A Heart Full of Love: Tina’s Journey As A Foster Grandmother at Bright Start

Tina is a devoted grandmother and a new foster parent whose heart is as big as her family. After her own children grew up and moved out, Tina felt a calling to help others in need. When she welcomed a three-year-old boy named Jace and a set of twins into her home, she was determined to provide them with the love and support they deserved.

Knowing the importance of early education, Tina enrolled her foster children at Bright Start Early Learning Center. Having seen the remarkable progress her granddaughter made there a few years prior, she was confident that Bright Start would provide the same quality of care for Jace and his siblings.

When Tina first contacted Bright Start, she shared her concerns about Jace’s transition. He was timid and shy, struggling with the separation from his mother. At home, Jace would often withdraw, preferring to play alone rather than engage with his new family or toys. He had difficulty expressing himself, often resorting to tears instead of words. This insight allowed the Bright Start team to tailor their approach to support Jace’s adjustment.

In the classroom, the teachers quickly noticed that Jace was mostly silent, reluctant to engage with his peers and hesitant to participate in group activities. At times, he would sit apart from the other children, avoiding eye contact and interaction. Recognizing his struggles, the Bright Start team worked closely with Tina to devise a nurturing plan that would help Jace thrive.

They provided him with individualized attention, ensuring he felt safe and secure in his new environment. They paired him with a more patient classmate to encourage friendships and sharing—skills Jace had yet to develop, especially as the older sibling to younger twins. The teachers also incorporated gentle activities to help Jace express his feelings, such as art projects and storytelling sessions.

As the weeks passed, Jace began to blossom. He became more vocal, gradually learning to share with his classmates and even initiating play with others. He started to smile more, showing excitement during activities and participating in group games. His confidence grew, and he even began to express his needs verbally rather than through tears. Today, Jace and his twin siblings are thriving at Bright Start.

Tina shares, “Bright Start has been a part of our family for years. My children have learned their numbers, ABCs, and nursery rhymes while making wonderful friends. They have even helped with potty training! The staff has been incredibly caring, and I will continue to trust Bright Start with my family’s care.”

Thanks to generous donors like you, we can provide families like Tina’s with peace of mind, knowing their children are receiving the best care possible. Your support makes a real difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Thank you for everything you do to help us make an impact!

The Journey of the Jones Family with the Spero Nurturing Parenting Program

In our ongoing commitment to support families in need, we are proud to highlight the transformative journey of the Jones family, who recently completed the Spero Nurturing Parenting Program. This 20-session initiative, designed to equip families with essential parenting skills, has had a profound impact on their lives and exemplifies the program’s goals of preventing relapse, reducing juvenile delinquency, and breaking the cycle of abuse.

Naomi Jones, a dedicated mother, has always strived to provide a better life for her two children, twelve-year-old Zoe and eight-year-old Sofia. However, as a single mother grappling with her own traumatic past, Naomi frequently found herself overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting. Zoe often acted out in school, struggling to express her emotions, while Sofia remained quiet and withdrawn, absorbing the tension in their home.

Recognizing the need for support, Naomi enrolled in the Spero Nurturing Parenting Program. With the guidance of a Family Intervention Specialist, the family embarked on an enriching journey toward healing and connection.

The program unfolded over six months, with weekly sessions focused on developing positive parenting behaviors. Each meeting provided a safe space for open dialogue, allowing Naomi to share her experiences and learn valuable strategies to foster a nurturing environment for her children.

Through interactive activities and role-playing exercises, Naomi gained insights into recognizing her emotional triggers and learned to manage her responses with patience and understanding. As the sessions progressed, Zoe began to engage more actively, initially hesitant but ultimately thriving in a space where she felt heard. The skills she learned helped her articulate her feelings through creative outlets like drawing and storytelling. Sofia, inspired by her sister’s growth, blossomed as well. The program’s emphasis on teamwork encouraged her to find her voice, culminating in a touching moment when she read her first poem aloud during a family session.

The Jones family’s transformation was remarkable. They established a weekly family night, filled with games, cooking, and heartfelt discussions. The once-chaotic household evolved into a nurturing sanctuary, where love and communication flourished.

By the end of the program, Naomi felt empowered and equipped with the tools to break free from her past. She had redefined her role as a parent, fostering resilience and emotional intelligence in her children. Zoe and Sofia developed a strong sibling bond, supporting one another in their individual journeys of growth.

The Jones family’s journey is a testament to the power of nurturing parenting. The Spero Nurturing Parenting Program continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of families, equipping them with the skills necessary to foster healthy relationships.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Spero Nurturing Parenting Program, we encourage you to reach out. Together, we can empower families and build a brighter future for our communities. Visit sperofs.org/home-visiting for more information.

Sarah’s Journey: Overcoming Adversity and Rediscovering Hope Through the MHJJ Program

Allow me to introduce you to Sarah, a remarkable young woman whose life has undergone a profound transformation as a result of her enrollment in the Spero Mental Health Juvenile Justice (MHJJ) program. For the sake of privacy, we have changed her name. 

Sarah’s journey began at the tender age of 15 when she found herself entangled in the intricate and web of the juvenile justice system. Struggling with undiagnosed and untreated mental health issues, Sarah’s path took a tumultuous turn, leading her down a challenging road filled with adversity and uncertainty. Her untreated trauma and the weight of her mental health struggles compelled her to make decisions that ultimately brought her into contact with law enforcement, leaving her feeling lost and desperate for guidance.

Fortunately, Sarah’s life took a turn for the better when she was introduced to the MHJJ program, a beacon of hope and healing in her life. Through this transformative initiative, Sarah received the comprehensive care and support she so desperately needed. The collaborative efforts of her MHJJ caseworker, dedicated family, probation officer, and school played a pivotal role in her journey towards healing and growth.

One significant turning point in Sarah’s path to recovery was when she was referred to a therapist by her MHJJ worker. This therapist specialized in trauma-focused therapy, which enabled Sarah to confront and work through the deep-rooted trauma she had experienced. Through this therapeutic journey, Sarah gained invaluable insights, coping mechanisms, and resilience, leading her to make clearer and better decisions for her life.

The MHJJ program played a crucial role in facilitating the identification, screening, referral, and ongoing case monitoring necessary for Sarah’s well-being. It ensured that she received the necessary mental health services and interventions tailored to address her unique needs. With the program’s assistance, Sarah’s mental health concerns were finally acknowledged and addressed, empowering her with the tools and resources to navigate the complexities of the juvenile justice system more effectively.

Your generous contributions have been instrumental in making it possible for us to extend a lifeline of support to Sarah and countless other young individuals who have found themselves caught in similar circumstances. Your belief in our mission has allowed us to strengthen the linkages between these vital services, creating a safety net that ensures no young person falls through the cracks of the system.

As we share Sarah’s inspiring journey, it serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact your donations have on the lives of Southern Illinois children and families. Your commitment to Spero Family Services has enabled us to create a more just and compassionate society, where young people receive the necessary care and support to overcome their challenges and build a brighter future.

Our gratitude for your ongoing support and belief in our mission knows no bounds. With your continued help, we can work together to create a brighter future for our youth, fostering a stronger, more compassionate community that uplifts and empowers every individual. Together, we have the power to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people like Sarah.

Finding Permanency: Ava’s Journey and the Importance of Foster Care Support

Let us introduce you to Ava, an extraordinary 8-year-old girl. Ava possesses a remarkable creative spirit and a deep passion for music. However, her journey has been marked by challenges that most people never have to face. Ava’s biological mother struggles with mental health issues, making it difficult for her to provide consistent care for her daughter. Consequently, Ava spent approximately two years of her young life under the care of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). 

Despite these hardships, Ava was fortunate enough to find a sense of belonging within a familiar family. With the support of Spero’s Foster Care program, she was placed with her biological mother’s previous foster family. From the moment Ava and her mother, who was only sixteen at the time, joined this foster family, they were embraced as cherished members. However, circumstances changed after leaving this foster home, leading to instability in Ava’s life, and her mother was no longer able to care for her. 

Ava’s journey to permanency was long and arduous, but in March of this year, she finally achieved stability through guardianship. Her new family is immensely proud of her and deeply grateful for the opportunity to provide her with a stable and loving home. Despite the challenges, Ava maintains contact with her biological mother and family, enabling her to hold onto her roots and sense of connection. Today, Ava is thriving in every aspect of her life. Emotionally, spiritually, and academically, she has blossomed into a remarkable young girl. Her passion for music has led her to become a dedicated singer, even performing at her local church in Mt. Vernon.

Witnessing Ava finding her voice and expressing herself through music brings immeasurable joy to her family. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our generous donors and supporters of the Spero Foster Care program, as it is through your contributions that we are able to provide Ava and countless other children with a brighter future.

As we celebrate Ava’s triumph in finding permanency, let us not forget that there are many other children still waiting and hoping for a better future within the foster care system. Our ultimate goal is to create opportunities for these children to grow up in stable homes where they feel safe, loved, and supported. To achieve this, we rely on the help of our community, and that means we need more foster parents.

The Spero Foster Care program offers extensive support to foster parents. Monthly meetings provide opportunities for connection, experience sharing, and insights from seasoned veterans, fostering a strong support network. Foster parents undergo CARE training to effectively communicate, nurture, and support the emotional well-being of the children in their care. A 24-hour support line ensures immediate guidance and assistance. An in-house therapist specializes in working with foster families, offering counseling and support. Our goal is to provide comprehensive resources for foster parents to create a nurturing and stable environment.

If you have been considering becoming a foster parent or have any questions about Spero’s Foster Care program, please don’t hesitate to contact our Licensing and Outreach Specialist, Felicia Nalley, at 618-472-0618 or visit our website sperofs.org/foster-care. Together, let us empower more children to find their voice and build a brighter future.

Unleashing Healing Through Sand Tray Therapy

In a world where healing and self-discovery are essential aspects of well-being, finding a therapist who truly understands your needs and provides effective treatment is paramount. At Spero Counseling and Wellness Center, one therapist has stood out for her exceptional dedication and success in utilizing sand tray therapy to help her clients overcome trauma and find healing. Let’s delve into the inspiring work of this extraordinary therapist.

Meet Amanda, a highly skilled and empathetic therapist at Spero Counseling and Wellness Center. Driven by a genuine passion for helping others, Amanda has dedicated her career to assisting individuals in their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. One of Amanda’s areas of expertise lies in sand tray therapy, a powerful therapeutic technique that allows clients to express and process their deepest emotions and experiences. Through the use of a miniature sandbox filled with various figurines and objects, clients are invited to create scenes that represent their inner world.

Amanda has witnessed remarkable success in her clients using sand tray therapy. For instance, one client struggling with childhood trauma found solace in creating a scene depicting a safe haven, complete with a cozy house and a family of figurines. As the client worked through the sand, Amanda observed a transformation unfold. With each session, the client gained a sense of control over their narrative, gradually healing the wounds of the past.

Another client, overwhelmed by anxiety and recurring nightmares, utilized sand tray therapy to confront their fears head-on. By constructing a scene that depicted the source of their anxiety, they were able to explore their emotions in a safe space. Over time, the client’s anxieties lessened, and they discovered newfound strength to face their fears outside the therapy room.

Amanda has described the joy she experiences in witnessing her clients’ progress as truly rewarding. Seeing individuals work through their trauma, gain insight, and develop resilience fuels her passion for her work. For Amanda, success is not only measured by the tangible progress her clients make but also by the subtle shifts she observes. From witnessing a client’s facial expressions soften as they explore their sand tray creations to observing a newfound sense of self-acceptance, these moments of growth are what inspire her to continue her invaluable work.

Amanda’s expertise and dedication to sand tray therapy have transformed the lives of countless individuals at Spero Counseling and Wellness Center. Through this innovative approach, she has provided a safe and creative outlet for clients to explore their trauma, resulting in profound healing and personal growth.

We are able to offer these services because of generous donors like you. Your support allows us to provide accessible and affordable mental health services to the community. With conveniently located centers in Mt. Vernon and West Frankfort, we strive to make it easy for individuals to access the care they need.

Rebuilding Hope: Tinsley’s Redemption Story with Wraparound Program

Tinsley’s life was plagued by a series of bad decisions that led her to hit rock bottom when the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) intervened and took her children away. How did this single mother of four end up in such a dire situation? It was a combination of drug abuse, lack of family support, and the absence of stability and a steady income. Uncertain about her future and feeling lost, Tinsley began to lose hope.

Following the heartbreaking loss of her children, the most important individuals in her life, Tinsley was referred to our Wraparound Program. This program offers an intensive, strengths-based, and family-driven approach to support families in staying together, helping them achieve their vision for a better life. When the Wraparound coordinator reached out to establish a connection, Tinsley was inconsistent in her engagement. She frequently missed meetings and made excuses for her lack of communication. However, the Wraparound Coordinator saw potential in Tinsley and was determined not to give up on her.

Recognizing the importance of belief and support, the Wraparound coordinator and their team persisted in contacting Tinsley, even when she failed to respond. They understood that the first step was to address her substance abuse issues, allowing her to rebuild a connection with her children and eventually regain visitation rights.

Gradually, Tinsley began to notice the dedication of the coordinator and the Wraparound team. She realized they genuinely cared about her and were committed to helping her, something she had never experienced before. This realization sparked a transformative change within Tinsley. She started seeking help for her substance abuse and making progress toward regaining visitation rights. Additionally, Tinsley formed a positive relationship with the foster parents, who cared for her children, creating a sense of stability and trust.

While Tinsley is still working towards improving her communication and gaining stability, she continues to make efforts to change and holds onto hope for a better future. She now feels a newfound sense of worthiness and expresses her gratitude for the Wraparound Program. “Spero’s Wraparound program has been the most helpful. My coordinator believes in me, cares for me, and helps me in many ways,” said Tinsley.

Tinsley’s story serves as a testament to her strength and resilience, demonstrating that one’s past does not have to dictate their future. This incredible transformation would not have been possible without the dedicated Wraparound team and the generous support of donors like you. Your contributions play an integral role in empowering individuals like Tinsley on their journey to a better life.

We extend our deepest appreciation for your commitment to helping us help others. Your support makes a significant impact, not only on the Wraparound Program but on all of our programs. Thank you once again for your generosity and compassion.

The Morales Family: Breaking Cycles and Thriving With Wraparound Program

The Morales family, consisting of a mother, father, and three children, had been involved with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and had limited progress for over a year. The family struggled with a lack of structure and stability, constantly moving homes and changing schools, causing the children to miss valuable education days. Both parents worked minimum-wage jobs with long hours, struggling to financially support their family while facing parenting and life skills challenges.

Upon receiving a referral from DCFS, our Wraparound Program at the Marion location, which serves the southernmost counties, stepped in to provide services to the Morales family. Addison, a dedicated Wraparound Coordinator, was assigned to work with the family. Despite being a new employee, Addison was eager to jump in and make a difference. In his initial meeting with the family, he asked them about their challenges and their vision for their family.

Even before asking, Addison noticed that the house was not clean, the children lacked basic manners, and the parents appeared worn out with the demands of life. The Morales parents expressed their struggle with maintaining structure in their household and feeling overwhelmed with daily chaos. They often missed their children’s doctor appointments and failed to properly schedule them, resulting in them falling behind on immunizations and medication refills.

Addison took the family’s goals back to the office and shared them with his team to develop a plan to assist the Morales family. The goals included finding more affordable housing for the parents, helping the children establish routines to maintain a clean home, enrolling the children in a nearby school, and, most importantly, ensuring the children received proper medical care and caught up on immunizations and medications.

Addison faced numerous challenges in helping this family, but his determination never wavered. The Morales parents actively engaged in meetings and began to improve their parenting skills while creating a better overall structure in their lives. They communicated their struggles throughout the process but continued to push forward.

After months of dedicated support, the Morales family was successfully discharged from the Wraparound Program and DCFS. At the 30-, 90-, and 180-day after-closing checks, it was reported that the family was thriving and still following the plans created by Adison and the Wraparound team. The Morales family broke generational cycles with the help of the Wraparound Program and generous donors like you.

Your support is vital in helping people in our communities. It empowers us to make a difference, and because of you, we were able to help another family achieve success. We sincerely thank you for your ongoing support and faith in our mission.

Aubrey’s New Beginning at Spero Group Home: Overcoming Obstacles

On a crisp fall afternoon, Aubrey arrived at Spero Group Home, dragging a worn suitcase and dressed in oversized clothing. She bid farewell to her caseworker before cautiously entering the living room. Aubrey’s past had been fraught with hardships. She brought that trauma with her to a foster placement, which resulted in her leaving that placement and coming to Spero Group Home.

When Aubrey first arrived at Spero, she was hesitant and guarded. But as time passed and she settled into her new environment, she began to open up to the caring staff. She bravely shared her struggles with weight, depression, and the challenges of being a teenager. Before entering foster care, Aubrey had lived with her mother and grandmother, but after her grandmother’s passing, her mother was unable to provide for her and her older sister, resulting in their entry into care.

Despite being the youngest resident at the Group Home, Aubrey displayed a maturity that amazed those around her. With unwavering determination, she started her treatment and set out on a list of goals she was eager to achieve. Day by day, she focused on these goals, choosing not to be swayed by the distractions of others. Aubrey found solace in talking with her therapist about her past and attended family counseling sessions, which proved to be transformative for her and her family. Aubrey and her family began to thrive through the guidance and support of her counselors and the dedicated staff at Spero. She spent time with her mother, building a stronger bond with her.

Embracing a healthier lifestyle, Aubrey has made conscious choices to prioritize her well-being. She discovered her passion for music and joined the school band and the choir, finding joy and self-expression through her involvement.

Aubrey’s ultimate aspiration is to find her way back home, once she completes her treatment at Spero Family Services. Her devoted mother shares this very same goal, striving to overcome her own obstacles and grow alongside her daughter.

None of Aubrey’s progress would have been possible without the support and commitment of partners like you. Your dedication to making a difference in the lives of others, including Aubrey, has been invaluable. The gratitude expressed by Aubrey and the Spero Group Home is immeasurable, knowing that they have a partner who not only supports them but also believes in the work they do.

Thank you for your unwavering support and for helping Aubrey and many others like her on their inspiring journeys of growth and healing.