At the Donnell-Kay Foundation, we recognize the tremendous value that Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers bring to our communities. They are vital to the health and well-being of families across Colorado and the nation. Families turn to them not just out of necessity, but because of trust, comfort, and connection. FFN providers are always there, stepping in when other childcare options are full, closed, or unavailable.
For Miguel In Suk Lovato, our Early Childhood Lead, FFN care is personal. When his daughter was just four months old, she was lovingly cared for by a family friend until she turned two. In Ms. Olivia’s home, his daughter experienced warmth, delicious meals, songs, games, and joyful outdoor play. This wasn’t a last-resort option for Miguel and his wife. It was a choice they made because it was exactly where they wanted their daughter to be. That experience deepened his respect and gratitude for FFN caregivers and it continues to shape the work of the foundation today.
This September, we’re proud to join Home Grown and over 50 organizations nationwide in co-sponsoring the third annual FFN Appreciation Week — honoring more than 5 million caregivers who support 11.5 million children across the country.
Each day of the week offers a unique opportunity to celebrate, connect, and advocate:
Sunday, September 7th – Celebrating Grandparents Who Are FFN Caregivers
Share a memory or photo on social media with the hashtag #ThanksGrandparents.
Monday, September 8th – Faces of FFN Care: A Look at the FFN Caregivers All Around Us
Email, message, call, or text an FFN caregiver. Thank them for their contributions caring for children in our community.
Tuesday, September 9th – Policies to Support the Diversity of FFN Care
Spotlight your FFN advocacy and policy efforts and share any wins or challenges and tag #FFNAppreciationWeek.
Wednesday, September 10th – Supporting FFN Care in Uncertain Times
Register for the national webinar at 11:00am – 12:00pm (Mountain Time) that will explore how to support FFN care and caregivers during this uncertain time. Register here
Thursday, September 11th – All Grown Up With FFN Care
Were you in FFN care as a child? Share a positive memory and hashtag #AllGrownUpFFN.
Friday, September 12th – FFN Care is the ❤️ Heart of Communities
Share why you chose and/or support FFN care using the hashtags #FFNCareIsAlwaysThere and #FFNAppreciationWeek.
Together, let’s honor the caregivers who make it possible for families, children, and communities to thrive and be healthy. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating them this week — and every week.
Written By: Sarah Johnson
Sarah Johnson is an educational entrepreneur, novice farmer, and mother to two DPS children. She believes that education can be...
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