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.

In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the meaning of holiday traditions and how they create lasting memories with family. However, for some, like teens and alumni of the foster care system, the holidays can be a difficult reminder of lost connections. That's why events like Thanksgiving Together are so important.

We’re shining a light on ACTION Ohio's annual Thanksgiving dinners for foster teens and alumni. Since 2007, these early Thanksgiving celebrations have offered a place for those with foster care experience to feel the warmth of family and community.

This year, Hope Bridge is hosting Thanksgiving Together in Northeast Ohio on November 16th from 1-3 PM at North Canton Chapel, and we couldn't be more excited! Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of fun, including a photo booth, raffles, party favors, and a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Tune in to learn more about this special event and how we're bringing together those who need it most this holiday season.

Episode Highlights:

• What is Thanksgiving Together?
• How to Support Thanksgiving Together
• Volunteer opportunities

Links From This Episode:

• Thanksgiving Together Details/RSVP for Thanksgiving Together
• Amazon Wish List for Thanksgiving Together
• Give Butter Link for Donation
• Sponsorship Flyer
• Volunteer at Thanksgiving Together

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 of ReStoried, we're diving deep into the common myths and misconceptions surrounding foster parenting. Whether you've been considering becoming a foster parent or you're simply curious about the process, this episode is designed to provide clarity and comfort.

We know that taking the first step toward fostering can be overwhelming, and the myths out there can make it even more daunting. Our goal is to set the record straight, answer the questions that might be holding you back, and empower you to move forward with confidence.

Episode Highlights:

• Foster Family Recruitment
• Common Myths about Becoming a Foster Parent
• Debunking Myths

Links From This Episode:

• Stark County Foster Care Info Session
• Book a Coffee Chat with a Hope Bridge Staff Member
• Questions to Ask Agencies PDF

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 inspiring episode, we explore a powerful story of redemption through an interview with Bethany, a dedicated foster mom, and Jaliyah, the biological mother of Bethany's former foster children. Their journey has been marked by many challenges, but their unwavering commitment to each other has led to a heartwarming reunion.

Jaliyah worked incredibly hard to regain custody of her children, showing immense dedication and perseverance throughout the process. Bethany's intentional effort to maintain a supportive relationship with Jaliyah played a crucial role in this family’s story. Her consistent presence and encouragement were vital in helping Jaliyah achieve her goal of reuniting with all her children.

This episode underscores the significant impact that positive relationships between foster and biological families can have on the well-being of children. Tune in to hear how Bethany and Jaliyah’s shared dedication has paved the way for healing and togetherness, and learn why maintaining these connections, when safe, can be so beneficial for everyone involved.

Episode Highlights:

• How Bethany Got Started in Foster Care
• Jaliyah’s Childhood & Upbringing
• Forming Relationships with Biological Families
• Going against the grain
• Reunification & Redemption

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.

We’re excited to kick off a new series, “Hear Their Stories and Know Their Names,” dedicated to highlighting individual stories within the foster care, adoption, and kinship communities.

In this series, we aim to rewrite the narrative by sharing powerful stories of redemption and hope. By putting names and faces to these stories, we not only recognize the deep need for support in this space but also glorify God for the redemptive and successful outcomes, even in the midst of challenges.

These stories are a testament to how God turns ashes into beauty, inspiring and encouraging others along the way. Stay tuned as we shine a light on these amazing people and their incredible journeys.

Episode Highlights:

• Our New Series: Hear Their Stories and Know Their Names
• Sharing vs. Exploiting
• People in the Bible Sharing Stories
• The Beauty of sharing your story
• The Power of Names

Find More on Hope Bridge/Links From This Episode:

• Vulnerable Youth Birthday Blessings
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Sign up for the 5k Here!

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Julia Fabich, a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for children. Julia grew up in a single-parent household in Ashland, Ohio, an experience that deeply influenced her desire to give back to her community. She has been teaching elementary students in the Canton City School District for ten years and holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, with aspirations to advance into school administration as a principal.

Beyond her role as an educator, Julia is a single foster mom with her first placement, embodying her commitment to making a difference in children’s lives. She actively contributes to her community at Church of the Lakes, where she helps host the Care and Connect Support Group and leads the Family Advocacy Ministries, aiming to develop care communities within the church. Julia also serves as a Co-Director of Royal Family Kids Camp, drawing from her six years of experience as a counselor. Her unwavering love for Jesus and children shines through in all her endeavors.

Tune in to hear Julia share her inspiring journey and the impactful work she is doing in her community!

Episode Highlights:

• Growing up in a Single-Parent Home
• Finding inspiration to give back
• Ten years as an elementary school teacher
• Embracing foster motherhood and her first placement
• Hosting the Care and Connect Support Group at Church of the Lakes
• Leading Family Advocacy Ministries and building care communities
• The impact of faith and a deep love for children
• Balancing roles as a teacher, foster mom, and community leader
• Connecting personal and professional experiences to fostering and ministry

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

• Church of the Lakes
• Royal Family Kids Camp

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.