Spotlight on Taylor Woodman

We asked Board Member Taylor Woodman a few questions to get to know him better.

How did you get involved with FAPAC?

During my first year of fostering, my partner and I were trying to navigate the complexities of our first placement and in need of support and resources. FAPAC proved to be the guiding light that we needed. FAPAC helped us understand the various systems and stakeholders at play and what resources and action steps were within our realm. FAPAC served, not only as a rich knowledge source for us, but also as a way for us to better understand our role and center the child in our home. With FAPAC’s support, we were able to enter into a strong shared parenting model, navigate reunification, and redefine and expand our notion of family.

What other work are you involved in outside of FAPAC?

Outside of FAPAC, I am very active in the resource parent community. This takes many forms from continuing to serve foster youth, serving on the Family Court’s Court Improvement Program, supporting CFSA with engaging new and current resource parents. I’ve also served as a mentor for former foster youth on my university campus, where I serve as a faculty member and within the administration.

How has being a foster and adoptive parent shaped your board experience?

I’ve always approached serving as a resource, and now adoptive parent, as a learning process. Five years into the role as a resource parent, I realize there is still lots to learn, but I have also had various experiences navigating the child welfare system and the legal and social support services that surround it. These experiences inform what I see as central needs for the foster and adoptive community and will guide my voice and my approach to the strategic direction of FAPAC’s mission and programming efforts.

What impact do you hope to bring to the FAPAC community?

In 2024, my partner and I were named DC’s Foster Parents of the Year. This brought a lot of light to fostering within our community and larger networks. Many people were curious at how they can support kids and families but did not know where to start. I am hoping to serve as that connector and harness this energy for support to help make a greater impact at FAPAC.

Spotlight on Clarence Finney

We asked Clarence Finney Our Board Member, a Few Questions to get to Know Him Better.

What drew you to FAPAC?

I was drawn to FAPAC because of its strong commitment to supporting the next generation. The organization’s mission to advocate for the needs of foster and adoptive families aligns perfectly with my passion for ensuring that children have the resources and stability they need to thrive.

What do some of your responsibilities look like as a Board Member?

As a Board Member on the Advocacy Committee at FAPAC, I advocate for foster and adoptive families while enhancing policies in Washington, DC. I also support the Events Committee in organizing initiatives that raise awareness and strengthen community connections.

What other work are you involved in outside of FAPAC?

Outside of FAPAC, I engage with Grace Youth at Grace Covenant Church in Chantilly, Virginia, supporting youth in their faith and leadership development. I also serve as a substitute teacher at Virginia Academy in Ashburn, fostering a positive learning environment. These roles reflect my commitment to community service and supporting families and youth.

What are you looking forward to most at FAPAC?

I am most looking forward to making a lasting impact on the lives of the next generation through my work at FAPAC.

Spotlight on Andrea Martine

We asked Andrea Martine, our Operations Manager, a few questions to get to know her better.

What prompted you to join FAPAC?

I was motivated to join FAPAC by a combination of curiosity and a deep-seated desire to delve into the world of non-profit work. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve always felt drawn to roles where my efforts could have a positive impact on others. FAPAC presented an opportunity to immerse myself in the foster care community, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of such a meaningful endeavor. Working alongside this organization has brought immense satisfaction, as it allows me to contribute to programs that truly make a difference in the lives of families and children in need.

What do some of your responsibilities look like as the operations manager?

As an operations manager, my primary responsibilities include overseeing FAPAC’s organizational processes, ensuring productivity and quality, and ensuring our many special projects and events are successful.

What other work were you involved in prior to joining FAPAC?

Before joining FAPAC, I had a diverse background in different roles. As an environmental engineer, I worked as a staff scientist in environmental consulting in West Virginia, where I gained experience in environmental assessments and compliance. Additionally, I served as a field director in a political campaign, where I honed my leadership and organizational skills while managing campaign activities. These prior experiences have equipped me with a valuable skill set and diverse perspective that I can bring to my role at FAPAC.

What are you most looking forward to at FAPAC?

I’m passionate about learning more about non-profit organizations and their vital role in supporting vulnerable populations, and I’m enthusiastic about contributing to the betterment of the foster care system and the lives of foster children. Being part of an organization with a mission that aligns with my interests and values is incredibly motivating, and I’m excited to work collaboratively to bring positive change to the lives of those in need.

Spotlight on Toni Jackson

We asked Toni Jackson a few questions to get to know her better.

How did you get involved with FAPAC?

I just wanted to be a Momma and help children enjoy childhood! One of my best friends from college (Howard University) is a social worker and directed me to foster care. I attended the DC government Child & Family Services Agency (CFSA) orientation, then later a training on foster care. However, I still did not have a grasp on what to expect from children placed in care and answers to real-life questions once I become a foster parent. At CFSA’s training, a couple referred me to FAPAC, a non-profit that is more hands-on, informative, and supportive in navigating the “in and outs” of foster care. FAPAC offered an eight-week foster parent training course that I attended, and I met several foster and adoptive parents and their children. There, I learned about the foster care process, what to expect, and heard real-life experiences and circumstances surrounding children in care, and how parents managed raising them. FAPAC gave me the knowledge and understanding that better prepared me for a placement. Ironically, twins were placed with me on the last day of class. FAPAC is the reason I’m a proud adoptive mother of those twins! Without the knowledge, guidance, and care FAPAC provided, I would have dropped out, thinking I didn’t have what it takes. I’m excited to now share my journey and knowledge with prospective foster parents as the Recruitment Specialist for FAPAC!

How has being a foster parent shaped your experience as a recruiter?

Being a foster parent has enabled me to speak knowledgeably, confidently, and unwaveringly about the needs, supports, services, and engagement required for foster parents, as well as for the children and youth in our homes. I love talking with fellow foster parents and sharing our experiences, as listening to others has improved my household management and my ability to help others. As parenting experiences differ for infants, toddlers, teens, and young adults, I can only be a sharp recruitment specialist for FAPAC by staying actively involved as a foster parent.