Fostering Connections February 2025 Newsletter

Dear Fostering Connections Friends,

I hope your 2025 is off to a fantastic start! We certainly kicked off the year on a high note with an incredible turnout at our first Foster/Adoptive Family Meet Up of the year at Myrtle Avenue Brewing. We were thrilled to welcome 36 kids and 25 adults for an evening filled with fellowship, laughter, and a delicious dinner. It was the perfect way to start the new year!

Our Florida Youth SHINE Greater Jacksonville Chapter also began 2025 with an inspiring focus on chapter expectations and goal setting—both as a team and individually. These activities laid the foundation for a meaningful year of growth, leadership development, and advocacy in the child welfare system. In addition, two of our amazing students, accompanied by chapter mentors, myself and Steve Gotham, proudly represented our chapter at the Florida Youth SHINE State Quarterly Meeting in Cape Coral. The weekend was filled with impactful training, strategic planning, and connection-building with mentors and members from across the state.

Exciting news! Registration is now open for our 2025 Career Readiness Academy Cohort! This program is a cornerstone of our mission, and we’re thrilled to invite students to participate in what will undoubtedly be another transformative year.

This month, we’re gearing up for The Art of Family Gala on March 7, 2025. The gala committee has been working tirelessly to make this an unforgettable evening of celebration and impact. There’s still time to be part of this special event through sponsorship (deadline: February 21), donating an auction item, or attending as a guest. Your support helps us continue providing vital programs and resources to foster and adoptive families in our community.

Additionally, our Students & Families Art Contest will be a highlight of the month, with People’s Choice voting going live soon! Winners will be announced at the gala, and we can’t wait to celebrate the creativity and talent of our incredible participants.

I want to thank each of you for your unwavering support. Together, through collective giving and community engagement, we’re making a significant difference for children, teens, and families impacted by foster care and adoption.

There are so many ways to get involved with Fostering Connections this year, from volunteering to attending events. I encourage you to explore how you can make an impact.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. I look forward to seeing you soon!

In Partnership,

Aubrie Simpson-Gotham

Founder & CEO, Fostering Connections

February 2025 Newsletter.pdf

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