Make A Difference Blog Archives by Date Blog
Meet Jennifer & Beth Cayson, whose hearts know no limits! With 7 children in their home—four adopted and three foster children—they’ve created a loving, stable, and nurturing environment for kids of all backgrounds and needs. And when asked if they could take in another child? Their answer was "YES!"
Fostering is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but it’s also a journey that requires patience, commitment, and an open heart. If you’re considering becoming a foster parent, here are a few key pieces of advice that we’ve learned along the way:
Laurynn Vaughn has opened her heart and home to many children, including sibling groups, ensuring they stay together rather than being separated in the foster system. Today, she is a devoted mother to seven children, four of whom are foster siblings. Her journey began with two siblings, but when the opportunity arose to keep two more together, she didn’t hesitate.
Parker’s journey as a foster parent has been one of love, mentorship, and lasting impact. She not only fostered but co-parented and mentored the biological parents of her foster daughter—remaining a part of their lives even after reunification.
Meet Eli and Bradley Sandoval, a newly licensed foster family making an incredible difference! Their first foster placement has been nothing short of amazing, and now they’re on the path to adoption for 11-year-old J, a resilient young boy who has finally found the love and stability he deserves. From day one, Eli and Bradley have been unwavering in their dedication—advocating for J's education, ensuring he receives the services he needs, and most importantly, creating a safe and nurturing home where he can heal and thrive.
It's Foster Family Appreciation Week! This week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who open their hearts and homes to children in need. Today, we’re highlighting the remarkable Ms. Myles, a recently licensed foster caregiver whose dedication and love for children is truly inspiring.
At Heartland for Children, we are committed to celebrating and supporting our foster families, not just this week but every day. Their kindness, patience, and love truly make a difference in the lives of children and youth in our community
In the last ten[+] years, Heartland for Children has established strong community partnerships and effective programs that have positively impacted our tri-county area. Under their leadership, child abuse has decreased. This change has been a result of strong commitment to prevention and evidence based programs. Additionally, their focus on trauma focused care has made a tremendous impact on children and families that have experienced abuse, neglect, and out of home placements. Heartland for Children is the model of community based care for our state.
As a social worker who was involved in the transition to this model of care in our state, I fully support and endorse their continued work and leadership in Hardee, Highlands and Polk counties.
Mary Jo Plews - Former Executive Director, Healthy Start Coalition