Lisa Guillette

Angels in Adoption 2005 - Rhode Island

Selected by Representative Patrick Kennedy

Lisa Guillette makes a tremendous difference in the lives of foster children in Rhode Island, as the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Foster Parents Association (RIFPA), which is the recognized statewide leader in providing support and education to foster famiies and children in their care. Her current work at the Rhode Island Foster Parents Association is evidence of her continuing dedication as an advocate for children with special needs in the state of Rhode Island.

Prior to joining the Rhode Island Foster Parents Association in 2003, Ms. Guillette worked as a research coordinator at the Rhode Island Technical Assistance Project, which helps facilitate the provision of comprehensive and coordinated services to all children, including those with disabilities, that result in improved educationa performance and enhanced lifelong outcomes. In her current role at the Rhode Island Foster Parents Association, Ms. Guillette leads the organizaiton in its mission to ensure that all Rhode Island children have safe and nurturing homes. Her proactive leadership in working with all levels of local, statewide, and national child welfare, government, and community organizations to coodinate program development and advocacy on behalf of Rhode Island foster parents and the children for whom they care is absolutely invaluable to the most vulnerable children in the state. Through her work, she has helped to ensure that hundreds of Rhode Island foster parents and children receive the programs and supports necessary to retain quality foster families and successfully recruit new foster families. Her dedication to sustaining and supporting foster families in Rhode Island deserves immense appreciation, and I am proud to select her to receive this year's Angels in Adoption (tm) award.