Over a decade ago, Youthville foster parent Kasha Tucker stood at a crossroads. In front of her was Kathy Fitzpatrick, another Youthville foster parent, telling her to get in the car. Reminding her of the reasons why she wanted to become a foster parent. Tucker had completed six MAPP classes and was trying to summon the strength to get in Fitzpatrick's car and go to the week seven class. But, foster parenting was not for her, or so she thought.

A REWARDING EXPERIENCE

This year, Kasha stands at a completely different point... as a Golden Eagle Award winner, an award given out every year by the Wichita Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority to promote and recognize outstanding service of individuals within the local community. Leaders from civic, community and fraternal organizations, as well as past honorees nominate individuals who have given unselfishly of their time, effort and leadership, according to the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority website.

Kasha finds herself wondering how she got where she is today.

"Why am I still so committed to children who have been hurt, abused and neglected, in a position in life they did not choose, but was caused by other's actions?" Tucker asks.

But she knows she is right where she needs to be.

KASHA'S CALLING

Kasha got her start in foster care because she knew there was a need. She went through a time of drug addiction in her own life and was fortunate to have family members care for her children while she dealt with her issues. She works as a childcare coordinator for DCCCA/Women's Recovery Center in Wichita. And those MAPP classes she didn't want to attend? She eventually became a MAPP leader.

Her favorite thing about caring for kids in foster care is the connection she develops with the kids. And not just while they are in her home, but long after.

"One in particular stands out," said Kasha. "Tianna was the very first teenager placed in our home. That was eleven years ago. She stayed with me and my daughters for nine months. Ever since she went back home, she has not missed one Mother's Day, Christmas or Thanksgiving of coming by to see me and bring me gifts. The best part... she named her baby daughter after me. Now you tell me that isn't a reward for giving back?"

Kasha admits there are difficulties to fostering, like redirecting the behaviors of teenage girls.

"I tell them I was once a teenager, been there, done that, been through that, and it did not get me anywhere," said Kasha. "You can learn the hard way or the easy way, it's your choice."

EXPERIENCE GOES FAR

As all foster parents know, experience is key.

"I have learned in fostering, when dealing with difficult kids, you get more bees with honey than you do with vinegar. You will often hear me say, ?We have to meet the kids where they are at.' I pick my battles, sometimes we have to be out of our comfort zone as resource parents to accommodate the way the child feels and that's okay," said Kasha. "You have to have the attitude of being open to their needs and feelings. It's not always about us as resource parents."

Her selflessness is what earned Kasha the Golden Eagle Award.

"When you ask why I was chosen to be a recipient of this award, I am still asking myself," said Kasha. "It makes up for those days (as we all have) when we do not feel appreciated. I am sure it came from the work I do with foster care, because that's me! I live it, love it and believe in children being safe, healthy, loved, and all the things needed to have peace in their life."