It was such a pleasure seeing acquaintances again and to meet new Foster Grandparent Program directors during the National Service Conference in Atlanta, GA.  I loved being able to network and learn about each others programs while chatting in the hospitality suite, sharing information at NAFGPD's national meeting and especially the great food and fellowship at our reception; I hope you had fun too. 

Thank you for responding to the NAFGPD Alerts.  You sent a resounding message to Congress through the 3,000+ letters of support, emails, and calls generated from your volunteer stations, foster grandparent volunteers, the children they serve, and advisory council members.  NAFGPD continues our methodical plan toward restoring the devastating proposed $40 million Appropriation cut to the Foster Grandparent Program for 2008-09.  I ask that you maintain contact with your elected officials on a regular basis by sharing your program successes and challenges.  Also, invite them to visit your programs so they may see first hand the great work that's being accomplished by our well trained senior volunteers assisting their assigned children.

The National Association of Foster Grandparent Program Directors has a successful advocacy record.  We are a focused membership driven association, we operate on by-laws that are approved by the membership and your Board members are elected by the membership.   100% of your membership dollars provide you with a wonderful Washington Representative, Ms. Jessica Malow with Van Scoyoc and Associates.  Through Ms. Malow's experience, guidance and diligent work behind the scenes, we have many supporters on the Hill willing to be our champion.  If you have not yet done so, please join NAFGPD by submitting your payment of $100 along with your completed membership form.  New members that join after October 1, your membership will be carried over through 2009.   

The Board is planning the annual Fall meeting for September 12 - 17, 2008 in Washington, DC.  During this time we meet with our Washington Representative, we will also meet with CNCS executive staff to discuss Workgroup collaborations........Revised FGP Operations Handbook...........Reauthorization plans.............Appropriations for 2009-10...........Peer Mentor  Project.........proposed changes in performance measurements and other volunteer and program management issues.  Please contact your Cluster Representative(s) to share your concerns.