Client Story: Vanessa & Don

Vanessa and her husband, Don, always thought about helping other children. Their passion led them to the ohpikîhakan (“a child that is being raised”) program at The Family Centre. Once learning about this therapeutic foster care program, Vanessa and Don knew it was the right fit. With a focus on reunifying Indigenous youth with their families, they eagerly jumped in.

Being part of the sixties scoop, Don was taken away from his family and culture at only 3 months old. The experience had a profound impact on him. He never had the opportunity to learn about or to connect with his culture. “Now, at 51, I am just starting to learn my culture,” shared Don. He understands the pain and emotions that come from being adopted out or put into foster care. He is thrilled to advocate for children and families that want to be reunified.

Vanessa and Don were happy with the training it took to join the program. “It seemed like they wanted to make sure that they had it right and that they brought in the right people to support the initiative that this program is taking to foster for reunification,” mentioned Don. The unwavering support of The Family Centre reassured them that it’s okay to need guidance on being a caregiver. “The supervisor and the youth coach meet you where you’re at,” expressed Vanessa. She loves that she can be herself and is grateful for the wrap-around support.

The youth coaches not only support the caregivers but also the youth themselves. Don finds it “a huge help to have someone who has dealt with youth on so many levels.” Vanessa believes her youth coach is “a breath of fresh air” with the knowledge and support they provide.

Vanessa and Don have started their first placement and couldn’t be happier. While they recognize the hard work that goes into being therapeutic caregivers, they see the beauty that stems from it.

Vanessa is dedicated to helping the families she works with heal and succeed. She wants their efforts to contribute to lasting relationships. She hopes to one day attend graduations and weddings of the youth she supports.

Don is happy that his lived experience will help give voices back to families and youth going through a similar experience.