Fostering Our Future

Richard and Georgia Watkins from Glendale, WI

Foster parents impact the lives of children long after they leave foster care, and foster parents continue to support the children even if they are no longer in their care. Richard and Georgia Watkins have been foster parents for more than twenty years, raising not only foster children and one adopted child, but two of their grandchildren as well. The Watkins have openly accepted children of all ages and levels of need into their home with love. The success that they have experienced as foster parents spans from medically fragile infants to delinquent teenagers.

Their commitment to the children under their care extends for many years after the children leave their home, maintaining relationships with many of these children long after their out of home care ends. Richard and Georgia also work to build relationships with biological families of their foster children.

In one instance, the Watkins cared for a young woman who required twenty-four hour supervision and care. They worked with school staff and the woman's doctors to maintain her schedule and keep her active in social activities. Their dedication and patience with this particular foster child was incredible, and she progressed during her year spent in their home more than she had ever before. The Watkins truly believe that any child can make it in the right environment, with plenty of support and love.