Category Archives: Hearts & Homes events

March 2025 Happenings

Celebrating HHY Social Workers

March is Social Work Appreciation Month, and we want to take this time to shine a well-deserved spotlight on our dedicated Social Workers. HHY Social Workers play a vital role in transforming lives. They are the calm in the storm, the advocates for children in need, and the guiding hands that help foster families thrive. The work we do at HHY wouldn’t be possible without the strength, passion, and unwavering commitment of the Social Work team . Whether they’re conducting home visits, supporting foster parents, attending court hearings, or simply lending a listening ear, HHY Social Workers are on the front lines every day, showing up with grace, compassion, and professionalism-even in the most challenging moments. Thank You Social Workers!

Youth Spotlight: Deshawn Secures a Job as Camp Counselor

We are excited to announce that Deshawn, one of our determined foster youth, took the initiative to create his own Indeed account and apply for jobs. His persistence paid off when he landed a position as a camp counselor, where he will support younger children. Congratulations Deshawn!

Youth Spotlight: Liam’s Easter Bunny Tale

With Easter just around the corner, Liam, one of our creative foster youth, wanted to share a fun Easter Bunny story he wrote to celebrate the season.

Easter Disaster

In the morning it was almost Easter and a bunny was hopping around. Getting ready for the Easter season. Little did the bunny know there were animal catchers out. So the bunny was captured, and put in a van to the animal shelter. Once the bunny got to the shelter the bunny was put in a cage with lots of other bunnies. After two straight days of being at the shelter a human girl walked up to his cage. The bunny thought he was going to be killed, but instead the girl cuddled him. So the bunny realized maybe just maybe humans aren’t that bad. The girl brought the bunny home and the bunny realized they to were big fans of Easter. So this night the bunny slept a peaceful sleep.

Celebrating Success: Foster Youth Passes Her GED Test

We are thrilled to share the achievement of Tiffany, one of our foster youth who recently passed her GED test! Her journey has been one of determination, perseverance, and resilience, and we are beyond proud of her remarkable accomplishment. Passing the GED test signifies a fresh start and a path towards achieving lifelong dreams. This milestone not only boosts her confidence but also empowers her to pursue higher education and explore career options that were once out of reach.

Annual Charity Golf Tournament

We are gearing up for our Annual Charity Golf Event on May 5 at Norbeck Country Club! This event brings together community leaders, and golf enthusiasts for a great cause-supporting hearts and homes mission to provide vital resources to foster youth and families. We are currently seeking Golf Cart Sponsors to help make this event a success.

February 2025 Happenings

From Struggles to Strength: Marcus’ Journey to the School Olympics

When Marcus entered foster care, he faced overwhelming challenges. At just 11 years old, he had severe mobility issues, struggling to walk downstairs without assistance. Simple tasks like running, jumping, and playing were difficult.This all changed when Marcus was placed with the Benyella family who saw past his limitations and focused on his potential. With patience, encouragement, and unwavering support, his foster parents helped him build both his physical strength and his confidence. From physical therapy appointments to daily exercises at home, every step of his journey was met with love and determination.
Marcus has made incredible progress. The young man who once struggled to walk can now run. And not just run, Marcus is preparing to compete in his school’s upcoming Olympics! His transformation is nothing short of inspiring, proving that with the right support system, perseverance, and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Marcus’ story is a testament to the power of fostering. The dedication of his foster parents has not only changed his mobility but has given him the chance to experience the joy of being a kid.
As he steps onto the track to race in front of his peers, Marcus stands as a symbol of resilience and triumph. His journey reminds us all that every child, no matter their challenges, deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Celebrating a Milestone: Kevin Earns His Learner’s Permit!

We are thrilled to celebrate 16-year-old Kevin who has officially earned his Learner’s Permit! This achievement marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards independence and responsibility on the road. Learning to drive is an important step in a young person’s life, and we couldn’t be prouder of Kevin for reaching this goal. We encourage everyone to support and cheer him on as he continues his journey towards getting his driver’s license.
Congratulations, Kevin! Drive safely and enjoy the road ahead!

Foster Youth Accepted into YouthBuild

We are excited to celebrate Crystal, one of our foster youth, who has been accepted into YouthBuild! This program helps young adults earn their GED while gaining hands-on experience in construction.
YouthBuild provides education, job training, and career development, giving participants a path to a stable and successful future. For Crystal, this is a life-changing opportunity to build skills, confidence, and independence.
Join us in congratulating Crystal on this amazing achievement!

December 2024/January 2025 Happenings

Message from the CEO!

Dear Donors, Foster Parents, and Team Members

As we reflect on this past year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. Your unwavering support and dedication has been a tremendous support for the incredible work we’ve accomplished together, on behalf of the vulnerable youth population we serve.
To our Donors and Community Stakeholders, thank you for your generosity and commitment to Hearts & Homes. Your contributions have provided essential resources and moments of joy for the children and families we serve.
To our foster parents, you are the true champions of this mission. Your love and commitment continue to provide safe, nurturing homes where children can thrive, meet their potential and achieve permanency.
To our employees, your hard work and dedication are what keep us moving forward. From case managers to administrative staff, each of you play an essential role in transforming the lives of Maryland youth that are in care. Wishing you all a year filled with good health, happiness, and continued success. Thank you for being part of our mission. Here’s to an incredible 2025!

Arianna’s Journey Back to School!

Arianna, an inspiring 18-year-old foster youth, has shown incredible resilience by re-enrolling in school. With the support of her foster parent and her hard work and determination, she has overcome challenges and is now on track to graduate this spring. Congratulations, Arianna! We are so proud of you!

Holiday Celebration at Dave & Busters

We had an incredible time celebrating the holiday season at Dave & Busters with our foster parents, youth, and employees! It was a night filled with fun, food, and games, bringing everyone together in the spirit of joy and appreciation. Thank you to all who joined us. We look forward to another great year ahead.

Foster Youth Shine In Church Nativity Play!

This holiday season, three of our foster youth, Brian, James and Abby brought the spirit of Christmas to life by participating in their church’s nativity play. Their hard work and enthusiasm were on full display as they stepped into their roles as a shepherd, an innkeeper, and the radiant sun, adding unique warmth to the traditional story. These young performers not only demonstrated their talents but also showcased the power of a foster parent’s support.

Welcome to Our New Foster Parents!

We are thrilled to welcome two incredible individuals to our foster care family, Janis Greene and Adriene King! Both Janis and Adriene bring with them a wealth of compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of children in need. They have joined our mission of creating a supportive and nurturing environment where every child can feel loved and valued. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Janis Greene and Adriene King.

November 2024 Happenings

A Story of Love: Congratulations to the O’Brien Family!

We are overjoyed to share the heartwarming story of one of our foster youth, Josh. On November 23rd, in honor of National Adoption Month, Josh was officially adopted by our dedicated foster parent, Kim O’Brien. Josh’s journey has been one of resilience, hope, and courage. After spending most of his young life in foster care, Josh finally has a place to call home. The adoption day was an emotional one, filled with smiles, joy, and the promise of a bright future. Congratulations to Josh and the O’Brien family on this beautiful new beginning!

Shining Stars: Foster Youth Achieves Honor Roll!

This month, we celebrate four foster youth who have achieved honor roll status for the first time! Their accomplishments showcase the incredible potential of each child and the transformative power of the love, support, and stability provided by our foster families.

Brian’s Story 11-year-old Brian achieved the honor roll after a truly remarkable journey. Before entering foster care, Brian had never attended public school and faced significant challenges adjusting to a structured academic environment. He was placed with the Benyella family earlier this year and has flourished under their patient guidance and nurturing care.

Sarah’s Story 13-year-old Sarah, who faced academic struggles after recently entering foster care, is now thriving thanks to Mrs. Ola and Mr. Steve. With a structured routine and consistent encouragement, Sarah regained her confidence and discovered a love for learning. 

Tina’s Story 8-year-old Tina overcame significant challenges to earn her place on the honor roll. With the support of her foster parents, the Benyellas, Tina developed effective study habits and rebuilt her confidence in reading and writing. This semester, she achieved impressive test scores in English and math and discovered a passion for learning. 

Kevin’s Story Kevin, one of the bright young stars in our foster care program, recently received Honor roll and the Citizenship Award at his school. This prestigious recognition is given to students who exemplify outstanding character, kindness, and commitment to their community—and Kevin embodies all of these qualities.

Foster Youth Takes the Wheel Towards Independence!

We are excited to announce that Jasmine has recently earned her learner’s permit! This significant accomplishment marks an important step toward independence, thanks to her hard work and the unwavering support of her foster parent, Amy. Jasmine has always envisioned herself getting her driver’s license. Amy not only guided Jasmine through the process of studying for her permit test but also provided encouragement every step of the way. Now that Jasmine has her learner’s permit, Amy continues to help by offering supervised driving practice and teaching Jasmine valuable lessons about road safety. Congratulations, Jasmine!

Welcome to Our Newest Foster Parent!

We are excited to welcome Tara Banks as the newest foster parent in our Damamli  Parent-Child Program! Tara joins our program with a heart full of compassion and a strong commitment to supporting young parents as they navigate their unique journeys. Her dedication to empowering teen parents aligns perfectly with our mission. Please join us in giving Tara a warm welcome.

Thank you to our Community Donor!

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Karyn Gross who donated turkeys and Giant gifts cards to our foster families. The spirit of giving shines brightly in individuals like Karyn, whose thoughtful contributions remind us of the power of community and compassion. Thank you, Karyn!

October 2024 Happenings

Strikes and Smiles: A Day of Bowling Fun

Last month, the youth from our Jump Start group home had a fantastic day at the bowling alley. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as they laced up their bowling shoes and gathered around the lanes. Laughter filled the air as they cheered for each other, celebrating every strike and sharing playful banter. With snacks in hand, the camaraderie grew stronger, creating a fun and supportive environment. The energy was infectious, with everyone getting into the spirit of friendly competition. It was a day full of smiles and joy, leaving them all looking forward to their next adventure together!

A Step Towards Independence

Recently, two of the youth from our group home, Alex and Jamie, had the exciting opportunity to interview with two local businesses— one with a roofing supply company and the other with a home restoration company. This milestone is not only a great personal achievement for them, but also a significant step towards their long-term goals of independence and self-sufficiency. It’s moments like these that remind us how much progress they are making and how important it is to provide them with opportunities to build skills that will last a lifetime. We are so proud of the hard work and perseverance Alex and Jamie have shown, and we’re excited to see where this journey will take them. We wish them both the best of luck as they continue moving forward toward their bright futures!

Celebrating Sandra’s New Journey

We’re thrilled for our Helen Smith youth, Sandra, who was recently accepted into Project Rebuild, a youth development nonprofit dedicated to work readiness and personal growth. Through self-discovery, skill development, and collaborative partnerships, Project Rebuild empowers young people to unlock their potential, fostering leadership and community involvement. This experience will help Sandra build essential skills, grow her confidence, and prepare for a bright future as a leader and contributor in our community.

HHY Employee Highlight!

Dion West
Program Manager

I began my journey with Hearts and Homes in December 2016, starting as a weekend direct care staff at Kempmill. After about two years, I became the manager at Jumpstart. Eventually, I took on the responsibility of managing both Kempmill and Jumpstart until the closing of Kempmill. I find great fulfillment in helping young men navigate life’s challenges, whether by taking them on recreational outings or providing new experiences to foster their growth. One of my proudest professional achievements has been witnessing youth graduate from high school, especially those who once believed it was beyond their reach.
On a personal note, one of my proudest achievements was joining the APA Pool League, where I earned 1st place in my skill level and won two championships. Outside of work, I love playing pool, riding motorcycles, working on cars, and building things with my hands. When I’m not spending time with my family, you’ll likely find me pursuing one of these hobbies.

HHY Holiday Gift Drive!

Embrace the Holiday Spirit by making the wishes of the children at Hearts & Homes for Youth come true! Your generosity means the world to us, and with your help, we can bring joy and holiday cheer to our kids this holiday season. Thank you for helping us create magical moments for our kids!

To participate:   email Hazel Eguia at heguia@heartsandhomes.org

September 2024 Happenings

The MARFY Youth Achievement Award

Last month, one of our Avis Birely youth had an exciting and unforgettable experience at the 2024 MARFY Youth Achievement Awards. “The annual MARFY Youth Achievement Awards dinner (YAA) has been a tradition for many years for provider agencies, their families, and youth. In a field often focused on the challenges our youth face, the YAA is an evening to celebrate hard work, success, and growth.” Our youth was nominated for this award and was accompanied by Fred Boddie, youth counselor and Cathy Robinson, Director of Operations.

Exploring History and Creating Memories

Our youth had the exciting opportunity to participate in a Black History Film Festival last month. They not only watched inspiring films but also met the actors and individuals portrayed in the films. This experience allowed our youth to connect with role models beyond their screen personas, making it a truly impactful event.

Additionally, our youth engaged in several activities with Mr. Boddie and his church, providing a wonderful chance to interact with staff in a more personal setting. We also enjoyed our monthly dinner outing at TGIF, where everyone expressed how much they loved the experience. Other fun activities included mini golf and goofy bowling, which were great ways for our boys to bond and have fun together.

Empowering Dreams: A Milestone in Our Youth’s Journey

We are thrilled to share that one of our youth from the Mother-Baby Independent Living Program has recently received her Medical Assistance Certification. This is a significant accomplishment, as she has worked incredibly hard to achieve this goal. She demonstrated great resilience, refusing to give up even in the face of challenges. Not only did she work diligently, but she also persevered without considering quitting. Currently, she is in the process of applying for jobs in the medical field. We wish her all the best and will be cheering her on as she strives to achieve her dreams and goals!

Exciting Updates at our Burtonsville Main Office

Over the past few months, we have made significant improvements to our Burtonsville office. The entire building has been repainted and recarpeted, and we have transformed our lobby space to make it more welcoming and inviting for all our guests. We want everyone who steps into our office to feel comfortable and appreciate the environment and atmosphere. Additionally, we have implemented several security measures to ensure the safety of our employees. Our staff works hard to keep our agency running, and we are committed to providing a safe and comfortable workspace. We believe these changes will greatly enhance their experience. 

Ticket to Dream Foundation Gives Again

The Ticket to Dream Foundation, an organization dedicated to creating hope and opportunities for foster children across the nation and enabling kids to just be kids, recently partnered with Project Glimmer to support our foster children. This month, they provided many essential items for babies, including diapers, wipes, baby body cream, and healing balms. These supplies will be especially helpful and beneficial for our mother-baby population.

July 2024 Happenings

Memorable Day at Busch Gardens!

Last month, our Avis Birely youth had an exciting and unforgettable experience at Busch Gardens, accompanied by two of our dedicated counselors. For them, it was their first visit to the park, making the day even more special! The highlight of the day was the thrilling rides. Our youth had the chance to ride as many times as they wanted, and their enthusiasm made the experience truly memorable. The chance to enjoy the rides to their heart’s content was a fantastic adventure that brought lots of joy. The trip wasn’t just about fun; it was also a valuable opportunity for our youth to develop social skills, build confidence, and strengthen their relationships with one another. Our counselors played a key role in ensuring that everyone had a fantastic time, fostering a supportive and engaging environment throughout the day.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kenneth Studstill our Avis Birely program manager for organizing this outing and to our counselors, Mr. Antonio and Ms. Queen for accompanying our youth. Experiences like these enrich the lives of our youth and support their growth. We’re excited to continue providing such meaningful experiences and look forward to the next adventure!

Vintage Financial Partners Lend a Helping Hand

Vintage Financial Partners recently contributed to a wonderful project at our Helen Smith girls home. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our board member, Andrew Seested and his group. They engaged in a fulfilling volunteer effort. They brightened up several bedrooms with a fresh, vibrant coat of paint, significantly enhancing the atmosphere of our space. This project was a great success, reflecting the enthusiasm and commitment of the Vintage Financial Partners team. And the good news doesn’t stop there! We’re excited to announce that they’ll soon be returning to help with gardening projects, continuing their support for our Helen Smith program.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Andrew Seested for spearheading this initiative and to everyone involved for their hard work and generosity. Your efforts are truly making a meaningful difference.

Stay tuned for more updates on our community involvement and the positive changes we’re creating together!

Heartwarming Visit from Pets on Wheels Service Dog!

We are excited to share that our Avis Birely group home recently had a special visit from a service dog provided by Pets on Wheels. This heartwarming experience brought joy and therapeutic benefits to our youth, enhancing our youth therapy sessions.

Pets on Wheels is an organization dedicated to sharing the love of friendly therapy pets to improve lives. Their mission is to connect pets with people, making a profound positive difference every day. The service dog’s presence created a calming and positive environment, helping our AB youth feel more relaxed while also having fun. The staff guided the sessions, ensuring that each of our youth had meaningful interactions with the service dog. This unique approach to therapy has been incredibly effective in fostering emotional healing and strengthening bonds within our community.

We are deeply grateful to Pets on Wheels for facilitating this visit and to our dedicated staff for continuously seeking innovative ways to support our youth’s well-being. We look forward to more visits like this, knowing the profound impact they have on our youth.

Thank you, Pets on Wheels, for your continued support in making our group home a nurturing and supportive environment. We are grateful for your continued support.

Thank you for your Donation!

Thank you to the Ticket to Dream Foundation and Victoria’s Secret for their generous donations of essential items to the children we serve. We greatly appreciate your continued support and generosity!

June 2024 Happenings

Celebrating Generosity: DLH’s Impactful Donation!

We are immensely grateful to DLH for their incredible generosity—a 2015 Ford Escape! This significant donation will greatly enhance our ability to support children in need. DLH has been a steadfast partner for many years, supporting us in numerous ways in our mission to make a difference in the lives of our young people. Their continued support empowers us to deliver essential services and resources to those who depend on us. We extend our heartfelt thanks to DLH for their ongoing commitment and generosity. With partners like them, we can continue to have a positive impact in our community and beyond. Thank you once again, DLH, for your extraordinary donation and unwavering support over the years. Together, we are truly making a difference!

Celebrating Success: Heartwarming Achievements from Our Foster Youth

We are thrilled to share a heartwarming update about our 5-year-old, who is autistic and non-verbal. With consistent speech therapy and the loving support of his foster parents, he has learned to speak two new words. He is thriving in school, has graduated pre-K, and is now moving on to kindergarten. We couldn’t be prouder of his incredible progress!

We are also delighted to announce that our 20-year-old foster youth, Kristin, has recently secured a job teaching art classes! We have always believed in the potential of our youth, and this achievement reaffirms our commitment to providing them with the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Teaching art classes not only showcases Kristin’s talent but also allows her to inspire and empower others through creativity.

In addition, we are excited to share that our exceptional foster youth, Justin, has recently achieved the Honor Roll, a testament to his hard work, determination, and resilience. Despite facing numerous challenges, Justin has continuously demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. This remarkable accomplishment reflects not only Justin’s dedication but also the support and encouragement from our dedicated team and foster community. We are incredibly proud of Justin and believe this achievement will inspire him to continue striving for success in all future endeavors.

Celebrating Our Marys Mount’s Youth’s Achievements!

Marys Mount is excited to announce that Mylah graduated from middle school last month! Despite facing numerous challenges, Mylah’s perseverance and hard work have paid off. This milestone is a testament to her dedication and determination. We are incredibly proud of Mylah and look forward to witnessing her future accomplishments. Congratulations, Mylah!

Additionally, we want to share that Emily, a young person from our group home, has successfully completed her program and has been reunited with her mom! This achievement reflects the unwavering dedication and hard work of Emily, our staff, and our supportive team. It marks a significant step forward in her journey, filled with hope and new beginnings.

Diane’s Retirement Celebration!

We are delighted to share the joyous memories of Diane’s Retirement Party, celebrated at Chido’s Restaurant. It was a heartfelt day filled with laughter, reminiscence, and sincere farewells as we celebrated Diane Millard’s remarkable 40-year career at Hearts & Homes. Stories flowed freely, highlighting Diane’s impactful contributions and the lasting friendships she nurtured within our HHY family. As Diane embarks on this new chapter, we reflect on her legacy—an enduring testament to hard work, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. We wish her abundant happiness and fulfillment in her well-deserved retirement.

May 2024 Happenings

We welcome Aileena DuBois as our new Program Manager at Marys Mount GH!

Aileena DuBois has dedicated over 15 years to the mental health field. She is deeply passionate about collaborating with others and finds fulfillment in every facet of this dynamic field, including its challenges. At home, her two dogs reign supreme, bringing joy and chaos in equal measure. She is drawn to the harmonies of music, the delights of good food – as a sushi aficionado by choice and cherishes moments with her family, both human and furry. She is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to join Hearts and Homes. She looks forward to forging deeper connections with her colleagues and the youth they are privileged to serve.

Mother’s Day Festivities at Damamli Independent Living Program

Last month, we joyously celebrated Mother’s Day at Damamli Independent Living Program, honoring our extraordinary young mothers! The venue was adorned with festive decor, including a catered lunch, vibrant decorations, and thoughtful gift baskets, creating a perfect backdrop for our festivities. Each detail was thoughtfully selected to ensure that our mothers felt cherished and valued for their dedication and love. As tokens of our gratitude, each mother received a meticulously curated gift basket filled with treats and goodies, sparking joy as they unwrapped their gifts. One of the highlights was the presence of our littlest guests— the babies themselves— who added an extra layer of joy and warmth to the celebration, reminding us of the beauty and blessings of motherhood.

May was National Foster Care Awareness Month!

May served as a poignant reminder of National Foster Care Awareness Month, a time not only to acknowledge but to celebrate the unwavering dedication and love of foster parents. It’s a month to honor their resilience and strength as they open their hearts and homes to children in foster care, providing stability and support in times of uncertainty. Their tireless efforts, alongside the commitment of professional staff, ensure the well-being of these vulnerable individuals. We appreciate all foster parents who have devoted themselves to caring for the children we serve at HHY!

Celebrating Success: Recap of our Charity Golf Tournament

What an incredible turnout we experienced at our charity golf tournament last month! We are absolutely thrilled and deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and active involvement from our sponsors, participants, and volunteers. From the early morning registration to the final putt, the atmosphere was electrifying with energy and enthusiasm, truly reflecting the remarkable spirit of our community. Together, we exceeded all expectations, raising a remarkable amount of funds for our cause, which will significantly contribute to supporting our mission and making a tangible impact on the lives of those we aim to help. However, beyond the financial contributions, it’s the sense of unity and compassion that truly shines through. Witnessing everyone come together for a common cause, rallying behind something greater than ourselves, is undeniably inspiring. Congratulations to our winners! First place goes to Scott Fixell’s team, second place Ted Halpern’s Team, and third place to Teksynap team. To each and every one who played a part in making this event a resounding success, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, passion, and commitment are the driving forces behind our achievements, and we are profoundly grateful for your continued support.

April 2024 Happenings

Resilient Journeys: Our Jump Start Youth’s Aspirations

John, a 17-year-old male, currently attends the Foundation School. He has faced significant challenges with school attendance due to anxiety and PTSD. Despite these obstacles, John exhibits remarkable intelligence and proficiency in computer programming. In his leisure time, he channels his creativity into crafting video games and engaging with his housemates. John finds joy in exploring diverse cultures through culinary experiences and political discussions. His future aspirations include working as a Behavior Technician with youth, and he is actively pursuing training in that field. We wish John great success in his aspirations.

Josiyah: A Rising Star!

We have a success story in one of our youths at the Avis Birely program! Meet Josiyah, a multi-talented dynamo who’s making waves both on and off the field. When he’s not showcasing his skills in the Pee Wee football league, you’ll find him immersed in the virtual landscapes of Roblox, crafting his own adventures and conquering challenges with finesse. But Josiyah’s interests don’t stop there; he’s also an avid anime enthusiast, always ready to engage in lively discussions about the latest shows and characters. Despite his diverse array of hobbies, Josiyah maintains an impressive academic record effortlessly, proving that with focus and determination, anything is possible. His place on the honor roll is a testament to his innate ability to prioritize his academic responsibilities alongside his other interests.

HHY Employee Highlight!

Anna Tsao, LMSW
Meet Anna Tsao 
(pronounced “ciao”), a Licensed Master Social Worker dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. Anna earned her under-graduate degree in social work from UMBC in 2021 and later graduated with her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Denver in 2023. With just under a year of licensure under her belt, Anna humbly acknowledges that there’s always more to learn. Drawing from her background in community mental health, Anna has had the privilege of working with diverse populations, fostering environments where individuals can thrive. Passionate about creating safe and nurturing spaces for youth, Anna is committed to helping them unlock their full potential and improve their quality of life with empathy and a strengths-based approach. Outside of her professional endeavors, you’ll often find Anna knitting, exploring nature through hikes, or enjoying the company of her two cherished cats.

Join Our Foster Care Family: Become a Foster Parent Today! 

Join our Foster Care family as a foster parent and become a cornerstone of support for children in need. By opening your heart and home, you can provide stability, love, and guidance to those who need it most. Together, let’s create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and flourish. 

If you’re interested in making a difference and becoming a foster parent, please reach out to us at fosterparentinfo@heartsandhomes.org to learn more and start your journey today!