Consider becoming an Ohio foster parent

Foster system offers many ways to help kids
Jamie Horey, Canton Repository, Dec. 29, 2024. 

The new year is the perfect time to start thinking about becoming a licensed foster and adoptive parent.

Many people make resolutions wanting to make a positive impact in the lives of others and the community. Becoming a foster and adoptive parent does just that.

With 470 children in custody, Stark County Job & Family Services urgently needs individuals like you, who have a deep desire to help children in our community. While becoming a licensed foster and adoptive parent is a big commitment, there is flexibility in how you can help. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) has been working to improve the licensing processes, offering families a simpler path to becoming and staying licensed.

Foster and adoptive parents make a difference by providing support and stability during a challenging time in a child’s life. Children living in the foster care system are there through no fault of their own. They have experienced events that jeopardized their safety and wellbeing and are in need of a safe home and loving family. The role of a foster and adoptive parent includes, but is not limited to, providing a substitute family setting, offering a safe and stable environment, monitoring school attendance and progress, attending to medical and dental needs, and providing guidance with the adjustment process.   

We are looking for local families to care for children in foster care and help them remain in or near their communities. Stark County has only 134 licensed foster and adoptive families to care for the 470 children in custody. Forty-five of these families are licensed for kinship placement, which means they are only available to care for a specific child with whom they have an established relationship, such as a relative or friend of the family. This means there may be times when we are not able to identify a local family for placement, although we strive to keep children near their friends, school, and neighborhood to help them maintain important and familiar connections. In situations like this, children may be placed outside Stark County or in an alternative setting like a group home or residential facility.  

When most individuals think about becoming a foster parent, they likely imagine a traditional foster home where children move into the home full time. They may not be aware there are other opportunities to become involved. For those who would like to become a foster and adoptive parent but aren’t quite ready or able to commit to a full-time placement, respite care or emergency placement may be a good option for you. Respite care is short-term care that provides a break for full-time caregivers and can range from days to weeks in length. Emergency placement offers children an immediate place to stay, until a full-time caregiver can be identified. Both caregiving options are important because they offer a vital support to full-time caregivers and give children the chance to have a positive experience with a safe and nurturing adult.

The Ohio Department of Children and Youth has recognized and addressed the need for identifying more foster and adoptive placements in the state. They have been proactive in making positive changes to the licensing process, as well as making it easier to stay licensed in the future. In 2022, DCY introduced allowable foster care licensing waivers for kin caregiver applicants. In simple terms, this change waives certain licensing requirements for kinship caregivers and helps keep children placed in a familiar home. It also gives kinship caregivers access to the same supports provided to traditional foster and adoptive families. In 2025, DCY will be transitioning to a new process which will make it easier for families to stay licensed on an ongoing basis.

If you are interested in having the most unique New Year’s resolution and want to learn more about the process of becoming a foster and adoptive parent, we encourage you to contact us today! The first step is attending one of our information meetings, which are held on the first Tuesday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m.  Meetings are offered in-person and virtually. In-person meetings take place at the Division of Children Services, 402 2nd St. SE, Canton, OH 44702 and virtual meetings are hosted via ZOOM. To register, please call 330-451-8789 or email Jennifer.Loomis@jfs.ohio.gov. You can also visit our website at www.StarkJFS.org or follow us on social media at www.Facebook.com/SCJFS.

Letter to the Editor: Rita Soronen

Ohio needs a foster-to-college scholarship program; it's urgent
Columbus Dispatch, October 16, 2024, page A9.

More than 3,500 children are waiting to be adopted from foster care in Ohio right now and nearly 1,000 young people will age out this year.

The Dave Thomas Foundation is committed to dramatically increasing the number of adoptions so that children will have safe, permanent homes before they age out.

Ohio has an opportunity to pass new legislation to enact the Foster-to-College Scholarship program, which will make adoption more accessible to families.

By covering the cost of attending any post-secondary or workforce training for students who were in foster care as teenagers, the program relieves the financial burden placed on adoptive families and empowers them to support all their children, including those who were adopted.

The cost of college has increased significantly, forcing parents to save for years.

Families considering adopting a teenager face a dilemma: How can we support each of our children to pursue their dreams, even if we haven't been saving for it?

This program will give parents the ability to help all their children reach their highest aspiration, regardless of their savings.

Many parents cannot afford to save at all and must take on debt to support their children.

For families considering adopting a teenager, relieving the financial burden of education loans in the future will make adoption more feasible today.

House Bill 164 and its companion Senate Bill 182 present an opportunity to invest in children who have endured abuse and neglect and experienced trauma, grief and loss in their lives.

With the support of caring adults, young people can overcome these adverse childhood experiences and become thriving adults who give back to their community.

Because this program would offer financial support for all types of workforce training beyond just a college degree, it will support young people to achieve a vision for their future, whatever their aspirations may be. And having hope in their future helps young people stay on a positive and constructive path throughout their teenage years.

Ohio's House of Representatives has shown their support for HB164. In June, it passed resoundingly, 85 to 5.

Now, the bill rests with Ohio's Senate.

We urge Ohio's senators to pass this legislation and create the Foster-to-College Scholarship program.

As we race against the clock to ensure that all children have a permanent home, I urge our legislators to view this proposal with urgency. Ohio is a thriving state and this is an investment that will pay dividends for generations.

Rita Soronen, Guest Columnist
Rita Soronen has led the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, since 2001 and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption-Canada since 2003.

Jamole Callahan and Rita Soronen

Cynthia attains U.S. Citizenship

Former FCCS Youth Protects Her Country, Fights for Future Foster Teens
News from Franklin County Children Services, August 30, 2024

For Private Second-Class Cynthia Louis Charles, this was no ordinary care package. In addition to a brand new pair of shoes, cleaning supplies, plus hair care and beauty products, the box included a framed photo of the Franklin County Children Services Youth Advisory Board (YAB) and a special message from FCCS staff and volunteers rooting for her success.

A former foster youth, Cynthia now serves in the U.S. Army Reserve Command and is studying at Columbus State Community College to become a dental hygienist.

She’s also a current member and past president of YAB and recipient of the 2022 FCCS Jack Donahue College scholarship.

Her desire to be self-sufficient led Cynthia to join the military. A native of Haiti, her enlistment in the armed forces expedited her journey to becoming a U.S. citizen and offered financial stability, including additional funding for college.

However, being in the Army Reserve Command has given Cynthia more than just security. She says it’s given her a foundation for taking on future responsibilities: “During training, I learned how to be disciplined and work as part of a team.”

As part of her seven-year contract, Cynthia is required to report for duty once a month and balance her service with classes and a part-time job at a campus cafe. She just recently reported back for more training in August and will join her new reserve unit in September.

Cynthia recently moved into Columbus State’s Scholar House, where former foster youth have their own apartments and receive support from dedicated staff. She’s eager for the responsibility to take care of a place all hers. “I even have a washing machine.”

Her next goal is to begin working with the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services Bridges program which provides “guidance and support as [foster youth] transition into adulthood.”

Cynthia is hoping this resource will help her navigate the challenges of the future. “I’m so still young, and I just want adult advice on stuff because I may have issues that I need to handle,” she said.

While Cynthia remains busy, she makes time to advocate for youth who are still in foster care because she’s grateful for those who helped her while she was in care.

Looking on her list for lobbying, Cynthia will join YAB members in advocating for Ohio House Bill 164, which aims to establish a foster-to-college scholarship program.

“I’m really looking forward to what’s going to happen in the future because of what YAB is doing now,” she said.

Miatta attains U.S. Citizenship

Former Foster Youth Pursues Citizenship, Education to Help Others
News from Franklin County Children Services, June 12, 2024.

Becoming a U.S. citizen has been a dream for 22-year-old Miatta Joe, a native of Sierra Leone who first experienced foster care at the age of 15.

Her hard work and persistence made that dream a reality, when she officially became an American citizen back in May and prepares to celebrate at her swearing-in ceremony in July.

And as a longtime member of the Franklin County Children Services Youth Advisory Board, she says she'll continue using her determination, education, and impassioned voice to speak for other young people in the child welfare system.

“Being a citizen is really a good thing for me because now I have the right to vote and work inside the government to help people,” Miatta shared, noting that she managed and funded the almost year-long process to become a US citizen on her own.

“I had to fill out a lot of forms, get a lot of documents, and do a lot of research,” she said.

Pursing a degree in Human Science at Columbus State Community College, she hopes to start a career in which she can help other youth. “I’m studying the brain so I can learn how it reacts to stuff like the things I went through. So I can help people like me.”

Coming to America as a child and experiencing significant family trauma, Miatta entered foster care at age 15. She often shares how she lived in multiple placements while dealing with mental health issues.

Miatta credits Ms. Valerie, whom she met at a group home, with inspiring her to take action to help herself. “She pushed me hard to get a part time job and start doing stuff for myself.”

“Being busy helped me get over my emotional trauma by distracting myself.”

This newfound self-determination at age 16 led Miatta to become part of the FCCS Youth Advisory Board, which is comprised of young people who either are currently in or have been in foster care. Members provide their insights to the agency’s administration, and being part of the group gives them a sense of empowerment and the ability to represent other FCCS youth by sharing their perspectives.

“We want to change things so the system works better for kids who are involved in it and who are leaving it,” she said.

Recently, Miatta and some of her fellow YAB members spoke out during a rally at the Ohio Statehouse for House Bill 164 which would create a college scholarship program for former foster youth.

Miatta credits FCCS staff among those who have helped her pursue her goals. YAB advisors Deric Cobb and Asia Davis “are pushing me hard in life,” she said. “They are the people who will be there for me if I call.”

“It has been a pleasure working alongside Miatta,” shared Ms. Davis. “She brings a lot of joy, energy, and enthusiasm to the team, and she relishes her role as the senior member of the Youth Advisory Board.”

When asked what she would say to others who have experienced trauma and are involved in the child welfare system, Miatta said: “Work hard, never give up, and keep your head held high. You’re not the only one going through what you’re going through, and people care about you. There’s a bright future ahead.” 

Richland County graduates prepare for college

Richland County Children Services celebrates high school graduates in their care
Lou Whitmire, Mansfield News Journal, June 22, 2024.

Six students in the care of Richland County Children Services had a special graduation celebration Thursday afternoon at the agency at 731 Scholl Road.

Five of the six students were able to attend the ceremony, complete with food, family members, cake and presents as Children Services staff stopped by to congratulate them.

Destiny Milton was among six high school graduates in the care of Richland County Children Services who were given a graduation celebration at the agency Thursday. With Milton is, center, caseworker Chelsey Frost and Milton's aunt, Traci Trumpower.

Recently married Destiny Milton is a 2024 graduate of Ontario High School who attended Pioneer Career & Technology School, where she received a certificate in welding.

She has just completed orientation at Whirlpool in Marion and is excited about beginning her new job.

Milton, 18, said her mom and uncle worked in factories and her late grandpa would be proud of her career choice.

Six high school graduates in the care of Richland County Children Services were given a graduation celebration Thursday at the agency. Left to right, James Hettinger, Cameron Barnett, Destiny (Barr) Milton, Ayden Fowler and Josh Reedy, Not pictured is Ivy Bistline.

"I want to become a firefighter," said Milton, who stopped by a Mansfield fire station to learn more about what she needs to do. "In the fall I want to get my EMT certification."

Milton's aunt, Traci Trumpower, said she and her husband are so proud of Destiny.

"We're happy to see the successes she's had," Trumpower said.

Seated at their table was Richland Services' Chelsey Frost, whom Milton said "was the best caseworker."

Cameron Barnett, 17, said he just graduated from Buckeye Community School on Park Avenue West. He plans to attend OSU Newark campus to study architectural science.

Cameron said he likes drawing, writing and is very good at fixing things.

His foster mother, Bobi Ginn, said Cameron fixed her broken doors and door frames at her trailer.

"He's only been with me since Monday," she said.

Cameron, who was drawing on a sketch pad while he chatted with graduates James Hettinger and Josh Reedy, said he is ready to take on new challenges.

Cameron said Hettinger is a former foster brother, and he knew Reedy as a former classmate at Thurgood High School in Dayton.

Reedy will attend Wilberforce University where he plans to study business administration and music.

Hettinger is seeking employment now that he is out of high school. Ayden Fowler is going to work at School Specialty.

Michelle Miller, executive director of Richland County Child and Family Counsel, brought a gift basket for each graduate. Laptops were given to a couple of students who are headed to college along with school supplies.

Graduate Ivy Bistline, who was not able to attend, plans to attend The Ohio State University and major in social work.

UC Blue Ash and Antioch College join the list of SW schools to earn Ohio Reach Designation

More area colleges are being recognized for assisting students from the foster care system
Zack Carreon, 91.7 WVXU, July 1, 2024.

Jaleshia Brown graduated from UC Blue Ash in 2021

This year, UC Blue Ash and Antioch College have joined the growing list of southwest Ohio schools to earn the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation, joining Miami University and Wright State.

Ohio Reach is a network of advocates for youth from the foster care system administered by the Ohio Children's Alliance. The organization provides them with access to higher education opportunities.

A designation from Ohio Reach means the school is recognized for its work to assist former foster care students and can receive additional support from the organization to further improve its programs.

Since schools began receiving designations in 2023, 40 institutions across the state have earned the honor so far.

Laurie Malone, Academic Advising Director at UC Blue Ash says that designation is a big deal. That's especially true for schools like Blue Ash that have a large population of first-generation college students, some of which come from the foster care system. UC Blue Ash has identified 40 students as foster care alumni, but there could be more.

"We believe there's more students that are already here," Malone told WVXU. "With this new destination, this is giving us opportunities for resources to build trust with our students."

Colleges with programs like these can offer monetary support, food, and sometimes even housing to ease the financial burden on students. Jaleshia Brown, a former foster kid, and 2021 UC Blue Ash graduate says this kind of support can dramatically improve a student's chances of success in higher education, but getting students on board can be a challenge.

"It's not always easy for us to accept that help because we've been let down so many times," Brown said. "We may not be that forthcoming with the information."

Brown says too often, foster kids don't want to disclose their background and can sometimes suffer in silence instead of asking for help.

Brown had been in the foster care system since she was a young child, frequently bouncing from foster home to foster home where the rules were always changing. She says her childhood was filled with instability, trauma, and abuse. Once she reached her teens, she had an idea of where she wanted to go in life but there were many obstacles.

After high school, she had a child and struggled to find success in college largely due to a lack of money and support. As a single mother and student, she experienced homelessness and for a time lived in her car while getting an associate degree at Cincinnati State and continuing her education at Blue Ash.

While she was in college, academic advisors were there to help and connect her to needed resources, but there was still something missing.

"The supports were there. Everybody was doing their job, but there was no actual connection to actually help me through that," Brown said.

That's why she's so excited about the Ohio Reach Designation. Brown, who now works professionally with foster kids says a school can only receive the destination if it meets certain criteria like having a designated campus liaison. The destination also provides training for school staff so they can better understand the challenges students face coming out of the foster care system. That can make all the difference.

"Just someone who's genuinely there for us and that just keeps showing that, 'Hey, no matter how much you push me away, or want me here or don't want me here, or whatever. I'm still here and I have these resources for you,'" Brown told WVXU.

Craig Bennett, Senior Director of Student Success at Miami University says the Ohio Reach name is trusted by students leaving foster care, which makes seeking help less intimidating. When marketing to high school counselors and students, Miami puts the Ohio Reach logo right next to its own.

"Students from foster recognize the Ohio Reach symbol and automatically recognize that there's somebody on campus who understands and has worked with other foster care students," Bennett said. "It allows students to make a decision on where they want to attend."

Miami and UC Blue Ash agree providing these students with the tools they need will encourage more foster kids to pursue their education, which will in turn make college campuses more diverse.

Brown wants to see more money put into programs across the state so more colleges can intervene in students' lives earlier and set them on a path with fewer challenges. She believes students like her have a lot of strengths they can bring to the academic world, they only need the opportunity.

"They're survivors, they're fighters, and they adapt. They have been their whole lives," she said. "And that's all you need to start."

UC Blue Ash receives Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation

UC Blue Ash to provide additional support for students who were in foster care:
College first in Hamilton County to receive Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation
June 18, 2024

Jaleshia Brown is a foster care alumnus who earned degrees in criminal justice
from UC Blue Ash and UC Uptown.

As the number of foster children who graduate high school is growing locally, the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is adding resources designed to support their success in higher education.

UC Blue Ash has received Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE). It is one of only 40 Ohio campuses to earn this designation, and it’s the only one in Hamilton County.

The news comes as more kids who have been in the foster care system are finishing high school. Hamilton County Job & Family Services reports that 82 foster children graduated from area high schools this spring, which sets a new record for the county.

Ohio Reach is a network of professionals, advocates and students across the state that support former foster youth on their higher education journey. The network provides resources to institutions of higher education, child welfare agencies and foster care alumni enrolled in higher education to support their academic success.

The Ohio Reach designation is reserved for colleges and universities meeting criteria that depict their support of students with experience in foster care. It includes a $2,500 award from ODHE to develop programming for foster care alumni.

ODHE notes that criteria for receiving the designation includes:

• A designated campus liaison
• Champions in various campus departments
• The ability to connect students to resources (basic needs, food, housing)
• Community-building opportunities for students
• Targeted outreach to students and efforts to identify and support them
• Expanding the eligibility of on-campus services
• Staff training on working with alumni of foster care
• Succession/transition planning
• Data collection
• Mentorship

“The Ohio Reach designation is so important because it gives us the resources to support our students who are foster alumni, and it helps us connect them with statewide services and develop special programming at our college,” said Laurie Malone, director of Academic Advising at UC Blue Ash and the designated campus liaison for Ohio Reach. “It also helps us build trust — it gives us legitimacy and shows that we have the commitment and resources to make a difference. We can really do a lot of good with this.”

The designation also offers a sign of hope to foster care alumni who are fighting the odds as they look for the opportunity to pursue their college degree.

“The college graduation rate is so low for current and former foster youth because it is hard to thrive and focus on school when you are constantly in survival mode — trying to figure out where your next meal is coming from or where you are going to lay your head at night,” said Jaleshia Brown, a foster care alumnus who earned her associate degree in criminal justice from UC Blue Ash and her bachelor’s degree from UC while graduating with honors.

She benefitted from funding through the state that is specifically for current or former foster children. “Many of us are the first in our families to attend college. Ohio Reach allows us to be the first in our families to graduate college.”

Brown works as a coordinator for the Hamilton County Youth Advisory Board, an advocacy group for current and former foster youth that is working to improve the foster care system and influence policy change.

Malone notes that the programming at UC Blue Ash will include welcome packages for new students, financial aid workshops, networking events with other foster care alumni and support with finding housing or various community resources. She hopes the designation will also help the college in identifying students who were in foster care so they can apply for Education Training Vouchers (ETVs) through the state. The ETVs provide up to $5,000 per year for foster alumni who are currently in college. Emergency relief funding of up to $1,500 per year is also available through Ohio Reach.

“Identifying our students who have experience with foster care can be challenging,” said Malone. “We’re adding a question about this to our new student orientation materials, and we’re working on ways to better identify current students so they can apply for an ETV and access other resources available through the state. A lot of students could be eligible for funding that is specific to this population but just don’t know about it.”

Learn more about the Ohio Reach Postsecondary Designation, including a map of Ohio Reach schools.

Article about Scholar House 3

Helping foster children land on their feet
Reporter Jackie Gillis, NBC4, June 11, 2024. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — For foster youth, finding stability once leaving the system might be a challenge. The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) is working to address that need. 

The Columbus Scholar House for former foster youth has been around for a few years now. It offers housing to those who were previously in foster care but are now enrolled in two or four-year universities. 

While one current resident, Nevaeh Fernan, grew up in a loving household, a lot happened that ended up with Fernan experiencing homelessness. She found herself couch surfing and not knowing what was next for her. 

Growing up, school was her safe space and she was determined to continue her education. 

“I always had this plan to be a social worker, but I never knew what it would take to get there. I never knew if I could afford it. I never knew what it would look like,” Fernan said. 

One thing she struggled with was stability; she never knew where her next meal would come from or even where she’d spend the night. Because of that, she actually enjoyed her time in foster care.

“I was allowed to be me. I knew when my next meal was going to be and they just wanted to see me grow,” she said.

Fernan tried to enroll in universities a few different times, but she couldn’t financially afford it. When she learned about Scholar House, she found her new safe space. 

“I don’t have to worry about where I’m going to sleep. I don’t have to worry about boundaries, like setting up boundaries and having that emotional security. It’s definitely been a game changer,” said Fernan. 

Gavin Eberhardt, an on-site case manager, said when he works with residents at Scholar House, he likes to make sure they’re set up for success. 

“I tend to do financial budgeting with the students,” he said. “I tend to take students to job and career fairs as well. I make sure that all the students have food, so food will never be a priority or would never be a barrier with the students.”

Eberhardt said leaving the foster care system can be a pivotal time in someone’s life. For a lot of them, this is their first time renting an apartment and so that can be a challenge.

‘They really don’t know what to expect. So that’s my role is to really help them learn not only the home economic aspect, but also learn how to, you know, budget and maintain a household with what also being a full time a part time student,” he says.

Columbus Scholar House for Former Foster Youth is located near downtown Columbus, the King-Lincoln district. Rent is based on 30% of adjusted annual income. 

As for amenities, it’s fully furnished, utilities are included and there are a lot of community activity areas. 

For qualifications, applicants must be adults, aged 18-24, who were previously in foster care or will leave within 90 days. They also have to be enrolled in a two or four-year university and maintain a 2.5 grade point average. 

Fernan said she’s currently studying business at Columbus State, something she didn’t think was achievable at one point. Her goal is to get into social work so she can help others who are in need and let them know there is hope. She says that this housing is allowing her to fulfill her dreams.

To apply, click here.

Lucas County had a record-breaking high school graduation this year as well

Lucas County Children Services celebrates student achievements with parade and festivities
Reporter Silver Barker, WTOL 11 News, May 31, 2024.

The “graduation parade” happens every spring to celebrate teens who earn either a high school or GED diploma.

TOLEDO, Ohio — Cars crowded the streets surrounding the Lucas County Children Services building Friday to honk their horns, hold up their colorful posters with endearing messages, and cheer and clap all to show their support for their loved ones completing a huge milestone in their life.

LCCS said this year is a record-breaking one as this is the highest number of graduates they've ever had.

A total of 22 students have started their next chapter as they've not only emancipated from the Lucas County Children Services but also received their high school diplomas.

Kevin Milliken, the public information officer for LCCS, said this year is a record-breaking one as this is the highest number of graduates they've had.

One of the 22 students celebrating this accomplishment is Sofia Musito, who is setting records of her own.

“My parents never went to high school or anything," Musito said. "So just trying to make a life for myself because they didn’t really know how to navigate it. Even right now going to college, they never experienced that."

While her parents never experienced college, Sofia will as she was recently accepted into a college and plans to major in psychology.

Musito and other graduates were provided a private lunch with friends of LCCS where they were given gifts. In addition, they took a limo bus to Middlegrounds Metropark for a graduation photo session.

They wrapped up the afternoon at Maumee Presbyterian Church and received duffle bags filled with personal items, household items and other donations to start their next chapter.

A moment of pride and achievement for those who have proven they can flourish even when the odds were sometimes against them.

LCCS said it's important to celebrate these graduates as they have overcome some of the toughest obstacles life could have thrown at them during their childhood.

Dayna Riley, LCCS independent living supervisor, said the graduates were excited about the activities they had planned Friday.

"It's important for them because some of them, they don't get a graduation ceremony," Riley said. "They walk across the stage and that's it so this just shows our support in the children services to them that we really are here for them."

LCCS said the graduates vary with many headed to college this summer and fall. A few are headed to training in skilled trades and others are headed directly to the workforce.

Second article about Hamilton County foster youth graduation - 82 students

'You aren't defined by your circumstances.' Foster care kids graduate high school
Madeline Mitchell, Cincinnati Enquirer, June 6, 2024.

"I still go to every family event," Adrianna Gonzales says of her foster family. They are still close after she graduated high school and started a family of her own.

In the front lobby of the Summit Hotel in Madisonville, Adrianna Gonzales chases her 3-year-old son while holding her 9-month-old baby. The boy is laughing and pulling at balloons that line the hotel's entrance.

Gonzales is nervous. She's about to speak to a room full of high school graduates. The 25th annual Celebration of Dreams event, hosted by Hamilton County Job and Family Services Wednesday evening, honors kids in Hamilton County foster care who beat the odds by getting a high school diploma. There are 82 of them this spring − a record for the county.

Three years ago, Gonzales was one of those graduates. She was placed in foster care when she was 7. At her foster mother's urging, Gonzales went to vocational school while she was in high school, while pregnant. It was difficult, she says, but she's grateful her foster mom was so passionate about setting Gonzales up for success.

Now, she's a loving mother of two, a full-time worker and a student at Galen College of Nursing. She's exactly the kind of role model Michael Patton, director of Hamilton County Job and Family Services, is proud to introduce to this year's graduates.

Hamilton County Job and Family Services director Michael Patton shakes a graduate's hand during the 25th annual Celebration of Dreams graduation on Wednesday.

"You aren't defined by your circumstances," Patton says at the start of the program. "You belong wherever you decide to show up."

When Gonzales gets on stage to speak, she takes a deep breath and shares her story, ending with a message of hope, faith and resilience.

"My children are my world and I strive every day to be a role model they can look up to. I want them to know that no matter where you start, it's where you choose to go that defines your journey," Gonzales tells the graduates.

Hamilton County had 82 foster care kids graduate high school this spring.

In the audience listening, the teens reflect on their own journeys through the foster care system and what it took to make it to their own high school graduations. They, too, are determined to make a better life.

Deshon Mack, 19, is going to college to study psychology. "I'm just interested in how the brain works," he says.

Jaida Stiles, 20, dreams of running her own restaurant. She's planning to get a culinary arts degree from Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.

Carley Perkins has lived with her aunt and uncle for about two years.

Carley Perkins, 19, is pursuing animation and graphic art. She sits next to her aunt and uncle in the audience, whom she lives with now after bouncing between living with her dad, grandma and foster families all her life.

Perkins is also deaf, and has cochlear implants to help her hear and understand speech. School classes were always easy, she says, but making friends? Not so much. She's nervous but excited for her next steps into adulthood.

"Don't worry about what others think of you," Perkins says. "Just think highly of yourself."

Anyone wishing to provide a graduation gift to these teens can do so through Hamilton County's Kindness for Kids wish list on Amazon.

Record number of Hamilton County foster kids graduate high school

I had to do it on my own': Record number of Hamilton County foster kids graduate high school
Reporter Sean DeLancy, WCPO News, June 5, 2024

Hamilton County Jobs and Family Services celebrated the graduation of 82 students in foster care — the most in one school year in program history

CINCINNATI — More than 80 Hamilton County foster children, their families and supporters walked the red carpet flanked by clapping support personnel from the Jobs and Family Services Wednesday as the system celebrated the largest group of kids to get a high school diploma in a single school year.

Many in the crowd had suffered traumas they would only speak about in vague terms.

Emily Day said her meeting with the foster system was sudden and shocking.

"I was at school and I never went home," Day said. "I left with my backpack on my back and left with one of my friends to go home and a case worker I never met picked me up and I got dropped off in the middle of Colerain and had no clue where I was."

Despite the sudden shift in her life, Day walked the red carpet and celebrated graduating from Oak Hills High School a full year early.

She said her foster mom was great, but getting to graduation was difficult.

"I had to do it on my own ... not having, like, a big family behind me for support. It's been me," she said.

While largely alone in her journey through school, Day has been far from alone in Hamilton County's foster system.

JFS says the county currently has custody of roughly 1,900 children and nearly a third of them are older than 13.

Community Engagement Manager Tammara Jones acknowledged the kids go through a lot despite JFS's best efforts to provide a support system for them.

"They have so many different obstacles that they face," she said.

Jones said JFS provides support for kids through age 21 with programs like Bridges and helps them find assistance through things like the Youth Navigator Network to make transitioning out of the system less abrupt than disconnecting completely at 18.

"We are always here. We will always be here wherever you are," she said.

JFS is in constant need of foster parents. Day said it's worth it for anyone interested in providing a home for a kid to inquire about how to do it.

"These kids are coming from places where they are beaten and battered and they don't have anyone who cares," Day said. "They just need somebody to love them."

Day said she will be attending the University of Cincinnati where she will study nursing, and she plans to save lives in the Emergency Room when she completes that degree.