I love how you say "we have 3 kids". Even though you respectfully make it clear that you're not her parents and she does have a family, you still treat her like one of your own, and I'm sure she feels the difference.
Statistically, more parents are needed like these two. CPS is the legal kidnapping ring, $$$ making scheme. We NEED parents like these! My children were falsely taken which led to them in a home with a felon. GAL never spoke to my children or myself. It was a nightmare situation. My daughter was raped & both children abused. The system needs to be cleaned up & now. We sued & we won. Anyone doubts that there are no failures- multiple failures- google. It’s a travesty. These two are a God-send.
I was in care too. You're right. It def sucks sometimes. Glad I'm outta there. Wish things could have been different but I guess I'm grateful it wasn't worse.
Having been a child with 2 younger siblings all removed from parents, lived in multiple foster homes and all 3 adopted by one family, I can tell you that I wish we could have had fosters like y'all. We probably wouldn't have had as much trauma as we did. I'm just glad that because they were so young they didn't realize how bad it was. Bless y'all for doing such an amazing job and caring so much for your foster child. My prayers are with you and your family. And I pray that the magistrate will be cautious and wise in her decision. Sometimes, reunification is just not the right choice for long term happiness and success for the children.
I really love how you both are rallying around Miss A and keeping her in the loop. Keeping you, Miss A, and her family in my prayers that things can get worked out for reunification 💖
You two are both ROLE MODELS for foster parents, future foster carers/parents and of course the children in care. You should go news viral to raise awareness of kids needing loving, caring and stable environments.
As a foster mom in training I 100% agree. You guys keep me aware of all the obscure things you don't think about when a street person heard "foster mom".
I seriously can’t say how amazing you two are. My parents were fostering new borns, I feel like that must be easier by 100 fold. What you are doing is so HUGE!! Court=scary.
I think newborns are soo much harder. Older kids can speak up, can try to leave if reunification fails, etc. Babies are stuck with whatever and you have to pray harder that whatever decision that was made, was right. Look up Serenity Dennard and Lynne Disanto on here. Serenity is still missing and her only major voice is Lynne! Adoptive parents are mum, bio dad is ignored and bio mom is in jail in which Lynne is blocked from seeing now. 😡 That is the downside to foster care system.
Cory Sem I’m not sure who is making money from removing children from unsafe/unfit homes. But I’d agree that there is a lot of room for improvement within the system.
@@thesteelefamily3440 there are actually for-profit foster agencies unfortunately :( it can end up putting kids in really bad homes that are only in it for the money.
You guys are doing an amazing job for Miss A. You go above and beyond for her. That is what's needed for foster kids. You truly care. Thank you both for being the best foster parents for her.
You are a model for how these situations should be handled. I love that you advocate for her and support her. You guys are doing a great job and the information you share is invaluable.
As someone who can't have her own children, my husband and I have thought on becoming foster parents. Watching your guys channel and seeing how amazing you are to Miss A, I hope when we do make make up our minds, and if it is to become fosters, I hope we can do as good of a job as you two. I dated a foster kid in high school and even though he was a "troubled youth" I swear his foster parents only did it for the money they got, and to have free labor to work in their house. So its nice to see two caring parents who really put the needs of their foster child first.
All I say I’m proud of you both. Protecting Miss A, fighting for her and her family is a gift that many can’t understand. The foster system is almost cult like. Americans are kept in secrecy so to speak, because everything involved is so private. We hear horror stories, but rarely the stories of stewardship. I hope you all have a great and happy weekend. Sending love from Texas.
the parents are so lucky that you are so supportive of reunification and just helping the family get back to being a place suitable for children! Angels, seriously. Thank you for looking out for your foster children as your own.
I love that even tho you don’t HAVE to go, you both still do to support Miss A and her parents and stay informed. Oh my gosh what I would have done for people like you in my life
As a foster mama yep, this is the very, very, very beginning of a longggggg process. You sound like your at the very beginning of this case. It’ll be a roller coaster. Enjoy it. Thank God your bosses are amazing.
You know this kiddo’s most current wishes and needs better than anyone else can. It’s good to work closely with both the worker and the GAL to make sure the judge hears what the kiddo needs.
you guys rock. You looked shell shocked when leaving. Good for you for showing up and advocating for the best for Miss A and best wishes for peaceful days to Miss A while having to worry about this while in school. For Miss A : Just focus on school and the family you are in and do your best to keep contact with your siblings That is the best you can do. Otherwise have fun with friends bc your youth only comes once. Do try out tumbling and other interests as you can and just enjoy it. The heavy stuff is hard but while you wait try to chill and maybe keep a journal about this crazy time. Big hugs for you guys the foster parents, best wishes to Miss A and here's hoping she and her siblings have the best that they can in whatever decision is made.
Wow, what an eye-opener. I am sure it is very difficult being in the middle, knowing how Miss A is personally feeling about the situation, and just having to be a long for the ride waiting to see what will happen. I have so much respect and gratitude for all you are both doing and sharing it with us a long the way. I have learned so much already. Have a great weekend and have lots of fun with your family. Know that you are doing so incredible at your role and the rest will have to unfold on its own.
I know it can take a lot out of you and even be sad at times..But good for you guys making a change in the lives of young people. All children in that situation need a loving couple like you ❤️
If she’s blonde, a cool idea would be spray die pig tails and a Harley Quinn outfit. If she’s brunette, a broken doll would be really cool. Just some suggestions for miss a!
This is so helpful to know. There are so many people who have or are going through the foster system and it’s something everyone should have a general idea of. It seems like an exhausting and scary process but so important. You present it calmly and with the most information you can. Thank you!
I noticed that Ms A wasn’t there. Here n Memphis Tennessee anytime there’s a court date the child has to be there. We had an experience where when my son went to court for custody of his 2 girls I the grandmother & the girls ages 8 & 6 were asked into the courtroom to talk to the judge. He asked all 3 of us ?’s. Normally a child that age don’t get to talk to the judge. It was amazing & we got custody of them. He was very nice & got tickled at the littlest one . Autumn answered all the ?’s & wouldn’t let kendal say anything. It was funny. Have had both for 6 years. 12 & 11 now.
Barbara Underwood I foster for a few different counties and I have noticed that it depends on age and county. I received an emergency placement in September of 5,4,3 and 1 and I was expected to bring them all to court and I also have another sib group of 9, 5, 4. So I ended up with 6 kids in court. (9yo was in school) and 15 minutes late. The judge looked peeved when I walked in but once he realized how many kids I had he thanked me for coming and then excused the children from any more court appearances. One of my teens was expected at all court dates but she had an attorney not a GAL. My other teen was encouraged NOT to attend because of the relationship she had with her father and her mental health. My other sib group is from a county 80 miles away so they are also exempt from going to court and the oldest sib is already adopted by us.
I hope everything turns out the best for Miss A and her family. It's so sad that she doesn't get to go herself but I think it's really good that you're both going to listen to what's happening and let her know what's appropriate. Hope she's doing well and taking this all in her stride xx
I grew up in foster care and I was never given great parents . I am so thankful there ARE amazing fosters out there like you guys.. I just wished they all caref about the children and not the money
im the first view!! ahhh i found your channel about a month ago and i love you guys! my family does foster care and im the oldest so it's very interesting to me :))
To Miss A's family. I hope that you are doing alright. Court is so stressful. I can't imagine what it would be like to be in a room full of people discussing what should be done with YOUR child. I'm so sorry she isn't with you but I hope that she will be soon. Until then. Please know that I'm rooting for you to get her back and I hope it is a small comfort knowing she is at the very least in a good foster home and not with some crappy people who don't care about her. You will get through this. To John and Whitney: I hope it's okay that I direct messages to Miss A's family in the comments. I keep thinking what this must be like for them, watching your videos, reading the comments. And it breaks my heart. Thinking of how deep their sorrow must be to have their precious child away from them. 😞
@@BeTheVillageCommunity in the off chance that they do or will; I will send them my love. It seems like they must have so much to fight against right now. I don't know their circumstances, their life stories. All I can think about is what if that was MY kid in your videos. What if that was MY kid whose court hearings and visitations you were going to. What if that was MY kid you were taking places I could never afford to, buying things for that I could never afford to, doing things for that I could never afford to. What if that was MY kid people were praising you for taking care of and loving. And I think about that. If that were me and my child and thinking about it that way... It doesn't feel right to me not to talk to her family. Because if this were my baby you were talking about, if this were my baby people were saying you should adopt... I sure as hell would appreciate having one person say that they were on my side 💚
@@BeTheVillageCommunity and don't get me wrong. I'm not saying YOU guys are not on their side. It's more.. The commentors who don't realize the full weight their words carry. Not to mention the system. The whole system is a hunk of junk. It really is. Kids grow up in foster care and guess what the odds are for them. For their children. They aren't good. My dad and all his siblings went into foster care back in the 70s when things were way worse than they are now. And then guess where I wound up and many of my cousins. It becomes almost this generational curse.
I’ve watched my mom go through this with two foster loves of her own. It can be so draining to advocate for the kids that can’t advocate for themselves. In the case of my mom’s fosters, reunification is not an option right now and they’ve been moved to a new home that wants to adopt them. The process takes so long and it’s so difficult. Praying for you guys, Miss A, and her family! It’s so nice to see you guys share your foster journey.
I admire you guys channel. I am hopeful, that my family and myself, will ‘Be The Village’ for others within the next 5 years. As I’ve mentioned before, I have been blessed with an occupation that provides me with the opportunity to ministry, encourage, support and comfort individuals with developmental disabilities. Although I do not have the privilege, to work one-on-one with our individuals however, I am blessed daily with numerous visits. You guys are physical angels, on earth.
It's so hard. If you guys are stressed and overwhelmed emotionally. I would imagine the parents are feeling even worse. Yes it's definitely a looooong process..
You two are so amazing.... hugs and prayers for you and Miss A..... I am adoptive mom of two and as they reach preteen and teenage years the issues still keep coming out . Appreciate so much what you are doing for her ...
Thank you guys for what you are doing and putting Miss A and her needs first! As a young adult who wants to be a foster carer in the future your channel is immensely helpful
Y’all are a blessing❤️🙏. Thank you for sharing your lives with us and this amazing journey you’re on! May God Bless you all. Miss A is one lucky girl and sounds like y’all are pretty lucky also to have her . ❤️
Your channel has been SO helpful for me as we prepare to be licensed to be a foster family. Thank you for being so transparent in your experiences..... I always like forward to your new videos. 🥰
I am 15 years old and in foster care since the day I was born. Eventhough my biological family doesn't care about me I have to go to court appointments for every more or less important decision. This isn't the way it should be, but it is the way the law works. We have to respect this and go there every single time.
I used to work for DCF and I'm glad you mentioned the GAL. We would have killed for a foster family like yours. Status report for approving the plan the Social workers drew up. If they do everything to the Court's satisfaction, there will be reunification. It's rare for the foster parents to be in Court in my experience but it varies from state to state. Our Court was far more informal. That also varies from town to town in the county I worked in. Other judges have dress codes and no gum chewing. Best of luck to you and Miss A.
Hope court goes well 😎 and prayers that all goes well for Miss A and brings back memories of when I attended court pretty much a good discription of similarities of what I went through. I was in foster care on and off officially from the age of 7 till I was 18 from 14 it became a permanent foster care arrangement.
I have a different perspective of the court process. We were asked to adopt a family member's unborn baby (at 6 weeks pregnant). We went through the whole adoption process and 7 days after the baby was born she changed her mind. CPS did get involved and it truly was a heart wrenching roller coaster! The outcome? Biomom relinquished rights and we now have our daughter (foster to adopt). Knowing about all the court dates and finding out what happened via family members was the worst, because you had no rights to said child.
I am so glad that I found your channel. It has really opened my eyes as to what's involved and has shown me that fostering may not be a good fit for me... at least in this stage of my life. I could do it, and I want to, but it's just not the right time and I would only be doing my foster child a disservice. Thank you. Time to talk to my husband; I think it's best we pursue adoption first and then reevaluate.
I am a foster parent/Kin for Two little boys and I’ve been every court hearing here and I have a day like that to see it and it gives me a chance to catch up with the guardian at Leitem and stuff like that we also have a family team meeting with everyone on the case including me and I’m nervous for that keep up the good work for Miss A
You are a wonderful loving couple and I know that you both have Miss A's best interests at heart. I am sure that it must be hard trying to balance your good relationship with Miss A's parents and at the same time being an advocate for her. I pray that all things will work out for you and for Miss A. I send all of you my love.
Love you guys! Once we are purchase our home within this next year we hope to become foster parents. I know you have stated that you would adopt a foster child. I have heard from families that adopt and then stop fostering as they are full to capacity (for lack of better terms) and then families who do not adopt because they feel that allows them to help more kids. I myself would love to help as many kids as I could but would also be blessed to adopt children I fostered, which I know would limit the amount of kids I took in. Such a complicated situation!
We've been approved and are waiting for our first placement. This channel is like having a bit of a guidepost and has helped me feel more confident in the future. I hope I can help a kid who needs my love and support in such a rough situation. Thanks for the confidence and making it look less scary!
Here in Alberta, I’ve been strongly advised not to attend court. The one time I went, the birth parents threatened to kill me. Thankfully, in front of a few lawyers, social workers, and court employees. Miss A is blessed to have you two.
Hi Linda! Are you on Facebook at all? I’m also in Alberta (Edmonton), and potentially interested in becoming a foster parent and would love to speak with you about the process. That is, if you’re willing to :)
if I had a dollar for every time I was like "wait, where did those bikes come from?" "bikes? I didn't buy any bikes or bike parts..." smh lol oh I just love this channel
Have you heard of CASA? Please look it up because you might have viewers who would be interested in advocating for foster children. CASA follows the child until they are reunited or adopted and are a liason between the child, social services and foster family. I've advocated for a handful of cildten and I've never seen foster families in court. Also, we were not allowed to share info from court with the children. Only the birth parents or social worker may do that. Anyway just wanted you to know that family courts and policies differ. Miss A is very lucky to have you both.
@@BeTheVillageCommunity Sure she does, it's you guys without the training! Maybe you can get some information and do a little video on CASA. Maybe the people you work with for fostering have some information or you can interview people that are part of it. I see a lot of people on your videos say they wish they could foster or help etc. CASA is just a way to do that without needing to take in the children.
It's unfortunate but in my state the average home stay is 2 years ( and that's not always with the child going back to the parents alot that is the child going to a family member and the parents still working to reunite).
As a social worker, I can tell you that court dates aren’t scary unless you’re a person who isn’t making good choices. Our court really appreciates the ‘village’ (foster carers, relative caregivers, service providers) coming to support the family and the child on the journey
nicoleago oh for sure! I work with kids of all ages and the idea that a court is making decisions about their life and their family is terrifying for most kids.
I was in Foster homes and group homes ..I aged out after a failed adoption and actually given back to my bio Mom at least 5 times ..including after the adoption ...we were given back to our bio mom ..I was 13 ..I did not live with her long ..I never did ..her fresh out of prison boyfriend did things and we went back to the system..I was never in a Foster home that cared ..never ..I never attached to any of them ..one Foster home i was placed back 2 ..3 times and we never got a hug ..we only found out about Birthdays and Christmas when we were adopted ..we were very neglected and treated like a cancer ...I aged out at 17 and pregnant and alone..
Court sounds so stressful! Props to you for wanting to be a part of it for Miss A! You guys are lucky to have her, and she’s lucky to have you! I hope her brother had a wonderful birthday and that he and Miss A had a fun time together! Question about the court: When you go to court, is it strictly about Miss A? Or does the court include her siblings as well? So sorry if this isn’t something that can be answered!! I don’t want to pry! I was just curious :) if it’s a separate court case for each child I can’t even imagine how stressful that would be on the parents and social workers!
So, I can say that my assumption is that court is about all of the children unless there’s a reason they would speak separately about them. Because it’s really the parents case and the kids are represented.
I felt like it was pointless going to court after my first placement. It seems like the decisions are not really made in court. I went to every court date. I’m on my 7 or so placement and I’m going to try to make it to their court dates because the case seems messes.
TheAngelsMommie that doesn't sound good. Especially with some of the workers that are out there. Others are just super over worked and have too many cases. I get the safety part though but sometimes just seeing a case on paper without everyone involved wont get to what's really going on and things can get twisted or just over looked
@@rissadawn2047 it was hard but it was so to keep my many foster parents and other kids safe. Also this was in the 90 and I am sure some stuff has changed hopefully for the better
TheAngelsMommie I'm sure theres pros and cons and there are some REALLY scary situations out there. I have 2 cousins who are social workers and a friend who is a guardian ad litem in these situations. It breaks my heart thinking how many kids go to multiple homes and either get returned to the parents (which sometimes is best but also not good in some cases) or age out. I could not imagine myself or my children going to live with strangers sometimes half a dozen times or more. Some kids dont need to be separated and ones that should aren't. It's a mess. Sadly some of the worst cases here still go unnoticed and un reported. Hopefully you have moved on from all that, found peace and have a beautiful life now!
I would love to become a Foster parent. I get attached really easily, have you had days you cry about their situations? Or just emotionally overwhelmed if they move to a different Foster family?
Nacole B yeeees lol getting attached is kinda the point! Especially for littles. They need that attachment for their development. It’s freaking hard but we chose to do it because the kids don’t get a choice to not go through these hard things.
I love how you say "we have 3 kids". Even though you respectfully make it clear that you're not her parents and she does have a family, you still treat her like one of your own, and I'm sure she feels the difference.
"alright, village" omg... we've become the village at last !
I don’t know why I didn’t do it sooner!!! ❤️
It must be so hard when other people decide what will happen in your life and you just have to hope it goes well
exactly. thats why it wrong in my book.
It’s what we signed up for so we know what to expect. We just are doing what we can while we have her ❤️
@@BeTheVillageCommunity, yes but not all foster parents are as good as you. she lucky to have u as faster, parents
@@dreamercraftcorner There isn't really an alternative. Most are good and some are bad but they're needed.
Statistically, more parents are needed like these two. CPS is the legal kidnapping ring, $$$ making scheme. We NEED parents like these! My children were falsely taken which led to them in a home with a felon. GAL never spoke to my children or myself. It was a nightmare situation. My daughter was raped & both children abused. The system needs to be cleaned up & now. We sued & we won. Anyone doubts that there are no failures- multiple failures- google. It’s a travesty. These two are a God-send.
Being in foster care really sucks in some situations, I wish I had foster parents like you guys when I was in care.
I was in care too. You're right. It def sucks sometimes. Glad I'm outta there. Wish things could have been different but I guess I'm grateful it wasn't worse.
Same..
Having been a child with 2 younger siblings all removed from parents, lived in multiple foster homes and all 3 adopted by one family, I can tell you that I wish we could have had fosters like y'all. We probably wouldn't have had as much trauma as we did. I'm just glad that because they were so young they didn't realize how bad it was. Bless y'all for doing such an amazing job and caring so much for your foster child. My prayers are with you and your family. And I pray that the magistrate will be cautious and wise in her decision. Sometimes, reunification is just not the right choice for long term happiness and success for the children.
I really love how you both are rallying around Miss A and keeping her in the loop. Keeping you, Miss A, and her family in my prayers that things can get worked out for reunification 💖
You two are both ROLE MODELS for foster parents, future foster carers/parents and of course the children in care. You should go news viral to raise awareness of kids needing loving, caring and stable environments.
As a foster mom in training I 100% agree. You guys keep me aware of all the obscure things you don't think about when a street person heard "foster mom".
I'm glad you're giving miss A more of a voice.
I seriously can’t say how amazing you two are. My parents were fostering new borns, I feel like that must be easier by 100 fold. What you are doing is so HUGE!! Court=scary.
I think newborns are soo much harder. Older kids can speak up, can try to leave if reunification fails, etc. Babies are stuck with whatever and you have to pray harder that whatever decision that was made, was right.
Look up Serenity Dennard and Lynne Disanto on here. Serenity is still missing and her only major voice is Lynne! Adoptive parents are mum, bio dad is ignored and bio mom is in jail in which Lynne is blocked from seeing now. 😡
That is the downside to foster care system.
Dealing with the courts was the worst part for us! The system is so broken it’s so sad and frustrating.
9/10 CPS is a huge failure. The legal kidnapping ring, $$$ making scheme. It’s so sad!
Cory Sem I’m not sure who is making money from removing children from unsafe/unfit homes. But I’d agree that there is a lot of room for improvement within the system.
@@thesteelefamily3440 there are actually for-profit foster agencies unfortunately :( it can end up putting kids in really bad homes that are only in it for the money.
Cops failed me and left me in the hands of my abuser
You guys are doing an amazing job for Miss A. You go above and beyond for her. That is what's needed for foster kids. You truly care. Thank you both for being the best foster parents for her.
You are a model for how these situations should be handled. I love that you advocate for her and support her. You guys are doing a great job and the information you share is invaluable.
You are her safe haven, I'm glad she has you both. She needs to know that you are there for her and will always be.
As someone who can't have her own children, my husband and I have thought on becoming foster parents. Watching your guys channel and seeing how amazing you are to Miss A, I hope when we do make make up our minds, and if it is to become fosters, I hope we can do as good of a job as you two. I dated a foster kid in high school and even though he was a "troubled youth" I swear his foster parents only did it for the money they got, and to have free labor to work in their house. So its nice to see two caring parents who really put the needs of their foster child first.
All I say I’m proud of you both. Protecting Miss A, fighting for her and her family is a gift that many can’t understand. The foster system is almost cult like. Americans are kept in secrecy so to speak, because everything involved is so private. We hear horror stories, but rarely the stories of stewardship. I hope you all have a great and happy weekend. Sending love from Texas.
the parents are so lucky that you are so supportive of reunification and just helping the family get back to being a place suitable for children! Angels, seriously. Thank you for looking out for your foster children as your own.
I love that even tho you don’t HAVE to go, you both still do to support Miss A and her parents and stay informed. Oh my gosh what I would have done for people like you in my life
As a foster mama yep, this is the very, very, very beginning of a longggggg process. You sound like your at the very beginning of this case. It’ll be a roller coaster. Enjoy it. Thank God your bosses are amazing.
How stressful for you. Praying that the right outcome for miss A is reached.
I love how you say you have three children! It honestly just gives me chills and I can't imagine the love Miss. A feels for you both and the kids.
You know this kiddo’s most current wishes and needs better than anyone else can. It’s good to work closely with both the worker and the GAL to make sure the judge hears what the kiddo needs.
Thank you for fighting for these kids and loving them so fiercely
you guys rock. You looked shell shocked when leaving. Good for you for showing up and advocating for the best for Miss A and best wishes for peaceful days to Miss A while having to worry about this while in school. For Miss A : Just focus on school and the family you are in and do your best to keep contact with your siblings That is the best you can do. Otherwise have fun with friends bc your youth only comes once. Do try out tumbling and other interests as you can and just enjoy it. The heavy stuff is hard but while you wait try to chill and maybe keep a journal about this crazy time. Big hugs for you guys the foster parents, best wishes to Miss A and here's hoping she and her siblings have the best that they can in whatever decision is made.
Wow, what an eye-opener. I am sure it is very difficult being in the middle, knowing how Miss A is personally feeling about the situation, and just having to be a long for the ride waiting to see what will happen. I have so much respect and gratitude for all you are both doing and sharing it with us a long the way. I have learned so much already.
Have a great weekend and have lots of fun with your family. Know that you are doing so incredible at your role and the rest will have to unfold on its own.
I know it can take a lot out of you and even be sad at times..But good for you guys making a change in the lives of young people. All children in that situation need a loving couple like you ❤️
Love that y'all are sharing the complicity behind fostering
I'm glad that there are people like you doing what you do. ❤
this sounds so stressful! kudos to you guys for doing this! Question for Miss A: if you celebrate halloween, what do you want to be?
She said she doesn’t necessarily know☹️
Easy Costume: black dress and braids = Wednesday Addams
If she’s blonde, a cool idea would be spray die pig tails and a Harley Quinn outfit. If she’s brunette, a broken doll would be really cool. Just some suggestions for miss a!
This is so helpful to know. There are so many people who have or are going through the foster system and it’s something everyone should have a general idea of. It seems like an exhausting and scary process but so important. You present it calmly and with the most information you can. Thank you!
It is so clear how much you care, and it is so lovely to see 💕
I noticed that Ms A wasn’t there. Here n Memphis Tennessee anytime there’s a court date the child has to be there. We had an experience where when my son went to court for custody of his 2 girls I the grandmother & the girls ages 8 & 6 were asked into the courtroom to talk to the judge. He asked all 3 of us ?’s. Normally a child that age don’t get to talk to the judge. It was amazing & we got custody of them. He was very nice & got tickled at the littlest one . Autumn answered all the ?’s & wouldn’t let kendal say anything. It was funny. Have had both for 6 years. 12 & 11 now.
Barbara Underwood I foster for a few different counties and I have noticed that it depends on age and county.
I received an emergency placement in September of 5,4,3 and 1 and I was expected to bring them all to court and I also have another sib group of 9, 5, 4. So I ended up with 6 kids in court. (9yo was in school) and 15 minutes late. The judge looked peeved when I walked in but once he realized how many kids I had he thanked me for coming and then excused the children from any more court appearances.
One of my teens was expected at all court dates but she had an attorney not a GAL. My other teen was encouraged NOT to attend because of the relationship she had with her father and her mental health.
My other sib group is from a county 80 miles away so they are also exempt from going to court and the oldest sib is already adopted by us.
It was your channel and Crazy Middles that solidified my choice to foster/adopt over having my own. You guys are angels.
I really love how respectful you guys are for the case, not sharing details that miss A might not like and stuff like that
V I Q M U N they legally cant
I hope everything turns out the best for Miss A and her family. It's so sad that she doesn't get to go herself but I think it's really good that you're both going to listen to what's happening and let her know what's appropriate. Hope she's doing well and taking this all in her stride xx
I grew up in foster care and I was never given great parents . I am so thankful there ARE amazing fosters out there like you guys.. I just wished they all caref about the children and not the money
im the first view!! ahhh i found your channel about a month ago and i love you guys! my family does foster care and im the oldest so it's very interesting to me :))
How awesome!
To Miss A's family.
I hope that you are doing alright. Court is so stressful. I can't imagine what it would be like to be in a room full of people discussing what should be done with YOUR child. I'm so sorry she isn't with you but I hope that she will be soon. Until then. Please know that I'm rooting for you to get her back and I hope it is a small comfort knowing she is at the very least in a good foster home and not with some crappy people who don't care about her. You will get through this.
To John and Whitney: I hope it's okay that I direct messages to Miss A's family in the comments. I keep thinking what this must be like for them, watching your videos, reading the comments. And it breaks my heart. Thinking of how deep their sorrow must be to have their precious child away from them. 😞
I hear you ❤️ I do not think that they watch our videos but they could eventually!
@@BeTheVillageCommunity in the off chance that they do or will; I will send them my love. It seems like they must have so much to fight against right now. I don't know their circumstances, their life stories. All I can think about is what if that was MY kid in your videos. What if that was MY kid whose court hearings and visitations you were going to. What if that was MY kid you were taking places I could never afford to, buying things for that I could never afford to, doing things for that I could never afford to. What if that was MY kid people were praising you for taking care of and loving. And I think about that. If that were me and my child and thinking about it that way... It doesn't feel right to me not to talk to her family. Because if this were my baby you were talking about, if this were my baby people were saying you should adopt... I sure as hell would appreciate having one person say that they were on my side 💚
@@BeTheVillageCommunity and don't get me wrong. I'm not saying YOU guys are not on their side. It's more.. The commentors who don't realize the full weight their words carry. Not to mention the system. The whole system is a hunk of junk. It really is. Kids grow up in foster care and guess what the odds are for them. For their children. They aren't good. My dad and all his siblings went into foster care back in the 70s when things were way worse than they are now. And then guess where I wound up and many of my cousins. It becomes almost this generational curse.
I’ve watched my mom go through this with two foster loves of her own. It can be so draining to advocate for the kids that can’t advocate for themselves. In the case of my mom’s fosters, reunification is not an option right now and they’ve been moved to a new home that wants to adopt them. The process takes so long and it’s so difficult.
Praying for you guys, Miss A, and her family! It’s so nice to see you guys share your foster journey.
I am so thankful that Miss A have you guys ❤ I was in the system (in the UK). Wish you has been my foster carers
I admire you guys channel. I am hopeful, that my family and myself, will ‘Be The Village’ for others within the next 5 years.
As I’ve mentioned before, I have been blessed with an occupation that provides me with the opportunity to ministry, encourage, support and comfort individuals with developmental disabilities. Although I do not have the privilege, to work one-on-one with our individuals however, I am blessed daily with numerous visits.
You guys are physical angels, on earth.
being able to see the love and commitment that you put into miss a/ fostering is amazing. it gives me hope that the system will improve
Oh I forgot I love watching your family & Ms A seems like a calm, amazing teen. 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Is Miss A happy you guys became her foster parents. You're family seems wonderful. So sweet.
You guys are an inspiration 💛
I love you’re family and channel. You guys are really advocating for miss A.
It's so hard. If you guys are stressed and overwhelmed emotionally. I would imagine the parents are feeling even worse. Yes it's definitely a looooong process..
You two are so amazing.... hugs and prayers for you and Miss A..... I am adoptive mom of two and as they reach preteen and teenage years the issues still keep coming out . Appreciate so much what you are doing for her ...
Thank you guys for what you are doing and putting Miss A and her needs first! As a young adult who wants to be a foster carer in the future your channel is immensely helpful
Sounds like you’re around the Disposition of the case! Things are moving forward.
I strive to be a foster parent like you guys are
You guys are so cute... “I hear that joke all the time” haha! I’ve really enjoyed following along with your videos.
Y’all are a blessing❤️🙏. Thank you for sharing your lives with us and this amazing journey you’re on! May God Bless you all. Miss A is one lucky girl and sounds like y’all are pretty lucky also to have her . ❤️
Praying for the best outcome for Miss A and her siblings.
Love your channel and who you are. Inspirational ❤️
I hope you're all exercising good self care following this experience. Can't take the best care of the kids if you aren't taking care of yourselves. X
Your channel has been SO helpful for me as we prepare to be licensed to be a foster family. Thank you for being so transparent in your experiences..... I always like forward to your new videos. 🥰
I am 15 years old and in foster care since the day I was born. Eventhough my biological family doesn't care about me I have to go to court appointments for every more or less important decision. This isn't the way it should be, but it is the way the law works. We have to respect this and go there every single time.
You guys are an awesome pick for fostering. You are totally involved. Miss A is one lucky girl to hav yas as fostering parents. Hav a good nite. 🌙
You guys are awesome. Much respect.
I used to work for DCF and I'm glad you mentioned the GAL. We would have killed for a foster family like yours. Status report for approving the plan the Social workers drew up. If they do everything to the Court's satisfaction, there will be reunification. It's rare for the foster parents to be in Court in my experience but it varies from state to state. Our Court was far more informal. That also varies from town to town in the county I worked in. Other judges have dress codes and no gum chewing. Best of luck to you and Miss A.
You guys are amazing foster parents and Miss A is lucky to have you.
Side note: you should wear yellow more often. Looks amazing on you!
You’re so kind! It’s one of my favorite colors to wear 💛
Hope court goes well 😎 and prayers that all goes well for Miss A and brings back memories of when I attended court pretty much a good discription of similarities of what I went through. I was in foster care on and off officially from the age of 7 till I was 18 from 14 it became a permanent foster care arrangement.
Im praying for you guys and
Miss A.
Sending love to you all from across the pond in the UK xx
I have a different perspective of the court process. We were asked to adopt a family member's unborn baby (at 6 weeks pregnant). We went through the whole adoption process and 7 days after the baby was born she changed her mind. CPS did get involved and it truly was a heart wrenching roller coaster! The outcome? Biomom relinquished rights and we now have our daughter (foster to adopt).
Knowing about all the court dates and finding out what happened via family members was the worst, because you had no rights to said child.
I am so glad that I found your channel. It has really opened my eyes as to what's involved and has shown me that fostering may not be a good fit for me... at least in this stage of my life. I could do it, and I want to, but it's just not the right time and I would only be doing my foster child a disservice. Thank you. Time to talk to my husband; I think it's best we pursue adoption first and then reevaluate.
Stay strong Your doing an amazing job.
The court stuff is crazy - we had to go through so many hoops to take custody of our niece it literally brought Gabriella to tears! It’s crazy
RVA Flips that’s crazy. You’d think that because you’re family and not strangers, that it would be a different process.
sereneebaby yeah. I get wanting to protect children but the system as it stands could definitely use some work.
I am a foster parent/Kin for Two little boys and I’ve been every court hearing here and I have a day like that to see it and it gives me a chance to catch up with the guardian at Leitem and stuff like that we also have a family team meeting with everyone on the case including me and I’m nervous for that keep up the good work for Miss A
You are a godsend
Just stopping through to say hello... ❤
👋🏼
Thank you! I am new to watching Be The Village.
You are a wonderful loving couple and I know that you both have Miss A's best interests at heart. I am sure that it must be hard trying to balance your good relationship with Miss A's parents and at the same time being an advocate for her. I pray that all things will work out for you and for Miss A. I send all of you my love.
Love you guys! Once we are purchase our home within this next year we hope to become foster parents.
I know you have stated that you would adopt a foster child. I have heard from families that adopt and then stop fostering as they are full to capacity (for lack of better terms) and then families who do not adopt because they feel that allows them to help more kids. I myself would love to help as many kids as I could but would also be blessed to adopt children I fostered, which I know would limit the amount of kids I took in. Such a complicated situation!
We've been approved and are waiting for our first placement. This channel is like having a bit of a guidepost and has helped me feel more confident in the future. I hope I can help a kid who needs my love and support in such a rough situation. Thanks for the confidence and making it look less scary!
How exciting!! We wish you all the best ❤️❤️❤️
Good luck with everything!
Sorry I’m late I was eating!! You’re an inspiration ❤️
Clicked on this video so fast, and liked it before I even watched it 😂
Ieshia Martin same
Ieshia Martin lmao I did the same thing 🤣🤣🤣
Here in Alberta, I’ve been strongly advised not to attend court. The one time I went, the birth parents threatened to kill me. Thankfully, in front of a few lawyers, social workers, and court employees. Miss A is blessed to have you two.
Hi Linda! Are you on Facebook at all? I’m also in Alberta (Edmonton), and potentially interested in becoming a foster parent and would love to speak with you about the process. That is, if you’re willing to :)
You guys are amazing ❤️❤️❤️
Just wanted to say I’m a big garage sale fan too! What are your best finds? I’m going to some in the morning! Love to you all 💓
Follow john on his Cincinnati Picker channel!
Be The Village awesome I will!!!
If it were to come down to it. Would you adopt one of your foster child?
Yes
Thirtysomething u
Janine Lynne huh
💗💗💗 love your love 💗💗💗
I hope to foster one day 💙
if I had a dollar for every time I was like "wait, where did those bikes come from?" "bikes? I didn't buy any bikes or bike parts..." smh lol oh I just love this channel
I JUST L O V E YOU PEOPLE!!!!
Have you heard of CASA? Please look it up because you might have viewers who would be interested in advocating for foster children. CASA follows the child until they are reunited or adopted and are a liason between the child, social services and foster family. I've advocated for a handful of cildten and I've never seen foster families in court. Also, we were not allowed to share info from court with the children. Only the birth parents or social worker may do that. Anyway just wanted you to know that family courts and policies differ. Miss A is very lucky to have you both.
We are familiar with CASA but miss A does not have a casa
@@BeTheVillageCommunity Sure she does, it's you guys without the training! Maybe you can get some information and do a little video on CASA. Maybe the people you work with for fostering have some information or you can interview people that are part of it. I see a lot of people on your videos say they wish they could foster or help etc. CASA is just a way to do that without needing to take in the children.
It's unfortunate but in my state the average home stay is 2 years ( and that's not always with the child going back to the parents alot that is the child going to a family member and the parents still working to reunite).
I had no idea idea you had court dates that sounds so scary
Not scary and foster parents don’t have to go unless they are summoned.
As a social worker, I can tell you that court dates aren’t scary unless you’re a person who isn’t making good choices. Our court really appreciates the ‘village’ (foster carers, relative caregivers, service providers) coming to support the family and the child on the journey
@@SirenaZotz I mean scary for miss A she has to trust the courts are going to do whatever is best and that sounds intimidating
nicoleago oh for sure! I work with kids of all ages and the idea that a court is making decisions about their life and their family is terrifying for most kids.
@@SirenaZotz and her parents must feel so much pain and maybe some resentment for the state/county
I was in Foster homes and group homes ..I aged out after a failed adoption and actually given back to my bio Mom at least 5 times ..including after the adoption ...we were given back to our bio mom ..I was 13 ..I did not live with her long ..I never did ..her fresh out of prison boyfriend did things and we went back to the system..I was never in a Foster home that cared ..never ..I never attached to any of them ..one Foster home i was placed back 2 ..3 times and we never got a hug ..we only found out about Birthdays and Christmas when we were adopted ..we were very neglected and treated like a cancer ...I aged out at 17 and pregnant and alone..
Amazing video such an inspiration 😌
Court sounds so stressful! Props to you for wanting to be a part of it for Miss A! You guys are lucky to have her, and she’s lucky to have you!
I hope her brother had a wonderful birthday and that he and Miss A had a fun time together!
Question about the court: When you go to court, is it strictly about Miss A? Or does the court include her siblings as well? So sorry if this isn’t something that can be answered!! I don’t want to pry! I was just curious :) if it’s a separate court case for each child I can’t even imagine how stressful that would be on the parents and social workers!
So, I can say that my assumption is that court is about all of the children unless there’s a reason they would speak separately about them. Because it’s really the parents case and the kids are represented.
Be The Village ohh okay, that’s what I assumed but wasn’t sure! Thanks!! :)
I felt like it was pointless going to court after my first placement. It seems like the decisions are not really made in court. I went to every court date. I’m on my 7 or so placement and I’m going to try to make it to their court dates because the case seems messes.
OMG! This is the second time my thumbs up was number 666 on your channel, LOL!
💜💙
When I was in care the foster parents were not allowed to go to court. Everyone had to go through the case workers. It was a safety issue with my case
TheAngelsMommie that doesn't sound good. Especially with some of the workers that are out there. Others are just super over worked and have too many cases. I get the safety part though but sometimes just seeing a case on paper without everyone involved wont get to what's really going on and things can get twisted or just over looked
@@rissadawn2047 it was hard but it was so to keep my many foster parents and other kids safe. Also this was in the 90 and I am sure some stuff has changed hopefully for the better
TheAngelsMommie I'm sure theres pros and cons and there are some REALLY scary situations out there. I have 2 cousins who are social workers and a friend who is a guardian ad litem in these situations. It breaks my heart thinking how many kids go to multiple homes and either get returned to the parents (which sometimes is best but also not good in some cases) or age out. I could not imagine myself or my children going to live with strangers sometimes half a dozen times or more. Some kids dont need to be separated and ones that should aren't. It's a mess. Sadly some of the worst cases here still go unnoticed and un reported. Hopefully you have moved on from all that, found peace and have a beautiful life now!
He looks EXACTLY like Jim Gaffigan
Yyeeesss! Also, keifer Sutherland (from 24).
Its actually called not enough Nelson's
This channel is catching up to Cincinnati pickers channel.
😈
I would love to become a Foster parent. I get attached really easily, have you had days you cry about their situations? Or just emotionally overwhelmed if they move to a different Foster family?
Nacole B yeeees lol getting attached is kinda the point! Especially for littles. They need that attachment for their development. It’s freaking hard but we chose to do it because the kids don’t get a choice to not go through these hard things.
I do
This really do be a bruh moment.