From Foster to Forever

From Foster to Forever

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From Foster to Forever episodes

  • The Cosmic Library: Akashic Records for Family and Personal Guidance

    Kanika Vasudeva joins us today to dive into the mystical realm of the Akashic Records and the art of energy expansion. We kick things off by exploring what the Akashic Records really are—think of them as a cosmic library filled with everything about your life and soul's journey. Kanika encourages us to embrace our curiosity and even our skepticism, reminding us that accessing this wealth of knowledge is not just for the “gifted” but is open to anyone willing to explore. We chat about how tapping into these records can help folks navigate their paths to building non-traditional families, especially when it comes to fostering and adoption. Plus, we dish out some real talk on how to handle the emotional rollercoaster that comes with these journeys, showing how understanding our soul contracts can provide clarity and closure amidst the chaos. So, whether you’re a seasoned spiritual seeker or just a curious newbie, this episode is packed with insights to help you on your journey! Kanika Vasudeva joins us to unravel the fascinating concept of the Akashic Records, a mystical library that holds all the secrets of our lives. If you're curious about how this cosmic database can guide you in your foster-to-adopt journey, you're in for a treat! Kanika likens the Akashic Records to a Google Drive for your soul, where you can access everything from past life experiences to insights about your current relationships. She passionately explains that anyone can tap into their records, no special training required—just a willingness to ask for help and an open heart. Rachel shares her own emotional rollercoaster concerning infertility and the profound belief that certain souls are destined to join our families. This leads us to discuss how the Akashic Records can provide clarity and healing for those experiencing the loss of a child or the challenges that come with fostering. Kanika reassures us that we can connect with the souls of children who are meant to be part of our lives, offering a sense of closure and understanding during tough times. The conversation takes a practical turn as Kanika shares actionable insights about using the Akashic Records to navigate parenting challenges, particularly in fostering scenarios where trauma and uncertainty often lurk. The episode wraps up with an emphasis on intention and the power of energy work to create safe spaces for our kids. If you’re looking to deepen your connection with your children and understand the bigger picture of your family's journey, this episode is packed with wisdom and warmth. Get ready to explore the realms of energy healing and the Akashic Records with Kanika Vasudeva!

    Takeaways:

    1. The Akashic Records are like a mystical library storing all the juicy details of your life, including past lives and soul contracts, so anyone can access them to understand their story better.
    2. Kanika encourages everyone to give energy work a shot, even if it feels a bit out there—there's zero harm in asking the universe for help when you're feeling stuck or confused.
    3. Understanding your soul contracts, especially in the context of fostering and adopting, can provide closure and clarity on your journey—it's all about learning and evolving together.
    4. It's crucial to recognize that while life can seem unfair at times, there's often a bigger lesson at play, helping us grow and understand our purpose more deeply.
    5. The importance of receiving help can't be overstated; sometimes, you just gotta let go and trust the universe to guide you through tough times.
    6. Even kids can benefit from energy work, as it helps them process trauma and feel safer in their environment—it's all about creating that loving, supportive space.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    1. artoflifecenter.com
    2. fromfoster2forever.com
    3. foster2foreverpodcast (Instagram)
    4. Fostering Families Today Magazine (save 10%)

    Mentioned in this episode:

    10% OFF FOSTERING FAMILIES TODAY MAG

    Fostering Families Today is a bi-monthly magazine distributed to foster, kinship and adoptive families across the country offering resources, expert opinions, practical advice and information on the latest evidence-based best practices for supporting children and youth who come from traumatic backgrounds. Use coupon code foster10 to receive 10% off your annual subscription at fosteringfamiliestoday dot com. That's fosteringfamiliestoday dot com.

    FFT

    57 min
  • From Heartbreak to Hope: Martha's Foster and Adoption Stories

    Martha Chaput drops some real talk with us today about the rollercoaster of fostering and adopting children. She shares her heart-wrenching experiences of loving and letting go, highlighting how important it is to make decisions centered on the child's well-being, even when it’s tough. We dive into the nitty-gritty of navigating the foster system, the moments of joy, the heartbreak, and the blessings that come from opening your heart to these kids. Martha’s candid reflections will make you laugh, cry, and rethink what family truly means. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and join us for this heartfelt convo that’s all about love, resilience, and the beautiful messiness of family life!

    Takeaways:

    1. Martha Chaput shares her emotional journey through fostering and adoption, highlighting the challenges and joys, especially that come along with reunification.
    2. The conversation touches on the complexities of the foster care system and how it impacts both children and foster parents.
    3. Martha emphasizes the importance of being educated about the foster system before diving in, urging others to attend informational meetings.
    4. They discuss the heart-wrenching experiences of loving a child and then having to let them go, illustrating the emotional toll of fostering.
    5. Martha's story reveals how connections with biological families can shape the future for adopted children, stressing the value of maintaining those ties.
    6. The podcast dives into the idea of fostering older children and how that could be a different, yet rewarding experience for families.

    Fostering can be a wild ride, and Martha Chaput’s journey is no exception! In this laid-back yet deeply engaging episode, host Rachel Fulginiti and Martha dive into the nitty-gritty of foster parenting, sharing laughter, tears, and plenty of heartwarming stories. Martha kicks things off by sharing her initial motivations for fostering, which stem from a lifelong dream of having a big family. The chat quickly shifts to the bumps along the way, including the emotional rollercoaster of her first placements—experiences that left her with more questions than answers and a deeper understanding of the complexities of the foster care system. As the conversation flows, Martha opens up about the challenges of navigating visits with biological parents and the heartbreak of letting go of children she had grown to love. It’s not all sad, though; she also shares uplifting moments, too. Martha’s stories are filled with wit and warmth, making them relatable while shedding light on the real struggles foster parents face. She emphasizes the value of having a support system—mentors who get it and are there to guide you through the ups and downs. Towards the end, Martha offers some solid advice for those considering fostering. She encourages folks to take that first step, attend an orientation, and keep an open mind. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt reminder that, whether for a brief moment or a lifetime, fostering is all about making a difference in a child’s life. Martha’s journey is a testament to the love and resilience that foster families embody, and this episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the foster care experience.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    1. fromfoster2forever.com
    2. @foster2foreverpodcast (Instagram)
    3. Fostering Families Today Magazine (10% off)

    Mentioned in this episode:

    10% OFF FOSTERING FAMILIES TODAY MAG

    Fostering Families Today is a bi-monthly magazine distributed to foster, kinship and adoptive families across the country offering resources, expert opinions, practical advice and information on the latest evidence-based best practices for supporting children and youth who come from traumatic backgrounds. Use coupon code foster10 to receive 10% off your annual subscription at fosteringfamiliestoday dot com. That's fosteringfamiliestoday dot com.

    FFT

    42 min
  • Adopting Six Kids: Buckle Up with Bonnie Johnston Butler

    This week, we’re diving deep into the whirlwind journey of foster care and adoption with our guest, Bonnie Butler. She shares her story of going from contemplating stepping back from the foster system to unexpectedly adopting a sibling set of six kids—yeah, you heard that right, six! We talk about the real struggles and triumphs of blending families, navigating trauma, and finding emotional balance in the chaos. Bonnie’s insights on emotional intelligence for foster parents are gold, especially when dealing with the unique challenges that come with fostering traumatized children. So get ready for a heartfelt chat packed with wisdom, humor, and insight.

    Ever thought about adopting a whole sibling set? Bonnie Butler did, and she’s here to tell us all about it. In this episode, she shares her journey from a family of four to suddenly embracing six new faces—five girls and one boy. Talk about a plot twist! Bonnie’s storytelling is both humorous and heartfelt as she recounts the initial shock and the whirlwind of emotions that followed the unexpected call to adopt. The episode unpacks not just the logistical challenges of accommodating six kids, but also the emotional hurdles that come with fostering children from tumultuous backgrounds. Bonnie reflects on how her family navigated the chaos, learned to set boundaries, and ultimately transformed their lives into one big, messy, loving family. With a blend of laughter and empathy, she discusses the invaluable lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of patience, understanding, and the magic of everyday moments that make the journey worthwhile. It’s a beautiful reminder that every family is unique, and sometimes, the most unconventional paths lead to the most incredible stories.

    Takeaways:

    1. The Universe truly has impeccable timing, as demonstrated by the unexpected call to adopt six kids.
    2. Navigating foster care and adoption can be a wild ride, filled with emotional highs and lows.
    3. Creating a loving and structured environment is essential for helping traumatized children heal.
    4. It's crucial for foster parents to focus on self-care and stress management while fostering.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    1. bonniebutlercoaching.com
    2. bonnieanniebutlercoaching.com
    3. fromfostertoforever.com
    4. foster2foreverpodcast.com

    56 min
  • Growing Up in Foster Care, Trauma Recovery, and Finding Hope with Mary Fields

    Mary Fields shares her deeply personal journey of resilience and healing on the podcast, emphasizing that kindness can be a powerful tool for change. Growing up in the foster care system, she faced immense challenges that could have turned her bitter, but instead, she found strength in the support of kind individuals along the way. As an author of the memoir "Forever and a Day," Mary opens up about her experiences, including the struggle of reconciling her past trauma with her present as a mother of four. In a candid conversation with host Rachel, they dive into how humor became a coping mechanism and the importance of recognizing the inner child's voice. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of survival, compassion, and the transformative power of kindness, reminding us all to seek and spread love wherever we can.

    Mary Fields shines a light on the often-overlooked realities of growing up in the foster care system in this heartfelt episode of Foster to Forever. Her conversation with host Rachel delves into her personal experiences, offering listeners a raw and unfiltered look at the challenges she faced while navigating a childhood filled with instability and trauma. Mary’s story is one of resilience, as she reflects on how kindness from others helped her survive a turbulent upbringing. From her early memories in foster homes to the complexities of her relationships with her biological parents, Mary’s narrative is both poignant and relatable. She emphasizes that while she could have become a bitter person, the compassion she received sparked a fire of hope within her, leading to her current role as a loving mother and author.

    Mary’s memoir, 'Forever and a Day', is not just a recounting of her past; it’s an invitation to understand the intricacies of trauma, healing, and the power of kindness in transforming lives. Throughout the episode, she discusses the misconceptions surrounding foster children, urging listeners to recognize that these kids are often victims of unfortunate circumstances rather than delinquents or bad kids. Mary’s reflections inspire a call to action, reminding us all that kindness can break cycles of negativity and foster a sense of belonging in those who need it most. As she navigates the challenges of motherhood, Mary shares how she strives to provide her children with the love and security she was denied, showing that healing is possible and that every child deserves a chance to thrive.


    In this episode, Mary Fields recounts her transformative journey from a troubled childhood in the foster care system to becoming a nurturing mother and an inspiring author. The conversation with Rachel is a powerful exploration of resilience, hope, and the profound impact of kindness. Mary's experiences highlight the harsh realities many children face while in foster care, yet her narrative is not solely about hardship; it’s about the healing power of compassion and connection. She reflects on her time in various foster homes, sharing both the struggles she endured and the moments of kindness that kept her spirit alive.


    As Mary discusses her memoir, 'Forever and a Day', she reveals the irony behind its title—a phrase her mother used in letters despite her failures as a parent. This duality underscores the themes of love, loss, and the journey toward self-acceptance that permeate her writing. The episode emphasizes the importance of advocating for foster children, challenging listeners to confront their biases and support the vulnerable. Mary’s insights on motherhood reveal her commitment to breaking the cycle of trauma by fostering an environment filled with love and understanding for her own children. This engaging conversation serves as a reminder that while the past can shape us, it does not define our future, and that kindness is a powerful tool for change.

    Takeaways:

    • Mary shares her incredible journey from a challenging childhood in foster care to becoming a loving mother, highlighting the importance of kindness in healing.
    • The episode emphasizes that not all foster care experiences are positive, and Mary candidly discusses her traumatic memories and the impact they had on her life.
    • Mary reflects on her relationship with her inner child, recognizing the need to honor and nurture her past self as a way to heal and grow.
    • Humor plays a vital role in coping with life's hardships, as Mary uses wit to navigate her experiences and find the lighter side of dark moments.
    • Listeners are encouraged to recognize the power of kindness in their interactions, as Mary believes it can change lives and provide hope for those struggling.
    • Mary's memoir, 'Forever and a Day', serves as a testament to resilience, showcasing how she reclaimed her narrative and found strength through her experiences.

    52 min
  • Adopting an Older Child with TEDx Speaker Hilary Crowley

    In this powerful and heart-opening conversation, I sit down with Hilary Crowley — foster-to-adopt mom, holistic health practitioner, energy healer, TEDx speaker, and author of The Power of Energy Medicine. Hilary shares the extraordinary story of how she followed intuition, courage, and connection all the way to her son — and the unexpected lessons she learned along the way.

    From discovering the importance of foster-care support groups before certification, to navigating shutdowns, attachment, sibling dynamics, and biological family relationships, Hilary offers deep insight into what it really means to love, advocate, and parent a child who has survived instability and trauma.

    We also explore the intersection of intuition and fostering, how to recognize an intuitive “yes,” and why older-child adoption is a powerful — and often overlooked — pathway to building a family.

    This episode is full of wisdom, warmth, and practical guidance for anyone considering fostering or adoption, anyone parenting a child with trauma, or anyone wanting to better understand the emotional landscape of the foster-to-adopt journey.

    In This Episode, We Discuss:

    ✨ The Power of Support Groups:

    Why attending a foster-care support group before certification can completely shift your journey.

    How Hilary built trust with resource workers just by showing up.

    ✨ The Foster-to-Adopt Origin Story

    Hilary’s longing for a second child and the friend who unexpectedly opened the door to fostering.

    Her first experiences learning the “lingo” and navigating parenting classes.

    ✨ A Moment of Raw Honesty in Training

    Hilary’s emotional fear response during training — and the life-changing validation she received from a social worker.

    ✨ Navigating the Needs of Two Children

    • How fostering disrupted her biological son’s world — and how it ultimately expanded his compassion and resilience.

    ✨ Understanding Shutdowns / Rock Brain

    • What shutdowns looked like in real life, what triggered them, and the remarkable strategy Hilary used to help her son feel safe and reconnected.

    Why “parent as if this may never change” became essential guidance.

    ✨ Biological Family Relationships

    • Navigating shifting dynamics and relationships at home.
    • How her sons are now building connections as a young adults.

    ✨ Intuition, Energy, and Adoption

    • How Hilary’s work as an energy healer informed her parenting and decision-making.
    • What an intuitive “yes” really feels like — and how to differentiate intuition from fear.
    • Why fostering aligns deeply with the true meaning of the word foster: to encourage, nourish, and support.

    ✨ A Powerful Message for Prospective Foster Parents

    • Why older-child adoption (6–10+) is filled with beauty, growth, and meaning — and why these children deserve more visibility and love.

    Key Takeaways
    • Showing up and becoming known in your foster community can change everything.
    • Children with trauma need connection and safety more than perfection.
    • Saying no to a placement can be an act of love and alignment.
    • Intuition is a real, accessible tool for navigating uncertainty.
    • Adoption is deeply transformative for the entire family.

    1 hr
  • Hey Fam! Quick Catch Up on the show!

    Life's a wild ride, isn't it? Kind of like fostering and adopting, which is the heart and soul of our podcast, From Foster to Forever. We dive into the ups and downs of non-traditional families, sharing heartfelt stories that are anything but ordinary. In this latest episode, I pop in to give a shout-out after a little break from the mic. I know, I know, it’s been a minute, but hey, life (and surgery!) happens. Whether you’re a new listener or a seasoned vet, I’m stoked to have you here with me.

    I also take a moment to thank all you lovely folks who’ve been tuning in and leaving those golden five-star reviews. Seriously, they help get our stories out there for others who might need a little hope or support. Plus, I’m super excited to announce that I’ve joined the ranks of columnists at Fostering Families Today, a sweet publication all about foster care. My first piece drops online soon, where I discuss how my CrossFit journey helped me tackle the tough times during fostering. It’s all about that mental toughness, and trust me, it’s a game changer. So, stay tuned, because I’m gearing up for season three and I want to hear from you! Got a story to share or know someone who does? Hit me up. Let’s keep this conversation rolling and make some magic happen!

    Takeaways:

    • This episode welcomes newcomers and reminds longtime listeners about the journey so far.
    • Rachel expresses gratitude for every review, emphasizing their importance in spreading awareness.
    • The podcast announces a new column by Rachel in Fostering Families Today Magazine, a must-read for foster care enthusiasts.
    • Rachel discusses her first article, which ties her personal story of fostering-to-adopt, with her passion for CrossFit and mental toughness.
    • Listeners are encouraged to share their own foster to adopt stories for potential podcast features.
    • The episode wraps up with Rachel's summer wishes for health, safety, and joy for all listeners.

    7 min
  • Mentorship: The Power of Being a Big Brother or Sister

    Dennis DJ Quinn joins Rachel to share some seriously heartwarming wisdom from his years of mentoring through the Big Brother program. Right off the bat, he dives into the real deal about what it’s like to step into a kid’s life—not as a dad replacement, but as a big brother and a friend. He’s here to remind us that fostering connections can change not just a child’s life, but your own too. Dennis spills the beans on his journey, filled with laughter, challenges, and some unexpected life lessons that hit harder than a speeding train. So, if you're curious about how you can make a difference—whether it’s through fostering, mentoring, or just being there for someone in need—this chat is packed with all the feels and practical tips to get you started.

    Dennis DJ Quinn joins Rachel for a heartfelt journey into the world of mentorship and advocacy for youth. His experiences as a Big Brother have shaped not only the lives of the children he has mentored but also his own. Initially stepping into the role with the desire to 'fix' the kids, Dennis quickly learned that his purpose was to be a friend and a supportive figure rather than a parental replacement. Throughout the discussion, he reflects on the profound bond he formed with his first Little Brother, who remained an important part of his life for over four decades. Dennis shares the ups and downs of his mentorship adventures, including the unique challenges faced by kids in the foster system and the emotional weight of navigating their lives amidst uncertainty. He emphasizes the power of consistency and patience in building trust with these children, illustrating how simple activities, like ordering food at a restaurant, can be monumental steps towards personal growth for them.

    The conversation also touches on the practicalities of becoming a Big Brother, including the application process, background checks, and the importance of finding the right match between mentor and mentee. Dennis highlights the increasing demand for volunteers in mentorship programs and encourages listeners to consider how they can contribute, even if they feel hesitant about making a long-term commitment. The episode wraps up with some light-hearted anecdotes and reinforces the message that helping others can be as rewarding for the mentor as it is for the mentee, creating lasting memories and lessons along the way.

    Takeaways:

    • Dennis shared that becoming a Big Brother is less about fixing kids' lives and more about being a supportive friend and mentor.
    • The journey of mentorship can be a two-way street where both the mentor and the child learn valuable life lessons from each other.
    • It's crucial to understand that you don't replace a child's parent, but you can be a positive influence in their life.
    • Volunteering as a Big Brother or in similar programs can offer a fulfilling experience that enriches both the volunteer and the child in need.

    Links:

    Dennis' Website

    Stick Figures (Dennis' book about being a Big Brother)

    Big Brothers/Sisters Website

    31 min
  • Too Autistic for Dance Class? Not Here!

    In continuation of our celebration of Autistic voices, we're diving deep into the world of dance and neurodiversity with Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell, the dynamic duo behind the Autistic Wings Dance Company. Right off the bat, they tackle how traditional dance environments often fall short for autistic kids, leaving them feeling sidelined and misunderstood. Amanda shares her personal journey, revealing how her own experiences with autism shaped the way they run their dance studio—where inclusivity is not just a buzzword, but the very foundation. With a maximum of four students per class, they’re flipping the script on what dance can be, ensuring each child gets the personalized attention they deserve. So, whether you're a dance enthusiast or just curious about fostering an inclusive space, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and a sprinkle of inspiration that you won't want to miss!

    As I chat with Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell, the founders of Autistic Wings Dance Company, I’m struck by the sheer determination that went into making their dream a reality. Their journey began with the simple act of dance—specifically, tap dancing—when Amanda's daughter Leta found her groove. Initially, it was a joyous discovery, but soon Amanda faced the harsh reality of a dance world that often overlooks the needs of autistic children. With teachers who didn’t quite understand Leta's behaviors and struggles, it became clear that the traditional studios weren’t cutting it. This led to a pivotal moment that drove them to create an entirely new space dedicated to nurturing autistic talent.

    In our conversation, we delve into the philosophy behind Autistic Wings. The focus here is not just on dance, but on creating a community where autistic dancers can express themselves freely. By limiting class sizes to four students, they ensure that every child receives the attention and support they need to flourish. It’s fascinating how Amanda explains that many existing dance classes, even those labeled as “autistic,” often fail to accommodate the full spectrum of needs within the community. Their approach is refreshingly unique, rooted in understanding and compassion, which is the backbone of their teaching methods. We share a few laughs as they recount some of the more humorous challenges of teaching dance to kids who might interpret rules a little differently—like turning a dance move into a personal expression of joy!


    Wrapping up, we discuss the future goals of the company, which include expanding their reach and encouraging other dance studios to adopt similar inclusive practices. The conversation leaves listeners feeling inspired and motivated to support such necessary changes in the arts community. I walk away with a heart full of hope, knowing that with leaders like Amanda and Leta, the dance world is slowly becoming a place where every child can find their rhythm and shine.

    Takeaways:

    • Creating a dance studio specifically for autistic kids allows for a tailored approach that traditional studios often overlook, making dance accessible and enjoyable.
    • The journey of building Autistic Wings Dance Company highlights the importance of understanding neurodiversity through a community-driven lens, rather than a 'one-size-fits-all' method.
    • Having classes with a maximum of four students ensures that each child receives individualized attention, promoting a supportive environment that nurtures their unique talents.
    • The founders' determination to create a safe space for autistic dancers stems from personal experiences, demonstrating how advocacy can transform lives and foster community.
    • It's vital to eliminate misconceptions about autism in dance education; understanding that each autistic individual has different needs can create a more inclusive atmosphere.
    • The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, proving that there's a significant demand for specialized programs that celebrate neurodiversity in the arts.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • fostertoforever.com
    • foster2forever.com
    • autisticwingsdancecompany.org
    • https://www.letatapstyles.com/
    • https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Autistic Wings Dance Company
    • Chloe Arnold
    • Foster to Forever
    • Aquarius Rising
    • Joe Fulginiti

    29 min
  • Neurodiversity, Special Needs and Foster Care with Christopher Wyatt

    Today’s chat dives deep into the nitty-gritty of parenting while navigating the complexities of autism and ADHD. Our guest, Christopher Wyatt, shares his personal journey of becoming a foster parent, which took a serious turn when his wife was diagnosed with cancer shortly after they welcomed their daughters into their lives. Instead of throwing in the towel, he emphasizes the importance of commitment, stating, “We signed up to be the best parents we could be, whether it was for a year or for a lifetime.” We get real about the emotional toll of foster care, the challenges of navigating medical decisions, and the struggle to advocate for kids who often come with a suitcase full of trauma. It's a heartfelt conversation about how neurodiversity can actually bring unique strengths to parenting, proving that love and support can thrive even amidst chaos.

    Takeaways:

    • Navigating the foster care system is not just paperwork; it's an emotional rollercoaster that demands a solid support network.
    • Autism and ADHD can actually complement parenting styles, especially in structured environments where routines are key.
    • The impact of trauma on children in foster care is profound, often leading to complex emotional and developmental challenges.
    • Awareness of autism has dramatically increased, yet many still underestimate the importance of tailored support for children with special needs.

    58 min
  • Educational Rights & Trauma Informed Parenting with Sharon Dunlevy

    Sharon Dunleavy joins Rachel in this enlightening episode to shed some serious light on the critical role of educational advocacy for kids in foster care. With around 20,000 youth aging out of the system each year, Sharon dives deep into the staggering statistics that reveal a troubling reality—many of these kids face challenges like homelessness and incarceration. We chat about the importance of understanding trauma and how it affects learning, plus the laws that can help foster kids get the educational support they need. Sharon’s insights not only highlight the dire need for advocacy but also serve up some practical advice for foster parents navigating the educational landscape. So, whether you’re a seasoned foster parent or just curious about the system, you won’t want to miss this conversation packed with valuable info and a few laughs along the way!

    Sharon Dunleavy, a passionate advocate for foster care education, brings her wealth of experience to the conversation, diving deep into the often-overlooked needs of children in foster care. With a background in special education and over two decades in ministry, Sharon's journey into foster care advocacy stemmed from a desire to serve vulnerable kids. She shares how she transitioned to training foster parents on educational advocacy, emphasizing the critical role that education plays in the lives of foster children. The statistics she presents are staggering: 20,000 youth age out of foster care annually, yet 25% fail to graduate high school. These numbers highlight the urgent need for informed advocates like Sharon, who work tirelessly to ensure that every child in the foster system receives the educational support they deserve. The conversation touches on systemic issues within the foster care system and the importance of trauma-informed practices in schools, shedding light on how teachers can better understand and support their students. Sharon's insights serve as a wake-up call for all of us to step up and be advocates for these children, whose futures depend on the support and resources we provide today.

    Takeaways:

    • Foster kids need strong advocates; their voices often get lost in the shuffle.
    • Educational rights for foster kids can be confusing, so it's crucial for foster parents to understand them.
    • Trauma significantly affects the brain's development; early intervention can help improve outcomes for foster kids.
    • Discipline is about teaching, not punishment; it's essential to focus on the positives in behavior management.
    • Many foster kids face mental health challenges; being trauma-informed is key to supporting their needs.
    • Statistics reveal that a large percentage of youth aging out of foster care face dire challenges; awareness is the first step to change.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • sharondunlevy.com
    • Every Student Succeeds Act
    • Individuals with Disabilities Act
    • Family First Prevention Services Act
    • Annie Casey Foundation
    • Aquarius Rising
    • Split Rock Studios
    • Joe Fulginiti

    54 min

About From Foster to Forever

From the publisher's feed

There are many ways to build your family. Fostering-to-adopt is not the easiest, but it's a beautiful and profoundly impactful thing to do. Join Rachel Fulginiti, creative multi-hyphenate and two-time foster to adopt mom, as she shares her own story and the stories of others who have successfully navigated the foster care system and created their forever families through adoption.