Mankato Family Named 2022 Regional Foster Family of the Year

Holly Aasen and her family have provided a nurturing home and support to more than 35 children in foster care through Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota’s Therapeutic Foster Care program.

“The great joy is seeing their biological family build the skills they need to bring their children home to a place that is safe and healthy for their children,” Holly Aasen said. “While I enjoy being their mom for a time, I know that I can't be a forever mom for every child that walks through my door.”

For their deep dedication to the well-being of children and for providing outstanding child foster care, Holly and Chris Aasen of Mankato were named the 2022 Foster Family of the Year by the Minnesota Social Service Association in Region 9, which spans nine local counties in south-central Minnesota.

Holly explains that the goal in Therapeutic Foster Care is to reunify the children with their families. Supporting the well-being of the child and working to preserve families are in the best interests of the child and the family, she said.

“Children do best when they are able to stay connected to the people and communities that are familiar to them,” she shared.

Currently, Holly and her husband care for five of their own children, including two who were adopted. They are in the process of adopting a third child and are fostering two other children.

When asked what advice she would give others considering foster care, Holly strongly encourages others to get involved, learn more and not let fear get in the way.

“It's okay to be scared, but don't let that stop you,” Holly said. “It's a roller coaster ride, but it's so worth it for those kids. For me, the most important consideration is: ‘Do you have room in your heart’? If you do, take the chance. It's not going to be easy, but it is so worth it.”

“We are so proud of the Aasen family,” said Candy Picka, foster care coordinator for Therapeutic Foster Care at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. “We’d love to find many more foster parents just like them who can open their homes and hearts to kids. There is such a huge need for foster families in the Mankato area, especially for teens. If you have room in your heart and home, please consider reaching out for more information.”

What does it take to be a foster parent?

• Love for children, patience, and parenting skills
• An openness to learn about the impact of trauma and separation on youth
• Be age 21 or older
• Be physically able to care for children
• Flexible enough work schedule to care for a child’s needs
• Stable housing you own or rent that meets licensing requirements

For more information about the Therapeutic Foster Care Program and how you can get involved, visit fostercaremn.org or contact Candy Picka at [email protected] or 612.642.7553.