LaShaundra had dreamed of fostering and giving back to her community. As a working nurse and single parent, with the support of her mother, a retired nurse, she knew she had the space and heart to welcome children into her home.
RESPOND, a program of the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, exists to recruit, prepare, and fully support Black/African American foster parents. Through personalized guidance, resources, and a supportive community, RESPOND walks families through each step of the licensing journey.
On March 29, 2023, Terricka Reese, a RESPOND Family Development Specialist at the Coalition, received LaShaundra’s case. After experiencing staffing changes at a previous agency, LaShaundra found herself having to start the licensing process over. Understandably, she felt hesitant and unsure that Terricka would be able to fully support her.
Terricka quickly reassured her. She promised consistent support throughout the entire licensing process, along with two years of continued guidance after licensure. That reassurance marked a turning point, giving LaShaundra renewed confidence as she continued her fostering journey.
LaShaundra was officially licensed on June 20, 2023, two months ahead of schedule. On August 27, 2023, she received her first placement, welcoming one child from a sibling group into her home. While she was thrilled to begin fostering, she remained committed to keeping the sibling group together.
Just one week later, she welcomed another sibling. Two weeks after that, she opened her home to the remaining two children, reuniting the entire sibling group. In total, LaShaundra welcomed four siblings, Zahara (6), Aalijah (4), Dante (3), and Octavian (4), ensuring that they could stay together under one roof. By keeping them together, she helped reduce the trauma of separation and protected the sibling bond that would likely become the longest and most enduring relationship of their lives.
From the very beginning, LaShaundra led with care and compassion, always putting the children’s needs first. She ensured they had consistency, connection, and a sense of belonging, helping create routines and opportunities for meaningful family time. Throughout every step, her focus remained on what would bring the children the greatest sense of safety and stability.
As time went on, it became clear that her home was the only one the children truly knew. LaShaundra embraced the role of forever parent with confidence and care, knowing in her heart that these were her children. On December 9, 2025, LaShaundra officially adopted all four siblings, making their family permanent and whole.
LaShaundra reflected on the partnership that helped guide her family through each step of her journey. She shared the impact that Terricka’s guidance had on helping her build her family:
“Terri, I’m sad you are changing roles in our journey, but I’ll be forever grateful for the multiple and outstanding parts you played in helping to create this new family unit. I hope I can continue to connect to you as an extraordinary resource. You have enriched my understanding of foster care and enabled us to be part of the lives of the children that have come into our home. None of which would have been possible without your partnership with us.” – LaShaundra
LaShaundra’s words reflect the heart of the Coalition’s mission: For every child…a place to call home. Through RESPOND, families are never expected to navigate the fostering journey alone. They are met with understanding, resources, and staff like Terricka who walk beside them every step of the way.
If you have ever felt called to open your heart and home, RESPOND is here to support you too. Join us for a free, virtual informational session on February 17 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and learn how you can be part of creating safe, nurturing homes for children who need them most. Register here.