2015-01-26 BOD Minutes

FSFAPA Board Meeting Dec. 29, 2014 – 8:30 p.m. Conference Call Submitted for approval by FSFAPA Secretary Charles Parker. Meeting started by at 8:30 p.m. Following were in attendance: Harriett Wynn (President), Chris Johnson (Exec VP), Orlando Avila (Director of Programs), Maria Bond (Treasurer), Charles Parker (Secretary), Kara Elliot-Jordan (RVP), Lillie Blackshear (RVP), Dorothy Alvarez (RVP), Lynda Thompson (Parliamentarian/Bylaws/Conference Chair), Coleen LaCosta (FAST Coordinator, Kinship), Amanda Williams (Nex Gen/IL), (RVP), Keith Best (RVP), Wendy Vernon (Advocacy), Harry Dubia (Membership), and Carrie Toy (DCF Advisor), David Brown (past CBC Advisor), Gay Frizzell (QPI Advisor), Laurally Segur (CBC Advisor) and Trudy Petkovich (Executive Director). Not in attendance: Trish Allen (Adoptions), Melanie Stimmel (RVP – Central). Victoria Herrin (Band Manager) was previously excused. After attendance, the minutes from the November meeting were accepted with changes (provided via email after submission to board) Motion made by Lillie, seconded by Amanda with no opposition. Harriet opened the business portion of the meeting with a thank you and wished everyone a happy new year. Harriet also announced changes to the Executive Board, with Chris moving to EVP and Trudy (past president) moving into the newly created Executive Director post. She also outlined that one of her goals this year is to increase the accountability of the association and all the positions on the board as we become a more “professional” entity. MINI CONFERENCE – Orlando started updates; saying that most of the logistics are firmed up, and that the fine tuning is all that is really left. They are looking for some additional local volunteers. Trudy added that she expects an agenda to be ready shortly, and will make sure Orlando is included on future conference calls. The board will meet at the end of the conference rather than that evening due to the Valentines Day holiday. DUFFELS – LaShaun informed the board that the walk plans are moving forward and that she had traveled to Port Orange to meet with town officials and view the site. Some sponsors are on board (Lego Land, Bright House) and the local CBC president has promised “support” but that has not been defined. She reminded the board that we can sign up “virtual walkers” as well. On the duffels distribution end, LaShaun and Keith will be at the mini conference, after which LaShaun will be working on catching up on some historic orders that were not filled. EDUCATION CONFERENCE – Lynda shared that she had visited the facility in December, and was assured that the vast majority of our class space will be on the first floor, so moving up and down stairs will be limited to the main events in the ball room on the higher floor. She reported that she had heard back from most board members as to their responsibilities. She has also been in touch with Super Sitters and they want to provide child care for us again this year, and they are working on the room situation together. She also asked Maria to look into procuring 4 walkie talkies to facilitate support the day of the events. Coleen will facilitate the slide show for the ballroom events. CHILDRENS WEEK – Trudy is still looking into hotels for this event. Wendy is working with David on the legislative approach, hopes to be able to get with him for additional guidance/planning this week. RALLY IN TALLY – at this point we have a contingent of 6 going to this event. NEW CBC ADVISOR – Harriet announced that Laurallyn Segur (Eckerd, C6) has accepted the FSFAPA CBC advisor role that David Brown had held prior to his accepting a postion with QPI. RVP REPORT – Chris put out a call for suggestions for possible candidates for Suncoast and North Central regions. Some candidates have been explored, but no progress has been made. Suncoast is a particular concern because Lillie and Kara are currently covering the North Central area. Chris also reminded the RVPs about their monthly call Thursday at 8:30. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – Trudy shared that she is excited to assume the new role moving forward. No official report, but she will interject as necessary. DCF ADVISOR – Carrie announced that there have been some moves to reorganize the office of child welfare and she is focusing more on “well-being” in her new role, Kristi Putnam will be sharing the DCF Advisor moving forward – Kristi will be focusing more on foster care issues with the OCW. QPI ADVISOR – Gay did not attend the QPI conference in San Diego but reported that she had heard very good things. Harriet and Coleen (who did attend) both reported that it was a great conference, and that Florida was very often cited as the “good example” in discussions. FINANCE COMMITTEE – Maria reported that the finance committee had their first meeting and will be meeting monthly. They also have developed policy for reporting and tying the numbers to grants, fundraising and needs. APPOINTMENT – Trudy congratulated Harriet on her appointment by Governor Scott to the Independent Living Service Advisory Council. MEMBERSHIP – Harry shared that there have been several new memberships received in the new year, but only has renewals for 4 board members. He’ll track the rest of the board down at the conference. At 9:17 the motion was made by Chris to close the meeting, Wendy seconded the motion, there was no opposition

2014-12-29 BOD Minutes

FSFAPA Board Meeting Dec. 29, 2014 – 8:30 p.m. Conference Call Submitted for approval by FSFAPA Secretary Charles Parker. Meeting started by Trudy at 8:30 p.m. Following were in attendance: Trudy Petkovich (President), Harriett Wynn (Exec VP, President-elect), Orlando Avila (Director of Programs), Maria Bond (Treasurer), Charles Parker (Secretary), Kara Elliot-Jordan (RVP), Lillie Blackshear (RVP), Dorothy Alvarez (RVP), Trish Allen (Adoptions), Lynda Thompson (Parliamentarian/Bylaws/Conference Chair), Coleen LaCosta (FAST Coordinator), Victoria Herrin (Band Manager), Amanda Williams (Nex Gen/IL), Chris Johnson (RVP), Keith Best (RVP), Wendy Vernon (Advocacy), Harry Dubia (Membership), and Carrie Toy (DCF Advisor). Also in attendance was Melanie Stimmel, who is interested in joining the board as an RVP after the new year. Not in attendance: David Brown (CBC Advisor), Gay Frizzell (QPI Advisor) After attendance the minutes from the November meeting were accepted with changes (provided via email after submission to board) Motion made by Harriet, seconded by Lynda with no opposition. Maria presented the 2015 budget for approval, explaining the document emailed to board members showed the 2014 actual vs. 2015 projected expenses. Maria explained that the executive board had also created a finance committee (with herself, Harriet and Chris) that will monitor the budget (income and expenses) throughout the year and make updates as needed and present them to the board. While there is more than $100,000 in reserve, the goal is to balance the annual budget, and as such there may be adjustments in the number of representatives that are sent to certain events (i.e. the entire board may not go to the DCF Summit or other conferences based on costs, distance etc.) The finance committee will make many of those decisions based on the “real time” budget analysis, which will reflect income from fundraising and grants (which we hope to increase in the coming year.) The floor was opened to questions on the budget: – Lynda asked if the $66k on the conference line was her budget; Maria explained it was based on two previous FSFAPA conferences and an expected increase in expenses such as child care. She does not have donations accounted for in this number, so hopefully the final number will be lower, but that is the number by which it should be able to be done (depending on attendance and food costs). – Colleen asked Who is raising funds and writing grants. Short answer is “no one yet” but that is a goal set forth by the e-board to develop additional income sources. – Lynda asked if we actually saw the Duffels Grant. Maria responded that she had not, but because that money has been consistent the last 2 years that is the only fundraising represented in this budget (the Duffels expenses virtually match it, so it is nearly a net zero.) – Colleen asked about the band expenses and if they will see an income. The plan is not that they will generate direct income, but because the vote was made to make them a “program” it is funded similarly to other FSFAPA programs in this budget to ensure that as many hard costs to volunteers are covered as is possible. Trudy asked if anyone on the board was interested in helping guide fundraising or grant-writing, to contact her. The budget was approved as proposed (motion by Orlando, second by Harriet) with no opposition. Carrie informed the Board that DCF is teaming up with Carole Schauffer to produce a webinar for early in 2015 (early February) as a “refresh” on the normalcy law updates. There have been enough questions from CMs et al that DCF has identified this as a training need. Trudy asked who on the board was planning to attend the QPI National Conference in San Diego Jan 20-22: at this time it appears Harriet, Colleen and Amanda are the only board members attending. Carrie did say that it appears that 14 CBCs are sending foster parents. Trudy took a few moments to commemorate her last board meeting as president and thank the board members for their work, pointing out that FSFAPA is setting the standard for other FAPAs and is arguably doing it better than anyone else because of the efforts of the board and our volunteers. She thanked the board and pointed out that she was “counting down the hours” to Harriet ascending to the President role. Call was adjourned at 8:52 p.m. by motion by Orlando, seconded by Charlie. No opposition.

2014-11-24 BOD Minutes

FSFAPA Board Meeting Nov. 24, 2014 – 8:30 p.m. Conference Call Submitted for approval by FSFAPA Secretary Charles Parker. Meeting started by Trudy at 8:33 p.m. Following were in attendance: Trudy Petkovich (President), Harriett Wynn (Exec VP, President-elect), Orlando Avila (Director of Programs), Maria Bond (Treasurer), Charles Parker (Secretary), Kara Elliot-Jordan (RVP), Lillie Blackshear (RVP), Dorothy Alvarez (RVP), Trish Allen (Adoptions), Lynda Thompson (Parliamentarian/Bylaws/Conference Chair), Coleen LaCosta (FAST Coordinator), Victoria Herrin (Band Manager), Amanda Williams (Nex Gen/IL), , Harry Dubia (Membership), Gay Frizzell (QPI Advisor) and Carrie Toy (DCF Advisor). Not in attendance: Chris Johnson (RVP), Keith Best (RVP), Wendy Vernon (Advocacy), David Brown (CBC Advisor), Meeting kicked off with a report from Carrie; the first item was that DCF had approved to pay for 1 Foster Parent from each CBC to attend the QPI National Conference in California (Jan 20-22 in San Diego). They are also expecting to send 1 additional per DCF region (at this point this included one licensing person, a CPI, 3-4 youth shine members). Carrie also will be attending. (On the board several members expressed they are already planning on going: Coleen, Harriet, Amanda) Carrie also announced that the Office of Child Welfare is going to do something a little different. For their holiday party they are doing a “Secret Santa” with a twist: Instead of buying a gift for the person, find a toy that represents that employee, and at the end of the party all the collected toys will be donated to a FAPA. The board decided that because this is happening in Tallahassee, and because of timing and logistic issues, the donation should be to Big Bend FAPA. Gay had nothing specific to announce on QPI, but was excited that Carrie’s announcement will increase Florida’s footprint at the QPI conference and reinforce the state as the “voice of experience” for the attendees that are newer to the process. Trudy announced that David Brown is leaving his CBC position in SW Florida to join Gay and Carole Shauffer at QPI. He wants to remain active with the association, and the board will begin looking for someone to fill his CBC advisor role. Trudy also mentioned that Trudie Poole had submitted her resignation; and she has asked Coleen to step into the position (Coleen accepted) Harriet updated the board on the recent NFPA mid-year meeting 2 weeks earlier; • NFPA thanked FSFAP for our effort on the joint conference • NFPA currently undergoing a redesign, dropping the RVP model • Several state issues addressed (California – retention; Oklahoma lawsuit over hiring and en masse resignations of nearly 700; Nebraska now refusing to give FPs copies of case plans) • NFPA membership stagnated • Working on a journal for caregivers (would like state FAPAs to promote) • Next conference at Norfolk, VA, site presenting issues with food and transportation challenges. Trudy also called for any additional year-end reports. They are due now, with the exception of the financial report which is still active (Maria). Maria promised a provisional financial report soon. Moving to the Secretary/Webmaster report, Charlie belatedly asked for and received approval of the minutes (with corrections) from the October meeting (motion my Harriet, second by Dorothy, no opposition). Charlie reported that the website stats are settling into a predictable trend, with more than 2,600 visits for the last two months and projected to be similar this month (even with the holidays.) The thing that he is more impressed with is the “organic” rankings in search engines, if you look for “foster parent associations” on Google we are currently in the No. 5 and 6 positions on the first page. (It has updated on Nov. 30 to FloridaFAPA.org pages now appearing in the 4-5 and 6 positions.) Meaning if someone is looking for us, they are extremely likely to find us. Charlie also thanked Coleen for her work in keeping the posts on the association’s FB page fresh – we have more than 1,500 “likes” and are maintaining a strong reach for posts. The FB page is really our “daily general voice” with much conversation – while our webpage is positioning more as a resource for information and assistance. Harriet reported that she is still searching for a Suncoast RVP, she has reached out to Pinellas County FAPA president Mark Haley and has not heard back. Trish reported that the Post adoption survey deadline from DCF has been extended to Nov. 30, but that some CBCs were still just now sending them out. Many board members indicated they had either just received them – or still had not received any. There was no significant update on the Winter Mini Conference other than things were progressing as expected, Orlando was going to follow up and email any updates he received. No Legislative or Duffels updates due to absences. Next Call is Dec. 29. Call was adjourned at 9:14 p.m. by motion by Orlando, seconded by Charlie. No opposition.

2014-10-04 BOD Minutes

FSFAPA Board Meeting Oct. 4, 2014 – 7 p.m. LaQuinta Inn – Ft. Myers Submitted for approval by FSFAPA Secretary Charles Parker. Meeting at 7 p.m after the Quarterly Mini Conference with Trudy Petkovich (President), Harriett Wynn (Exec VP, President-elect), Maria Bond (Treasurer) and Charles Parker (Secretary), Chris Johnson (RVP), Kara Elliot-Jordan (RVP), Victoria Herrin (Band Manager). Coleen LaCosta (FAST Coordinator), Wendy Vernon (Advocacy), Lynda Thompson (Parliamentarian/Bylaws/Conference Chair), Lillie Blackshear (RVP), Dorothy Alvarez (RVP), Keith Best (RVP), Trish Allen (Adoptions), Amanda Williams (Nex Gen/IL) Harry Dubia (Membership), David Brown (CBC Advisor), Gay Frizzell (QPI Advisor) and Carrie Toy (DCF Advisor). Not in attendance:Director of Programs and Nominations Chair Orlando Avila was excused for family reasons. The minutes for the previous Board Meeting submitted for approval. No further edits were suggested. Trish moved they be accepted, Harriet Seconded, no opposition. Harriet informed the board that RVP Kimberly Hernandez had submitted her resignation to the executive committee (citing personal/family issues). The resignation was accepted; Harriet asked for everyone to think about possible replacements. NEW POSITIONS: Trudy introduced Amanda Williams as the prospective new IL Committee chair. Victoria had previously held this position but has opted to concentrate on the Nex Gen Band. The band has also been elevated to a “program” of the board with Victoria as the manager (Reporting regularly to Director of Programs Orlando Avila.) Charlie moved that the board approve these changes, Chris seconded the motion, no opposition. NEX GEN TEENS: Amanda briefed the board on the Nex Gen program at the hotel during the conference (earlier in the day.) 39 teens in attendance Several group homes were invited to participate, this probably won’t be repeated. (There is a history of issues when involving this population.) There was an altercation and some teens were asked to leave (group home teens involved). Goal is to make Nex Gen into more of a leadership conference with certificates at end for achievement TREASURER REPORT: Maria reported that the association was operating at a small loss for the year ($5,061.78) but that there were still some outstanding invoices. And income from Tshirts and Duffles not completely reconciled; however Summit accounting is closed. She declared the association “essentially even.” The Association is still financially stable due to the $127,956.42 in the operating account. Maria also indicated that she hopes to have time to explore grant opportunities and expanded sponsorships for the Annual Conferences moving forward. Motion was made to accept the treasurer’s report ny Dorothy and seconded by Coleen (no opposition.) OLD BUSINESS MINI CONFERENCE: A resounding success with approximately 160 in attendance at the conference and approaching 400 participating (when childcare and Nex Gen Teens included.) SUMMIT LESSONS LEARNED: There was some criticism of “advanced tracks” Community Break outs experiences varied, with many in challenging spaces (size mismatches) Preference is away from a FP meeting during sessions, but something to promote association Discussion included developing a presentation to be made by the association on benefits of strong FP associations to social workers/child welfare Retreat was a very positive experience, look to do similar more frequently. LICENSE PLATES: Coleen reported that the state currently has a moratorium, but it is not being enforced. Costs and process for plates is now more simplified (only requiring a legislative sponsor who can also get fees waived.) Once in place, you have 2 years to sell 1,000 plates. The board moved to continue exploration under Coleen’s leadership (Gay and Amanda to serve on the committee). WINTER QUARTERLY MEETING: Feb 14 in Fernandina Beach. Hotel is chosen (info on website) the CBC is very excited to have this in their area and will also be combining it with one of their meetings. Because it is on Valentines day the board may consider not having their meeting that evening to allow time with spouses. DUFFELS: Keith reported that there were 8 boxes left after the conference, with a large number distributed. There were some challenges with distribution and future events will require more explicit explanation of the rules. The board asked Keith to explore Polk County as a venue for the next walk fundraiser (as well as Brevard.) Walk is traditionally in May, but that, too, may be examined. Because of timeliness, the board expects action quickly. ADVISORS REPORTS DCF/CARRIE – Courtney Smith DCF Adoptions coordinator has asked her to inform the board of an adoption questionnaire that is being sent to adoptive families. One per family, focus is on ways to improve post adoption services and establish needs. Carrie also reported that there is a test case of the new license revocation procedures for “Quality issues.” CBC/LEGISLATIVE – DAVID – Going to explore transition planning requirements as a possible legislative position protected foster parent records Gay mentioned that Youth Shine has a proposed bill that they would like us to consider backing David updated the board on a recent call with FCC where we have asked them to get each CBC to commit to sending at least one family to the Rally in Tally in early February. Would like to see them pick up this commitment before we commit more to backing FCC positions QPI/GAY – The 2015 QPI conference is in San Diego January 20-22   NEW BUSINESS: YOUTH ADVISORS: Trudy has been approached about adding a youth member or two to the board. It was discussed and was well received. One suggestion was to have one representative from FSFAPA youth programs (Nex Gen) and one from an external program (such as Youth Shine. IL Programs or similar). Maria mentioned that there had been youth advisory boards in the past, and that there may be a possibility to replicate many of the positives of that program. Amanda will lead the committee exploring this with Trudy and Carrie assisting on the committee. NACAC CONFERENCE: FSFAPA has been asked if we would be be interested in bidding to co-host the 2016 NACAC Conference “in Florida.” The board approved moving forward to explore this possibility and report back. NEX GEN

2014-08-25 BOD Minutes

Board of Directors Monthly Conference Call MINUTES Monday, Aug 25, 2014 at 8:30 p.m. Teleconference was called to order at 8:33 p.m. Members in attendance: Trudy Petkovich, Harriett Wynn, Maria Bond, Orlando Avila, Charles Parker, Chris Johnson, Lillie Blackshear, Kara Jordan, Dorothy Alvarez, Keith Best, Kimberly Hernandez, Lynda Thompson, Trudie Poole, Coleen LaCosta, Victoria Herrin, Harry Dubia, Wendy Vernon Members not present: Trish Allen Advisors in attendance: David Brown, Carrie Toy and Gay Frizzell Approval of minutes: Minutes from the 7/28 meeting were approved with no changes (Motion: Trudie; Second: Lillie; Passed with no dissent) PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Trudy gave a report on the “Our Kids” Legislative Committee. They are looking onto the possibility of getting records of unfounded abuse reports expunged Hope to collaborate with FCC, Fostering Florida’s Future, QPI, DCF on this Working to see if this is possible Trudy announced that the executive committee had voted to raise the compensation of the FAST Coordinator position to $12,000 annually. Trudy recognized all of the board members that have attempted to answer the emails/questions of “Ms. Hayes” and thanked them for their effort. She pointed out that we have given her all the information we have, now it is prudent to refer her to DCF or local resources. TREASURER’S REPORT: Maria gave the Treasurer’s report (including summarizing the Conference final budget report.) NexGen came in under budget and FSFAPA has settled all accounts with NFPA ($33,786.56) for registrations and other expenses. In total FSFAPA was $2,388.69 under the projected budget. Maria announced that the organization’s Tax Form 990 was completed, transmitted and has been accepted/approved by the IRS. RVP REPORTS: Kim Reported on Suncoast, Pasco has been seeking her assistance with local board issues; Pinellas still has some duffels to distribute (waiting on Jonah’s list); Hillsborough continuing to grow doing well; Manatee has a series of smaller and support groups that are not truly independent, so developing growth is not a priority for them, Kim is focusing on improving partnerships there. Kara reported on North Florida: All Medicaid changes went live Aug. 1, Circuit 1 was caught largely by surprise, Sunshine Health did not have infrastructure in place. Adoptive parents did receive letter, fosters did not. Many kids with no service providers have been switched to Humana or Integral. Escambia FAPA and FP liaison got lines crossed, FAPA thought agency was offended by them going to Sunshine; concern that Families First Network liaison was was coming in to “take over” … situation was resolved, but charged environment. Training from Sunshine set in September in Okaloosa/Walton counties. Working on getting meeting with new CEO of Families First Network.   WEBSITE/PR UPDATE: more than 500 unique visitors in first month of new site, looking to get better measurement tools. Updates ongoing. Next section to be enhanced is “events” section – but current events section is updated and data is there – just hoping to make it more dynamic. Collecting data for the next newsletter, should progress after the summit, but in time to promote the next mini conference. CBC/FCC ADVISOR UPDATE: Dave shared that discussions on Children’s Week for next year, they are trying to determine what FCC and FSFAPA want to do. Has met with several N Florida legislators. They are currently focused on campaigning; he plans to meet many more after the summit to discuss next year’s session. MINI CONFERENCE: Diane Damark from Sunshine will present, they are collecting questions plan to do a Q & A with her. They have commitments from Judges and local CLS to discuss recent legislative changes. QPI: Gay reported Carol has been meeting with Sec. Caroll, Pete Digre, Janice Thomas (DCF Asst Sec for Child Welfare), Grainne O’Sullivan (CLS) and General Counsel Rebecca Kapusta; there will be a pre-summit meeting Tues Sept 2, 3:30-5:30 to discuss relative placement and placement options that are discovered late in the process (and the damage that can cause). Looking for solutions, trying to ensure that the kids needs are met first. Second issue is Licensing Revocation. In 2013 legislation added ability to revoke licenses based on no meeting quality standards, but many CBCs are not willing to do this. DCF: Carrie reported they are “consumed with Summit.” Spent Friday confirming childcare, great opportunity to talk directly to FPs. Several coming early and have been invited to QPI meeting. DCF has published notification for FAC 65c28 rulemaking workshop (Relative Caregivers Rule) … meeting will be Sept. 11, 9-11 am will be available by webinar. She doesn’t believe there is a draft of the new rule available yet. Rilya Wilson Act updates have been causing many questions; big change is the age of the child (was 3, now “school age”). Does not require children in care to be enrolled in licensed program, but those that are must attend 5 days a week. They will be distributing a FAQ this week. Special needs resource guide is posted on website, Carrie will share for FSFAPA to post links. OLD BUSINESS SUMMIT: Exhibitor table – Harriet reports the table is largely staffed, everyone will have to take a couple shifts. Trudy mentioned that we’ll have 2 tables … the second is for duffels … Keith reported that 200 more duffels have been ordered and should arrive prior to the Summit. Parents can pick up existing orders or sign up for duffels there. Will also continue to use RVPS who will get any leftover from summit. Keith is considering disabling online registration form to encourage this as more of a FSFAPA event-driven perk. Pajamas – Keith is looking into having the recent pajama donation at the summit. RETREAT: Chris reported that the retreat is planned, we’ll start at about 1 p.m after the summit completion on Friday, and have a family pizza & salad lunch. Afternoon will be a get-to-know you team-building experience. Will convene in time for families to enjoy facilities, but hope that groups will naturally congregate and continue to spend time together. On Saturday we’ll meet 8:30 or 9 to

Partnership for Strong Families (C8)

Community Based Care Lead Agency for: Columbia, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties. (All of Judicial Circuits 3 & 8.) Contact: Stephen Pennypacker, CEO/President, Stephen.pennypacker@pfsf.org, 5950 NW 1st Place, Gainesville, FL 32607, (352) 359-0157, http://www.pfsf.org  

2014-07-28 BOD Minutes

Board of Directors Monthly Conference Call MINUTES Monday, July 28, 2014 at 8:30 p.m. Teleconference was called to order at 8:32 p.m. Members in attendance: Trudy Petkovich, Harriett Wynn, Maria Bond, Orlando Avila, Charles Parker, Chris Johnson, Lillie Blackshear, Kara Jordan, Dorothy Alvarez, Keith Best, Kimberly Hernandez, Trish Allen, Lynda Thompson, Trudie Poole, Coleen LaCosta, Victoria Herrin, Harry Dubia (Wendy Vernon was excused.) Advisors in attendance: David Brown, Carrie Toy and Gay Frizzell. Approval of minutes: TABLED. (Several documents have yet to transition to Charles Parker who took over the recently vacated secretary position, efforts are being made to recover them for future approval.) Trudy gave a report on the North American Council on Adoptable Children Conference: The conference theme was “Permanency” and dealt with many issues especially sibling connections. Trainings from this conference are available on DVD for approx. $7 for each session (contact Trudy for more info.) Nathan Ross (Jockey Grant Funded position within NACAC) held leadership training, Trudy asked Trish to look into getting him to come to 2015 conference. Joe Kroll (NACAC Executive Director) is retiring in 2015, Trudy mentioned that FSFAPA should do something for him as he has supported FSFAPA for many years. She will find out what the organization’s plans are to commemorate his retirement at their 2015 conference in Long Beach and will see how FSFAPA can participate. Keith reported on the Duffels: Will continue to use same provider for immediate future. Asked the RVPs to send him inventory numbers, still waiting on info from Chris and Lillie Estimated need 510 bags: 260 orders; 100 for Summit distribution; 150 for Our Kids IM (they were $10k donor) Keith and LaShaun will be co-chairs Keith working to resolve outstanding order issues (missed delivery, return) Plan is to distribute at events (conferences, summit, etc) and use opportunity to “restock” RVPs Keith asked for data on FPs attending DCF Summit to attempt to prepare for distribution Victoria gave NexGen Band update: Scheduled to play at DCF Summit and Faith Symposium First fundraiser is being planned, would like FSFAPA to team with KCI for “Cowboy Up” event “Trailer” for band promo is done (pending Trudy and Chris okay). Hour Long (44 min of content) is expected in mid-August, producers want candid time with kids. Invited to have kids tape on Ellen show, target tapings are August or October with airing expected Nov-Dec. Dave Brown inquired about shows around state (i.e. other CBCs) and Victoria indicated that is a possibility in future Current challenges are getting kids acquainted with playing with “monitors” and large donors fuzzy on what is local vs. corporate funded Asked about getting website set up for “larger” donations (PayPal limits to $10k per transaction.) No direct donations have been received at this time, however sponsors have absorbed some costs and Victoria fronting others   OLD BUSINESS DCF SUMMIT – Trudy Trudy looking into extra exhibitor table for duffels Harriet responsible for FSFAPA exhibitor table Trudy asked the following to produce fliers David (Mini Conf); Keith (Duffels) and will review FSFAPA documents prior to Summit FSFAPA informational meeting will be held during lunch one day – TBD (short meeting) All motel reservations are made Reminder that fees go up Aug. 1, members not signed up by then are responsible for difference. RETREAT – Chris Determined that after summit completion best for majority (done by Noon Saturday) Will start with meeting about 2 hours after Summit completion, then an activity in pool area that evening that includes families, dinner Reconvene Saturday 9-12 for a board business and visioning meeting Goals: to get to know one another better (social and personal) and determine board direction for the future Hotel reservations reflect this additional day MINI–CONFERENCE – David 4 at Hodges University in Fort Myers, in Lecture Hall Christ the Redeemer Church (approx. ½ mile from site) will handle childcare at their location Debra Bass CLS managing attorney has agreed to speak and will give update on legal changes They have reached out to SW Fla. Judges to participate, present Lodging info will be sent to Trudy shortly PROFESSIONAL POSITION – Maria Job description near completion, exec committee has had several meetings on the position role A prime candidate has been identified; search Committee (exec committee) would like to revert position back to original “Executive Director” proposal Exec board member expressed interest in position and recused self from search committee If the position were to be offered to Trudy Petkovich budgeting for board and travel of “Past president” could be used for her in ED role Charles made a motion: “… that we allow the search committee to revert to the original proposed title of “Executive Director” for the proposed FSFAPA professional support position and adjust compensation package up to the original figure of $15,000 per year based on the preliminary findings of the search committee.” (Seconded by Lillie, passed with no opposition) An additional motion was made by Charles: “That the search committee be allowed to replace any recused positions with a choice from the ranks of sitting RVPs as the professional position details are finalized.” Seconded by Keith, passed with no opposition.   Maria also noted that Coleen in the FAST position has proven to be extremely thrifty, utilizing carpools and shared lodging when possible. She suggested that the board consider awarding the unspent dollars designated for the FAST position to Coleen in recognition of the hours and effort she provides beyond the contract requirements. Harriet agreed and asked that it be placed on the next Executive Committtee meeting agenda. NEW BUSINESS UMBRELLA 501(c)3 – Maria Background: several years ago it was the understanding of a previous board that the association could extend their 501(c)3 to other FAPAs around the state (like the Boy Scouts of America does with local councils) but it was discovered that there was a control issue. (Because the local FAPAs are not under the control of FSFAPA) Now FSFAPA offers to assist local FAPAs in obtaining their own tax-exempt status (a huge process) Bad info is

Children’s Legal Services – Circuit 16 (DCF)

Christy Lopez-Acevedo, Esq. Managing Attorney 401 NW 2nd Avenue Suite 526 South Miami, Florida 33128 Office: (786) 257-5034 Cell: (305) 377-5278 Email: Christine_Lopez-Acevedo@dcf.state.fl.us (Also covers Circuit 11)

Children’s Legal Services – Circuit 11 (DCF)

Christy Lopez-Acevedo, Esq. Managing Attorney 401 NW 2nd Avenue Suite 526 South Miami, Florida 33128 Office: (786) 257-5034 Cell: (305) 377-5278 Email: Christine_Lopez-Acevedo@dcf.state.fl.us (Also covers Circuit 16)