Jana Hardin, a local foster/adoptive parent, says having a Foster & Adoption Parent Association in Logan County is extremely beneficial for those families who open their homes for children. An organized fellowship with those who not only have common interests, goals and problems, but a conduit for training, activities and support can be very helpful. This is why a group of individuals, including Hardin and her husband Mitchell, have organized such an Association here in Logan.

“There is an Association in Bowling Green,” said Hardin, “but we didn’t want foster and adoptive parents having to drive all that way to meet. We thought why not have one locally.”

Hardin said there are approximately 20 families in Logan County who open their home as foster parents. Currently the new Logan Association has 10. Hardin said they would like to be able to include all 20.

Hardin says there are things only foster and adoptive parents understand and because a lot is confidential, they really have no one to talk to about issues or accomplishments that present themselves. Having an Association puts people with common interests in contact with one another. There is also trainings that are held for foster and adoptive parents that were offered in Bowling Green, but now can be offered right here in Logan County because of an Association.

“Foster and adoptive parents and children have a common bond with one another,” said Hardin, adding that it is good to be able to get together and share.

Hardin and her husband became foster parents about five years ago. They entered the program soon after realizing there were so many children without loving and supportive homes. Since their beginning, the Hardins have been blessed with several foster children and have adopted as well.

“These children just need a stable environment and lots of love,” said Hardin. She and her husband have two biological children who are grown. She said they have the space and the love, so why not.

“I used to take for granted that everyone took care of their kids, but the reality is they don’t,” said Hardin.

It takes 30 hours of training to become a foster parent. Hardin said that part is easy. She said you have to go into it with your eyes wide open and realize it is going to take patience and lots of love, but it is well worth it. She said you will get emotionally attached, but says that is not a negative thing.

“A lot of children just need that chance,” said Hardin, adding, a chance to grow.

“A foster mom once told me, you love them and launch them. My prayer is while they are here we can make a difference in their lives,” said Hardin.

The Logan Association meets one every other month. They are already planning numerous activities that will involve the whole family. From taking a trip to the zoo, to attending a baseball game.

The group will be having fundrasing events throughout the year to raise money. The first will be held Tuesday, March 19 from 4-8 p.m. at McDonald’s. Proceeds from both inside and drive-thru sales will go to help the Association. On Saturday, April 13 from 3-4 p.m. an event will be held by Creative Canvas by You at the Logan County High School Commons Area. You will have two paintings to chose from. Tickets are $40 with $15 being donated to the Association. Refreshments will be served and you leave with your own work of art.

For more information about the Association or becoming a foster parent, please call Kathleen Henderson at 726-3516.