Digby Foster Parents Win National Award

The Child Welfare League of Canada has chosen Digby foster parents Darlene and Rodney Peck to receive its 2000 Canadian Achievement Award, which recognizes the outstanding contribution of Canadian foster parents.

Community Services Minister Peter Christie said the Pecks are an example to foster parents everywhere.

"The love and care Darlene and Rodney Peck have devoted to their foster children are an inspiration to us all," he said. "It''s so important to recognize the hard work of providing a loving and nurturing environment. I congratulate Darlene and Rodney on receiving the CWLC Canadian Achievement Award."

The Pecks have been fostering since August 1984, caring for nearly 90 children during those 16 years. Currently, two children are placed with the Pecks as permanent members of their family. The children have made incredible progress while in the family''s care.

Working with the children''s birth families is important to Darlene and Rodney. The compassion they feel for the children and their birth families is evident during the many visits between children and their families of origin, which Darlene arranges and supervises.

Being a positive member of the foster care team for each child in their care is a high priority for the Pecks. The team comprises the social workers and agency, as well as staff of the schools the children attend. The Pecks have always encouraged other foster parents to be more active in their role as members of the team.

The Pecks are very active in foster families associations at the local, provincial and national level. They are always able to make time for other foster parents in times of need, whether through providing respite or support.

Michael Tennant, foster care co-ordinator for the Department of Community Services, said Darlene has a gift with children that makes her ideally suited to foster parenting.

"Darlene seems to possess that certain intangible quality that children immediately pick up on, and is able to bond with children quickly and allow them to feel safe and secure," he said. "The Pecks are a definite asset to this agency. Darlene and Rodney are consistently able to provide a warm, safe, nurturing and secure home for children."

The Pecks received the award at a ceremony in Vancouver, during the annual general meeting of the Child Welfare League of Canada.