Impact Stories

Manny’s Journey: From Foster Care to Future Barber

By Alternative Family Services / May 1, 2024
Your support for Foster Hope can light the path for many more foster youth like Manny, guiding them toward fulfilling and autonomous futures

Manny*, now 17, grew up in the foster care system and found more than just a trim at the local barber shop he frequented with his foster father. For Manny,…

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Impact Story: Maddie’s Summer of Transformation

By Alternative Family Services / April 12, 2024
Thanks to the generosity of donors to the Foster Hope campaign, Maddie's summer was just the beginning. Her story is a testament to these experiences' impact on a foster child's life—a true embodiment of the hope, growth, and joy your contributions foster.

Maddie*, a bright-eyed 12-year-old with an infectious laugh, entered the foster care system very young. Shy and reserved, she often felt like an outsider looking in, her notebook filled with…

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Dear 10-Year-Old Self: Letter from A Former Foster Youth

By Alternative Family Services / February 22, 2024
Dear 10-year-old self, know that you are loved, valued, and incredibly strong. Our journey is a testament to the power of resilience, a reminder that dawn always breaks no matter how dark the night is.

Note: This “letter” was written by a former AFS foster youth, describing what they would tell a past version of themselves now. Dear 10-Year-Old Self, I’m reaching out across the…

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A New Chapter: Brielle’s Journey from Struggle to Success

By Alternative Family Services / February 22, 2024
Brielle's story is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the impact that a compassionate, personalized approach can have on those in the juvenile justice system. Her journey from struggle to success embodies what can be achieved when individuals are given the support, understanding, and opportunities they need to change their lives. As Brielle continues to progress, her story stands as a testament to the power of belief, support, and the enduring strength of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

Brielle’s* story is a powerful testament to resilience, the transformative power of support, and the possibility of new beginnings. When Brielle entered the Juvenile Probation Program in 2023, her life…

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Transforming Trauma: Tomás’s Journey to Hope and Healing

By Alternative Family Services / February 22, 2024
In the heart of our mission at AFS, stories of resilience, healing, and hope like Tomás's* underscore the transformative impact of specialized care and innovative therapies.

In the heart of our mission at AFS, stories of resilience, healing, and hope like Tomás’s* underscore the transformative impact of specialized care and innovative therapies. Tomás, a bright yet…

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Impact Story: Smiles of Transformation

By Alternative Family Services / December 15, 2023
Dr. Laurier's story is a testament to the profound impact one person can make when they choose to extend their expertise and compassion to help those on their path to a brighter future.

A special thank you to Dr. Laurier*, a compassionate dentist with a heart of gold. Driven by a deep sense of empathy, Dr. Laurier. has made it his mission to…

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