KVC West Virginia families and staff are very saddened at the passing of two great foster parents in our community.  Harry Crook from Jackson County and Rick Metheny from Clay County both recently passed away after battles with terminal illnesses.  Mr. Crook and Mr. Metheny were both great assets to our foster care program and were wonderful fathers and mentors to their large families.  They were also in the process of adopting children when they passed.

It is important to reflect on the reasons for becoming a foster parent and what that means for us and those around us.  Think about the impact that parents have on the lives of children.  Foster and adoptive parents have an opportunity each day to leave a positive imprint on all of the children who are taken into a home; even the children who are only there one or two days.  Remember the importance of kindness, patience, and humor in everyday life.  Small gestures made today can have a big impact in the lives of children tomorrow.

Life is so short, and KVC is thankful for these two men and their continuous commitment to making sure that their children felt like they were part of a family.  We are thankful for the positive impact that they played in many children’s lives.  Make sure to hug your children tight and let them know how honored you are to care for them and have them in your home.  We never know what tomorrow will bring.