In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, Courtney and Brian Mavis delve into critical social issues affecting foster youth, including sex trafficking, addiction, and poverty. They discuss the alarming realities of sex trafficking in the U.S., particularly how foster youth are disproportionately affected. The conversation shifts to the cycle of addiction, exploring how trauma leads to substance abuse among youth in care. Finally, they address the economic challenges faced by former foster youth, emphasizing the importance of family support and community involvement in breaking the cycle of poverty.

Takeaways

• Sex trafficking is a significant issue in the U.S., often overlooked.
• Foster youth are particularly vulnerable to trafficking due to lack of family support.
• Addiction often stems from trauma experienced in childhood.
• The majority of youth in foster care have experienced some form of addiction.
• Poverty is a major issue for former foster youth, often linked to lack of education and support.
• Continuity in care and relationships is crucial for the well-being of foster youth.
• Predators often pose as family figures to exploit vulnerable youth.
• Community involvement is essential in supporting foster families and youth.
• Teaching life skills, such as budgeting, can help foster youth succeed after care.
• Connection and support can significantly reduce the risk of addiction and poverty.

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.

Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.

Meet kids awaiting adoption.

Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.

Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis discuss the challenges of parenting in the digital age, particularly focusing on the impact of electronics on children and foster youth. They explore the complexities of managing technology access, the implications of the Foster Youth Bill of Rights, and the importance of establishing rules for electronics in the home.

The conversation also delves into the dangers of technology for kids in foster care, the significance of location tracking, and the necessity of open communication about online safety. The episode concludes with resources for foster parents to navigate these challenges effectively.

Bark: Parental controls and device monitoring tool
https://www.bark.us/

Takeaways

• Parenting is inherently challenging, and electronics add complexity.
• Electronics can affect children's focus and attention.
• The Foster Youth Bill of Rights grants kids access to technology.
• Establishing rules for electronics is crucial for safety.
• Location tracking can pose risks for foster youth.
• Open communication about online dangers is essential.
• Foster parents should be proactive in discussing technology use.
• It's important to balance freedom and safety in technology access.
• Foster youth may have different experiences with technology than biological children.
• Resources and support are vital for foster parents managing electronics.

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.

Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.

Meet kids awaiting adoption.

Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.

Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams interview bestselling author Kate Angelo, who shares her inspiring journey from foster care to becoming a successful writer. Kate discusses the impact of her traumatic childhood experiences on her writing and the themes of belonging and family in her work. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, relationship skills, and mentorship for foster youth, and how her own experiences have shaped her mission to help others. The conversation also touches on the significance of breaking generational cycles and the need for emotional support in navigating life's challenges.

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Takeaways

• Kate Angelo's journey from foster care to bestselling author is inspiring.
• Writing has been a therapeutic outlet for Kate.
• The importance of empathy in relationships is crucial for foster youth.
• Foster care experiences shape one's understanding of family and belonging.
• Kate's book 'Girl Lost' explores themes of trauma and redemption.
• Mentorship can significantly impact the lives of foster youth.
• Breaking generational cycles is essential for personal growth.
• Emotional support is vital for navigating life's challenges.
• Foster youth need relationship skills to thrive in adulthood.
• Dreaming beyond trauma is possible with the right support.

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.

Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.

Meet kids awaiting adoption.

Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.

Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.