On May 17th, the The Friends of Foster Care hosted Foster Care Aware at Old Dominion University, bringing together a vibrant community of caregivers, advocates, professionals, and youth for a day of connection, education, and celebration. From bounce houses and poetry workshops to trauma-informed parenting sessions, the event highlighted the strength of the foster care community and the power of shared learning.
With tailored tracks for prospective parents, adoptive families, foster caregivers, and biological parents, the day offered meaningful content for every stage of the foster care journey. Participants engaged in workshops on Trust-Based Relational Intervention, trauma and healing, family rights, human trafficking awareness, and the transition to adulthood for youth with disabilities. A powerful panel discussion offered insight from across the foster care system—including adoptees, parents, and professionals.
Children enjoyed a joyful Kids’ Corner, complete with a petting zoo (with two baby pigs!), bounce house, inflatable obstacle course, crafts, and activities. Meanwhile, teens participated in hands-on sessions including poetry writing, cooking, wellness, and app design.
Foster Care Aware is more than an event—it’s a movement to elevate the voices of those with lived experience and equip families with the tools they need to support youth in care. We’re grateful to our partners and sponsors who made this community celebration possible and look forward to continuing this vital work, together.
