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A "Life Book" is a collection of photos, phrases, artwork and memorabilia that together tell a story and create a life record for children who are no longer living with their biological parents. The book provides the means to connect the child to his/her biological family and early history, promoting a sense of identity and attachment. The books are made by volunteers. Download a Life Book narrative.
Life books were developed in the late 1950’s. Created by social workers and caregivers, these books were given to children who had entered the foster care system. The intent was to help each child sort out difficult feelings and maintain precious family memories. It is believed that once neglected and maltreated children are removed from the abusive environment they are living in, life becomes better for them and they can look forward to a “normal” childhood. This is not always the case. When a child goes into state protective custody and into foster care, a whole new world of problems opens up for them as they often find themselves helpless, isolated from their family and siblings and with out access to pictures, information and records of their past. This challenging journey through foster care often results in multiple moves that further impact the child’s healthy development through family instability, emotional trauma and inconsistent care giving. We are very sensitive to the day-to day needs of children in protective custody and we continue to develop programs to help stabilize and provide comfort to their lives.
One young boy received a Life Book on April 19, 2009 and his caregiver sent several e-mails thanking the committee for their efforts: “Just wanted to send a note about what a beautiful job Cathy and the crew did with J.W.s' Scrapbook 'Event'. I don't remember all the names… We were all impressed by the detail and so much work that went into each page. “J.W. couldn't go to sleep because he hadn't finished looking at the 'book', AGAIN! Nor could he get his teeth brushed this morning because he didn't have time,(he) was looking at the 'book', again!
“I asked which page was his favorite and he said . . . ‘ALL of them!’ with a grin that went twice around his head! Each gal from your team went out of her way to be nice to everyone and we all appreciated it. Thank you from so many hearts!” Foster Mother, April 2009
Child Enrollment Form
One form needs to be completed in order to enroll a foster child in Life Book Program. Simply download, complete, and return the form below for each child you want to enroll.
Click here for Child Enrollment Application
Volunteer Job Description:
- 2 hours per week (approximately) for six months, most Life Books can be completed in approximately 120 hours per volunteer pair.
- Must have some time available during regular office hours (M-F 8-5) mostly during initial phase of (CPS File Research) project.
- Meet with the caseworker to develop a research plan (whom to contact or not to contact, how to include difficult memories, etc.)
- Read the child’s case file, collect information
- Conduct research:
- Contact previous foster parents, relatives, caseworkers, etc. (phone calls, letters)
- Collect information; photos, letters, anecdotes, memorabilia
- Meet the child and caretaker (be a mentor for child)
- Access child’s memories though his/her storytelling, photos, drawings
- Maintain contact with caseworker and/or therapist regarding issues that arise for the child
- Write narrative
- Create Scrapbook with narrative and pictures of child’s life
- Attend presentation party
- The plan, research, amount of contact with the child, and the method of presentation to the child are all determined by the child’s needs and at the discretion of the Program Coordinator and Case Manager.
Volunteer Enrollment Form
Click here for Life Book Volunteer Application
To Volunteer and make a difference in a child’s life contact Kaye McCarthy, Arizonans for Children, 480-838-0085 or submit the form below:
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