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Real Stories About Adoption And Foster Care
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Youth and Foster Alumni Stories
Aaron
Oregon
Although Aaron was adopted by a loving family, being in foster care caused many lasting effects. He now devotes his time to improving the system.
Ieesha
Laurel, Maryland
Ieesha Johnson had to grow up faster than other kids, taking care of four younger brothers and sisters while her mother struggled with addiction. In spite of the adversity, she went on to college, earned a graduate degree and plans to start an organization to help children in foster care transition into adulthood.
Tanya
Bedford Hills, New York
Inspired by mentors in her own life, Tanya Cooper prevailed through 16 years of foster care to become a youth activist, writer and motivational speaker working to change the face of foster care one child at a time. She shares with us her courageous story of becoming her own hero.
Tanisha
Verona, New Jersey
Refusing to be defined by the stereotypes of children aging out of care, Tanisha A. Cunningham took matters into her own hands at an early age. Now, as the CEO of a nonprofit helping other youth aging out of care, she shares with us her story of believing she could rewrite her own destiny.
Lauretta
Stone Mountain, Georgia
Actress and author Lauretta Ali lived in foster care during the 1950s before being reunited with her birth mother. She shares with us her journey through foster care and the positive difference it can make in a child’s life.





