THE BE A FOSTER MOVEMENT
With more than 437,000 U.S. children in foster care (2.7 million globally), and an average of only 200,000 licensed foster homes, 30-60% of which drop out each year, there’s no denying that the need for loving foster families is great. The Be a Foster Movement, which was co-founded by husband and wide duo Andrew and Ashley Rae Klinger, strives to create conversation and understanding around the undeniable impacts of foster care and the increasing need for loving foster families.
The hard truth is, the many short-term and long-term effects of COVID-19 have increased the vulnerability already felt by the world’s at-risk families and children. Due to an increase in child abuse and neglect during recent times of quarantine and social distancing, NOW MORE THAN EVER, we are called to LOVE and serve the needs of the children who are finding their way into the system.
Through the Be a Foster Movement, which includes our signature BAF Podcast, BAF Convos, BAF Vlog, and our BAF Media Campaign, we’re collaborating with members of the foster community around the globe, including individuals, families, institutions, organizations, political leaders, and media outlets to share different initiatives, resources, and real-life stories about foster care from a variety of perspectives. Our hopes are to 1) eliminate misconceptions and create realistic expectations about the foster care experience, 2) provide support outlets for current and prospective foster families, and 3) encourage families to make an impact in the life of a child and BE A FOSTER.
"100 years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the type of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove, but the world may be different because I made an impact in the life of a child.” ~ Unknown
THE BAF PODCAST
Hosted by Ashley Rae, the Be a Foster Podcast is initiating real conversations with individuals, families, institutions, organizations, and political leaders around the globe to share different initiatives, resources, and real-life stories about foster care from a variety of perspectives. One of those perspectives is that of our state Governors and political leaders. Through the From the Capital series, the hope is to eventually visit with Governors or political leaders from each of the 50 states to provide a better understanding of 1) the overall state-specific impacts of the foster care system, and 2) any initiatives set in place to address the cause and to decrease the need for foster care, while supporting Foster Families and advocating for the children in the Foster Care system. Whether it’s an individual or family with a personal story, an institution or organization with a service or support outlet, or a political leader with an initiative, the hope is to inspire those impacted by foster care to make an impact and be a voice through the Be a Foster Podcast. ~ Make an Impact. Be a Voice.
THE BAF CONVOS
From casual round-table discussions to formal presentations, seminars, workshops, discussion panels, book clubs, and virtual gatherings and support groups, we’re collaborating with members of the foster community to bring individuals, families, institutions, organizations, and political leaders together in a variety of settings to 1) initiate conversations about the overall impacts of foster care, the steps to be taken to better support current and prospective foster families, and ways to advocate for the children within the foster care system. 2) Additionally, we strive to create a sense of community and connection for members of the foster community, while providing them with different support outlets and training opportunities. Our hopes are to inspire those who have been impacted by foster care to make an impact and join the convo. ~ Make an Impact. Join the Convo.
THE BAF VLOG
Our Be a Foster Vlog series is a short 3-part Video Blog that was launched in an effort to address common questions and misconceptions about Foster Care, while providing support to the Foster Community. Series 1) Questions About Foster Parenting You Need to Ask. Series 2) Misconceptions About Foster Care That We Need to Know. Series 3) Tips, Tools, Advice, and Encouragement for the Foster Community. ~ Make an Impact. Be Informed.
THE BAF Media CAMPAIGN
Through our Be a Foster Media Campaign, we are utilizing social media and various media outlets to 1) share and promote the Be a Foster Movement with individuals, families, institutions, organizations, and political leaders around the globe, and to 2) create engagement and interaction within the foster care community, while encouraging them to share the movement. ~ Make an Impact. Share the Movement.