In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Travis Vangsnes welcome Callie Priest, the director of strategic partnerships for WindShape Homes. They discuss the mission of WindShape Homes, which was founded by the founders of Chick-fil-A to support children in foster care. Callie shares her unique journey into the foster care space, emphasizing the importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care and provide support for vulnerable families. The conversation also covers the various programs and services offered by WindShape Homes, including their group care model and partnerships with churches to create supportive communities for foster families. Additionally, they introduce the new WindShape Homes podcast, aimed at raising awareness and sharing stories related to foster care.

In this conversation, Callie discusses the barriers to awareness in foster care, the importance of collaboration among organizations, and the challenges of competition in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for a redemptive narrative in foster care and highlights the essential needs of children in the system, particularly the importance of Christ in their lives. The discussion also touches on the role of organizations in creating a supportive ecosystem for foster care and the necessity of working together to improve outcomes for children.

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Takeaways

• WindShape Homes was founded to support children in foster care.
• Callie Priest has a background in nonprofit leadership and church ministry.
• The importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care.
• WindShape Homes offers a group care model and foster care services.
• The organization partners with churches to create a supportive community for foster families.
• Callie emphasizes the need for clinical care in foster care programs.
• WindShape Homes has expanded its services to include a child placing agency.
• The organization aims to provide stability and support for vulnerable families.
• Callie highlights the complexity of the foster care system.
• The launch of the WindShape Homes podcast aims to raise awareness and share stories. Awareness is a significant barrier in foster care.
• A redemptive narrative is needed in foster care discussions.
• Collaboration among organizations is crucial for success.
• Competition among nonprofits can hinder progress.
• Foster care requires a community effort for better outcomes.
• Children in foster care need stable families and access to the gospel.
• Organizations should focus on collective impact rather than individual branding.
• The foster care system is complex and requires diverse expertise.
• Healthy ecosystems in foster care can lead to better care.
• Generosity and cooperation are essential in the nonprofit sector.