Foster parenting in the United States dates back over 150 years, but it was not until the late 1960s that the National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) was created. This article describes the factors that led to its birth, and the subsequent internal and external influences on its development, intentions and accomplishments. This case example examines dilemmas for this and other foster parent associations regarding membership, funding, advocacy, and outcomes, and recommends approaches to strengthen congruence between a foster parent association's goals and impact.
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