Behind Every Success: The Power of Standing Together May is National Foster Care Month, a time to not only recognize the resilience of youth, but to also highlight the supports that empower their success. Last week, we explored how success in foster care can take many forms, from gaining stability to building relationships and becoming independent. None of these successes can happen without help.
Behind every foster care success story, is a network of caring adults and committed professionals – people who show up, speak up, and stand up for youth living in foster care.
Behind Every Success: The Power of Standing Together
Support comes from many places. A CASA Advocate might champion a child’s needs in court. A foster parent may offer stability and structure. A teacher could be the one who refuses to let a student fall behind. These relationships can change lives.
For many youth, having just one consistent adult can make all the difference. It can mean the shift from feeling invisible to feeling seen. From simply surviving to truly thriving.
Here are a few examples of support in action:
- A foster parent patiently teaching a teen how to budget.
- A CASA Advocate listening and giving a child a voice.
- A mentor coaching a teen toward milestones like graduation.
These moments plant seeds of hope. They remind youth that someone believes in their potential.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
Many youth in foster care experience trauma and disconnection. One of the most powerful things we can offer them is a sense of belonging. Success isn’t just about hitting milestones. It’s also about knowing someone is in your corner—especially when life is hard.
We can build belonging by showing:
- Consistency – Being there when you say you will
- Empathy – Listening to understand, not judge
- Advocacy – Speaking up to protect and empower
You Don’t Have to Do It All
You can’t do everything—but you can do something. Being a positive, steady influence in one young person’s life can change everything.
Becoming a CASA Advocate is one way to make that impact. You don’t need special skills—just a commitment to show up and a willingness to learn. Advocates provide stability, speak up in court, and connect youth with resources they may otherwise miss. Want to be part of the support system that sets foster youth up for success? Join us for our next virtual info session on May 20th and learn how you can make a lasting impact.
