My Story

I grew up in California’s foster care system for 14 years.

When I aged out, I experienced homelessness and learned firsthand how hard the transition into adulthood can be without a strong support system. Those years shaped me and gave me a lifelong heart for foster youth. Help Foster Youth grew from that experience and from a desire to make sure young people leaving foster care know they are not alone.

I wrote Take A Walk With Me to share parts of that journey and to remind others that no story is wasted. Through the Clara Jean Doll™ and the Gift of Hope, I hope to place something tangible into the hands of young people who need to know they are seen, valued, and loved.

Help Foster Youth was designed to engage communities across our country to help foster youth in whatever way they can. Everyone can do something. Together we can change lives. This is something we can all agree on and support together.