This episode is part of our special July Replay Series, where we're revisiting some of our most meaningful and impactful conversations.

In this episode, we dive into the crucial role foster families play in the reunification process. Our discussion aims to encourage foster families to embrace their part in the team effort required for successful reunification. We'll provide an overview of foster care, emphasizing why reunification is the primary goal despite common misconceptions.

Many people struggle with the idea of children returning to their biological homes, but this is the cornerstone of foster care. Building relationships with caseworkers and biological families can seem daunting, yet it is essential for smoother, more effective reunification. These relationships not only improve outcomes for the children but also allow foster families to better advocate for the needs of both the children and their parents.

We stress the importance of unity and shared goals among all parties involved, with the child's safety as the ultimate priority and reunification as the next.

One frequent challenge for foster families is feeling excluded from the team, which can lead to misunderstandings with caseworkers. We'll explore strategies for foster families to strengthen their rapport with caseworkers and ensure their advocacy is seen as supportive rather than obstructive.

Join us as we discuss how fostering collaboration and understanding can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Episode Highlights:

• How Foster Parents Can Support Reunification
• Being a part of the team
• Being an advocate
• Ways to support reunification

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Family Registration Form
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

Register for the FASD Workshop

We’re bringing back this episode because it’s especially fitting for summer. Maybe this season has felt heavy—hard to juggle new rhythms, tiring for your biological family, or filled with questions about whether foster care is still good for your home.

This conversation is a timely reminder: foster care can be good for your family. It’s not about dragging them through it, but leading them well—anchored in purpose and grace.

What is the difference between dragging your biological family through the muck and mire of foster care versus leading them through it well?

If you are a foster or adoptive parent, more than likely, you know what we are talking about when it comes to facing some adversity from the people who love you when you first share the news that you are becoming Foster Parents. Although it can sometimes be disheartening, we believe there is a way to confidently lead your family through this journey while mirroring the love of Jesus to those around you.

In today’s episode, you are getting a sneak peek into one of our breakout sessions from the Mobilize Ohio Conference titled “Dragging vs. Leading.” Our panel is made up of four women who collectively have a wealth of experience and knowledge from all different perspectives of the foster care journey.

We hope the wisdom shared throughout this episode will give you the strength and knowledge to find a group of people who get you, even if you are still waiting for the people who love you to get on board.

We encourage you to keep pressing forward on God’s calling on your life despite any challenges you may face; you are touching more lives than just the kiddos who walk through your door.

Episode Highlights:

• Initial reactions of biological families to foster care
• Hesitation from bio family in regard to foster care
• The Positive Impact of Foster Care on Your Biological Family
• The challenges of Biological children in Foster Care
• Finding your why

Find more on Guest:

• Find Rhonda's Children's Books on Foster Care
• Find Bethany’s Podcast

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

Register for the FASD Workshop

We’re continuing our Spiritual Formation Series here at Hope Bridge, and this month, we focused on an especially timely theme: Experiencing God’s gift in nature.

Whether it’s a walk in the woods, sitting on your porch, or just paying attention to the sky—it all counts. Nature has a way of slowing us down and pointing us back to our Creator.

And guess what? Science backs it up. Spending time outside is good for our spiritual, mental, and emotional health—it’s not just a nice idea, it’s truly life-giving.

Tune in as we talk about how to connect with God through creation and explore simple ways to make this a meaningful part of your life.

Episode Highlights:

• God’s Creation
• Experiencing God’s Gift In Nature
• Overall Health Benefits of Being in Nature
• Scientific Research of Being Outdoors
• Simple Ways to Experience Nature

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

Register for the FASD Workshop