BELLEFONTE — Centre County Commissioners were joined by many community members on Tuesday morning to raise awareness for foster care and to highlight heritage groups in our community.
May 2026 was proclaimed to be Foster Care Awareness Month. This annual proclamation aims to recognize and honor the foster families in the County while raising awareness about the ongoing needs of children in foster care.
Currently, 56 children and youth are in the County’s custody and care. Thanks to the generous spirit of folks in our community, 34 of those children are being provided with safe, secure, and stable homes with foster families.
At a Foster Parent Appreciation Banquet last month, Commissioner Chair Mark Higgins praised the work of foster parents, the Children and Youth Services department, and various county partners and volunteers who have contributed to record-low numbers of children in need of care.
Still, there is an ongoing need for more foster homes in Centre County. Commissioners urged county residents to volunteer their time, talent, and energy on behalf of the children in Centre County. For those interested in getting involved, in any capacity, in foster care, go to www.fostercentrecounty.com or call Children and Youth Services at (814) 355-6755.
Commissioners also adopted a proclamation declaring May to be Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This annual proclamation serves as a reminder of the continuous contributions of people of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage, who have shaped the history, culture, and progress of the US and Centre County.
The group encouraged the public to not only celebrate the history and culture of Asian Pacific Americans, but to embrace the themes of America’s 250th anniversary celebration that denounce discrimination and uphold community.
The Commissioners issued a heartfelt thanks to C-NET, Centre County’s public broadcasting service. C-NET provides videography services to Centre County Government. One suc example is the recording and livestreaming of weekly commissioners’ meetings.
Stephanie Yager, who has been behind the camera in the boardroom for over 20 years, was recognized during the Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday morning. Commissioners thanked her for her longstanding service and commitment to making meetings accessible to the public.
Yager is stepping into a new position at C-NET, and commissioners offered congratulations and best wishes in the new role, knowing they will still collaborate. Commissioners also thanked Cindy Hahn for her work in the role of Executive Director at C- NET, from which she will be retiring at the end of the month. Yager will serve as Hahn’s successor.
