"Children in Foster Care" - This video is from The Road to Adoption and Foster Care, a film produced by Rich Newman in association with AdoptUsKids. Watch the entire film
Each May, National Foster Care Month provides an opportunity to shine a light on the plight of hundreds of thousands of children and youth in the foster care system. The campaign raises awareness about the urgent needs of these young people and encourages citizens from every walk of life to get involved.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Through the dedication of advocates, child welfare professionals, elected officials and support groups around the country, the total number of children waiting for a safe and permanent family has decreased from more than a half million to 463,000 between 2003 and the end of 2008. These numbers tell us that, together, we can make a difference for children in foster care.
Ways to Get Involved
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Visit the official National Foster Care Month website to:
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Find out more about foster parenting and the children in foster care
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Read about President Barack Obama’s new initiatives to help youth in foster care in his presidential proclamation on National Foster Care Month
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Watch a recorded discussion about permanency for older adolescents recently hosted by the National Resource Center for Permanency and Family Connections (free registration required)
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Learn what it’s like to age out of foster care by reading the new book FLUX: Life After Foster Care
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Read and share these inspiring stories about foster families making the difference of a lifetime for these former foster youth
Diana entered foster care at age 15 after attempting to commit suicide. Through the strength and support she received in foster care, she was able to overcome her depression and lead a life of happiness. She shares with us her moving story of how a little hope, help and inspiration can make all the difference in the lives of foster youths.
Trista entered foster care at age 11 and struggled for years to overcome a past of hurt and anger. Through the help of supportive foster families and her caseworker, Trista was able to turn her life around.
Gabrielle entered foster care at age five with her three siblings after growing up in an abusive home. Today she advocates for change within the foster care system by speaking for a youth-driven program called elevate with the Children and Families of Iowa adoption agency
Jeremy spent five years in Colorado’s foster care system and is a senior at the University of Northern Colorado majoring in communication. Last summer Jeremy became a FosterClub All-Star through a 10-week internship program sponsored by FosterClub, a national network of youth in foster care.