Marion Rogers became a licensed foster parent with Kaleidoscope in 1985 and has since opened her home – and her heart – to dozens of children. When permanency legislation passed in 1996, Ms. Rogers decided to adopt the twin boys in her care and a few years later adopted a third foster child. Even with the hectic demands of raising three children, Marion provided emergency foster care and was an active member of the Kaleidoscope Foster Parent Association’s Policy Committee.

Aside from her experience as a foster parent, Marion has a special ability to work with the biological families of her foster kids. Five years ago, we asked Marion to help us with the placement of a young boy in the process of returning home and told her the transition would happen fairly quickly. We chose Marion for this child because, quite simply, she is a unique and gifted foster parent. However, four years and many reasons later, a court decided against returning this child to his parents. When asked, Marion made the commitment, without hesitation, to take guardianship of him.

These are just a few examples of the love and commitment Marion has shown our kids. Now, over 22 years later and with four more kids of her own at home, Marion has retired from fostering. We had the pleasure of celebrating Marion’s dedication to the children of Kaleidoscope at the 22nd Annual Foster Parent Awards Banquet in December.

While it’s impossible to quantify the impact she has had on the lives of the kids she has cared for or the families she has touched, we do know that Kaleidoscope is richer for having known her.

From all of your friends at Kaleidoscope, a big Thank You, Marion, and happy retirement!