by Teresa, a FAM Volunteer
I signed up as a volunteer for the Family Advocacy Ministry (FAM) at my church almost two years ago because I was looking for something to help me heal from the loss of my son. I started by providing a meal for one foster family, and then another, and even had the privilege of celebrating an adoption with that second family. It was such a joy to be part of that moment, but I also felt like God was calling me to more.
Next, I had the opportunity to provide monthly lunches and gift cards to county social workers as a token of appreciation for their hard work. It was a joy to be part of this, but my work schedule changed, preventing me from continuing. I was disappointed, but I kept praying about what God would have me do next.
In January of 2025, God opened the door to an amazing opportunity! Through an organization I had been working with, a women’s group I had been led to, and the generous donations made to Foster WV, which is the FAM at my church, I was able to begin a partnership with a local shelter for teens.
Since February 2025, we have been having monthly “Celebration Parties” for the kids at the shelter. We have had a Talent Show, Mexican Night, Minute to Win It, a Carnival, a professional Magician with his own testimony, a Pool Noodle Obstacle Course, and a Back-to-School Bash. We provide dinner and enjoy eating with them before the fun begins. Most of these kids have never had a birthday party, eaten at Chick-fil-A, or played “Pin the Tail on the Donkey”…small things that we take for granted. They are so appreciative and engaged when we are there, and we have grown to love them and look forward to seeing them every month.
Recently, we arrived at the facility and one of the boys ran up to us with exciting news. He told us that he was saved that week. This young man had grown up in a household that practiced satanic worship. He wore a satanic ring on his finger and even brought tarot cards to one of our parties. He asked us if we believed in the cards, because he wanted to do a reading, but we politely declined. Since then, we have been praying for him. What a blessing to see this young man give his life to Christ! He told us he got rid of the ring and the tarot cards, as He realized he had been putting his trust in the wrong things. Wow! He’ll be moving on to a foster family soon, and we will miss him terribly, but I am so grateful and humbled that God has allowed us to be a part of his life.
I am so thankful to Foster WV for allowing me to bless these kids, but I am equally grateful that this ministry has brought healing to my broken heart and given me purpose again. I have made some amazing friendships that will forever be a part of my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
If stories like Teresa’s stir something in you, the 2026 All In Foster Care Summit is where you can discover how to take your own first step and be part of what God is doing across West Virginia. You can learn more or register for the May 6, 2026 event by clicking HERE or on the Summit logo below.
