Successful Father

In December 2002 Lisa* was born exposed to cocaine. Lisa, along with her family members were referred to ABJ Community Services for foster care services.  Her mother refused to participate in social work services to regain custody of her daughter.  Her father, James* told ABJ that due to the mother's refusal  to get involved in services, he wanted to regain custody of Lisa.  James kept his word and participated in every service that was recommended for him. He completed parenting skills classes to learn how to parent Lisa. He completed substance abuse treatment and has been drug free since 2003.  He chairs narcotics anonymous meetings on a weekly basis and attends individual and family counseling.

In 2005 there was an unusual incident and allegations of abuse to Lisa were made against James. This situation could have caused James to become discouraged and return to a lifestyle of drugs but he never faltered he never quit.  James attended therapy with Lisa to address the abuse and he joined a fatherhood support group.  He currently works full time in a glass factory in the apprenticeship program.  On July 9, 2009 Lisa and her father, James were reunited.  They have maintained a close relationship with her former foster parent who provides child care for James on the weekends.  James is an excellent example of the success that can happen for families.  He never gave up on regaining custody of his daughter and ABJ never gave up on him.  Congratulations to James and Lisa, and the foster care staff on this successful reunification.