Known: Your Story Matters

Life can be challenging, especially for foster, adoptive, and kinship families, and young people who’ve aged out of foster care. Each person carries a story filled with immense obstacles and incredible strength. But the power of your story becomes more vibrant through connection and understanding, not by facing hardships alone.

Being known means having your story truly seen, heard, and valued. It means feeling understood; having your unique narrative celebrated in full color. It’s about being truly seen, heard, and valued for who you are, not just your circumstances. Your story matters - not just the challenges you've faced, but the journey you are on and the person you are becoming.

For foster and adoptive parents, being known means their story is appreciated for all its complexity; their sacrifices, their love, and their efforts are recognized and appreciated. This requires moving beyond the labels and into the full richness of their family’s journey.

For kinship caregivers, being known means someone acknowledges their story of stepping up for family amid complicated dynamics. Their story deserves resources and support to make their caregiving journey smoother.

For young people who have aged out of foster care, being known means their story is seen beyond their circumstances. It means patiently pursuing them, even through defense mechanisms. It requires listening to their perspective and experiences and validating their needs. It requires walking alongside them as they create their own path. It’s about being recognized as individuals with hopes, dreams, and potential, rather than merely part of a group defined by circumstances.

In a world where it’s easy to feel overlooked, being known transforms your narrative from grayscale to vibrant color. It offers the comfort of belonging, where your story is honored and celebrated. The journey from monochrome to color reflects the beauty of each unique story, illuminating the richness of every individual experience.

Known is more than just a word. It’s a promise of hope, support, and the celebration of every story. It’s the assurance that you are not just part of a system—you are a story that matters.

Join us for the A Future & A Hope Conference 2025 as we come together to celebrate, empower, and support foster, adoptive, and kinship families, as well as aged-out youth. Together, we will create a space where every story is recognized, connections are made, and opportunities are created. With each session, we’ll embrace the vibrant narratives that truly represent who we are.