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For generalists unaware that loss is pandemic in Child Welfare, that foster mothers experience and perceive it differently and disproportionately, and that lack of mediation and comprehensive support systems traumatize everyone working in the system, this book is a must read. Child Welfare professioners agree that "relationship" is the "foundation" of sicial work practice but how it is experienced, perceived has not been explored. The author explains, outlines his findings recommending simple ways to make foster mothers´ feel of relationships "real." Agencies should reexamine their "incentive" programs. Foster mothers prefer "little acts" or "geatures" communicated consistently in "surprise" manners to ennoble their spirit to awards of plaques and certificates at "elaborate ceremonies." Agency training on interpersonal "helping skills" and cultural sensitivity must be ongoing to address workers´ lack of resspect for foster mothers´ individuslity and cultural differences. Training modules must address foster mothers´ everyday problems in care giving 24-7.

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Dr. Okeke received his PhD from the Institute for Clinical Social Work, Chicago, in 2003. A 20 year veteran of Child Welfare, 1987-2003, he is currently a Professor at Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC. He is also the campus and community Ambassador for National Health Service Corps and academic coordinator for athletics Department.

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