Heather Simmons, Lund’s Associate Director of Adoption, won an award from Vermont Kin As Parents for her work with the organization. Vermont Kin as Parents is committed to support relatives who are raising children and to educate the public and community partners about the joys and difficulties these families experience.
“It is so meaningful to working with such an amazing, passionate group of people who are caregivers and providers who want to make a lasting impact on kinship care in Vermont,” says Heather. “VKAP continues to hold onto our grassroots beginnings with kinship caregivers leading the path with support and guidance by truly dedicated individuals. With this background, we have the ability to meet our families and youth where they are at and help them navigate a system with patience and support.”
Heather has a been a Board Member of VKAP for 13 years and has provided care to many families of kinship carers. Heather has also been active in making practice changes in the system and has played an important role in acquiring state funding for VKAP. She has provided education to other professionals about the importance of supporting kinship providers and has led advocacy efforts to support keeping children in their families when it is safe and appropriate. She has a deep understanding of the unique needs of kinship carers.
In her work at Lund, Heather has made it a priority to educate all the adoption staff about VKAP and the services that are available for kinship carers. She does not shy away from difficult conversations with others about the importance of keeping children in their families.
Heather took a leadership role at VKAP when they were without a president and when they experienced difficulty hiring staff. She is respected and admired by other board members for her willingness to take on active leadership roles. During her time on the board at VKAP, Heather has been active on the conference committee (working countless hours around the intense demands of her full time job), and has held the role of president, secretary and treasurer. Wanda Audette, Lund’s Director of Adoption who nominated Heather for this award, says, “Heather never looks to gain acknowledgement for her work on the Board of VKAP. She always acknowledges others and doesn’t look for recognition for her work. She is a champion for the kinship community.”
On winning the award, Heather says, “It was truly an honor and so very humbling. I have worked with many of the members of VKAP for over 13 years so we have become family. To be honored by that family and nominated by Wanda is more than words can express.”
