Children's Division
Foster
Care Testimonials
The 2007 Missouri Adoption Heart Gallery will tour the state from May
-- Foster Care Month -- to November -- Adoption Month -- emphasizing the
need for foster and adoptive homes for children who cannot safely remain
at home. Missouri photographers have donated their time and talent to the
project, capturing images of the children that show their spirits and personalities.
In return, the opportunity to interact with the children has had a profound
effect upon them. Their comments follow:
- Tyler — “…I'm writing this story to let
people know that being a foster parent can really help a person in life.
I know I would not be doing so good if I wasn't put in this home. My foster
parents have really helped me and they are very caring. Sometimes I wonder
how they can love me!… ” more »»
- Foster parent — “…In later years, a child
that you felt you just didn't effect, will call you and tell you how grateful
they are that you took the time and effort to share you life and home
with them. This is what makes this type of work the most exciting and
rewarding job on earth… ” more »»
- Layla — “We built our own extended family. My
name is Layla and this is my story about how a bond was formed with the
foster parents who were assigned to my three young children. . . ” more »»
- Misty Bull - "The Heart Gallery
is an amazing display full of spirit and energy from each child photographed. I
am honored to have helped make it come to life this year!"
- Misty Bull - "It was very
rewarding for me to have these children open up and feel comfortable
in front of my camera. Each and every one of them was a joy to be
around - they were the highlight of my day!"
- Jennifer LaVelle - "During
our childhood, we learn the majority of life's most important lessons!
We learn to love, to trust, to share, to give of ourselves, and to be
kind to others."
- Jessica Lamb-Rosa - "As
a photographer, I am able to spend a little time with each child I photograph.
I listen, we laugh, talk about the future, and I let them know that once
I was just like them. I share with them that any dream is possible despite
their circumstances, just look at me because my dream to become a photographer
came true. I have learned, sometimes it only takes one person to believe
in your dreams for you to believe in them too."
- Jim Diaz - "My thoughts on
the shoot center around the love and respect the three siblings showed
for each other and for their foster parent. And, how natural and easy
flowing they were as a unit.
They all had a great time and
a lot fun at the shoot; always aware of each other. Once it was determined
all were OK, they let themselves go."
- Jennifer LaVelle - "Childhood
is a fleeting moment in any person's life. It is my wish that by
providing a glimpse into the hopeful eyes of each of these children that
someone will be called to take action and choose to become a parent to
one of the many available children before that child's "fleeting
moment" is gone."
- Marvel J. – Marvel, age
15, says eating and listening to music are his favorite pastimes, however,
you can also find him playing basketball, football or video games when
he’s not eating. Marvel has a beautiful singing voice and
loves music. Marvel needs a permanent home (with a well-stocked
pantry!).
- Jessica Lamb-Rosa - "Being
a former foster child myself, I cannot even begin to express my feelings
and passion for the Heart Gallery project. I am so overwhelmed with joy
and happiness because I have been given such a beautiful opportunity to
make a difference in a fellow foster child's life."
- James Ward - "It was simply
a pleasure photographing the youngsters for the Heart Gallery. It was
a truly humbling experience. It really opened up my mind to new paradigms,
lifestyles, and relationships. Thanks for the experience."
05/01/09
