Impact Stories

Impact Story: Dylan’s Journey to Healing and Stability

By Alternative Family Services / January 23, 2025
Impact Story: Dylan’s Journey to Healing and Stability

Dylan*, a 17-year-old male, was referred to the AFS Juvenile Probation Department (JPD) Program in 2022 after enduring a lifetime of unimaginable hardships. By the time he joined the program,…

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Impact Story: Meet Jamal

By Alternative Family Services / December 13, 2024
Thanks to the TAY program, Jamal received financial aid to pursue a vocational training program in automotive technology. The program not only provided the funds for his tuition and tools but also connected him with a mentor who guided him through the challenges of transitioning into adulthood.

Meet Jamal*, a former foster youth whose life took a remarkable turn thanks to the Foster Care to Success “Transitional Aged Youth” (TAY) program. After aging out of the foster…

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Impact Story: Bringing Hope and Joy to Two Sisters in Kinship Care

By Alternative Family Services / November 26, 2024
Meet Mia* and Lily*, twin sisters with a bond as unbreakable as their resilience. After facing significant challenges in their early years, they were placed in kinship care with their grandparents through Alternative Family Services (AFS).

Meet Mia* and Lily*, twin sisters with a bond as unbreakable as their resilience. After facing significant challenges in their early years, they were placed in kinship care with their…

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A Journey of Healing: A Family Reunited at The Gathering Place

By Alternative Family Services / September 20, 2024
Their journey reminds me why we do what we do at The Gathering Place—to create a space where healing, hope, and reunification are possible.

I first met a young client, Charlie*, and his mother Annie*, in December 2023 at The Gathering Place (TGP). They were hesitant, quiet, and burdened heavily when they arrived. In…

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The Power of Music – Kayla’s Story

By Alternative Family Services / August 22, 2024
With the support of generous donors, they secured funds for Kayla to enroll in music lessons and purchase her very first violin. This opportunity was more than just a chance to learn an instrument—it was a lifeline connecting Kayla to her dreams and giving her purpose.

Kayla* always had a passion for music. Growing up in foster care, she found solace in the melodies and rhythms that allowed her to escape the challenges of her reality.…

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Empowering the Howard Family: A Journey of Hope and Resilience

By Alternative Family Services / August 7, 2024
Empowering the Howard Family: A Journey of Hope and Resilience

Meet the Howard* family, a shining example of resilience and compassion. Recently, the Howards welcomed three siblings into their home: Mia, a newborn; Ethan, a spirited 8-year-old; and Lucas, a…

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