Catalyzing Changemakers 2023 HIGHLIGHTS
In 2023, Foster America identified new ways to connect with changemakers across family- serving systems. Over seven years of driving positive change through our immersive fellowship program, we were continuously inspired by leaders we encountered — people already driving change in the field. This year, we expanded learning opportunities to inspire, develop, unite, and accelerate the efforts of bold innovators across our nation. We launched our first professional development circle, the National Leadership Circle, bringing together a community of lived experts who are working in child welfare or adjacent family- serving systems, to advance critical work already being done by these practitioners. The inaugural NLC cohort brought together 12 accomplished leaders who, over the course of the eight-month program, drew on their own experiences with the child welfare system to challenge injustice and champion opportunities for families to thrive. Foster America welcomed each member into our broader network of fellowship alumni and provided opportunities to accelerate a transformation project they had underway when they joined the circle. We identify those with the expertise and experience to transform our child welfare system – and help them optimize opportunities to drive progress across family-serving systems.
National Leadership Circle:
MUTIMA IMANI , founder of Urban Healer, is a seasoned social justice visionary, reverend, and master trainer dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering collaboration through heart-centered approaches for personal and professional development. For her NLC project, she created an impactful video shining a light on the damage caused by flaws in the child welfare system. The trailer provides a glimpse into the powerful narrative of the final movie, aimed at fostering awareness and igniting change.
DEIREDRA OLIVER founded the Empowerment Zone 15 years ago, where she provides kids who are close to turning 18 with mentoring, as well as support finding jobs and housing. In the NLC, she shared her experience with the foster care system and how it led to the foundation of her nonprofit. She is focused on the implementation of a transitional housing program that started during the pandemic.
13
www.foster-america.org
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker