Read inspiring real stories of foster parents and see how one adult's love can truly transform a child's life.
Every child deserves to feel safe and loved. Sometimes, it takes just one adult to change a child's whole world. These powerful moments often begin with stories.
Real-life experiences show us how one person can make a huge difference. They inspire us to open our hearts and homes. These personal journeys share the hope and profound impact of foster parenting.
After marrying in 2005, Tacole and her husband struggled with infertility. "It was through those struggles that I was reminded that I had this desire as a young child to be a foster parent," she shares.
While waiting for biological children, she found hope and purpose in fostering children with complex medical needs. What started as heartbreak transformed into something extraordinary.
"The best part of fostering has been the joy of being a mom to so many children.”
"I discovered joy along this journey, and I did not know that the joy would look like this," Tacole explains.
Tacole and her husband Marlon celebrate cherished family time together
"I have no doubt this is what I'm supposed to be doing right now in my life. There was a season of my life where I knew I was supposed to be a teacher. There was a season of my life where I knew I was supposed to be a wife. And I'm telling you, right now in my life, I have no doubt I'm supposed to be a mom. You can't tell me differently."
For Tacole, infertility led her to discover her true calling and profound joy.
As Tacole shares, "The most rewarding experience...is becoming a parent to a child, if only for a day."
HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: Read more about Tacole’s story
Children in foster care sometimes face tough beginnings. Jason's story is a powerful example of finding family and a sense of belonging. He spent nearly 17 years in residential care, and towards the end, didn't know if he would find a real family.
Then, he was placed with a foster dad. One day, his foster dad introduced Jason to a friend with simple words that changed everything for him.
“He said, ‘This is my son’ and not ‘my foster son' " Jason recalls. That simple phrase changed everything. Jason wasn't legally adopted, but he felt a connection that lasted a lifetime. "Family is not always blood," he shares.
His foster dad gave him guidance and the gift of a lasting family bond. Jason adds, "I was that somebody he needed to believe in — and to believe in him."
Jason is now a father and homeowner. He knows the value of the connection between one caring adult and a child who needs them.
And, he wants others to know they can make a difference. "It really molds you into the person that you are today," he says.
HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: Read more about Jason’s story
When someone chooses to become a foster parent, the impact extends far beyond the child in their care. It often changes the caregiver too. Foster care has the power to reshape how we love and reveal reserves of strength, empathy, and joy you didn’t know you had.
It also inspires others. Friends and family see what fostering really looks like— moments of connection, healing, and trust—and begin to imagine themselves making a difference too.
As aspiring foster parent Annette Johnson puts it:
“I know that becoming a foster parent doesn’t just change the child’s life—it will change mine too. I’m excited and can’t wait to see what the future holds!”
Get a sneak peek into the world of fostering with a compilation of letters from foster parents to the children in their care.
Many foster parents start with hesitation. Some worry about getting too attached. Others fear they won’t have the right words or adequate training. They worry about being a “good enough” foster parent, and if they can deliver what a child in foster care needs to thrive.
Monteka, a foster parent with Mentor Foster Care, shares with honesty:
“One of my biggest fears about becoming a foster parent was failing the child. I overcame some of those fears by making the child my priority. To pour into a child’s life and for that child to see that someone’s actually going to be present for them and give them positive attention and just show them love—that just conquers everything.”
Remember: There are no “perfect” parents. Whether you are a biological parent or a foster parent, everyone makes mistakes – and that’s okay. The important part is your love and consistency.
It’s letting kids know you love them, you care, and you are there for them through the ups and downs. And, if they make a mistake, you’ll still be there for them.
And as another foster parent shares:
The foster care process involves paperwork, interviews, and training, but foster parents know it's worthwhile.
Tacole confirms this, saying, "At the end of the day, it's worth it. The paperwork is worth going through. The interviews are worth going through...because you're going to provide a space, a home, a family for a child."
Tacole’s happy family
Foster parenting can enrich your own life in unexpected ways. Another Mentor foster parent, Christie Norfus, describes it this way:
"This journey is about more than just providing a home; it’s about creating meaningful connections and building a bond that can leave a lasting impact on both of us."
The path to becoming a foster parent takes dedication. There's paperwork and training involved. But every step is part of preparing you to give a child a loving home.
Foster parent Annette Johnson reminds us that "It required a lot of hard work and patience. However, when you're in it for the right reasons, staying motivated comes naturally." The effort pays off in the smiles and growth of the children you serve.
These foster parents’ stories show us the incredible difference one adult can make. If you have an open heart, you have the power to create miracles in a child's life. You can also discover a profound sense of joy and purpose for yourself. Every child belongs in a family, and with our support, you can help them build a bright future.
Are you ready to learn more about how to provide a safe, loving home and become an advocate, teacher, and friend for a child in need?
Get advice from a foster parent expert today. No question is too big or too small, and there’s no commitment – just the opportunity to get your questions answered.
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