Fostering Connections July 2026 Newsletter

Dear Friends of Fostering Connections,

As I reflect on the past month, I am filled with gratitude.

June is always one of the busiest—and most rewarding—times of the year at Fostering Connections. Over the course of three weeks, our team had the privilege of serving youth through our Career Readiness Academy in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Palatka.

Each student arrived with a unique story, different experiences, and their own hopes for the future. Throughout the week, we watched them grow in confidence as they practiced interviewing, explored career pathways, built resumes, learned financial skills, visited college campuses, and discovered strengths they may not have realized they possessed.

One of my favorite moments each year is graduation. Watching students who were once nervous to introduce themselves stand proudly before their peers and families reminds me why this work matters. These moments are only possible because of the incredible community that surrounds our youth.

To our volunteers, guest speakers, caregivers, board members, sponsors, donors, and community partners—thank you. You gave generously of your time, talents, and resources to help young people build brighter futures. Whether you led a workshop, conducted mock interviews, served a meal, provided transportation, donated supplies, or simply encouraged a student, your kindness made a lasting difference.

As we move into July, our work continues. Florida Youth SHINE Jacksonville members will represent our community at the statewide quarterly meeting and we're preparing to welcome families back for Teen Talks, Family Empowerment Night, and Career & Lifeskills Jumpstart in August.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for investing in youth and families impacted by foster care. Together, we are creating opportunities, building connections, and inspiring hope.

With Gratitude,

Aubrie Simpson-Gotham

Founder & CEO

July 2026 Newsletter.pdf

Download PDF • 4.56MB