Dear Foster Caregiving Community, Partners, and Friends,
I am truly honoured and grateful to share that I have stepped into the role of Executive Director of the BC Foster Parents Association. It is a privilege to serve an organization that so clearly demonstrates its commitment to foster caregivers, children, and youth across our province.
As I step into this role, I am mindful that I have big shoes to fill following Jayne Wilson’s leadership as Executive Director. I would like to sincerely thank Jayne for her dedication and commitment to foster caregivers and children across British Columbia. Her leadership has built a strong foundation for the BC Foster Parents Association, and I approach this role with deep respect for her contributions and a commitment to carrying her work forward.
Over time, I have had the opportunity to see the work of the BC Foster Parents Association up close, and I am continually impressed by the dedication, integrity, and impact of this organization. The Association does exceptional work supporting caregivers, amplifying their voices, and advocating for meaningful improvements across the child welfare system. To now be part of this work in a leadership role is both humbling and inspiring.
As a former long‑term foster caregiver, this role is deeply personal to me. I understand firsthand the joys, challenges, and responsibilities that come with opening your home and heart to children and youth. My passion for this position comes from lived experience and a deep respect for the caregiving community and the vital role you play every day.
In addition to my caregiving experience, I bring nearly two decades of experience with Caring Families Society, a Regional Support Agency focused on supporting, networking, and educating foster families. During this time, I have held leadership and coordination roles supporting foster caregivers, including Safe Babies, mentoring, protocol support, and serving as Executive Director.
I truly believe that when children and youth cannot remain safely with their families, they should be cared for in Family Care Homes (Foster or Kinship Caregivers) that have the resources, supports, and stability needed to provide a safe, loving environment. One that meets each child’s unique needs and supports their well‑being, identity, and growth. Caregivers play a critical role in making this vision a reality, and they deserve the supports necessary to do so well.
The BC Foster Parent Association has a long history of strong, positive, and respectful relationships with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and Indigenous Child and Family Service Agencies (ICFSAs). Equally important is my commitment to strengthening collaboration with Regional Support Agencies throughout British Columbia. These partnerships are essential to ensuring caregivers are supported, informed, and connected, and I am fully committed to sustaining and growing this collaborative approach.
In the months ahead, my priority is to listen carefully and intentionally to foster caregivers across the province. Your experiences, insights, and concerns will shape our direction and advocacy. I firmly believe the best solutions come from those doing the work, and meaningful change begins by understanding caregivers’ current and evolving needs.
I am excited to advocate at the provincial level on behalf of foster caregivers, working to ensure you have the supports, resources, and recognition needed to provide the best possible care for the children and youth in your homes. Together, we can continue to build systems that value caregivers, strengthen placement stability, and improve outcomes for children and families.
Thank you for your trust in the BC Foster Parents Association and for the dedication you show every day. I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside you as we continue this important work together.
Dan Malone, Executive Director
