Professional Development

By Elizabeth Alraune, Guest Blogger I was about 13 years old and it was one of the worst years of my life. I had a tough time in school, and did not want to go, and often did not. It was a miracle I even made it to 8th grade (a miracle in no small part […]

It’s Back To School Time! Many young people are excited to return to school.  They want to catch up with their friends and favorite teachers and show off their new back to school gear.  Other students start the school year with a bit of apprehension.  Children and teens in foster care are often unsure when

Welcome back!  Yesterday I told you that I will dedicate my July writing to a blog series to help adults find gainful employment. Before we go further, I want to share a little more about me.   I began my work life at age 14 and worked every summer until high school graduation. I have

Today is July 1st — officially the beginning of the second half of the year. I am kicking off the month by participating in my second “Ultimate Blog Challenge”. I will use this challenge to challenge you to up your game. I will be authoring 31 special blogs during the month of July. You know

I am very selective about the television shows and movies that I watch. I’m not into suspense, horror, and chaotic reality TV. Last night I saw the movie “They Call Me Sir” for the second time. Although he managed to avoid the child welfare system, I was a bit disturbed by the portrayal of Sirr’s

On Tuesday I had the honor of joining in the celebration of 22 amazing young adults who have overcome obstacles, broken down barriers, crashed through stereotypes, and now are blazing a trail for current foster youth to follow. I attended the Foster Care to Success (FC2S) annual Summer Reception in DC. Foster Care to Success’

This has become my NBA week.  No, not because of the NBA championship games between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs. (I haven’t seen any of the 6 games played so far). You know I love sharing stories that crush stereotypes by celebrating those who are thriving and not just surviving, right? Well, this

I don’t think I’ve ever blogged about my religious views (I’m a Christian) but today I want to share the Father’s Day message that was presented at my church on yesterday.  Mr. Etan Thomas delivered a powerful “call to action” to adults challenging us to reach out to and embrace our youth.  Prior to yesterday, I

QUESTION OF THE DAY?  What Would You Do If You Knew That You Could Not Fail?   REMEMBER: Success Is The Only Option  

There are over 400,000 children in foster care in the United States.  There have been many big screen and made for TV movies about the struggles of children in the system.  The most famous movie (and one of my favorites) is The Blind Side. National Foster Care Month has ended but foster care is back