#foster care advocacy

[ex-foster]

Former foster kid quote on the foster care to sex trafficking pipeline.

[fosterwhat]

I’m still in shock.

The kids are getting adopted this year!!!

[fosteringinsc]

Breaking the Stereotypes

Introduction Breaking the Stereotypes: Unveiling the Realities of Foster Care. Foster care is a vital system that plays a crucial role in providing temporary homes for children who cannot remain with their biological families. Unfortunately, foster care often falls victim to misconceptions and stereotypes that overshadow the positive impact it can have on children’s lives. In this blog post, we…

[miriamsheartinc]

All children deserve to be in a family that is safe and supportive. 

Poverty, mental illness, abuse, addiction, and desperation can cause parents not to be able to provide for their children. When this happens children can be placed into a system of care (called foster care) or be moved to live in an orphanage. In America and around the world thousands of children are in foster care or growing up in orphanages. They aren’t in safe and permanent families. When…

[allkindsofadvocacy]

Find Me Friday: Hennes & Ned!

Find Me Friday: Hennes & Ned!

Logo that says Reece’s Rainbow Special Needs Adoption Support in blue, below a blue & yellow paint stroke rainbow graphic with a yellow Ukrainian trident symbol on the right half. In this series, each Friday, I want to share a different child or group of children with you who are available for adoption and listed through the adoption advocacy website Reece’s Rainbow. All the kids who are listed…

[gjenkatarot]

Tarot masterlist | Exchange readings | Paid readings

Keep in mind that I'm not a professional astrologer, so take everything with a grain of salt as these are just my personal observations and for entertainment purposes only. I hope you find it interesting!

Ariana Grande is an American singer and actress known for her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits like "Problem" and "Thank U, Next." She rose to fame through Nickelodeon's "Victorious" and "Sam & Cat." Ariana is also recognized for her philanthropy and distinctive style

With Capricorn as her rising sign, Ariana approaches life with a practical and responsible mindset. This quality is complemented by the influence of Neptune, which conjuncts her rising, infusing her with dreamy, idealistic, and compassionate traits. Additionally, the presence of Uranus conjuncting her rising suggests that Ariana embraces originality and unconventionality in her style while maintaining an innocent aura. This unique blend of traditional and avant-garde qualities contributes to her perception as a highly successful individual with the potential for long-term success. Adding to her uniqueness, Uranus conjunct ascendant also positions Ariana as a trendsetter in fashion, admired and imitated by many for her distinct style.

Mercury's opposition to her rising sign introduces an intriguing dynamic, indicating a contrast between Ariana's self-expression and her communication style, a phenomenon influenced by her interactions with others, as depicted in her 7th house. This aspect of her chart sheds light on the complexity of her interpersonal relationships and how they shape her modes of expression.

Moving to her Sun in Cancer, located in the 6th house, we discover that Ariana places a daily emphasis on her emotional and physical well-being. This aspect of her chart suggests that her work environment is akin to a familial setting, providing emotional security—a routine that has become an integral part of her life.

The Moon's placement in Libra, specifically in the 9th house, adds layers to Ariana's emotional landscape. It suggests that she seeks emotional fulfilment through social connections, new ideas, diverse cultures, and spiritual beliefs. Given her vocal advocacy for self-love, empowerment, and body positivity, the Moon and Jupiter conjunction in her chart amplifies her emotional responses, fostering optimism and generosity.

Delving into the realm of communication, Ariana's Cancer Mercury in the 7th house signifies a communication style characterized by sensitivity, intuition, and emotional connectivity. This quality is particularly effective in her partnerships, where she prioritizes harmonious communication and seeks intellectual connections with significant others. However, her tendency to be overly sensitive may pose challenges in relationships, requiring careful navigation.

Ariana's Venus in Taurus, residing comfortably in her 4th house, points to her appreciation for comfort, beauty, and sensuality. This placement indicates that family relationships and emotional security play pivotal roles in her life. Her investment in creating a cozy and aesthetically pleasing home environment is a reflection of her expression of love and affection through tangible gestures such as cooking, gift-giving, or creating a warm atmosphere.

The opposition between Venus and Pluto underscores the intense and transformative nature of Ariana's experiences in relationships, especially within her family and home environment. This aspect suggests profound emotional encounters related to her roots and sense of belonging, with potential power struggles or control issues within her family dynamics and partnerships. 

The influence of Mars in Virgo in her 8th house suggests that Ariana channels her energy into matters related to, intimate relationships, and personal transformation. However, the opposition between Saturn and Mars introduces a sense of caution and restriction to her assertive and action-oriented tendencies. Challenges or delays in pursuing her goals may arise, presenting a push-pull dynamic between the desire for independence and the need for careful planning.

As we ascend to the Midheaven, the Pluto influence in close proximity indicates a powerful and intense energy associated with Ariana's career, public image, and life path. With Scorpio on the Midheaven, there's a clear indication of intense and ambitious career goals. This aligns with her public image, which is likely to be magnetic, intense, and captivating, drawing people in with an air of mystery or power. The placement of Pluto in the 10th house suggests that Ariana's career will undergo multiple transformations, involving cycles of death and rebirth. Her resilience and ability to rise from challenging situations characterize this placement.

Chiron in Leo in the 7th house unveils the deeper layers of Ariana's wounds and healing potential, tied to self-expression, creativity, relationships, and partnerships. Known as the "Wounded Healer" in astrology, Chiron represents the area where an individual may experience pain but also holds the potential for profound healing and growth. In Ariana's case, her healing potential lies in embracing and expressing her creativity and unique identity. Engaging in creative pursuits, whether through art, performance, or self-expression, can be therapeutic and contribute to her overall well-being.

The placement of Chiron in the 7th house suggests a journey of finding balance between Ariana's individual needs and those of her partners. Her tendency to give too much of herself in relationships may lead to potential wounds, necessitating a learning process around healthy boundaries and the assertion of her needs. This journey of healing and growth in her interpersonal connections aligns with her public image as a proponent of empowerment and self-love

✦

[my-autism-adhd-blog]

Hello lovely,

What are the pros and cons of pursuing a diagnosis?

I think I have autism (32 on the AQ, 139 on the CAT-Q, 157 on the RAADS-R, and 133 on the Aspie Quiz v5) but I'm a very high-masking gifted/honors/AP girl and I worry it will have more cons bc of poor societal acceptance then it will have pros : (

I mentioned my concerns to my primary care doctor and she really quickly dismissed them (I didn't mention the tests I did, just that I had a lot of traits/issues typical of autism) and I'm worried that trying to get help or anything will be a long hard uphill battle. Fortunately I am getting seen for sleep issues soon which are my worst problem but yeah

Thanks for your counsel

- 💙🌹

Hi there,

There are many pros and cons when it comes to getting an autism diagnosis. Here’s some from helpfulminds.co.uk

Advantages of Adult Autism Diagnosis:

1. Self-understanding and identity: Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult can provide a profound sense of self-understanding. It validates personal experiences and challenges, helping individuals make sense of their differences. It offers a framework through which they can explore their unique strengths, interests, and areas of difficulty, leading to greater self-acceptance and personal growth.

2. Access to appropriate support and accommodations: An adult autism diagnosis opens doors to various resources and support services. It enables individuals to access specialised therapies, counselling, and tailored interventions. It may also qualify them for workplace accommodations, such as flexible schedules, task modifications, or a supportive work environment. These support systems can enhance well-being, foster independence, and improve overall quality of life.

3. Connection and community: Obtaining an autism diagnosis can provide a pathway to connecting with others who share similar experiences. Joining support groups, online communities or participating in autism advocacy networks can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. These connections often offer invaluable emotional support, shared experiences, and practical advice.

4. Enhanced relationships and communication: Understanding one’s autistic traits can lead to improved personal and professional relationships. It helps individuals communicate their needs and preferences effectively, reducing misunderstandings and promoting better understanding among friends, family members, and colleagues. With increased self-awareness, individuals can build stronger connections and cultivate healthier interactions.

Disadvantages of Adult Autism Diagnosis:

1. Emotional impact: Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult can trigger a range of emotions, including relief, validation, but also grief or regret. Some individuals may experience a sense of loss for the opportunities they feel they missed or the difficulties they faced due to a lack of understanding. The process can be emotionally challenging and require support to navigate.

2. Stigma and societal perceptions: Unfortunately, despite growing awareness, Autism is still surrounded by stigma and misconceptions. Disclosure of an adult autism diagnosis can lead to potential discrimination, prejudice, or social exclusion. Society’s limited understanding of Autism may hinder employment, education, or social integration opportunities. This lack of acceptance emphasises the need for broader awareness and education.

3. Limited diagnostic resources and accessibility: Obtaining an autism diagnosis as an adult can be challenging due to limited diagnostic resources and professionals specialising in adult assessments. Waiting times and financial constraints may present significant barriers for those seeking a diagnosis. This lack of accessibility may lead to delayed self-understanding and hinder access to vital support services.

Seeking an autism diagnosis as an adult has advantages and disadvantages. While the diagnosis can offer self-understanding, access to support, and a sense of community, it may also evoke complex emotions and expose individuals to societal stigma. It is important to weigh these factors and consider personal circumstances before pursuing a diagnosis. Regardless of whether one receives an official diagnosis, fostering acceptance and embracing neurodiversity can contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society.

The full article will be below. There are even more pros and cons, so those are just examples. I recommend researching for more to make up your mind.

I hope this helps. Thank you for the inbox. I hope you have a wonderful day/night. ♥️

[craycraybluejay]

Honestly I think I do want to have kids someday. Definitely not bio kids but kids of my own all the same. Maybe just 1, maybe an entire 2.

I want to give the love and support that was not afforded to me. I want to watch them grow into amazing adults and know that I gave this child/these children the opportunity to live a good, fulfilled life. I want to instill in them my love of books; teach them important things like courage and bravery, kindness, respect, a sense of genuine wonder in a world so empty of it. I want to encourage their interests and pursuits and congratulate them when they work hard no matter the end result. I want to be the parent I never had, the best one possible.

I don't know where that fits into the rest of my life plan if it does at all. Idk. Sometimes when I experience something cool and whimsical I think; wouldn't it be awesome to share this with my own kid? A nice book or a pretty landscape or when I'm thinking about advocacy for good public schools. The thought creeps in, wouldn't it be amazing to keep even one person safe from the foster care system? Wouldn't it be lovely to have someone to nurture and support? Wouldn't it be awesome if because I was such a good parent my child lived a happy life where they felt free and safe to follow their dreams and be themselves and things?

[ex-foster]

A really simple test.

[fosterwhat]

Today could be a Big Important Day.

I’m not at all religious, but if you want to send prayers or positive thought or just cross your fingers really hard, the kids and I would appreciate it.

[fosteringinsc]

SC Out of Home Abuse and Neglect (OHAN)

In your foster care training you may have heard about OHAN. Over the years I have always been told it isn’t IF, but WHEN you get investigated by OHAN. That is why documentation is extremely important for foster parents and social workers alike. You can read the importance of documentation in one of my other articles, but here is what OHAN is. Sounds scary doesn’t it? The Out of Home Abuse and…

[fandomtrumpshate]

2023 Supported Nonprofits

Our list of supported organizations for 2023 includes a few orgs from last year, and a host of new ones addressing issues such as climate and pollinator preservation, housing and immigration, and gun violence.

If you are a FTH creator and you want to ask your bidders to support an organization that’s not on the list, please read our policy on outside organizations here.

                                        - - - -

Citizens Climate Education

A nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy climate change organization focused on national policies to address climate change; trains and supports volunteers to build relationships with elected officials, the media and their local community.

DigDeep/Navajo Water Project *

Works to ensure that every person, everywhere enjoys their human right to water. All people should have access to a sufficient quantity of safe, accessible, affordable water of good quality, and that they should understand and care for their water resources.

Life After Hate

Provides support to people leaving hate groups, and providing pluralism education and training to vulnerable young people

National Network to End Domestic Violence *

Offers a range of programs and initiatives to address the complex causes and far-reaching consequences of domestic violence

Never Again Action *

A Jewish-led mobilization against the persecution, detention, and deportation of immigrants in the United States; takes on campaigns against detention centers and ICE training programs, and organizes mutual aid and deportation defense.

Rainbow Railroad *

Works to help LGTBQI+ people facing persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics find safety through emergency relocation and other forms of assistance.

Razom *

Initiates short and long-term projects, or collaborates on existing projects with partner organizations, which help Ukraine stay on the path of fostering democracy and prosperity.

Sherlock's Homes Foundation

Provides housing, employment opportunities, and a loving support system, for homeless LGBTQ+ young adults so that they can live fearlessly as their authentic selves. Within these homes, young adults learn about responsibility, accountability, financial independence, life skills, and how to love themselves.

The Appeal *

A news organization that envisions a world in which systems of support and care, not punishment, create public safety, The Appeal’s journalism exposes the harms of a criminal legal system entrenched in centuries of systemic racism.

Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund *

Works toward legal equality for trans people through education, public policy, litigation, and direct legal services

Violence Policy Center *

Works to stop gun death and injury through research, education, advocacy, and collaboration; exposes the profit-driven marketing and lobbying activities of the firearms industry and gun lobby, and offers unique technical expertise to policymakers, organizations, and advocates.

Xerces *

An international nonprofit organization that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats. Focuses on pollinator conservation, endangered species conservation, and reducing pesticide use and impacts.

Umbrella: Abortion Funds

For the past three years, FTH has supported one “umbrella” cause: we invite participants to donate to their own local grassroots organization, while also suggesting a handful of exemplary organizations working in in communities where the need is especially acute. This year (like last year) this umbrella category is abortion funds.

Abortion funds are grassroots nonprofits dedicated to supporting reproductive justice in their communities. These organizations provide financial, logistical and emotional support for people seeking abortions, and work to build collective power to create political and cultural change around reproductive freedom.

Our 2023 selections for the umbrella group was compiled with assistance from Kiki, a digital engagement manager for an abortion support nonprofit and the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the (now-defunct) site The Learned Fangirl. (Please feel free to reach out to her on twitter @kdc if you have any questions about abortion funds!)

Buckle Bunnies Fund

Indigenous Women Rising

Kentucky Health Justice Network

Abortion Fund of Ohio

New Orleans Abortion Fund

     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _     _

Organizations marked with an asterisk (*) allow for international donations directly through their websites. The orgs without asterisks may take international donations through a paypal or venmo account. If you are a non-US-based bidder/donor and you are having trouble finding an organization to which you can donate, please email us directly at fandomtrumpshate @ gmail . com.

[thatssosussex]

Co-founder of Alliance Of Moms foundation, Kelly McGee Zajfren spoke during the Mamas Making it & Fashion mamas “Mamas Making It Summit 2024”. She spoke about her son Georgie, and how we can all honor his memory by using the hashtag #SunsetsForGeorgie. In 2022 her 9-year-old son Georgie suddenly contracted and succumbed to a viral illness. Hear the story that inspired this beautiful hashtag. Also, the lovely t-shirt that Kelly is wearing with the logo “Love Like A Mother” will be sold in support of the Alliance Of Moms campaign. The proceeds from this tee will support essential services, education, and advocacy so that young parents in foster care and their children can heal and thrive. To purchase the tee, go to allianceofmoms.com

Actress Abigail Spencer and the Duchess of Sussex supports their close friend Kelly as well.

[dragonomatopoeia]

Palestinians are enduring unimaginable violence and acts of genocide, and we should be doing everything in our power to elevate their voices, report on these ongoing injustices, and lend our aid.

Most of the posts that I have seen recently are in service of these aims; however, as I have seen a few posts and usernames circulating with good intentions but less than thorough vetting, it is worthwhile to remember that there are those who take advantage of the speed and ferocity of atrocities to further their own goals. Some of the posts currently circulating originate from known neo-nazis, 'traditional masculinity'/'inheritors of the classical world' brand fascists, and other assorted figures associated with the alt-right.

I ask that some care be taken to check up on the sources or original posters before sharing posts. This plea is not intended to discourage you from sharing information or trusting your fellow advocates and protestors, but rather that we foster a stronger, more effective network for advocacy and the sharing of information and resources

[palestinian-fundraising]

PLEASE READ AND REBLOG🇵🇸

Help Anas' Family Escape Gaza & Get Medical Care

Message from the creator:

*Note from the campaign manager February 2024*

Hi all, my name is Caroline. First, a quick intro from me, then a letter from the family I'm representing, featured news articles, pictures and videos. I live in California and in my advocacy connected with a wonderful Gaza family struggling to evacuate due to the exorbitant costs required by Egypt.

Anas is a 36 year-old from the center of Gaza City in an area called Al-Rimal, a husband to Yasmine, and father of 3 children. He is a part-Owner and Accountant for his cherished family business of over 30 years called Alborno Gifts and Display Systems (https://www.instagram.com/alborno.gifts?hl=en). In a shocking matter of days, he went from being a business and home owner to enduring 5 displacements since October '23, constant danger and difficulty feeding his family. His youngest, Julia, has a serious allergy and has been suffering from reactions to the little food available. His mother suffers from high blood pressure, diabetes, and has a breathing problem called sarcoidosis. His family is now displaced in Rafah and are surviving in a tent.

I connected with Anas' story because he his my sister's age at 36, and I'm simply doing what I would want someone to do for me and my family. After fostering trust through conversation, calls, personal identification, Palestinian-American friend's assistance, and digital vetting, I offered to sponsor their GoFundMe as it requires a bank outside of Gaza. Anas will explain more specifics, but in a nutshell, we are evacuating 4 children, 6 adults, each at about 5K-7K travel permit costs thru Hala Consulting and Tourism in Cairo. Yes, they are really charging that much; it's awful. This campaign also covers shelter and food in Egypt as well as treatment for Julia.

Money is transferred from my bank account to family in Egypt to coordinate and pay for the travel permits.

***LETTER FROM ANAS (Feb 2024)***

Dear world,

My name is Anas and I am from Gaza City, Palestine with my wife Yasmine and our three children.

Following the outbreak of war, the Israeli occupation army issued an urgent evacuation order for Gaza City due to the continuous and violent bombing. We fled to Khan Yunis, leaving all our possessions behind in a desperate attempt to survive. However, our ordeal continued when Israeli forces again forced us to move, this time to Rafah city. The invasion of Khan Yunis exacerbated our suffering, and the anxiety, fear and tears in our children's eyes were particularly painful. My daughter, Julia, has a chronic allergy to milk and lactose, which adds to our suffering. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide even basic necessities such as clean water.

We currently find ourselves displaced, living in a tent in Rafah. The constant bombing of the city terrifies our children, and the lack of food, clean water and medicine further exacerbates our plight.

I appeal to you to provide support to my family, so that we can survive this war and evacuate to Egypt. Julia is in urgent need of medical and specialized care, and we hope to provide her with everything necessary for her safety.

This is my beloved family you will be helping:

My mother: Sawsan, 58 years old

Me: Anas, 36 years old

My wife: Yasmine, 33 years old

My sister: Lina, 31 years old

My brother: Khaled, 26 years old

My sister-in-law: Sarah, 22 years old

My son: Abd Alrahman, 13 years old

My son: Yazan 10 years

My daughter: Julia, 3 years old

My nephew: Karam, 2.5 years old

How funds will be used:

Loans Oct ’23 - Feb ’24 Living Expenses

These are loans to be repaid from before the GoFundMe campaign was created:

- Food and drink ($1,000/mo * 3 families * 5 months) = $15,000

- Rent (500/mo * 3 families * 5 months) = $7,500

- Medication & tests for my mother (high blood pressure, diabetes, ‘sarcoidosis’ breathing problem): $2000

- Medication for Julia’s immune-deficiency and food-allergy = $1,500

(26,000)

Travel Permits

- 7,000/person x 10 people = 70,000 - $20,000 GIFT = $50,000

(50,000)

Living Expenses - March ’24 - April ’24

- Food and drink ($1,000/mo * 3 families * 2 months) = $6,000

- Rent (500/mo * 3 families * 2 months) = $3,000

- Medication for Julia’s immune-deficiency and food-allergy = $1500

(10,500)

TOTAL: $86,500

My primary goal in creating this fundraising campaign is to raise the exorbitant amounts requested by the Egyptian authorities. Rafah crossing fees start from $5,000 to $7,000 per person. But in addition to the evacuation plan, this fundraiser will help me treat my daughter Julia and mother's health concerns.

Thank you for your compassion and help during these difficult times.

Anas family

How to reach Anas directly:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anas.borno

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anasalborno

WhatsApp #: +970 567 418 420

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Arizona’s newly elected Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) signed an executive order extending employment protections to state employees and contractors who are LGBTQ+.

As the Human Rights Campaign reports, the executive order, signed on Hobbs’s first day in office Tuesday, directs the state’s Department of Administration to update hiring, promotion, and compensation policies for all state agencies to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and include provisions in all new state contracts to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The executive order goes beyond what is already required under state and federal laws banning employment discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, pregnancy, and veteran status, to include factors such as sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, culture, creed, social origin, and political affiliation.

KAWC notes that sexual orientation is already covered under a 2003 executive order issued by former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano (D). But as press aide Murphy Herbert explained, “The order from 2003 arguably allowed the state to consider sexual orientation in hiring so long as it wasn’t the only reason for a hiring decision.”

Hobbs’s executive order, Herbert said, “clarifies that discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in all state hiring decisions.”

“Gov. Hobbs has been all over the state and she’s been hearing from communities who say that they want a state that reflects the values and a state where they feel seen and safe,” Herbert told KAWC. “This executive order is one step she’s taking to ensure that everyone in Arizona knows that she is the Governor for everyone and that these communities can and will be safe.”

Human Rights Campaign Arizona State Director Bridget Sharpe said that the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization “was proud to work alongside countless other LGBTQ+ organizations and allies to help Katie Hobbs become Arizona’s Governor. She ran on the promise that she would immediately act to stop the attacks on Arizona’s LGBTQ+ individuals and families and use the full extent of her power to protect our community. On her first day in office, she took an important step towards fulfilling that commitment by signing an Executive Order providing non-discrimination for LGBTQ+ state employees and state contractors. This is what it looks like to have a champion for equality in office. We can’t wait to work with the Hobbs administration to move our state forward.”

But Cathi Herrod, president of the conservative lobbying group Center for Arizona Policy, claimed that Hobbs’s executive order may violate the constitutional rights of faith-based agencies.

Last year, former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey (R) approved S.B. 1399, which created religious exemptions for faith-based adoption and foster care agencies. “That law should take precedence over any executive order,” said Herrod. “The question is, does the state want to continue to have faith-based agencies providing such critical foster care and adoption services? I think we do.”

Sarah Warbelow, legal counsel for the Human Rights Coalition, conceded that S.B. 1399 trumps the new executive order. However, she explained, Hobbs’s order covers other things that organizations and agencies that contract with the state’s government can and cannot do.

“For example, if the YMCA wanted to contract with the state to broaden summer camps, that new executive order doesn’t say anything about discriminating against the kids who go to those camps,” Warbelow explained. “It does say when you’re hiring those camp counselors, you can’t discriminate on the basis of race or sex, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.”

Herrod disagreed. “You can’t discriminate and not award those contracts on that basis,” she told KAWC. “Because if they didn’t award the contract because of the religious entity’s beliefs, then they’re violating their constitutional and statutory rights.”