A Message from

Victoria Rowell

Founder, The Rowell Foster Children Positive Plan

Growing up a foster child, little did I dream that someday I would have my own nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children in foster care.

When I was eight years old, my foster mother Agatha Armstead, enrolled me in a classical ballet school where my interest and passion in the arts was nurtured.  Agatha had a wonderful sixth sense. Not only did I learn how to do a pirouette, but the discipline required in ballet became a fundamental force in my life, conditioning me for many opportunities as well as challenges still ahead.

Perfecting a pirouette taught me that I could fit in and get along in the world by merit. It has been a guiding force in my life and has shaped what we do at the Rowell Foster Children's Positive Plan (RFCPP).  Unfortunately, far too many children in foster care are without someone to show them the way.

In 1990, with my acting career in full swing I started RFCCP, a non-profit charitable organization offering scholarships to help children in foster care thrive through participation in fine arts classes, sports camps, and cultural enrichment activities.  Our goal is simple: to help children who would otherwise not have a chance to reach their full potential.  We strive to offer children the same long-term commitment and opportunities that foster parents, social workers, and mentors can provide.  I believe that exposing them to these various disciplines at an early age enriches their lives more than we know, just as they did for me and others like me.

Over the past two decades, RFCPP has sponsored hundreds of children in foster care, and I am proud to say that some have gone on to careers in the arts.  But out work is far from over.

As we strive to meet the increasing demand for services from all across the nation, we continue to explore additional funding and community partners, including corporate, private and individual donors.  With your help, we can expand our services and help make a positive difference in the lives of some of the nation's most vulnerable children.

I continue my advocacy efforts to change perceptions and bring national attention to the plight of the 513,000 foster children in this country, many of whom have significant educational and emotional needs, and who have suffered either neglect or physical and emotional trauma.

Children in foster care are good kids.  With guidance and instruction, they will be prepared to become self-sufficient, successful adults.  I welcome and encourage your support.

Thank you,

Victoria Rowell