When I first got the invitation to join Guardian’s Mind, Body, Wallet podcast for an episode about foster care, I felt both excited and humbled. Talking about fostering is something deeply personal to me. It’s not just something we did; it’s something that forever changed who I am and how I see the world.
Our journey began in the middle of the pandemic. When schools shut down in 2020, I couldn’t stop thinking about the kids who suddenly lost their safe places, classrooms, friends, meals, and caring adults. My husband and I couldn’t shake the thought of those children now stuck behind closed doors with no escape from neglect or abuse. That thought is what pushed us to take the leap and become licensed foster parents.
We started small, obtaining a basic license to provide short-term care. But just a few months later, we realized our calling went deeper. We completed the training to become treatment-level foster parents, caring for children with higher emotional or behavioral needs. I quickly learned that even a short time in a child’s life can leave a lifelong impact.
❤️ Why Teens?
When we first became foster parents, our original plan was to work with teenagers. I’ve always felt drawn to that age group, the ones standing on the edge of independence, often misunderstood, and so deserving of support. Even though our placements so far have been with younger children, my heart has never strayed from the idea of fostering teens in the future if it’s the right fit for our family.
There’s a misconception that fostering teens is harder or more complicated, but I’ve learned that it’s simply different. Teens need consistency, advocacy, and someone who believes in them, even when the world hasn’t. Sometimes it’s about helping them finish high school, find their first job, or learn everyday life skills. Other times, it’s about showing up, being that steady, safe presence who listens and reminds them they’re not alone.
đź•Š Lessons from the Journey
Through fostering, and later adopting our son, AJ, I’ve learned that caregiving isn’t about doing it all. It’s about being intentional. Early on, I said yes to everything and everyone, thinking that was the best way to help. But over time, I realized the most meaningful care comes from creating balance, boundaries, and a sense of safety for every child in the home.
🌍 Why I Said Yes
Adopting AJ taught me that being a caregiver isn’t just about love; it’s about creating space where everyone can thrive, where children feel seen, supported, and heard.
When Guardian reached out about sharing my story, I knew it was the right time. There are so many misconceptions about foster care, and even more about the realities families face when stepping into it. I wanted to use my voice to show that you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference, you just have to show up with compassion and commitment.
On the podcast, we’ll talk about what inspired us to foster during one of the hardest times in the world, what it means to advocate for children with higher needs, and how every act of care, no matter how small, can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
If there’s one message I hope listeners take away, it’s this: You can make a difference right where you are. You don’t need all the answers, just a heart willing to help.
I’m so honored to share our family’s journey on Mind, Body, Wallet this November, and I can’t wait to open up about what fostering, and loving, has taught me about humanity, resilience, and hope.
Because at the end of the day, every family’s heart beats differently, but love sounds the same. 💛
With love,
Juliet
The Anker Homestead 