(Posted 2026 February)
The journey of youth in foster care can often be marked by uncertainty. Some foster parents may even be reluctant to foster teenagers over worries about how to relate to teens. The good news is that caring foster parents that offer stable, trusting relationships, emotional support and a sense of belonging can make all the difference for these teenagers.
Lily’s story is a shining example of how the dedication of foster parents and a supportive community can transform a young person’s life by helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
Encouragement to Take Opportunities
Lily entered the foster care system at 15 years old and was placed in Lavern’s home. Lily was shy, scared, unable to speak English, and facing the prospect of repeating the 9th grade. Communication was initially difficult, but Lavern’s son, who spoke Spanish, helped bridge the language gap, allowing Lily to feel more comfortable and understood.
Recognizing Lily’s potential, Lavern ensured that she had access to weekly tutoring and English lessons. With the encouragement of her foster family, Lily gradually improved her language skills and gained confidence. Early on, Lily shared her dream of becoming a teacher—a goal that would guide her path forward.
Lily had a dedicated team including her DFS case manager, Monique White, and Independent Living coordinator, Charisma Mallory. Together, they provided opportunities for Lily to develop essential life skills, participate in workshops, and gain real-world experience through a paid internship with the Educating Youth through Employment Program. Joining a tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities was the pivotal moment that inspired Lily to pursue higher education.
Fulfilling College Ambitions
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Lily graduated from high school with overwhelming support. Lavern organized a drive-by celebration to give the community including her case manager and coordinator a chance to cheer her success. Inspired by the college tour, Lily enrolled at Virginia Union University, where she accessed Education & Training Vouchers (ETV) to fund nearly $40,000 of her education over five years.
Lily’s hard work and determination led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in 2024. She gained valuable experience working at a local child care center and continued her studies, completing a master’s degree in elementary education by December 2025. Today, Lily has fulfilled her full-circle dream of becoming a teacher and now she will be the one to impact children’s lives.
Helping Teens Overcome Challenges
Like any teenager Lily had struggles, faced difficulties, and acted in ways that tested her foster family’s patience at times. Lavern admits there were days she felt overwhelmed and considered giving up. Yet, her unwavering commitment and belief in Lily’s potential made all the difference. This resilience—both from Lily and her foster family—highlights the critical importance of enduring support in foster care.
Lavern offers heartfelt advice to other foster parents: “Meet the child where they are, with no expectations. Be patient. Don’t take what they say personally. If you say you’re going to do something, do it, good or bad. Set clear boundaries. Let them know you’ve got their back no matter what! Be there for them. Support them. If that child knows you care, they will care too! Love them! Nothing like feeling loved!”
Lily’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact foster parents have on the lives of youth in their care. By providing stability, guidance, and unconditional love, foster parents like Lavern help young people build resilience, achieve educational success, and develop positive relationships that set them up for a brighter future. Congratulations Lily, your life is an inspiration!
This article posting is part of the Foster Family News monthly newsletter designed to keep foster parents informed about all the new and notable happenings in Fairfax County.
Learn about what the Foster Care and Adoption program has planned for foster families - stay on top of trends, participate in trainings and learn about policy changes.