Fostering Change (Rob Scheer)

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In Episode 2, Rob and Dana talk to foster care advocate Sonia Granados. Sonia appeared on the 4th season of the reality show "Married at First Sight" and quickly became a fan favorite as she revealed her passion for helping the homeless and youth in foster care. She currently works for a faith-based non-profit in Miami where she trains, licenses, and supports foster parents. In 2017, she hosted a podcast series in which she interviewed foster parents and former youth in foster care. Listen as she shares her thoughts about reunification, what she would like foster parents to know, and how the county in which she works has implemented some effective strategies for collaboration between birth parents and foster parents.

For more info, please visit www.comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk about “the trash bag” and why it is so important for people to understand why we must eliminate them from the foster care system. Rob reflects on how he felt as a 12-year-old boy carrying his belongings in a trash bag. They read letters from agencies that have received Comfort Cases and share the impact these cases have on children in care. Rob also pulled the numbers - wait until you hear how many Comfort Cases and Comfort XLs have been sent out this year alone!

We need your support to continue providing dignity and hope to youth in foster care. Please visit comfortcases.org for more info about our mission and to find out how you can help.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Comfort Cases Junior Ambassador and former Little Miss United States Aryonna Martin. At just 10 years old, Aryonna is teaching other children about the foster care system and inspiring them to give back to their communities. She and her mom Michelle talk about why Aryonna chose to support Comfort Cases and all the work they have done to help youth in foster care in their home state of West Virginia.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Whitney Gilliard. Whitney spent her teenage years in the foster care system, mostly in group homes and juvenile detention centers, and now dedicates her time to helping youth who are aging out of care. She and her husband Maurice run a transitional housing program for 18-21 year olds to help them learn life skills and self-sufficiency. Listen as Whitney talks about the abuse she suffered as a child, where she found her strength, and how you can get involved to support her organization.

Please visit comfortcases.org/podcast for more info.

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In this episode Rob and Dana talk to adoptive father and foster care advocate Barry Farmer. Barry is a single dad who adopted 3 boys out of foster care. His story is also unique because he became a foster parent at the age of 20 and he is an African American man raising three white children. Barry was raised by his grandmother and talks about kinship care as well as the challenges he's faced raising his 3 boys. His story went viral a few years back and he has been featured in multiple local and national media outlets.

For more info please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to mother and daughter philanthropy team Elaine and Nina Keltz. At just 5 years old, Nina helped organize a fashion show to benefit youth in foster care. Now at age 10, she volunteers for Comfort Cases among other charities. Elaine Keltz was named Mrs. Washington, DC in 2015 and has continued to use her platform to empower women to become leaders and to focus on giving back to their communities. Together they talk about empathy, kindness, and the joy that comes from helping others.

For more information, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Kimberly Raff. Kimberly is the founder of Foster Alumni Mentors, an organization that provides assistance to young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. Having aged out of foster care herself, Kimberly understands the need for "wrap around services" for young adults who lack the support they need to transition into adulthood. Not only does her organization help young people with housing assistance and filling out college paperwork, they also provide emotional support and encouragement for the youth they serve.

Please visit comfortcases.org/podcast for more information.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana welcome government relations consultant Maureen Flatley. Maureen offers her unique insight into how the system actually works on the federal and state level and where she sees the disconnect between legislation that is passed and implementation. She talks about the for-profit foster care sector, the lack of accountability, and how she believes advocacy groups can make a difference.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

Maureen Flatley is a Boston based government relations and strategic consultant.  Best known for her expertise in government reform and oversight of adoption and child welfare her work has included advocacy for children and families in a variety of areas. Using a broad bi-partisan array of relationships on Capitol Hill she has focused her attention on the nexus between individual injustice and large-scale system reform.  In that capacity she has advised public and private agencies, corporations and non-profits, attorneys, families and children.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to speaker and author Carlotta Taylor.

Carlotta shares her story of growing up with an abusive father, escaping with her mother, and ending up in foster care during her teenage years. She credits the grace of God for helping her through the early years of her life and she writes about letting go of her painful past in the book, “No More Flinching: 5 Steps to Overcoming Adversity”. She is also the founder "Somebody Step In”, a non-profit that supports youth and former youth in foster care.

For more info please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Adoptions Together founder Janice Goldwater.

Adoptions Together has placed nearly 8,000 children in permanent homes since it’s inception in 1990. Janice founded the organization with the idea that all children deserve a loving home regardless of their age, race, or ability, and that all stable adults who want to be parents should have the opportunity, regardless of sexual orientation or marital status.

Listen as Janice explains the various ways in which Adoptions Together works to find loving homes and supports children who have experienced trauma along with their families. She also shares some success stories and her own journey as an adoptive mother.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Steve and Rob Anderson-McLean about their amazing adoption story. They knew they wanted to grow their family by adopting from foster care, but they didn’t plan on falling in love with 6 siblings from Ohio until they saw their photos. Steve and Rob talk about the foster-to-adopt process, what happened when they first met the kids, and what the first day as a family of 8 was like.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Rob's husband and Comfort Cases co-founder Reece Scheer. Together, Rob and Reece talk about their foster-to-adopt journey and what made them decide to grow their forever family by adopting from the foster care system. They share some of the struggles they faced on their journey and how their four children have brought so much joy to their lives.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Noah Ehlert. Noah grew up in and out of the foster care system and discovered a passion for cycling when a friend's mother gave him a bicycle when he was a teenager. Now a father of three, Noah is embarking on a bike tour from San Diego, CA to St. Petersburg, FL to share his story and inspire youth in foster care. He will spend two months riding his bike across the southern part of the country, speaking at various group homes along the way... and we'll be delivering Comfort Cases to the kids at every stop. Listen as Noah tells the story of his childhood and why he is seeking to share it with kids who are currently in care.

Learn more at comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to author, speaker, and foster care advocate LaTasha Watts. LaTasha is the founder of The Purple Project, a yearly conference that brings teens in foster care together for workshops and to share their experiences. LaTasha spent most of her childhood in foster care, suffered horrible abuse, battled cancer, and has now dedicated her life to helping youth who are aging out of foster care.

For more information, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Monica Pantoja, Executive Director of the Nsoro Foundation. The Nsoro Foundation provides scholarships and other services to former youth in foster care who aged out of the system. They currently have 268 students enrolled in their program attending colleges in 31 states. The Nsoro Foundation believes that education is the great equalizer and that youth who have aged out of foster care just need a support system to help them thrive and get a college education. Listen as Monica tells the inspiring story of how the foundation came to be, the services they provide, and how successful their students have been.

For more visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana close out 2019 with a look ahead at 2020. They talk about 3 new items that will be added to Comfort Cases beginning in January. They also discuss all of the ways supporters near and far can help Comfort Cases. From becoming a Social Media Ambassador, to hosting a donation drive, volunteering at our center, or taking a second to set up an Amazon Smile account, everyone can do something to make a difference in the lives of children in foster care.

For more info on the things discussed in this episode, visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Kate Davenport, LCSW-C. Kate is a foster parent recruiter and trainer in Montgomery County, Maryland. She talks about how to become a foster parent, what some of the requirements are, and she answers questions about the process.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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When you give to Comfort Cases, you're not just supporting our mission to eliminate the use of trash bags in the foster care system, you are also supporting the advocacy work we do to bring about real change.

Rob Scheer is a leading advocate for youth in foster care. He knows first-hand what it feels like to struggle with feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and depression. He travels the country to share his story and works tirelessly to educate policymakers and the public about the experiences of children in the system.

In this episode, Rob and Dana talk about some of the ways in which Comfort Cases is making change, whether it’s speaking about foster care to a crowd of many or making an impact on one child in the system.

Rob also shares how the work of running this charity can sometimes weigh heavy on his heart, and he reads a touching message that he received at just the right time.

You’ll also hear about what our biggest expense is, how many agencies are currently waiting to receive Comfort Cases, and some ways in which you can help.

Correction: At the beginning of the podcast, Dana mentions that we gave over 95,000 Comfort Cases and Comfort XL last year. She misspoke - that is the total since we were founded in 2013. In 2019, we distributed over 38,000 Comfort Cases and Comfort XL to children in foster care.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to fellow advocates Whitney Gilliard and Kimberly Raff about the “give your used suitcases to foster kids” post that recently went viral. While we all appreciate the attention to the horrible practice of giving trash bags to children in foster care, and we believe it was shared with the best of intentions, we also feel a responsibility to educate the public about why it’s important to give new items to youth in foster care.

Read more at comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob checks in with Noah Ehlert as he prepares to begin his “Discover Your Path” bike tour across the country. Noah spent time in foster care and lived in a group home when he was 11 years old. Now an adult with children of his own, Noah decided he wanted to share his story with kids currently in the system in the hopes of showing them that there is light on the other side of their current struggles.

Read more at ComfortCases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Jessica and Brittany about their journey to becoming foster parents. As they await their first placement, Jess and Britt share why they decided to become foster parents, their hopes and fears about being new moms, and how they plan to deal with the "hard stuff" that comes with parenting children who have experienced trauma.

Please visit comfortcases.org/podcast to learn more.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk about the upcoming 6th Annual Comfort Cases Gala. The Gala is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and our supporters from all across the country can help make it a success - even if you don’t live in the DC area!

For more info visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to foster mom and former CASA Brittany Burcham.

A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate assigned to a child in foster care. Brittany does an amazing job explaining what it’s like to be a CASA and what a fulfilling experience it was for her. If you want to help children in foster care but you can’t be a foster parent, becoming a CASA could be right for you.

Brittany is now a foster mom focused on caring for and mentoring teenage girls.

For more info please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana welcome author and foster care advocate Shenandoah Chefalo.

Shen talks about the process of writing her book “Garbage Bag Suitcase” and how she was able to open up about her childhood spent in foster care. She also talks about the fact that approximately 4,600 children go missing from foster care every year and for the most part, nobody tries to find them.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana check in with Noah Ehlert as he hits the half way point of his Discover Your Path Tour. Noah is riding his bike from San Diego, CA to St. Petersburg, FL, visiting group homes along the way to inspire and mentor teens in foster care. Noah gets emotional as he talks about what this tour has meant to him and how he knows he’s been having an impact on the youth he’s spoken to throughout his journey.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Alia Innovations founder Dr. Amelia Franck Meyer. Alia is working to reform the child welfare system with a focus on keeping families together. She talks about how there is no evidence to show that removing children from their biological families is beneficial and how fostering the family is a lot more effective for positive outcomes.

Please visit comfortcases.org/podcast for more info.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana welcome child welfare advocate Maureen Flatley back to the podcast. So many aspects of the foster care system have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis as many resources have been limited or shut down completely. In addition, former foster youth who have aged out and are now in college have been forced into shelters as dorms have closed down.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk with founder and CEO of The Handbag Awards, Emily Blumenthal. Emily heard Rob’s story a few years ago and was so moved by it, she invited him to speak at her annual event for handbag designers in New York City. Not only is Emily a successful businesswoman, she also prioritizes giving back and loves finding creative ways to use her connections and influence to encourage other companies to do the same.

Read more at comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana welcome author and motivational speaker Leigh Anne Tuohy. As the mother of an adopted son from foster care who went on to become a Super Bowl champion, Leigh Anne knows first-hand how the loving support of a family can change a child’s life. The story of her son Michael Oher and the Tuohy family was depicted in the 2009 movie “The Blind Side”. Sandra Bullock won her first Academy Award for her portrayal of Leigh Anne in the film.

Listen as Leigh Anne shares her insight into what we as individuals, and together as a community, can do to improve the lives of children in foster care.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk with Whitney GIlliard about how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted youth aging out of foster care. Whitney is the founder of Gilliard & Co, a nonprofit that provides mentoring and wrap-around support for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. She talks about the various things she’s been helping kids in her program deal with and how the community has rallied together to help.

For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to It’s a 10 Haircare founder and CEO Carolyn Aronson. When she was an infant, Carolyn and her 11 siblings were removed from their mother’s home and placed in foster care. At the age of 2, she and one of her biological brothers were adopted into a loving family. At 26, she set out on a mission to find her biological family and 9 months later they met.

Caroyln has been a big supporter of Comfort Cases for the last several years and has made philanthropy a part of her company’s mission.

Listen as Caroyln tells her story about being taken from her home, adopted, growing up as a Puerto Rican girl with a white family, and what it was like to meet her biological mother and siblings after over 25 years.

She also talks about why it’s so important to give back and how It’s a 10 has been helping during the COVID-19 crisis.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to mom and author Keri Vellis.

Keri’s incredible story was recently featured in People Magazine. When she became a foster mom, Keri tried to find children’s books about being in foster care and she realized there wasn’t much out there. She decided to write a book herself… and a few years later she wrote another one.

Keri talks about what inspired her to be a foster parent, how she advocates for her special needs son, and how she educates her community about foster care.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Dan Shufelt, CEO of Arizona Helping Hands.

Arizona Helping Hands supports thousands of foster families throughout the state of Arizona. They provide everything from cribs and diapers to birthday gifts and bicycles. So far in 2020, they have distributed over 1,100 beds to foster parents. They also supply potential foster parents with items they need to pass the foster parent licensing inspection.

There are over 14,000 children in foster care in the state of Arizona and Dan talks about the positive impact his organization has had on the child welfare system. He also explains how Arizona Helping Hands receives funding directly from the state taxpayers as part of a program passed into law in 2013.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Smirna Savino. Smirna told some of her story at our Comfort Cases Gala in 2018 and shares more with us on this podcast. She is one of 14 children, all of whom were removed from their mother and separated. Smirna was the only one to live with family for a few years, she was sent to live with her aunt and uncle. At the age of 5, she went into foster care. She reunited with her birth mother when she was 38 years old. One of her biological sisters is Carolyn Aronson whom we spoke with in Episode 41.

Smirna talks about life with her aunt and uncle, her foster family, and what it was like to be reunited with her mother and siblings as an adult.

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On this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Ivymarie Washington about her journey in foster care and how she became a part of the Foster Strong organization.

Ivy and her older brother were removed from their parents’ home when she was 6 years old. They were placed in a children’s home for the maximum 180 days and were then placed in a foster home when she was 7. She remained in that foster home until she aged out of care at the age of 18.

She currently works as a foster care and adoption specialist at the agency that placed her when she was in care.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to married couple Alexis Lenderman-Black and Justin Black. Both Alexis and Justin spent time in foster care and are now advocates for children in the system. They are getting ready to release their first book, Redefining Normal, in November. The book is about how they overcame difficult childhoods and learned how to have a healthy relationship with each other.

Listen as they share their stories and talk about their lives growing up, how they met, and what to expect from their upcoming book.

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On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob and Dana talk to Foster Boy creator and attorney Jay Paul Deratany. Set to be released this weekend, Foster Boy tells the story of a teenage boy who was failed by the foster care system. Combining his passion for acting, writing, and advocating for children in foster care, Jay Paul wrote this film in the hopes of inspiring people to take action to change the system.

Through his work as a personal injury attorney, Jay Paul has seen the devastating impact of the foster care system on children it is supposed to care for. He talks about how the for-profit foster care agencies make money on the backs of children and shares some stories about children he has represented.

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On this week’s Fostering Change podcast, Rob and Dana talk to Foster Care Institute founder John DeGarmo. As a foster and adoptive father, author, and industry consultant, John offers his insight on a number of child welfare issues.

He created the Foster Care Institute after experiencing frustration with the system and lack of support as a foster parent. His training programs are used by child welfare agencies all over the country to educate both staff and foster parents.

John and his wife have been foster parents to 60 children over the last 20 years. In his 2019 TedXTalk, he tells the story of one of those children whom the system failed.

John also talks about the importance of foster parent support groups and how he deals with the heartbreak and stress of caring for children who have experienced trauma.

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On this week’s Fostering Change podcast, Rob and Dana talk to author and foster care survivor Sasha Martin.

Sasha spent the first ten years of her life going back and forth between living with her mom and living in various foster homes. When she was 10 years old, she went to live with a family friend who became her permanent guardian. A few years later, they moved to Paris and then Luxemburg.

Years later and after becoming a mother herself, Sasha discovered a love for cooking and set a goal to make a meal from every country in the world. She documented her recipes and stories and National Geographic published her book, Life from Scratch, in 2015.

Listen as Sasha talks about her experiences in foster care, suffering tragic losses in her life, and how she found peace and belonging through a love of cooking.

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This week Rob and Dana talk to foster care advocate and former pro-football player Gaelin Elmore. First removed from his parents’ home at 10 months old, Gaelin spent several years in and out of foster care. When he was 16, his high school football coach became his legal guardian. He earned a scholarship to play football in college and in 2017 he signed a contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. After playing one season, he decided to retire when he realized that a career in the NFL just wasn’t right for him.

Listen as Gaelin talks about his childhood, his emotional journey during his time with the NFL, what he’s doing now to help children in foster care, and his hopes for the future.

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November is National Adoption Awareness Month and we are looking forward to featuring guests with various adoption experiences.

Today Rob and Dana welcome April Dinwoodie, a writer, coach, consultant, and host of the Born In June, Raised In April podcast. As a woman of color who was adopted into a white family, April offers her insight into the complexities of transracial adoption.

Learn more about April at www.aprildinwoodie.com.

Shop our Comfort Cases Gifts That Give Back Shop to get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merch! Every purchase gives an item to a child in foster care. www.comfortcases.org/shop

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This week we welcome Alexis and Justin Black back to the Fostering Change podcast.

Alexis and Justin are newlyweds who both grew up in foster care. In their first novel, Redefining Normal: How Two Foster Kids Beat the Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness, and Love, Alexis and Justin reveal how they overcame traumatic childhoods and developed a healthy relationship.

Listen as they share some details about writing the book and how they hope it will help others. Alexis also talks about being adopted at the age of 26 and why it was so important that her foster parents become her legal parents years after she “aged out” of the foster care system.

To learn more about Comfort Cases and our mission, visit www.comfortcases.org.

Get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merch in our Gifts That Give Back shop - www.comfortcases.org/shop - for every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care.

Thank you for listening and please be sure to leave us a review!

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As part of our National Adoption Awareness Month series, this week’s podcast features author and foster care adoption advocate Marcy Bursac.

Marcy adopted her two children from foster care and just released a book, The Forgotten Adoption Option, which serves as a guide to adopting from foster care. Marcy talks about why she decided to adopt from foster care, how she met her children, and how they are thriving despite all of the trauma they experienced with their birth parents.

The Forgotten Adoption Option focuses on both making the decision to adopt from foster care and how to navigate the system and get through the process. She explains how adopting from foster care is much more affordable and can take less time than waiting to adopt an infant both internationally and domestically.

Pre-order The Forgotten Adoption Option:

Amazon - Ships January 1, 2021

Barnes & Noble - Ships January 1, 2021

Google Play - Audiobook

Chirp - Audiobook

Kobo - Audiobook

Scribd - Audiobook

Follow Marcy on her Facebook page.

Shop our Comfort Cases "Gifts That Give Back" store to get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merchandise.

For every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care. www.comfortcases.org/shop.

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In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to siblings Stephanie and Beatriz who were separated during their time in foster care. With 8 years between them, they had very different experiences and only lived in the same household with a relative for a very short time. They are now very close and also maintain relationships with their other 4 siblings. Listen as they talk about the struggles their biological mom faced and how they overcame all of the challenges in their young lives.

Learn more about our mission at comfortcases.org.

Shop for BE A GOOD HUMAN merch at comfortcases.org/shop. For every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care.

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On this week's episode, Rob and Dana talk to Rob C. and J-Hawk from Fall Forward Radio, a new podcast focused on highlighting people doing big things to help their communities. When Rob and Jay heard about Comfort Cases they knew they had to use their platform to help. They invited Rob Scheer to be one of the first guests on their podcast, and then they took to TikTok to raise money. Having never hosted a fundraiser like this before, Rob and Jay weren't sure what to expect... But they set a goal of $12,000 and ended up raising $14,000. They wanted to see what we do at Comfort Cases first-hand, so they flew from Florida to tour the center and present us with a check. Listen as they talk about what inspired them to start their podcast and how they plan to use their show to keep the positive momentum going.

Fall Forward Radio website

Fall Forward Radio on Instagram

Fall Forward Radio on Facebook

Rob Scheer on the Fall Forward Radio podcast

Get your BE A GOOD HUMAN shirts, hoodies, masks, and mugs in our Gifts That Give Back Shop at comfortcases.org/shop

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On this week's episode, Rob is with special guest Barrie Carr. As Fostering change prepares to launch season 2 of the podcast, Barrie and Rob discuss the previous season and what to expect in the new season! Amazing guests, touching testimonials, intriguing ideas, and more!

Get your BE A GOOD HUMAN shirts, hoodies, masks, and mugs in our Gifts That Give Back Shop at comfortcases.org/shop

Subscribe to Fostering Change on your favorite podcast app and please be sure to leave us a review.

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts - You may have to search for “Fostering Change” as the link sometimes does not go directly to our podcast.

iHeartRadio

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Contact us - info@comfortcases.org

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In this episode, Rob reconnects with a longtime friend Noah Ehlert discuss a variety of subjects and discuss Noah's recent adventures as well as future aspirations. They discuss Noah's bike journey across the United states and some of the experiences he encountered along the way. It's a very emotional piece and definitely worth the listen as we learn about the trama youth in the foster care system face.

You can listen to the episode in the player here or subscribe on your favorite podcast app linked below. Please be sure to leave us a review as it will greatly help us spread the word!

We are booking guests for upcoming episodes now. If you have a story to tell as it relates to foster care, please email blog@comfortcases.org.

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Please click here to read the full statement regarding Comfort Cases mission as it relates to helping migrant children entering the United States foster care system.

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Rob Chats with Caroline Boudreaux from Miracle Foundation and what an impact they have made round the world. 

Caroline recaps her trip to India that inspired the start of the Miracle Foundation. Her story includes an emotional recap of holding children in villages on Mother’s day.

They discuss topic of OPC “Other People’s Children” and how everyone needs to realize every child matters. “It’s not where they lay their head, It’s if they have a place to lay their head on.” - Rob Scheer

Caroline shares background on how she helped raise the care n 300 orphanages. “The minute a child enters the system, the damage its already done.” - Caroline Boudreaux

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Rob gives some background on how Ben has been giving back and how despite his fame and celebrity he has felt alone at times.

Ben talks all about writing his book “Alone in Plain Sight” and explains his thoughts about “shared pain”

Together they discuss ego and how to recognize and mange it.

We also learn more about the origins and operations of Generous Coffee and generous movement!

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Rob and Jessica take about what has been happening at Connect our kids over thee last year and how Covid has affected their operation. 

Jessica talks about their co founder and the lack of technology in the foster care system. Currently it takes 8 days to end an extended family member, but with connect our kids technology the same process can be completed in 30 seconds!

In the second half Rob and Jessica talk more about relationships and how difficult it can be for foster children to develop relationships. 

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Mike talks about activating endangered animals as heroes to inspire and teach youth.

They talk about their two main heroes the Slow loris and the Red Panda.

April 18 is a big event for Protectors of the endangered! Lot’s of fun activities are planned that will support the cause!

protectorsoftheendangered.org

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Rob shares a story of how a teacher made a major impact on his life before introducing Kyle Tolsyka, music teacher, musician and the author of "Where do I fit?"

Kyle, talks about his inspiration and motivation to write the book and hints that there might be another book in the future!

After the break Kyle even reads the book!

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About the Guest:

Willy Bolander - www.willybolander.com

Father of 8 children, 7 adopted from foster care.

Founder of non-profit, Go Foster! (2013-2019)

In the Episode :

Willy discusses his experience in recruiting and retaining foster parents via Go Foster! The idea was born as a research idea in Florida, where they discovered a huge need for improvements in the existing system. He talks about the lack of understanding by everyone involved about how to foster recruiting.

Rob talks about his state funding billboard advertisements near bus stops and how it is appalling to him.

They discuss the topic of religion, the role it plays in the adoption process and some of the barriers that can be put in the path to connecting kids with forever homes.

After the break, Rob mentions some of his experiences with different agencies and their random requirements and disqualifiers.

Willy shares his opinion that agencies funded by the state should “shut up” when it comes to their personal beliefs and using those personal beliefs to disqualify potential families.

The pair talk about something they have in common, adoption of an adult child!

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The problems in the foster care system are not only a problem in America but all over the world, and the fact that children leave foster care with a trash bag, a rubbish bag, or a bin bag is heartbreaking. Rob, the founder and CEO of the Comfort Cases organization explains the importance of taking the initiative and get involved!

A goodwill campaign, YDWD (“You Donate, We Deliver”) was operating in the UK during the height of the pandemic. The initial contact among both parties’ organizers eventually led to the idea for cooperation between the two. ‘Comfort Cases’ and YDWDs’ decided to expand the Comfort Cases mission together. Now Katie, Sarah, and Rich, together with a group of 9 other individuals are now a part of the team.

When first talking to Sarah, Rob was thrilled to find out that YDWD delivered 100.000 meals. The number itself shows all the effort they put in. 

The number of children in the foster care system is overwhelming. There are 96,000 in the foster care system in the UK and 438,000 in the USA. One of the problems with care leavers in the UK is that when they reach the age of 18, they are no longer wanted in the care homes. Foster children in the UK often have 3 placements a year. According to Richard, one of the driving principles is bringing light to the issue as it exists globally.

The Foster Care Fortnight UK is the biggest foster care awareness raising campaign whose idea is to help people understand and value fostering, and acknowledge the positive impact that it can have on the lives of children. Richard explains how he, prior to learning about comfort cases, was largely unaware of the situation in the UK, and around the world in general. It is worth mentioning that Comfort Cases UK is launching with 70+ cases, to be delivered in May.

The ‘tag still on them’ is a touching story about Rob and his daughter when she got her first ever new pajamas.

You can find more details about all the events on our Facebook page, Instagram profile, and Twitter

On the following links

http://www.comfortcases.org/

https://www.facebook.com/Comfort-Cases-UK-101986278711820

https://www.instagram.com/comfortcasesuk/

For any additional information on all our projects, you are welcome to send us an email at Hello@comfortcasesuk.org

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Richard Krulik, CEO of Briggs & Riley, is the special guest this week on the Fostering Change Podcast. Rob and Richard talk about A Case for Giving event and the history of this charitable program.

700 is the average number of foster care kids entering the system each day in the US. None of those children are in foster care by a choice they made and not one of them would choose that for themselves. They need to know that they matter, they are not invisible nor disposable.

Briggs & Riley, a luggage company, showed that a bag can change one's life for the better. Richard, the CEO of the company explains how they, for about 10 years, have been replacing the foster children’s trash bags with a piece of luggage.

They are running an amazing program, where people can bring any brand of usable luggage into a retail store to give it a “second life”, a second purpose and help sustainability as well. Donors get a credit that can be applied to the purchase of a Briggs & Riley bag. Then, their bag is donated to a local foster home or a battered women’s shelter.

Now together with Comfort Cases, Briggs & Riley is creating an opportunity for the program to expand to a nationwide network of foster homes.

Up until last year Comfort Cases had delivered over 150,000 comfort cases in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, without the help of a lot of corporate sponsors. Briggs & Riley is the one that decided to stand next to Comfort Cases and weather the storm of Foster Care.

Richard thinks that we can really make a difference as a collective group. Social good and collective power of a group of people combined with a company can make a difference to improve the lives of those around us. Helping the kids that are finding their forever home is an initiative and effort that they took on as a company. Richard encourages other companies to think and do the same so the world can be better tomorrow than it was yesterday. 

Investing in a child in foster care is investing in our future. 30 000 children a year are aging out of foster care and 70% of them become homeless. But by giving them usable luggage instead of a trash bag can make a lot of difference in how they feel.

If everybody were to do a couple of little things on a consistent basis, it could really move the needle. So all the puzzle pieces come together nicely and come up with some ways to make the world a better place. Just do one thing a day and you too can make a difference.

When you donate a gently used piece of Briggs & Riley luggage to a participating retailer, Briggs & Riley will restore and deliver these bags to a local foster care agency. Donors will also receive up to $100 credit towards their Briggs & Riley luggage purchase. Visit https://www.briggs-riley.com/pages/a-...​ to sustainably support children in your community.

https://www.facebook.com/BriggsandRiley/

https://www.instagram.com/briggsandriley

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In this episode we are talking about Fostering Change, a platform where we speak about foster care and adoption with the CEO and president of the Dave Thomas foundation for Adoption, Rita Soronen.

Rita’s foundation is expanding with their signature adoption program: Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program that started in 2004, and celebrated 10.000 adoptions last year. Through this platform, not only do they raise awareness but it is also about emerging best practices across the country. They created the program Child Focus Recruitment, based on some emerging social practices.

Why are so many kids in foster care? Is foster care the answer? There are many cases of abuse, abandonment, neglect, but the ones that are the most concerning are the cases of kids who aged out of the system and are on their own once they must leave the foster care. One might think that these kids are doing just fine being out there on their own, but we forget they are not permitted to make a mistake since they have no one to lean on.

Every child deserves to have permanency and a foundation, but not all kids are lucky enough to find their forever family. We are truly hoping that we will find even more strategies to find homes with people who are ready to open up their hearts.

They are OUR children and we have to advocate for them since change comes about when we talk about it!

davethomasfoundation.org

facebook.com/DaveThomasFoundationforAdoption/

IG and Twitter @dtfa

linkedin.com/company/dave-thomas-foundation-for-adoption/

#FosterCareAdoption

#AdoptionAdvocate

#AdoptionAwareness

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Daniel Hall was a boy whose mother had brain cancer and his father couldn’t take care of the 5 kids. His 2 brothers and himself were sent to an abusive foster home where he was beaten, starved and terrified of the situation but didn’t know how to get out of it. He was lucky enough to be adopted but unfortunately his brothers aged out of the system.

By age 13, Dan was teaching college grads how to write software in a small Vermont town. Dan also teaches foster parents how it is to be in the system. He met his older brother who graduated from high school when he was 16 and became best friends until he passed away.

Statistics say only 54% of children in foster care graduate from high school.

Knowing about baggage, Rob explains how it feels to finally have a forever family and no matter what kind of baggage adopted kids come with, the love that parents have in their heart is what makes it all worth it. Daniel is showing his kids that no matter how hard it is, it is not a failure and he is always there for them. His and his wife's goal is to teach the kids to be always there for each other after they are gone.

If it was up to Dan, he would send the kids out of the system with some dignity. But it wouldn’t happen without the community. Your community is not your zip code but the human race.

Website: http://www.danielbhall.com/

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On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob starts off talking about making his heart smile! His special guest Connie Going is always there for him when he needs to reach out!

They start talking about the challenges of the Covid pandemic. Connie explains more about Family Blooms, and how they provide assistance for mothers. It's essential to empower mothers to reach supports on their own and to not be another victim.

Rob believes we must invest in our community, in the form of investing in the families.

Family Blooms is moving into the heart of St. Petersburg. They've also added child welfare navigation.

Connie talks about her son's amazing story and a little about her own background as well. She had to fight the system to adopt him. Now he is at the culinary

Institute of America in his third semester and possibly receiving an internship in Aspen, Colorado.

The second half is a very emotional segment as Rob and Connie dive deep on their own personal experiences and feelings.

Facebook

ConnieGoing.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063635084226

Support group for Adoptive Parents EVERY Thursday night at 9pm EST

ConnieGoing.com Adoptive Support Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1667568840204821

Family Blooms: International Center for Adoption and Surrogacy

https://www.facebook.com/FamilyBloomsCenter

Twitter: @GoingConnie

Instagram: @conniegoing        @familyblooms2019  

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This is a story about parents that faced an unknown situation with a tragic

outcome. They lead us through the troubles they experience and how they manage

to deal with everything.

We meet Gideon and Jeanne, a couple full of positive energy and hope, who

Through their story, they introduce us to their firstborn son Blaze. They named him after

Blaise Pascal, which seems like an irony to them now, and as a young boy he was

capable, talented, loving and kind. His creativity was the sign of an artist that was

committed and brilliant.

At some point in his late teens, Jeanne asked Blaze about his sexuality. He did not want to talk about it, as he was coming into his own as a young gay man. They were very open minded and respected his boundaries. They believe that the biggest problem was with community and constant bullying that Blaze experienced. They were part of the community that did not have any experience with diversity, especially in public schools. Due to this they were trying to find solutions in sending him to a school that was more open to him, where he could focus on his artistic and academic skills. Still, he managed to deal with all the problems and had a promising life in front of him.

Unfortunately in 2018, at the age of just 20, home from college for the holidays, Blaze went missing. After more than a week of searching, his body was found less than a mile from home. He was murdered: a victim of a hate crime. 

After a time of grief and thinking about what they could have done differently,

they realized that they need to focus on the future. They wish that they were more

proactive at the moment about his situation. Due to that, they are now working hard

toward achieving that community embrace differences, as that is the only way of

moving forward.

Jeanne believes that it is enough if you manage to change at least one

person. She explains that our influence and experience can help someone in their

hard times, and if it helps only one person it is enough. It will change their life and

from that moment can have a rippling effect on the whole community and world.

For more information, please visit: blazebernstein.org and join the Facebook Group: #BlazeItForward

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Join us as we interview with Matthew Everett. Matthew father to Kaitlyn and Ethan as well as the co-creator and executive producer of World of Dance with Jennifer Lopez on NBC. As CEO for World of Dance, which boasts over 20 million followers online, he built one of the world’s preeminent dance entertainment brands, celebrating creative self expression and uniting the world through artistry and motion. 

We chat about Being a dad and the current focus of World of Dance Studios,

nurturing creative environments at home and work. We also get to learn more about World of Dance Studio in Tokyo!!

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On this episode we get to sit down and catch up with Robert Selby and Glen Henry!

Robert Selby is a full time father of a CHD warrior named Chace Elijah. Together they shine light on the medical needs community to help bring awareness with a positive spin to the CHD and Gtube community via social media in hopes to let people around the world know that they’re Never in a Fight Alone.

Glen Henry is a father, husband, creator, musician, author, emcee, CEO, and mentor. He began on YouTube in 2015, documenting his journey as a stay at home father. Six years later, he has appeared in films alongside Will Smith, written children’s books, launched a multi-venture company, co-hosted a podcast with his wife of ten years, Yvette Henry, and added two more children for a total of four tiny humans who inspire him in all his endeavors. His company, Beleaf in Fatherhood, is centered around creating content to equip fathers, bring hope to mothers, and inspire children.

We get into all the aspects of being a dad and catch up on their stories! Amazing Episode!

To continue the story, follow Glen Henry on Social Media:

Website : https://www.beleafinfatherhood.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeleafMel/

Twitter:Glen (@BeleafMel) | Twitterhttps://twitter.com › beleafmel

Instagram: @beleafmel https://www.instagram.com/beleafmel/?hl=en

YouTube: Beleaf In Fatherhood - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › channel

TikTok: Beleaf N' Family (@beleafinfatherhood)

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On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Sharlee Jeter.

Sharlee Jeter is the author of the book “The Stuff: Unlock Your Power to Overcome Challenges, Soar, and Succeed” and President of the Turn 2 Foundation. Both her book and foundation are focused on youth achieving their potential through academic success, social support, and leadership development. 

Sharlee’s brother, Derek Jeter wanted to start a non-profit foundation. As their father was a drug and alcohol abuse counselor, they decided that due to his background, they need to support young people in their journey to success and try to help as many children as possible. 

Their foundation started small, operating from the basement of their house, and now have been operating for 25 years! They can be proud of the fact that they achieved a 100 percent rate of high school graduation for their beneficiary. This foundation is all about giving back, and it shows as we can see that many of their previous beneficiaries return to them to help them.

Her book is focused on the fact that we need to know it from youth that we have the stuff in us and that way fear is removed. She states that people lower the bar for people in need (kids in the system) and that way sets their limits.

She explains that it is just about saying to yourself you can do it, overcoming fear about

doing something and believing you can do it. Sharlee concludes that adults need to stop lowering the bar and limiting young people that way, but to inspire them and raise that bar higher. Kids want to do well and make someone proud, which would fulfil them and help them with growing up. She believes that kids need to go out and find someone who believes in them for support.

Instagram : www.instagram.com/sjeter2 

Website :  www.thestuffmovement.com 

 www.turn2foundation.org

The Stuff: Unlock Your Power to Overcome Challenges, Soar, and Succeed : https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Stuff/Sharlee-Jeter/9781501175152 

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On today's episode we sit down and chat with David Simnick and we learn about a project that he has been working on for six years! This is a Big BIG episode.

David Simnick is the Co-founder & CEO of Soapbox. He is an American University alumnus who graduated in 2009 with a BA in interdisciplinary studies in Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics and Government with a minor in Economics. He pursued a MA degree in 2010 from the University of Pennsylvania in Education, but paused his educational career to launch Soapbox.

Wash your hands!

Soapbox Products : Products

David Simnick Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/david.simnick

David Simnick Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/davidsimnick/

Soapbox Website : https://www.soapboxsoaps.com

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On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Dr. Bruce Perry about Trauma, Resilience, And Healing

Dr. Perry is the Principal of the Neurosequential Network, Senior Fellow of The ChildTrauma Academy and a Professor (Adjunct) in the Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago and the School of Allied Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria  Australia. 

Over the last thirty years, Dr. Perry has been an active teacher, clinician and researcher in children’s mental health and the neurosciences holding a variety of academic positions. His work on the impact of abuse, neglect and trauma on the developing brain has impacted clinical practice, programs and policy across the world. Dr. Perry is the author, with Maia Szalavitz, of The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog, a bestselling book based on his work with maltreated children and Born For Love: Why Empathy is Essential and Endangered. Dr. Perry's most recent book, What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, co-authored with Oprah Winfrey was released in 2021. 

Dr. Perry was on the faculty of the Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry at the University of Chicago School of Medicine from 1988 to 1991. From 1992 to 2001, Dr. Perry served as the Trammell Research Professor of Child Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. During this time, Dr. Perry also was Chief of Psychiatry for Texas Children's Hospital and Vice-Chairman for Research within the Department of Psychiatry. From 2001 to 2003, Dr. Perry served as the Medical Director for Provincial Programs in Children's Mental Health for the Alberta Mental Health Board. He continues to consult with the government of Alberta on children’s issues and serves as a founding member of the Premier’s Council of Alberta’s Promise. 

​

Dr. Perry has conducted both basic neuroscience and clinical research. His neuroscience research has examined the effects of prenatal drug exposure on brain development, the neurobiology of human neuropsychiatric disorders, the neurophysiology of traumatic life events and basic mechanisms related to the development of neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. His clinical research and practice has focused on high-risk children. This work has examined the cognitive, behavioral, emotional, social, and physiological effects of neglect and trauma in children, adolescents and adults. This work has been instrumental in describing how childhood experiences, including neglect and traumatic stress, change the biology of the brain – and, thereby, the health of the child. 

His clinical research over the last twenty years has been focused on integrating emerging principles of developmental neuroscience into clinical practice. This work has resulted in the development of innovative clinical practices and programs working with maltreated and traumatized children, most prominently the Neurosequential Model©, a developmentally sensitive, neurobiology-informed approach to clinical work (NMT), education (NME) and caregiving (NMC).  This approach to clinical problem solving has been integrated into the programs at dozens of large public and non-profit organizations serving at-risk children and their families.

His experience as a clinician and a researcher with traumatized children has led many community and governmental agencies to consult Dr. Perry following high-profile incidents involving traumatized children and youth including the Branch Davidian siege in Waco (1993), the Oklahoma City bombing (1995), the Columbine school shootings (1999), the September 11th terrorist attacks (2001), Hurricane Katrina (2005), the FLDS polygamist sect (2008), the earthquake in Haiti (2010), the tsunami in Tohoku Japan (2011), the Sandy Hook Elementary school shootings (2012), and the Camp wildfire in California (2018) among many others.

​

Dr. Perry has published over 500 journal articles, book chapters and scientific proceedings and is the recipient of numerous professional awards and honors, including the T. Berry Brazelton Infant Mental Health Advocacy Award, the Award for Leadership in Public Child Welfare, the Alberta Centennial Medal and the 2014 Kohl Education Prize. He serves on the Board of Directors of multiple organizations including Prevent Child Abuse America and the Ana Grace Project. 

He has presented about child maltreatment, children's mental health, neurodevelopment and youth violence in a variety of venues including policy-making bodies such as the White House Summit on Violence, the California Assembly and U.S. House Committee on Education. Dr. Perry has been featured in a wide range of media including 60 Minutes, National Public Radio, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, CNN, MSNBC, NBC, ABC and CBS News and the Oprah Winfrey Show. His work has been featured in documentaries produced by Dateline NBC, 20/20, the BBC, Nightline, CBC, PBS, as well as dozen international documentaries. Many print media have highlighted the clinical and research activities of Dr. Perry including a Pulitzer-prize winning series in the Chicago Tribune, The Sun Magazine, US News and World Report, Time, Newsweek, Forbes ASAP, Washington Post, the New York Times and Rolling Stone. 

Dr. Perry, a native of Bismarck, North Dakota, was an undergraduate at Stanford University and Amherst College. He attended medical and graduate school at Northwestern University, receiving both M.D. and Ph.D. degrees. Dr. Perry completed a residency in general psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at The University of Chicago.

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On this week's episode of Fostering Change, we sit down and chat with JoyWorks' Founder and Author, Janet Lawless Christ.

Janet’s books are written to help kids and their families talk about difficult issues like disabilities, food insecurity and homelessness.

“People of all ages need to know the truth, talk about it, then seek and hold on tightly to the nuggets of joy they find. That’s where the understanding and healing begins.”

https://joyworksnetworks.com/

https://www.facebook.com/JoyWorksNetworks

https://www.instagram.com/joyworks.networks/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyhJZwYFJqf38c9RvPdlhZg

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On this episode of Fostering Change we talk with Jen Lilley about her journey into foster care and learn more about her passion and the projects she's leading up!

Jen is a true champion for charities. In addition to donating 100% of her music profits to create a neighborhood model of safe loving foster homes, she co-founded Christmas is Not Cancelled, Inc.: A marketing company that raises awareness and funds for amazing causes and nonprofits while giving participants the chance to win huge prizes!

As a teenager, Jen garnered the National Educators Award for her work in Guatemala. She is known for advocating children’s rights and supports charities that focus on protecting children against physical and sexual abuse, human trafficking, and the world water crisis. Truly selfless, she is a foster and adoptive parent herself and is a celebrity ambassador for the child abuse and treatment organization Childhelp, Project Orphans, ECPAT, Olive Crest, The Dave Thomas Foundation, The Thirst Project, The Los Angeles Mission, Oneless, A21, Children of the Night, and the Innocent Justice Foundation, and she serves on the Board for Inter-Agency Council on Child Abuse and Neglect (ICAN) .

A star on both the silver and small screens, including the Academy Award-winning film THE ARTIST, NBC’s iconic daytime series “Days of Our Lives,” ABC’s “General Hospital,” and a regular leading lady on the Hallmark Channel, actress/singer/philanthropist Jen Lilley has tackled countless roles throughout her illustrious career.

Jen Lilley’s creative prowess does not end when the director yells cut, she is also a singer and songwriter. Her music exudes the same sultry ferocity of Twiggy and Jean Shrimpton, with Phil Spector’s wall of sound treatment via Rosie Danvers and her 50-piece orchestra. AXS.com said, “Lilley conjures up the sound of a 1960s girl group and embodies the same essence of Amy Winehouse. She takes a nostalgic twist on a modern song that will remind you of what classic music sounds like and have you longing for the days of Motown."

When Jen Lilley is not busy in front of a camera, or perfecting her vocals in studio, she can be found hosting her podcast, "Fostering Hope with Jen Lilley" to demystify the foster care system and encourage loving people to get involved in the cause.

Website: jenlilley.com or ChristmasIsNotCancelled.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenlilleyofficial

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jen_lilley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_lilley/

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On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Garon Wade!

Garon Wade was adopted from Sri Lanka and raised in South Africa, Hawaii, The Gambia, Jamaica, Louisiana, and Jordan. He came to the United States in 2004 and earned his degree in political science and English literature at the University of Texas at Austin. He is also a graduate of the US Aeronautical Academy.

Garon has been an air traffic controller for over a decade working at both Washington Tower (DCA) and Fort Lauderdale Tower (FLL).

He spends his time boating the intracoastal waterways with his family, walking the beaches of south Florida, and continuing to travel the world. Please reach out to him on IG @garwade, Twitter @garon_wade or at wadegaron@gmail.com

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On this week's episode of Fostering Change we get to have a sweet chat with Jay Rosenthal, Founder & Owner of Cupcakes with a purpose.

About Jay:

I have fond memories of baking cookies and cheesecakes with my mom, and as I got older I became interested in cupcakes; they're delicious and they allow for so much creativity.

I've decided to combine my passion for baking and desire to help others into the business of Cupcakes With Purpose. Being able to facilitate giving back to domestic and international causes is the perfect way to fulfill my dream.

By placing an order, you are supporting a cause that has personally affected you or someone you love.

https://cupcakes-with-purpose.square.site/

https://www.instagram.com/causescupcakes

https://www.facebook.com/cupcakeswithpurpose

+1 240-338-2636

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On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Cody Mayo about his experience in the foster care system.

Cody Mayo is from Saginaw, TX. He began his acting career when he was 12 performing in several theatre productions. He received a scholarship to attend the University of Oklahoma School of Drama to continue working on his craft. Cody resides in Los Angeles, CA and works as an Actor.

He has previously appeared on MARVEL RUNAWAYS, FOX 9-1-1, CBS DOUBT, TNT MAJOR CRIMES, MTV FAKING IT, and an NBC Pilot CURSE OF THE FUENTES WOMEN.

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On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Sensei Dave Armstrong Motivational Speaker Life Coach Mentor Unlimited Potential Network Academy Sensei Dave Armstrong, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach and at-risk youth expert! He grew up as a product of a broken family, foster care, youth correction facilities all while dealing with his only parent (his mother) dying when he was 13 years old..

After overcoming all of these obstacles in life and defying his destiny, he decided served humanity by dedicating 20+ years towards helping people better their lives and their relationships with their children or the children they work with. After Sensei Dave retired from 24- years of Active Duty Military Service he decided to open Unlimited Potential Network Academy Life Coaching and to publish his amazing motivational autobiography, Why Me, My Fight For Life available on amazon and on www.whyme.world.

Sensei Dave Armstrong was a product of a broken family, foster care, youth correction facilities and a deceased, only parent at the age of 13. As an “at-risk” youth and a “product” of the inner-city educational system, young Sensei Dave was predestined to run with gangs, NOT graduate high school and be dead or in jail by the age of 18.

After his mother passed away Sensei Dave lost all contact with his family and was in and out of boys homes, juvenile detention, and foster homes in California until he turned 18 and “transitioned” out of state custody. BUT…along the way he was influenced by many AMAZING people, two of which were; his CASA, Ron Barnick, an Air Force pilot and Sensei Otto Johnson, his first martial arts instructor.

Without their mentoring Sensei Dave Armstrong would not have been able to mentor, guide, help and motivate the 1000’s of youth, mentors, foster parents and humanity as he has done for years now. Sensei Dave is now retired after 24-years of service to our country in the U.S. Air Force, he has also sat on the Board of Directors as Vice President for non-profit organizations, created his own Martial Arts Mentoring program and owned three martial arts schools in the United States.

As a U.S. Air Force Veteran Sensei Dave has been able to travel and see the world, spreading his positive and motivational personality from country to country. Currently Sensei Dave is a Professional Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, and tours around the United States and Europe helping individuals and companies achieve their personal and professional goals. From The Author “I truly hope that this book finds its place in your heart and is able to help you in some sort of way. I truly believe that I had to go through so much in order to better help humanity and bring people closer to true happiness within their lives.

This is not a “feel good book”, it is a PERSPECTIVE book, it is a GUIDANCE book and it is a REAL LIFE book. I will take you through a journey of my life and events within but, I also hope to give you, the reader some enlightenment and tools to help you personally or to help you better work with at-risk youth or adults.”

Website: www.upna.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SenseiDaveArm

Twitter: @UP_N_A

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upnadotnet/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UnlimitedPotentialNetworkAcd

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On this episode of Fostering Change we talk with Dr. John DeGarmo.

Born in 1969, leading international foster care expert, consultant, and TED Talk speaker Dr. John DeGarmo has worn many hats throughout his life. Singing and dancing while touring around the world in the international super group, Up With People, serving as a D.J. at four different radio stations on two different continents, working in the professional wrestling industry, teaching English and Drama at the high school and college level, director of The Foster Care Institute, and founder and national development director of Never Too Late, a residential group home for boys in foster care. Dr. DeGarmo has had a variety of experiences.

He is the author of several foster care books, including the new book The Little Book of Foster Care Wisdom: 365 Days of Inspiration and Encouragement for Foster Care Families, the best selling book Faith and Foster Care, as well as the foster care children's book A Different Home: A New Foster Child's Story. He is the director of The Foster Care Institute, and acts as a consultant to foster care agencies as well as an expert witness to legal agencies across the USA and globe. Dr. John is a High Content Speaker and informative trainer on the foster care system, and travels extensively across the globe, meeting with foster parents, child welfare workers, churches, schools, and organizations. Dr. John has appeared on several TV programs, including CNN, Good Morning America, and ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, PBS stations. Dr.John and his family have even appeared on the popular show Wife Swap. He writes regularly for many magazines, and is a regular contributor to several publications, both in the United States and over seas.

Dr. DeGarmo is married to Dr. Kelly DeGarmo, who hails from Australia, and the two of them have six children, both biological and adoptive. Dr. DeGarmo and his wife are also currently foster parents to three siblings, bringing their household to nine children. Dr. DeGarmo has been a foster parent to over 60 children over the years.

Dr. DeGarmo and his wife are the recipients of the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award, and the Up With People Every Day Hero Award. The two also were honored with their city's Citizens of the Year Award. Dr. DeGarmo has also been honored with a Hero of the Homeless award, the Olivet College Distinguished Alumni Award, as well as an Exceptional People recipient.

Dr. John DeGarmo

The Foster Care Institute

Watch my TEDx Talk on Foster Care : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JQYUp6sEbY

TEDx Talk and Transformative Speaker. International Expert in Foster Care and Parenting.

Visit The Foster Care Institute : http://drjohndegarmofostercare.weebly.com/index.html

Like Dr. DeGarmo on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrJohnDeGarmo

Find Dr. John on Twitter @drjohndegarmo

Phone: 706 318 9225

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On this week's episode of Fostering Change we have a great conversation with Kimberly Raff!

Kimberly Raff experienced the foster care system after falling through the cracks and experiencing a very difficult childhood. At the age of 17, she emancipated from the system after graduating high school. Alone, scared, and not knowing what to do, she went back to live with her biological mother and step-father, even though drugs and alcohol were still a part of their lives. Shortly after moving to Colorado with them, they left her and moved out of state. Again, she was alone, without family and without a support system.

It was while she was working one of her three jobs that one of her employers approached her about attending college. This changed the path that Kimberly could have gone down. The employer helped her apply, take the ACT, and enroll into Colorado Mesa University where Kimberly studied Computer Science, Accounting, and ultimately ended up getting her degree in Psychology Counseling after 12 years. 

During those 12 years Kimberly failed out of school, enlisted in the military, was medically discharged, and was again, left without any support. 

Through her struggles and triumphs she found who she was meant to become. Her career in child welfare brought memories back of her childhood, especially seeing older youth aging out of care with little to no supports of family or friends. 

In 2017, Kimberly founded Foster Alumni Mentors, a non-profit organization that provides support and guidance to those who experienced foster care, to build a community of support around them. 

http://www.kimberlyraff.com/

https://fosteralumnimentors.org

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On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Ángela Quijada-Banks!

Ángela Quijada-Banks is a NAACP Image Award Nominated, American author of the best-selling book, The Black Foster Youth Handbook , Founder and C.E.O of Soulful Liberation ( a Book publishing company and podcast; where she aims to empower foster youth by day and break generational curses by night). She is the Founder and program director at Consciously Melanated Queens ( a community to support the holistic wellbeing of young women of color and providing guidance to uncover their divine purpose.) As a transformational speaker and artist, she has impacted thousands with her message to transmute your pain to purpose and power. As of 2021, Ángela is a scholar at Legacy Holistic Health Institute studying Holistic Health and plant medicine coaching. Through her everyday work with helping young people uncover their divine purpose, performing spoken word events, workshops, Board member at the FCN foundation and political advisory to legislators across the nation, she aims to aid in revolutionary change in holistic health, economic injustices, child-welfare disparities, cultural competency and identity within low-wealth communities of color both on a micro and macro level.

In her most recent best-selling book, The Black Foster Youth Handbook she sheds light on a taboo topic through her own personal experience highlighting 50+ lessons she learned in order to support young people's journey and equip them with necessary tools to successfully age-out of foster care and holistically heal.

Born in Anaheim, CA her reach has spanned across the nation and in several countries. Since the age of three years old, when she was first introduced to swing dancing she has always come back to it even in the most unstable of circumstances.To this day, Ángela is still open to learning new things that excites her including Kung Fu and drumming. Between her day to day adventures, Ángela enjoys traveling the world and adrenaline rushes at amusement parks with her husband, Michael. She is lovingly called a “graceful powerhouse” by all who know her, as she lives by the quote, “ If not me, then who? If not now, then when?”

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OriginalSoulFlower

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalsoulflower/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mrs_AngelaBanks

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaquijada-banks/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTa_p8Ez0Z1xbZ2wpd4sUCg

Portfolio: www.originalsoulflower.com

Divine Purpose coaching: www.consciouslymelanatedqueens.com

Book: The Black Foster Youth Handbook , 50+ Lessons I learned to successfully age-out of foster care and holistically heal www.blackfostercareyouthhandbook.com

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On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Dr. Suzie Friedman!

Suzie is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Washington DC. She works with adult and older teen clients on a variety of concerns from anxiety to eating disorders to trauma. She is especially passionate about the work of helping clients heal from complex trauma and attachment injury, and to support them as they forge a path of personal growth.

In her work with clients Suzie uses a relational approach that includes talk therapy, psychoeducation, and body based approaches including EMDR. In addition to her private practice, Suzie is an Adjunct Professor in the University of Maryland’s Counseling Psychology program where she provides clinical supervision to doctoral students and sometimes teaches at the undergraduate level.

Dr. Suzie Friedman's Website:

suzannefriedmanphd.com

Social Media:

instagram @drsuzie_

facebook @SuzanneMillerFriedmanPhd

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On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Sharane Calister!

Sharane Calister is an American singer with soulful sounds and a songwriter. A 28 year old native of Des Moines, Iowa. Sharane used music as an outlet and began playing the violin in third grade. Her passion to sing continued throughout high school while singing in multiple choirs including Bridges to Harmony Gospel Choir who performed for President Barack Obama. 

Although her biological parents are in her life now, Calister was adopted at the age of 10 by a cousin, Robin Calister who spent many years as a childcare provider.

Sharane also has a twin sister with whom she has reunited. 

Sharane is best known for her appearance and performance on The Voice Season 14 working with Alicia Keys and Adam Levine. She landed in the Top 11 with powerful performances singing songs like “Make it Rain,” “All I Can Do is Cry,” “In My Blood,” and “Never Enough.” As a rising star, her journey does not stop although her stint with The Voice ended prior to the finale. She continues to sing with The Feel Right Band and Pie in the Sky band while making additional solo appearances throughout the country. 

As a foster care alumni and adoptee, Sharane gives back to communities. She recently was invited to perform for CASA of Los Angles at the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Selfless Love Foundation in West Palm Beach, Florida to advocate for foster care and adopted youth. She is honored to be invited to The Purple Project Youth Conference for the third year in 2020. Calister inspires youth by sharing that life continues and their light will shine despite their current circumstances; life can go their way too. 

Summer of 2019, Sharane hosted her first mini summer camp for female foster care youth or in placement between the ages of 13-18. The camp is titled “Sharane Calister Summer Sessions.” One of Sharane’s future goals is to establish a foundation which will offer guidance, inspiration and education to foster care youth & young adults. 

Sharane Calister’s journey is showcased through her powerful voice, she is currently writing and recording new music. Sharane released her single “Love You” on her birthday, February 25, 2020. Her latest single “Party Like There’s No Tomorrow” is up temple and released New Year’s 2021. More music is in the making from Sharane. 

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We're recapping 4 episodes in preparation for both a launch of season 3 AND dour 100th episode! Here's one of our favorites from season 2 with Rita Soronen

For more than 30 years, Rita Soronen has worked on behalf of abused, neglected and vulnerable children, providing leadership for local, state and national efforts working to improve the juvenile justice and child welfare systems, while striving to assure safe and permanent homes for North America’s children.

Leading the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, since 2001 and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption-Canada since 2004, Ms. Soronen works to find adoptive families for the more than 150,000 children waiting in North America’s foster care systems. Under her leadership, the Foundation has significantly increased its grant-making while developing strategic initiatives that act on the urgency of the issue. In 2020, the Foundation dedicated more than $32.6 million to grants and award-winning programs, such as Wendy’s Wonderful Kids, Adoption-Friendly Workplace and National Adoption Day. Additionally, through public service announcements, social media campaigns, articles, events, sponsorships and more, the Foundation is building awareness around the growing need for foster care adoption.

In October 2011, independent research results were released from a five-year rigorous evaluation of the Foundation’s signature and groundbreaking program, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids. The research proved that children referred to the program are up to three times more likely to be adopted. Since 2005, the Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program has grown from seven pilot site grants to more than 475 sites across the U.S. and Canada. This program’s evidence-based model is dedicated to moving those children most at risk of aging out of foster care into permanent families. More than 10,000 children have been adopted as a direct result of Wendy’s Wonderful Kids. In 2017, with the support of the Blue Meridian Partners, the Foundation launched an aggressive, multi-year business plan to take Wendy’s Wonderful Kids to scale in all 50 states.

Immediately prior to joining the Foundation, Ms. Soronen served as the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. During that time, she also served as the president of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio CASA/GAL Association and led the passage of specialty license plate legislation benefiting CASA programs throughout Ohio, as well as the design and implementation of model program standards assuring consistent application of effective advocacy for children involved in court proceedings at the local and state levels.

Ms. Soronen is a nationally recognized child welfare advocate. She has testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee on the importance of foster care adoption. A requested national speaker on the topics of children, the child welfare system and social innovation, Ms. Soronen has been a featured presenter at events for the Adoption Exchange Association, Center for Adoption Support and Education, Children’s Home Society of America, National Association of County Commissioners, National CASA Association and National Council for Adoption, among others.

Ms. Soronen is a founding board member and past vice president of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and is a current member of the advisory board. She also serves as a member of Barco’s Nightingales Foundation’s advisory board and the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children’s board of trustees. Ms. Soronen is a recipient of the Angels in Adoption Award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, the National CASA Association Kappa Alpha Theta Program Director of the Year Award, the Ohio CASA/GAL Association Statewide Leadership Award and was a 2013 recipient of WSNY’s 20 Outstanding Women You Should Know. She is a fellow of the Jefferson Fellowship for Executive Leadership; was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Community Leadership from Franklin University in 2016; was named a YWCA Woman of Achievement in 2017; was named a National Number One by the Columbus Foundation in 2018; and was honored with Smart Business Network’s 2019 Smart 50 Program Award for Impact, Giving Back to the Community.

A graduate of the University of Louisville, Ms. Soronen resides in Columbus, Ohio.

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