On May 1st, we gathered in Richmond to mark the beginning of Foster Care Awareness Month with our inaugural May Day Luncheon—a beautiful afternoon of connection, compassion, and community. We chose May Day with intention: historically, the phrase “Mayday” has been used as a distress call, a cry for help. In the world of foster care, that cry is all too real for the thousands of children who are removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.
Our luncheon was a reminder that while the needs are great, so too is our collective capacity to respond. We were humbled to be joined by so many individuals who care deeply about the future of Virginia’s foster youth—leaders, partners, educators, advocates, and everyday heroes who are ready to answer the call.
One of the most powerful moments of the event came from one of our very own youth—a talented teen in foster care who shared an original spoken-word poem that moved the room to tears. His words, honest and unflinching, spoke to the resilience, pain, and hope that define so many young people’s experiences in care. His voice reminded us all why we do this work—and why we must continue.
As we carry this momentum through Foster Care Awareness Month, we invite you to go deeper with us. Volunteer. Partner. Spread the word. Advocate. The need is urgent, and your support is vital.
Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can be the answer to every “Mayday” call a child in care may send.
