come with unique and difficult challenges that require understanding and compassion.
“Recognize the responsibilities of this role. You become a vital part of the journey for these young people. Reflect on why you wish to pursue this path; your motivations will guide you on this transformative journey.”
To learn more about how you can become a loving family for a youth in need, call 236-333-2682 or visit www.giveakidahome.ca.
