Wed 11/8 @ 5:30PM
Fostering HOPS — a benefit for Fostering Hope, a nonprofit which supports foster kids during and after their foster experience — is back for a second year in a row, and it’s bigger and better than ever. This year’s event will have a guest speaker, unique auction items, live music by Conundrum Duo, delicious eats from Barrio’s Taco Truck and great beer from Sibling Revelry Brewery. Plus there will be a new competitive edge added in with guest bartenders, as teams compete against each other to raise “tips.”
“Our guest speaker is an extraordinary young lady who lived in 11 foster homes during her nine years in foster care. Her story is inspiring and her journey incredible,” exudes executive director Nicole Shefrin.
Artima has been a client of Fostering Hope since the organization was founded. Since her introduction to Fostering Hope, the organization has been a constant in her life. Over the years, she has developed a special bond with Shefrin. So much so that Nicole was there when Artima’s son was born.
Fostering HOPS supports Fostering Hope’s ongoing programming for children living in foster care and residential treatment in Cuyahoga County. For over 10 years, Fostering Hope and a steadily increasing number of volunteers have offered life-enhancing programs to children living in residential treatment and foster homes.
“What began as a handful of volunteers helping a few children at the holidays has developed into an organization with hundreds of volunteers serving over 1,000 children in Cuyahoga County annually through four year-round programs and six seasonal programs,” says Nicole. “This is accomplished with programs through partnerships with eight area agencies, serving children and young adults who have aged out of the foster care system.”
Fostering Hope focuses on three pillars of programming: 1) Community Involvement – demonstrating the role of caring adults and engaging in health relationships, 2) Trauma Informed Health and Wellness – providing tools for change and for positive mental social and physical choices, and 3) Childhood Experiences – engaging in typical childhood activities to create joy, develop self-respect, and build positive memories.
Due to the opioid crisis, there has been a rise in the number of foster children across the state of Ohio. The entire system is strained and services for foster youth are more important than ever.
The event takes place Wed 11/8 at Sibling Revelry Brewing in Westlake. Fostering HOPS is open to the public. Doors open at 5pm, and the benefit begins at 5:30pm. Tickets can be purchased for $75 HERE.
Do you want to get involved? As the holidays approach, Fostering Hope needs volunteers from the community to assist in their donation center, sponsor holiday wish lists for children and hold donation drives at their offices and churches. Please click the link below or follow the organization’s Facebook page to learn more.
[Written by Kendall Embrescia-Hridel]
Westlake, OH 44145