I Had a Problem With My Placement: And I Got It Fixed
By Kiandra Finnie
Kiandra, the teen mother of two children, describes how she was locked out of her foster home and not receiving the correct stipend from her foster mother. By contacting her agency and advocating for herself, she was able to transfer into a better foster home. [read more]

‘I Just Didn’t Have Anybody’
By Mistie Stenslie
Misty Stenslie, director of Foster Care Alumni of America, was in foster care in eight different states and entered adulthood feeling alone and emotionally devastated. Connecting with other people who had been in care helps her gain a new sense of freedom and self-worth. [read more]

Walking and Writing:
Ways I Relieve Stress
By Tamara Ballard
When Tamara's in a bad mood, she goes to the beach or takes very long walks to burn off her negative emotions. She also writes poetry and stories and keeps a journal. Both writing and walking help her to think clearly and get in touch with her feelings. [read more]

How to Help a Friend
By Anonymous
The author interviews two mental health experts on how to help a friend who is depressed. [read more]

Proud of My Big Mouth
By Tiffany Johnson, as told to Represent
Tiffany Johnson applies herself to preparing to leave the system when she realizes she won't be going home to her family. She saves money, goes on to college, and eventually works full-time for the California Youth Connection (CYC) as an organizer, advocating for foster youth. [read more]