Episode 160: Real Talk - Parents of Foster Care

Summary: At just 25 years old, Lindsey found herself pregnant and the parent of two children in the custody of the Department of Child Safety. She endured a heartbreaking struggle with homelessness, residing in motels and even living on the streets, surrounded by others in similar desperate circumstances. Desperate for change, Lindsey discovered a lifeline—a housing program for pregnant women with substance use disorders. This pivotal moment led her to the Family Involvement Center, igniting her path to healing and the reunion of her fractured family. Now, Lindsey is an active force in her city, advocating for change through various organizations such as the Parent Advisory Board, the Prevention Advisory Collaborative, and the Family Navigation Action Team. Her passion for improving child welfare has brought her before community audiences, the governor's office, and dependency judges. Lindsey's dedication to serving her community is truly inspiring. Join us as we delve into Lindsey's extraordinary journey, her triumphs, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact and becoming a beacon of hope and change in foster care.   Resource Links: Family Involvement Center Birth-Foster Family Connections • Bright Spots RiseIssue_35_Parent-Advocacy.pdf   Connect with us! Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast IG: @FosteringVoices www.fosterarizona.org   Chapters: 00:01 - Open 00:34 - Welcome Lindsey Shine 02:09 - Lindsey's Story 03:47 - Going to the Wrong Attorney 04:21 - Leaving with Nothing 06:21 - Getting Help 07:05 - 5 Months and 3 Years 08:00 - Keeping Hope Alive 09:11 - Homelessness 10:27 - A Fork in the Road 12:19 - One More Shot 14:06 - Severance Trial 15:51 - Transition from Visitation 16:54 - A Traumatic Space 17:54 - A Glorified Babysitter? 19:11 - Being Friends with the Fosters 19:53 - A Broken System Challenge 22:13 - Choosing a Solution 23:38 - Choosing Responsibility 25:07 - Advocating in a Meaningful Way 27:18 - Normalizing Relational Support 28:28 - Deficiencies are Opportunities 30:45 - The Takeaway 32:30 - Being the Change 32:54 - Resources 34:25 - Wrap Up 34:56 - Thank You!