At Last! Construction is progressing on
The Children's Village
of
Sonoma County
After the dream began in Lia Rowley’s living room eight years ago, we can now see the building taking shape. This is a huge milestone for The Children’s Village! With just a small part-time staff and approximately 130 volunteers, all with various skills working together, and with the incredible support of the community, miracles have happened and continue to happen daily.
The first phase of the Village will consist of four large family homes and three “grandparent” units. It will provide stable homes for up to twenty-four children, mostly consisting of sibling groups. Support services for the children, such as counseling, tutoring, and training in life-skills, will further enrich these children's lives.
As Lia has written, “The Children’s Village will give children a place to call ‘home’ as they age through the foster care system. It is a model program that must be a part of California foster care solution.”
Challenging, but not insurmountable tasks remain. Before the doors can open several very important goals must be met.
w Money needs to be raised to secure the three months of reserve operating funds required by licensing.
w All Village parents and other staff need to be hired and trained.
w The homes need to be furnished.
w Transportation needs have to be met.
Your help is vitally important. Join one of the committees (Site, Capital Campaign, Interior Design, Dolls, Special Events, Village Life, Public Relations, Coming Home) planning every aspect of the project or host a Housewarming Party geared to help furnish the homes. You can also help in the office or donate funds. For more information contact the office at 566-7044 or to come to an orientation meeting. You are also invited to check the web site at www.thechildrensvillage.com.
