In this episode of the Spero Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Tunezia Badger sits down with Spero play therapy expert and therapist Becca Chavez and parent Rachael Foltz to talk all things play therapy—what it is, how it looks in practice, and how parents can support their children along the way.

Together, they share practical, real-life tips parents can use at home to strengthen connection, encourage emotional expression, and reinforce the progress children make in play therapy. Rachael offers firsthand insight as a parent whose child participates in play therapy at Spero, sharing an honest and hopeful perspective on the impact it has had on her family.

Whether your child is currently in play therapy or you’re curious about how play supports emotional growth, this episode is filled with encouragement, guidance, and actionable takeaways for parents navigating their child’s mental health journey.

Welcome to the Spero Anchor of Hope Podcast! In this heartwarming episode, "Play Therapy in the Sand Tray," host Tunezia Badger sits down with Amanda Winchell, Play Therapy Coordinator at Spero Family Services’ Counseling and Wellness Center.

Together, they explore how play is a child’s natural language and how sand tray therapy helps children express feelings, solve problems, and heal. Listen in as they give a hands-on demo and share inspiring stories from Amanda's work, showing how play can unlock hope and healing for both kids and adults.

In this episode of the Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Tunezia Badger dives into the transformative framework known as CARE (Children And Residential Experiences) and how it's being implemented at Spero Family Services. Special guests Rich Hereshiak from Cornell University and Valerie Bundy from Spero share what CARE is, why it matters, and the positive changes it's bringing to individuals, families, and communities.

Together, they explore Spero’s journey to becoming a CARE organization, the impact it’s having on clients and staff, and what the future holds. Tune in to hear real stories of hope, growth, and community-driven support—plus, inspiring closing thoughts from both guests.

Join us for this enlightening episode of the Anchor of Hope podcast as we welcome two passionate advocates for early childhood development: Sunny Campbell, the Director at Bright Start Early Learning Center, and Tineka Doggan, an independent Developmental Therapist.

In this episode, Sunny shares insights on creating nurturing environments that foster children's growth and learning, highlighting innovative practices at Bright Start. Tineka brings her expertise in developmental therapy, explaining the early warning signs of possible developmental delays and how her visits to daycares like Bright Start empower educators and support children's unique needs.

Tune in as we explore the essential building blocks of early learning, the importance of collaboration in child development, and practical strategies for parents and educators alike. Whether you're a caregiver, educator, or simply passionate about children's success, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiring stories.

In this episode of the Anchor of Hope Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the transformative power of the YouthBuild program. Our host welcomes two incredible guests: Cheryl Young, the YouthBuild Program Manager at Spero Family Services, and London Kampwerth, a former YouthBuild participant.

London shares his story of joining YouthBuild at the age of 18, graduating in 2019, and using the skills he gained to pave the way for a bright future. After completing the program, London pursued higher education—a decision that ultimately led him to a fulfilling career as a heavy equipment operator. Now, he thrives in a role where he brings projects to life, embracing the satisfaction of seeing his hard work shape the world around him.

Tune in to hear how YouthBuild can be a life-changing stepping stone for others, offering not only education and job training but the confidence to dream big and achieve even bigger.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Anchor of Hope, we dive into the unique journey of foster care professionals who not only dedicate their careers to improving the lives of children but also open their hearts and homes as foster parents. Our guests, Taylor Stockman, supervisor of the Spero Family Services Foster Care program, and Kristen Malone, a foster care professional at Caritas Family Solutions, share their incredible stories and experiences. Taylor, a passionate advocate for children and families, discusses her dual role as a supervisor and a foster parent. Kristen is raising her four children, three of whom she adopted from the foster care system. She reflects on the joys and challenges of balancing her personal and professional life. Join us as these amazing women explore the rewards of fostering, the obstacles they’ve faced, and how their work in foster care has shaped their approach to parenting. Their stories will inspire you and shed light on the life-changing impact of fostering.

In this inspiring episode of the Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Carleka Spann welcomes two passionate leaders in spiritual development: Rev. Victor Long, pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon, and Rev. Gina Ellis, the Spiritual Life Coordinator at Spero Family Services.
Join us as we explore the vital role that nurturing spiritual connections plays in the lives of children and youth. Our guests share their unique experiences and insights on how to foster meaningful relationships with young individuals in a rapidly changing world. From innovative programs to heartfelt stories, you’ll discover practical strategies that can help guide the next generation toward a deeper understanding of their faith and purpose.

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In this episode of Anchor of Hope, we welcome Becca Chavez, Program Manager at Spero Family Services Counseling and Wellness Center, and Stephanie Bowdler, Assistant Director of Programs at One Hope United. As the holiday season approaches, the stress and mental health challenges can feel overwhelming. Becca and Stephanie provide valuable insights into navigating these pressures, emphasizing the importance of self-care. They share practical techniques to manage holiday stress, encourage listeners to prioritize their mental well-being, and remind us that it’s perfectly okay to say no and carve out time for ourselves. Tune in for a dose of mindfulness and strategies to make this holiday season a more joyful and balanced experience!

In this heartfelt episode of Anchor of Hope, we chat with Shanale Mason, United States of America Ms. Illinois, who shares her journey from humble beginnings in Southern Illinois to her crowning achievement. Shanale opens up about overcoming grief during her adolescence and the resilience it instilled in her. Her powerful message offers hope and empowerment, reminding today’s youth that there is always a path to healing and light even in the darkest times. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that uplifts and motivates!

In honor of Black Maternal Health week, we had a conversation about doulas and maternal health with 2 professionals in the field. Joining us are Jaime Richardson, Program Manager of Spero's Parents as Teachers program, a dedicated midwife, and an experienced doula. Alongside her is Chastity Mays, the passionate owner of Hathor Doula Services and a co-administrator at The Little Resource Center in Carbondale, Illinois.

Learn more about Doula Services:
https://www.sperofs.org/home-visiting/

https://www.hathordoulaservices.com/