Julie and Brian Mavis had been foster parents, raised bio children, and even started an amazing organization called America's Kids Belong. And as recent empty nesters, they were poised for some well deserved R&R. But the Mavis' had seen too much. So when they were confronted with the opportunity to care for an older child who had aged out of foster care, they said yes. Their "yes" changed everything.
Embo Tshimanga edured 25 plus moves, 20 schools, 6 homeless shelters, 2 women’s shelters, and 2 group homes during her time in foster care. When she aged out, she had every reason to become another statistic, yet Embo began a journey of healing that included becoming a college graduate. She is here to share her story and how we can all do better at supporting our youth in and out of foster care.
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After suffering a tragic spinal cord injury that left him in a wheelchair, Chris Norton and his wife Emily had every reason to just focus on themselves; navigating life and marriage. Instead they chose to do foster care and adoption. The Norton's have fostered 18 kids and adopted 5. Chris's story of perseverance and selflessness will inspire you to do the same.
In many countries orphaned girls are some of the most vulnerable members of society. Then, once they age out of care they are opened up to a whole new world of dangers with no family or knowledge of how to navigate life and stay safe. Our friend John Marshall saw this problem and decided to tackle it by providing a quality, free college education for these girls. You have to listen to this podcast and learn more about how Teach Her is changing lives.
Sally's journey began when she was 6 months old as she entered the foster care system. Although adopted by loving parents, her journey of abuse continued when she was sexually abused and treated terribly by family and her peers. Her own healing came when Sally adopted her daughter out of foster care and has since had to learn how to help her daughter overcome her own trauma. This beautifully tragic story of healing is a must listen.