Fostering Connections January 2026 Newsletter
Dear Friends of Fostering Connections,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, I want to begin with a heartfelt thank you. Your support continues to make it possible for youth and families impacted by foster care to find community, opportunity, and hope through Fostering Connections.
We’re starting the year with strong momentum. In January, our Florida Youth SHINE – Greater Jacksonville Chapter is hosting a fundraiser and preparing to travel to Tallahassee for Children’s Week, while families come together again for our first Family Empowerment Night of the year—setting the tone for leadership, advocacy, and connection in 2026.
We’re expanding access this year by launching quarterly virtual Life Skills workshops for youth and Parent Café sessions for caregivers, creating more opportunities for learning and support throughout the year.
As demand for our programs continues to grow, our focus in 2026 is strengthening capacity so we can serve families with greater consistency, care, and impact. This includes investing in development support, prioritizing program quality, and engaging in thoughtful long-term planning.
We’re also looking ahead to gathering our community at the Art of Family Gala on Friday, March 6, 2026, to celebrate families, creativity, and shared commitment.
Thank you for beginning this new year with us. I’m deeply grateful for you and excited for what’s ahead.
In Partnership,
Aubrie Simpson-Gotham
Founder & CEO
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