Regional and Local Associations
Local associations are made up of foster and kinship caregivers and in some areas a social worker liaison. Each local association has elected officers, holds regular meetings, and sends a representative to Regional Council meetings – Caregivers are also encouraged to attend Regional Council meetings.
The work of local associations is vital to the success of the provincial association. The role the AFKA has in helping to strengthen the supports and services for all foster and kinship caregivers, relies hugely on input from foster and kinship caregivers across Alberta. Local issues and concerns are brought forward to the Regional Council, items unresolved at that level, to the AFKA. By strengthening the local associations, we, the AFKA, can help give a stronger voice to foster, kinship caregivers, and the children in their care.
A local association carries out an important self-help function for caregivers. Even if caregivers live in rural areas, it may be possible to have a small association to share and exchange news, provide peer support, ideas, and access to training.
For information on how you can become involved and have your voice heard, contact your local association president for information on upcoming meetings. Contact information can be found below.
If there is no active association your community or area, and you are interested in starting on, call the AFKA for information at 1-800-667-2372.