Dear Foster Parents, Supporters, and JBRI Foster Care Team Members, As we wrap up another year, I’m filled with gratitude, excitement, and hope for what the future holds. The journey of caring for children in foster care is not always easy, but it is always meaningful, and this year our community has truly shone. I’m thrilled to celebrate our collective growth and achievements, and I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made together in 2024. This has been a year of transformation. Our foster care program has flourished thanks to the unwavering dedication of every foster parent, team member, and community partner. We’ve seen an inspiring increase in the number of families stepping up to provide safe and loving homes for children in need, and we’re on track to help even more children find stability and hope in the year ahead. To our seasoned foster parents—thank you for your continued commitment. You are the heart of this program, and your unwavering support has made a lasting difference in the lives of so many children. Your compassion, resilience, and ability to provide a safe space for children to heal is nothing short of remarkable. This year, we’ve seen our community grow stronger and more connected. Our partnerships have been vital to the success of our foster care program, and we are so fortunate to work alongside so many incredible organizations and businesses. A special thank you goes out to the local coffee shops who have gone above and beyond to share our message of hope through the Hugs on Mugs campaign. The support of these local businesses has been heartwarming. They have opened their doors, offered their time, and used their platforms to help spread the word about the importance of foster care in our community. Whether it was through utilizing the custom coffee sleeves, hosting special events, or simply a welcoming space for our message, their partnerships have made a real impact. We thank them for being champions of hope and helping us inspire others to get involved. This year, we’ve also welcomed many new foster families into our community, and I want to express my deepest gratitude for your willingness to open your hearts to children who need you most. Your courage to embrace this important role is inspiring, and I have no doubt that you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families you serve. If you’re just starting your journey toward becoming a foster parent, I want to encourage you to stay focused and patient. The process can feel overwhelming at times, but remember that you are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way, and the rewards of making a difference in the life of a child are immeasurable. As we turn our focus to 2025, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation and optimism for the future. There are still many children who need the love and care only a foster parent can provide, and I’m hopeful that our community will continue to grow and evolve. We’re committed to providing the support, resources, and training needed to ensure every child and foster family has the tools they need to succeed. Together, we’ve built something incredible. Together, we are making a real difference. And together, we will continue to create brighter futures for children and families in need. On behalf of everyone at The James Barry-Robinson Institute, thank you for your extraordinary commitment. The work we do would not be possible without you. As we step into the New Year, let us carry forward the momentum of this year’s successes, and continue to make 2025 even brighter. May the New Year bring you peace, joy, and continued strength. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones! With deepest gratitude and excitement for what’s to come, Rob McCartney, MSW CEO, The James Barry-Robinson Institute