October is National Pastor Appreciation Month, and in this episode, we reflect on the often-overlooked work pastors do every day.

Pastors don't just preach on Sundays; they are present with us during life’s most significant moments—both the joyful milestones and the heartbreaking challenges. Whether it’s celebrating a new chapter, grieving a loss, or walking through illness, pastors are always there, often behind the scenes, carrying the emotional and spiritual burdens of those they serve.

In the context of the child welfare system, pastors play an especially important role. Their support can be life-changing for foster families and children in care. In this episode, we highlight Brian’s personal story of how his pastor and church community have been by his side, providing crucial support during his foster care journey and even during his battle with cancer.

Join us as we explore the vital role pastors play in our lives and the foster care system and why their work deserves our gratitude not just this month but all year round.

Episode Highlights:

• October is National Pastor Appreciation Month
• Pastors do more than preach on Sundays
• Pastors carry heavy emotional and spiritual burdens
• The critical role Pastors play in the child welfare system
• Brian & Nicole’s Experience with Pastoral Support

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

In this episode, we explore the impact of living in the community and how it plays a powerful role in foster care recruitment. We share our personal foster care stories and experiences and reflect on how our journeys began by being surrounded by people who were obedient to their calling as foster parents.

While formal recruitment efforts are important, we explore how simply living out our day-to-day lives with purpose can serve as the most significant form of recruitment. By living on mission for God, we naturally create spaces where others are inspired and supported to step into foster care.

Tune in to hear how community can change lives and make a lasting difference in the foster care system.

Episode Highlights:

• Importance of community in foster care.
• Personal stories of starting our foster journeys.
• Everyday life as a form of recruitment.
• Obedience to the call of fostering.
• Building a support system through community.
• Intentional living can lead others to foster.

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Sign Up For Our Foster Family Recruitment Email List
• Find a Support Group
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Did you know this week is National Hospitality Week?

In this episode, we’ll explore the significance of this meaningful initiative, which began in 2021 and is observed during the week of October 14th. We’ll also highlight the immense challenges child welfare workers face, including long, inconsistent hours, low pay, and the resulting burnout and emotional exhaustion.

National Hospitality Week is our chance to celebrate and appreciate these dedicated caseworkers, recognize their tireless efforts, and remind them that they are valued members of the team. It’s time to show up, support them, and let them know that the critical work they do truly matters.

Episode Highlights:

• What is National Hospitality Week?
• Case Worker Burnout
• Small acts of appreciation make a big difference.
• How you can support a social worker

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

• National Hospitality Week
• Promise 686
• CAFO

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.