It's often forgotten that HIV doesn't just affect the person living with the disease.Family members related to a child or individual with the disease often feel emotionally helpless and separated from others. Along with the rising costs of health care, an economic downturn and the previously mentioned physiological agonies, families need advice and a place for support.
Families' and Children's AIDS Network ( FCAN ) , an Illinois nonprofit organization, has been serving this community since 1985. What started as the Chicago Roundtable ( a group of social-service, child-welfare and other legal providers meeting to meet the needs of these individuals ) blossomed in to a full-fledged organization that offers free clinical and legal services in Cook County. It's in FCAN's approach, though, that proves its success. FCAN recognizes the unique needs of parents and children and its mission: "to create a coordinated, family-focused continuum of care for HIV-affected families" using service programs, education and advocacy.
The most recognizable service programs established by FCAN are their retreats. By arranging semiannual retreats ( for families ) and yearly retreats ( for teens ) , attendees gain education and advocacy allowing a cultivation of knowledge in a safe space. Inspired by the families and teens themselves, FCAN is the only organization that offers these opportunities statewide.
FCAN also adds policy reform to its resume. As a result of the organizations efforts, an establishment of the "standby guardianship and short-term guardianship law" was produced. This law allows families the option to plan ahead when parents are unable to provide future care due to personal sickness. A standby adoption law was also introduced, giving families legally binding adoption options if the opportunity was necessary.
The organization advises families and youth through educational programs, individual counseling, family meetings and peer outreach. Its well-rounded programming has been so successful that, in 2008, FCAN earned the Illinois Department of Public Health's "In Our Own Backyard" award, celebrating FCAN's work in HIV education.
The Chicago Spirit Brigadethe city's only fundraising cheer, dance and drill teamfinished its 7th season at the Northalsted Halloween Parade, raising more than $2,700 for FCAN, according to an organizational press release.
Recent budget cuts to the organization have not slowed down FCAN's drive to continue being a top source of support for families in Illinois. Events like the FCAN Associate Board's "Sponsor a Needy Family" are occurring in December while the Red Ribbons Trails Spring Retreat will be held in March 2010. Visit www.familiesandchildrennetwork.org .