Foster Carolinas

In this final episode of the year we sit down with Konecka Drakeford, from Gaston County DSS, and explore the intricacies of foster care, focusing on the daily responsibilities of social workers, the challenges faced in finding placements, and the critical need for more foster homes, especially for teenagers. Konecka emphasizes the importance of community support, training for foster parents, and personal experiences that highlight the emotional rewards and challenges of fostering. 00:00 Introduction to Foster Care and Licensing 06:37 The Need for Foster Homes 11:00 Challenges of the Holiday Season 15:04 Advice for Aspiring Social Workers 18:50 Requirements for Becoming a Foster Parent 21:54 Community Support and Collaboration

In this episode, host Tiffany Jothen speaks with Trent Taylor, a former foster youth and co-founder of the ministry Watch Me Rise. Trent shares his harrowing experiences in the foster care system, the trauma he endured, and the eventual adoption that changed his life. He discusses the importance of faith in his healing journey and how he now dedicates his life to helping others through his ministry, which provides support and education for foster and adoptive families. Trent emphasizes the potential for healing and the importance of community support for those affected by trauma. "Healing is possible, but it takes time." 00:00 Introduction to Trent Taylor's Journey 01:40 Experiences in Foster Care 06:46 The Transition to Adoption 10:48 Healing and Trust in a New Family 14:46 Founding Watch Me Rise 21:29 Key Takeaways from Training 26:31 Faith and Healing 29:25 Ways to Support Foster Families 32:41 Least of These (Podcast theme song).mp3

Derek Clark, a former foster youth turned motivational speaker, shares his journey from a troubled childhood filled with trauma and adversity to becoming a beacon of hope and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, the power of music as a form of expression, and the need for compassion in parenting and mentoring. Derek encourages listeners to take responsibility for their lives, support foster youth, and be a source of light in their communities. "Adults in the foster system need to understand the trauma behind behaviors." 00:00 Introduction to Derek Clark's Journey 03:08 Transforming Pain into Purpose 05:46 The Power of Music and Expression 09:02 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Hope 11:47 Parenting Through a Trauma-Informed Lens 15:08 Empowering Adults in the Foster System 18:00 Ways to Support Foster Youth 20:50 The Importance of Mentorship 24:12 Reflecting on Growth and Transformation

In this episode, host Tiffany Jothen interviews Susie Taylor, the adoptive mother of Jess Vestal, who gained fame on the reality show Love is Blind. "I had to learn to take a back seat." Susie shares her journey from being a single mother to becoming a foster parent and ultimately adopting Jess. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of fostering a teenager, the bond that developed between Susie and Jess, and the impact of their relationship on both their lives. Susie also discusses her involvement in the foster care system and offers advice for those considering becoming foster parents.

Walking in Her Shoes In this conversation, Aaliyah Drake shares her experiences growing up in foster care and the impact it has had on her life. She reflects on her childhood, the importance of family dynamics, and the role of faith in her journey. Aaliyah offers insights for foster parents on how to create a welcoming environment for children in care and provides advice for foster kids on navigating their experiences. The discussion highlights the significance of community support and the potential for personal growth despite challenging backgrounds.

Walking in Her Shoes This week on PERSPECTIVES, Aaliyah Drake opens her heart and shares her powerful journey through the foster care system – from the moment she was taken into care to how those experiences shaped who she is today. Raw. Honest. Unforgettable. Aaliyah's story reminds us why these conversations matter. Her perspective as a former foster youth offers invaluable insights that every foster parent, social worker, and advocate needs to hear. "These aren't just stories – they're lived experiences that can help shape a better future for foster youth."

New Series Alert! PERSPECTIVE Happy Monday! This week, we're diving into a powerful conversation with District Attorney Travis Page as he pulls back the curtain on how the foster care system intersects with our justice system. As a DA, Travis brings a unique lens to the foster care conversation – one that many of us rarely get to see. His insights shed light on the complexities and challenges that shape the lives of foster youth and families when they interact with the legal system. From courtroom experiences to community impact, this episode offers a perspective that will challenge what you think you know about foster care. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @leastofthesecarolinas2574 and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in for your Foster Carolinas fix! Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

We're backkkkkk! This was a long time coming, and I know it was worth it. Listen in today to Mikaila as she speaks such wisdom and insight to our audience. Who knew becoming educated on a deeper level would make a true, positive impact on a child who is experiencing the foster care system?? YOU CAN DO THAT! You can learn more, listen more, and ultimately, HELP MORE!!! We want to help you accomplish this by leaving links to become more educated: Trauma Informed Care Conference in Dallas, NC: https://lotcarolinas.networkforgood.com/events/63775-trauma-informed-care-conference Advocate for kids in court - Guardian Ad Litem website for NC: https://volunteerforgal.org/ Resources to educate and advocate well - Foster Family Alliance of NC - https://www.ffa-nc.org/ If you are not in NC, type in similar descriptions in your search bar, and it should bring you to a place to get started for your area. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

We had a STACKED lineup for this past series of Foster Carolinas. We heard from so many powerhouses in the world of foster care. If you can believe it, this next series is going to be EVEN BETTER! Tune in today to see who and how we are about to finish out this year here on Foster Carolinas. We are SO GLAD you are listening! This upcoming season is also going to be exciting because we are now video recording the podcast and will have that uploaded to YouTube! You can find us and this episode on YouTube at Least of These Carolinas - @leastofthesecarolinas257424 THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: YOUTUBE: @leastofthesecarolinas257424 Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Thank you for listening this week as Abbey is back on the podcast interviewing Emily Wood, the Founder and Director of Mosaic Hope. Mosaic Hope is a nonprofit that desires to see "every child and family surrounded by a community of support." If you cannot tell, Abbey and Emily are friends in real life, and really enjoyed their conversation today full of practical advice on entering into the world of serving those experiencing the foster care system. We hope you leave this episode knowing there are people that were in your shoes when beginning their process of serving in the world of foster care. Education and experience, little by little, will help quiet those fears you may be experiencing of the unknowns. This is a big topic and "issue," but you have a place to fill and serve here, we all do. This episode helps you see where and how you may be needing to plug in! If you would like to check out what is going on at Mosaic Hope, go to their website at: www.mosaichope.org THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming to talk with you from BRIDGE CAMP 2023!!! Our absolute favorite place! Susanna sits down in the middle of our last full day at camp to talk with our speaker, Shaq Hardy. Shaq was formerly in foster care as a child and has a perspective on camp that is so refreshing and helpful to those helping out and especially to the campers. A few of my favorite points Shaq makes in this episode is: consistently showing up for those experiencing foster care, even in the capacity of events as a volunteer and organization, is making a difference; the LOVE that is being shown and felt from everyone at camp is so special and not experienced often; and lastly, no one person is going to be able to fix foster care on their own, but if you have a heart for these kids and this mission, join others who are already in the fight and it will get better. This was such an encouraging talk and I hope you enjoy it! THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Thanks for listening in today! In this episode you will hear Susanna, our host, interview Lacey Beam. Lacey is a treasured friend here at LOTC, a foster mom, and the best head counselor we've got at Bridge Camp (sorry, Lee)! Her heart for the foster care system is huge and she puts that heart into everything she does in this realm. You get to hear that today! You might be shocked by her answer on how you can join her in this mission by becoming a Guardian ad Litem (GAL), but this is SUCH a needed position! When foster mamas are putting their heart and soul into the day to day care of the kids in their home, it is so nice to know that someone is doing the same thing on the courts side of this child's life. That is where a faithful GAL will step in and make sure that child is taken care of and represented well in court. Find the NC link to fill out a GAL Application below: https://volunteerforgal.org/volunteer-as-a-gal/ THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

We're glad you're here and listening today! Join us as Foster Carolina's host, Susanna Kavanaugh interviews Jason Weber, a giant in the foster care ministry world. More Than Enough is the ministry Jason leads under the Christian Alliance for Orphans banner. More Than Enough believes "that local networks of passionate churches, organizations, and advocates like you can work together to fill the biggest gaps in caring for children and families in every one of the 3,142 counties in the US." The two leaders discuss what brought Jason into understanding the need within the foster care system, how he kept getting a bit further each time he would say yes, and how you can plug in with the More Than Enough mission. He also gives a powerful call to action. He reiterates that we have a direct and clear call from God, as a Christian, to care for the orphaned in some way and we need to say yes when we figure out our way. You can find the More Than Enough website at: https://morethanenough.cafo.org/about/ THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Thanks for joining us today on the podcast, we're glad you're here! Levacy Smith is the State Director at Lifeline Children's Services, a global nonprofit, making a difference in both domestic and international adoptions. Through working with the nonprofit, she has much experience in getting community partners involved and mobilizing churches to care for the orphaned children around the world. Listen in today to her conversation with our host Susanna as they talk about the importance of family, Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and more that pertains to the social work side of foster care. If you are a foster parent, or anyone who has interactions with children with trauma in their background, please visit: https://lifelinechild.org/online-learning-experience/#! to learn more. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Today we are excited to present this episode we recorded with our fantastic friends and generous donors, Joey and Brittany Logano from the Joey Logano Foundation! You are able to hear their heart behind their partnership and support of organizations that are serving children in foster care. If you have heard us talk about Bridge Camp on here, you can thank the Logano's for their partnership in making that happen each year. These two help us see where a big platform can be used for so much good. To make everyday operations happen around here, it takes funds and resources, and this couple help provide those funds and resources. Is this the area you can also step into to help those affected by foster care? I know you will be inspired by listening in. The Joey Logano Foundation is hosting a charity concert on Thursday, May 25 in Charlotte, NC! You can visit this link to find out more details on how to join them in this endeavor for good: https://joeyloganofoundation.com/joey-logano-concert-for-charity-at-coyote-joes/ THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Listen in today to hear our host, Susanna Kavanaugh, talk to Pastor Ray Hardee from The Pointe Church about how and why he is so passionate and involved in the foster care crisis. This friendship between these two and the partnership between LOTC and The Pointe go way back. It is helpful and beneficial to know there are churches out there that see a need and make strides in helping fulfill that need. Pastor Ray helps us see there are very basic, noncommital steps we can take at first that leads to understanding and then a desire to get involved in this world in some capacity. The "big C" Church has the answer to the foster care crisis, and we enjoyed talking strategy and heart today on this topic. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Instagram: @lotcarolinas Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Join us for the first episode in our new series, "Who is Helping?" Rebekah and Abbey are Least of These Carolinas' own and they take you through the core questions that will be asked throughout the series to all of our guests. In this episode, they answer the questions for themselves and relive some of the fun, challenging, and heart-warming stories they have experienced through their years working/volunteering in the world of foster care. As we continue this series, we want you to see all of the avenues that are available in serving and advocating for children experiencing foster care. There is no one route to making a difference in the foster care system. Join us through this series and see the possible ways you can support and get involved! THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us on: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

This week we brought questions to Susanna that are from friends who do not have background in the world of foster care. We took questions straight from those who want to know more, but have not had experience with foster care up close. We have had a great time in this series of laying a foundation of "basic" knowledge so we can all move forward with a basis of understanding. We hope you reflect back on what has been talked about over the last 2 months and have that basis of understanding on things like acronyms, licensing agencies, and why children are in foster care. This week's episode will help in that and we look forward to moving into the next series entitled, "Who is Helping?" You'll learn the different areas in which people are improving the lives of children who are experiencing foster care and what they do on a daily basis and how they started out. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

Happy Friday, listeners! You are in for a treat today! Katie Kiker, a licensing supervisor at 7 Homes, a private licensing agency here in NC, is on the podcast today. I know you will benefit from her wealth of knowledge because I know I sure did! On this episode, you will hear the basics on what a private foster care licensing agency is and what they can offer their families, what the best mindset is to reach success when becoming a foster parent, and an extremely uplifting story that will surely put a smile on your face and possibly bring a tear to your eye. Throughout the episode, you will hear Katie's heart for these children and the families she serves every day. She is a dedicated member of the foster care system, and we appreciate all she is doing in love and service to these super cool kids! If you are interested in connecting with Katie or learning more about 7 Homes, visit their website at: www.7homes4kids.com THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

You have 2 old, familiar voices, if you have been around for a while, on today's episode. Abbey and Selina sit down to educate on some of the very basics of foster care. Why are children in care? How do you get licensed? Who is licensed? What is kinship care? Why are kids living in different counties than where they are from? Dive into these answers with us! Selina has welcomed several children into her home and Abbey is young, but very eager to welcome children into her home ASAP. We hope that you hear both of their hearts behind the conversation they have today. Especially close to the end, hear that fear around welcoming children into your home is scary, but not a reason to not welcome children into your home. These children are worth it and we would LOVE to be a resource to you. Call the office of Least of These Carolinas at 704-215-4344 and ask for Abbey or Selina and they would both love to help you walk this journey of foster care and becoming a foster parent! THANKS FOR LISTENING! Follow along with us at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

We here at Foster Carolinas are so happy to have hosted Fearless Fostering's Cathleen Bearse on todays podcast! She is a foster care informed therapist and she has a heart for those who are entering into the world of foster care, as she wants them to be informed and have more knowledge than she did before she entered into this world. Cathleen is so knowledgeable and you will definitely walk away knowing more after this episode. You will get a glimpse inside of how the body experiences trauma, whether that be the child entering your home or the foster mama/dad/siblings. She talks about the biggest thing that she and her husband had to navigate was the system as there really is nothing to compare it to and nothing about it is "normal." Though there are some trauma incurred by stepping into the foster care arena, there is so much worth and love and enjoyment that comes out of fostering. One of my very favorite quotes from Cathleen is, "until you know you want to say no, SAY YES." SO GOOD! THANKS FOR LISTENING! Make sure you are following along with us AND Cathleen: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas AND Fearless Fostering Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND @fearless_fostering AND visit our websites: www.lotcarolinas.com AND www.fearlessfostering.com

On today's episode of Foster Carolinas, Susanna sits down with one of LOTC's best friends, Gaile Osborne from Foster Family Alliance of NC. Gaile and her organization work to EDUCATE, ADVOCATE, SUPPORT, AND PROMOTE PARTNERSHIPS THAT LEAD TO POSITIVE OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH AND RESOURCE FAMILIES OF NC. Gaile is fulfilling part of that mission to EDUCATE on today's podcast. The world of foster care is intimidating. It is unfamiliar for most and disconnected from many of the realms most people find themselves in regularly. We here on Foster Carolinas do not want that to be a reason for you to shy away from getting involved in foster care in some capacity. Todays episode will help us all get on the same page when it comes to terms and acronyms that are used in and around foster care. With a shared basis of understanding, we can do more for the children and families experiencing foster care. We hope that is where this episode and the episodes to come takes us... a shared basis of understanding. All for the goal of serving children in foster care well. Please go to the Foster Family Alliance of NC website to learn more about them: www.ffa-nc.org You can go to this link to find the 'Alphabet Soup' PDF for these and more acronyms at your fingertips: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:3eadf390-3f1c-3690-9c17-2bca6b00cbd1 THANKS FOR LISTENING! Make sure you are following along with us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! We are so excited to be back behind the mic to give you guys glimpses into the world of foster care. This year, it is our goal to lay ground work to make sure you know what we are talking about when we bring you the stories of foster care. The information and language we use is basic to us, but we realize it is not to others, and we want to address that by breaking it down. Knowledge leads to advocacy. Susanna and Abbey chat about the wrap up of 2022 and look forward to 2023 and the themes that will be covered on the podcast this year. Journey along with us this year as you gain more knowledge of the inside workings of foster care so you can plug in to make a difference. If you have a suggestion on what you would like to hear, email abbeyr@lotcarolinas.com to give your input. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com

Does foster care seem far too complicated for you to be part of? Are you overwhelmed by all that will entail welcoming a kiddo from a hard place into your home? Do you believe foster care is for you, but you really don't even know where to start? THIS EPISODE IS FOR YOU! Katie has been welcoming kids into her home for almost 6 years now, and she has learned a lot over the years. She has so much wisdom to offer. Listen in as she gives some of the most practical advice I have heard on the topic of foster care and becoming "ready." There are no one-size-fits-all tips and tricks, but this insight and wisdom is helpful to anyone on the edge of wanting to step into fostering or have started fostering recently. Katie is a friend to all and in this episode I hope she feels like a friend to you, helping you move one step closer to this holy calling. Remember, starting small is OK and is a start. Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com

12 Hours of Christmas is ALMOST here!!! Listen in this week to see how our weekend will be going and how much FUN we have! Katie "That's My Jam" Reed is a long time friend of LOTC and her favorite event is 12 Hours of Christmas! Least of These Carolinas takes service seriously, and we always have to have fun while doing it. I hope you see that listening to today's episode. Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com

Welcome back to our final installment of our series on Adoption Awareness Month. Susanna and Gaile are back to talk about their own personal adoptions and what that has meant for their family. Adoption is hard, beautiful, and complex. Today, listen to these two mamas talk about shared parenting and what that relationship might look like when TPR and adoption take place. As well as what they do not prepare you for in foster parent training class. When foster care moves to adoption, it looks a lot different than you might think it would, and you can hear some insights on that today. Use our social media sites to message us and let us know if there is something you would like to hear Gaile and Susanna tackle next time: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

We love it when Susanna is able to sit down and chat with her "soul-sister," Gaile Osborne from Foster Family Alliance of NC. Their chats never really stay as chats, they always result in action plans. Today, tune into their action plan and advice for post-adoptive services. Gaile is a wealth of knowledge for resources and she is so good at getting people connected to these resources. If you are an adoptive parent local to Gaston Co. or Buncombe Co., NC, please listen in and see who is there for you and your county and what they can provide to you and your family. Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com

November is Adoption Awareness Month! This is huge for us and we want to make sure we celebrate how awesome adoption is, while also acknowledging the inevitable hardships of adoption. There is loss involved even if we know this is exactly what needs to happen. We have Shonda back to talk all things CHRISTMAS!!! Christmas needs have been great each year, and with our wonderful sponsors, volunteers, and families it has always been a success. Shonda loves 12 Hours of Christmas so much, she is now working to make Christmas calls to other foster parents. Sponsor a child's Christmas list here: https://lotcarolinas.com/programs-services/12-hours-of-christmas/ Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com

November is Adoption Awareness Month! This is huge for us and we want to make sure we celebrate how awesome adoption is, while also acknowledging the inevitable hardships of adoption. There is loss involved even if we know this exactly what needs to happen. Listen in today to one of our very favorite foster/adoptive mamas, Ms. Shonda! Shonda is a rockstar and talks about shared parenting and she gives us such practical advice. Learn from her experience and wisdom on the subject. She is real in this conversation with our host, Susanna, and tells her ways she has had to become flexible in her approach to some parenting things. She wants current and potential foster parents to be set up for success, and there have to be some things that you loosen a grip on when endurance is the goal. These two ladies are doing so much to serve families who are welcoming children into their home, and they have so much insight to share. Make sure you are following along with us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

We wrap up our time with Kristen this week. Hasn't she been a PLEASURE to hear from? We love learning from Kristen's wise, kind, and insightful words. Her heart for the Lord is evident and flows out to others and is SO encouraging. In today's episode, see where Kristen is and what she is doing. This story might be one with some heartbreak and setbacks, but Kristen is showing up and saying "yes" to God and we believe He is leading her to big things while she loves well. It is an honor to host this precious friend on the podcast and we look forward to the next time we can hear from her. If you would like to follow along with Kristen as she treks through life and network with her, please follow her on social media: Instagram: @kbuergey Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristenBuergey Make sure you are following us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Tune back in to hear Kristen speak more wisdom, encouragement, and insight to the foster care world we are in today. The words she has to say are a MUST HEAR! We are getting a lot of things wrong in the system of foster care, but there is hope and there is encouragement. Through Kristen's story, we see that a huge desire of the kids we serve in care's heart is to be "normal." They long to have normal experiences and feel as if they are MORE than their circumstances because they most certainly are. At the very end, I love what Kristen has to say to those who may be on the fence about becoming foster parents, and I think you will too. Make sure you are following us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Meet Kristen, an acquaintance who quickly turned to a friend here at LOTC! Kristen is a fierce foster care advocate, fun foster mom, and free spirit. We absolutely adore her! Listen in to the first installment of her series on the podcast. On today's episode, Kristen shares the beginning of her story in foster care. She sheds SO much light on trauma, how trauma plays out in behaviors for certain individuals, and how others on the outside can make a difference by being a consistent companion. When stories are shared, healing happens and people see that they are not alone in their struggles. We are so grateful that Kristen is here and willing to tell her story. Make sure you are following us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Here is the second installment of Gaile's conversation with Susanna. They talk about becoming a foster parent and how they step in to support new foster parents. It is not for the faint of heart, but there is support out there and that is what these two have dedicated their lives to. Visit Gaile's nonprofit's site at www.ffa-nc.org OR visit their Facebook page: Foster Family Alliance of North Carolina. In this episode you will find a HUGE announcement that has Gaile giddy! Listening to conversations like this will leave you inspired and encouraged that there are people out there dedicated to doing good to others. Follow us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

While recording, I thought the recording studio might implode because two POWERHOUSES in the foster care nonprofit world were talking real world issues that they have personally walked through. They are making a difference in this world by not taking no for an answer and showing up each day to make the world of foster care better. Join Executive Director of Least of These Carolinas, Inc., Susanna Kavanaugh, as she lays it all out there with Executive Director of Foster Family Alliance of North Carolina, Gaile Osborne. Advocacy is the heartbeat behind their conversation, and they tackle hard topics with so much grace, love, and grit. These two have to be cut from the same cloth and you will learn SO much about medically fragile children and how they are best cared for as well as what kind of support is out there for foster parents during this conversation. Follow us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

You are in for a TREAT today! BRANDON HEATH is on the podcast with, Executive Director, Susanna Kavanaugh! They talk about a variety of things all the way from Brandon meeting Bono to the best places for coffee in and around Nashville. It is such a fun episode. Brandon is such a genuine guy and we were grateful he chose to be on the podcast today and is going to be a singer at BE THE DIFFERENCE at POPS in Forest City, NC on October, 8! He is stoked to share the stage with his "big brother," Mac Powell. Two powerhouses in Christian music are in this fight with us to raise awareness for the INCREDIBLE kiddos in foster care! Thank you, Brandon and Mac! See you both in October! You can snag your ticket to be there too... there is even a code to get a discount by listening to this episode. Keep your ears peeled for the promo code. Tickets for Be the Difference can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/be-the-difference-forest-city-tickets-315425063857 Follow us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Thank you for tuning in again to hear Davon finish out his story. Hear how he has found a family who he is close with and how they met. Before he got to them, his life, as he puts it, "was like a movie." There is more behind the scenes talk of him and his twin brother Tavon walking each state's capital. They will make history upon the completion of that, and the heart behind it is to RAISE AWARENESS FOR CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE!!! They have a clothing line that you can go support: https://www.fosterkidsmatter.life/landing-page1655861395038 I love what he said about we need to be wearing clothes that bring awareness, putting stickers on our cars to raise awareness because we do believe that #fosterkidsmatter. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Follow us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND Visit our website: www.lotcarolinas.com

This week, Susanna sits down with Davon Woods. Davon and his twin brother Tavon have been walking around America to raise awareness for children in foster care using the hashtag #fosterkidsmatter. This week he will tell you where they started and the journey they have been on to get them to where they are now. They had their conversation in a makeshift studio at Bridge Camp because Davon came and spoke to our campers and interacted with them. He was a huge hit and has immediate credibility with the kids and they can all talk from a basis of understanding. Being understood is huge any time, and this was no exception. You can follow along on the twins journey by following them on Facebook at Davon Woods and Tavon Woods (their individual accounts) and on Instagram at @davonwoodsfc THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Follow us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website www.lotcarolinas.com

WE MADE IT TO BRIDGE CAMP, EVERYONE! Today, listen within the boundary lines of Bridge Camp 2022! You will hear the low down from two (new) counselors, two veteran head counselors who lead fearlessly while at Camp, and a precious camper who has been adopted. This has been the best week and you get to hear how lives, perspectives, and future plans are being changed by being here this week. ALSO... we might have leaked dates for next year... listen and find out! Bridge Camp is as special a place as they come, and we want YOU to take part in it next year... follow the link below and fill out an interest form to be a counselor or day volunteer at Bridge Camp 2023! https://lotcarolinas.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/bridge-camp-2023-interest-form THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN TODAY!!! Make sure you are following us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.lotcarolinas.com

Have you heard our BIG announcement?! We've opened the Hummingbird House where social workers are able to comfortably stay with children who have recently come into care or are between placements instead of in DSS offices, hotels, or, in an extreme case, the jail. The Hummingbird House is a soft place for these children and social workers to land after the whirlwind that got them there. Today Susanna and Abbey tell all and get to the nitty gritty of where the idea started and what has transpired to get to where we are now with the opening of the Hummingbird House. God has woven this story together beautifully, and we cannot wait to welcome in those who need this refuge. Do you want to be part of helping stock the cabinets at the Hummingbird House? Click our Amazon wishlist below and make a direct impact! https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1UXHOSASCSWDX?ref_=wl_share Here is the donation page that goes straight to the Hummingbird House: https://lotcarolinas.networkforgood.com/projects/166170-hummingbird-house Make sure you are following us on social media: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

This week, return to hear about the sad side and the incredibly happy side of being a GAL from our good friend, Kecia. Susanna and Kecia talk about how LOTC has been a huge help to some of the kids she has served and how needed more GAL volunteers and foster parents are. Listen in and hear the heart behind this GAL and many others. Here is the link to sign up as a GAL through Gaston Co. NC - volunteerforgal.org Make sure you are following along on our social media pages: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

We're glad you are listening today! Please enjoy, current GAL, Kecia sitting down to explain to our Director, Susanna, what a GAL is and what all they do in the court system and beyond for the children they get to serve. Kecia is a hero around here, and we hope you see another side to how you can get involved in the world of foster care through her voice today. Make sure you are following us on social media for our most up to date details on our happenings: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

We are excited for you to hear the fourth and final installment of Morgan's recorded story! Today you get to hear a challenge to get involved in some way with foster care. This is an issue that affects people's entire lives, and you can do your part to help. Morgan encourages listeners by reminding them that the good, loving foster homes do make a huge impact on the children who venture through them. She doesn't just leave you with a challenge, she and, LOTC's director, Susanna tell you how you can get involved. This episode and series is ended with a big finale... Morgan's famous poem!!! She is gifted with this ability, and we love that she shares it so freely! You do not want to miss this episode! Welcome to the show notes! Make sure you are following us on social media for ways you can get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Listen in to the third episode of where Morgan in unpacking her story of foster care. This week we see Morgan find her voice and her forever family! It is a sweet time as Morgan also looks ahead at where she is going next in life, and what her ultimate career goal is. She has a support system now and she and Susanna talk about what a huge difference that makes when facing big life changes. We have no doubt she will accomplish all of her dreams! Make sure you are following us on social media for ways you can get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

This is the second installment of Morgan's story. She is back with her incredible ability to tell her story. She conveys her and her sibling's experiences with grace and courage. Susanna and Morgan trek through the raw experiences that led Morgan to find her voice and use it to speak up about what she was enduring. This is a look into what those around you may be going through. Simply listen to listen, this story has a space here and you will be better by hearing it. Make sure you are following us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Through the brave stories we get to share, some people are able to heal from their own stories and others are able to become more informed and aware of what children around them may be going through. Morgan steps up to the plate today to offer her story for both purposes. Journey with us over the next 4 weeks to hear her tell her story with confidence, bravery, and grace. We LOVE you Morgan, and we are so happy we get to call you friend!!! Listen in today, and gain knowledge, empathy, and some righteous anger. We need to hear these stories. Make sure you are following us on social media for ways to get involved: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our websIte at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Today is an EXCITING podcast day! MAC POWELL is on the podcast today with Susanna, Executive Director of LOTC! They chat about where Mac got his start in music, how adoption has impacted his family, and he answers some listener questions. You are in for a treat! This episode is both informative and real... we might even drop a secret code for a discount on tickets to our Be The Difference concert where Mac will be headlining! You have to listen to find out! We know you will enjoy today's episode and do not forget to follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram:@lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

We're glad you're here today!! Selina Johnson is the Programs Director at Least of These Carolinas, Inc. and she is on the podcast today. She talks with Abbey about her family's experience as foster parents, how persistence is key in making a difference, and the importance of showing up for foster families you know. This is an informative episode soaked with compassion and wisdom. You will leave this episode more informed, compassionate, and ready to see where YOU can go make a difference in the big world of foster care. If you want to donate to the Shoes of Hope bags click HERE: https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/boxerbriefs We hope you enjoyed today's episode and do not forget to follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Thank you for tuning in today! Susanna Kavanaugh the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Least of These Carolinas, Inc. is being interviewed on her own podcast today by Abbey Roberson, her assistant. This is a fun and insightful episode to see the heart behind Least of These Carolinas, Inc. As they dive into Susanna's own experience as a foster parent, you will be able to see where the roots of LOTC began, the heart behind our big concert, Be The Difference, and see where you can belong in partnering in the mission of serving children in foster care. The two drive home that, truly, everyone can do SOMETHING for children in foster care. We hope you enjoy today's episode and don't forget to follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at: www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

Thank you for joining us for Foster Care Awareness Month!! We hope SO much that this series has impacted you in a way that challenges you to move toward more understanding of children in foster care and their experiences. Everyone CAN do SOMETHING, and we want to help you identify what your something is. This final episode from Mikaila is extra long as we finish hearing about her time in care. Her and our host, Susanna, get emotional and go between sad tears and happy tears. Mikaila's voice matters and is SO transformational in understanding the THOUSANDS of children who are in care around this country. Follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and Mikaila is sharing more of her story on today's episode. It has been so good to hear her story and learn more from her! Today, listen to how being "leveled" affects every part of your placement in care. Mikaila was taken to a facility where she had no freedoms and no visitors... except for a therapist who has made such an impact on her life. Listen in today to hear more of Mikaila's brave storytelling. Follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram:@lotcarolinas AND visit our website at www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and we are back with our friend Mikaila to shed more light on the stories of those who have spent time in care. Our host Susanna and Mikaila take a dive into how Mikaila was moved for a third time after an incident with a foster mom. Hear how traveling with a trash bag impacts the child for years to come, how "leveling" in care comes with a lot of things flipping upside down, and continue to hear how fabulous these children are even as life has taken many unwanted turns. Follow us on social media at: Facebook: Least of These Carolinas Instagram: @lotcarolinas AND visit our website at www.lotcarolinas.com THANKS FOR LISTENING!