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Fostering Connections August 2025 Newsletter

Dear Fostering Connections Supporters,


As we wrap up a meaningful summer and prepare for a new school year, I’m filled with gratitude for the growth and momentum we’ve experienced—made possible by your support.


In July, we proudly completed our 2025 Career Readiness Academy summer cohorts, equipping teens impacted by foster care and adoption with critical job readiness, communication, and financial literacy skills. Their transformation was incredible to witness—and a reminder of the power of opportunity.


We also had the honor of hosting the Florida Youth SHINE State Quarterly Meeting in Jacksonville. It was a weekend full of connection, leadership, and advocacy. We’re thrilled to share that three of our students were elected to the Statewide Board—a powerful reflection of their courage and commitment to shaping the future of foster care in Florida.


This August, as our students head back to school, we’re continuing to walk alongside them with programs that strengthen both youth and families. Highlights include:

  • A Teen Talk event at Main Event Jacksonville for middle and high school students

  • A virtual parent training, “The Intersection of Trauma and Adolescence,” led by Bethany Hall, MSN, FNP-C from Chosen

  • The launch of Family Empowerment Night, our reimagined Foster/Adoptive Family Meet Ups with targeted support and enrichment


Looking ahead, we invite you to join us for two exciting microevents in September that directly support our mission:

  • Sip & Shop at J.McLaughlin Avondale – Friday, September 12

  • 2nd Annual “Big Dill Pickleball Classic” – September 27–28 at Old Coast Pickleball, hosted by the St. Augustine Sunrise Rotary Club


Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support ensures youth impacted by foster care have the tools, community, and confidence they need to thrive. If you’re inspired by what we do, I hope you’ll consider making a gift this fall to help us reach even more families.


To all of our families and supporters with school-age children—we wish you a joyful, successful start to the school year! 


In Partnership,

Aubrie Simpson-Gotham



 
 
 

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Address:
7751 Belfort Parkway, #200

Jacksonville, FL 32256


office@fosteringconnectionsfl.org
(904) 467-2209

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©2024 by Fostering Connections.

Fostering Connections is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The mission of Fostering Connections is to help youth meet their full potential by providing education programs, enrichment scholarships, and community for youth (Pre-K - 12) and families impacted by foster care and adoption.

904-467-2209

office@fosteringconnectionsfl.org

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