Building Educational Pathways that Nurture Lasting Connections
Established in 2019 by Aubrie Simpson-Gotham, Fostering Connections empowers youth in the foster care system and those living in group homes across Duval, Putnam, Volusia, and St. Johns counties. With a deep understanding of these young individuals' challenges, Fostering Connections creates supportive educational pathways that strengthen their ties to foster families while paving the way for academic achievement and career success.
Their programs focus on college readiness, career exploration, and access to essential technology—including laptops, internet connectivity, and academic supplies. The organization also offers personalized guidance on navigating the college application process, building strong resumes, preparing for job interviews, and identifying career paths that align with a youth's passions and strengths, encouraging young people to take confident, meaningful steps toward a successful and independent future.
Empowering Each Individual While Growing a Welcoming, Inclusive Community
In addition to its educational and professional development initiatives, the organization hosts networking events for teens in grades 6–12, offering safe spaces to build friendships and foster a sense of belonging. Fostering Connections also provides adoption networking events for foster families that help nurture lasting relationships and expand support systems. These programs encourage individual growth and a strong, inclusive community where every young person feels seen, valued, and supported.