Our unwavering commitment to child advocacy
At Shield & Refuge Initiative, our mission is born from profound personal experience and a tireless dedication to safeguarding vulnerable children. We believe that every child deserves safety, security, and a system that truly protects them. Discover the heart of our work and how we're building a national movement for change.
Building a national network for change
The most important thing we want people to understand is our goal to build a national network of foster and adoptive parents and child advocates. We envision representatives in every state, supporting one another to champion and achieve meaningful child welfare reform within their own communities and across the country.
Driven by a deeply personal journey
This work is not theoretical for us; it is deeply personal. As an adoptive mother to three incredible children who entered my life through the foster care system, I witnessed firsthand the shortcomings of a system that often prioritized process over protection. I saw the fear, confusion, and emotional toll on children forced to navigate unsafe situations, impacting their sense of security, behavior, and healing.
Then, in December, everything changed in an unforgettable way. For 11 days, I fought relentlessly for a baby I had never met but loved deeply, knowing he was fully related to my children. I knew the history, the risks, and in my gut, I knew he was not safe. I made calls, begged for someone to check on him, for someone to simply lay eyes on him and ensure his well-being. No one did in time. This profound loss fuels our commitment to prevent such tragedies for other children.
Empowering advocates, transforming lives
In simple terms, Shield & Refuge Initiative makes a tangible difference by equipping and empowering advocates to drive legislative change. Our team in Idaho recently achieved a significant milestone, successfully passing three legislation bills related to Child Welfare. Our goal is to empower and inspire other states to replicate this success, fostering a nationwide movement for effective and compassionate child protection.
"The Shield & Refuge Initiative's dedication is truly inspiring. Their work is a beacon of hope for vulnerable children nationwide."
A grateful parent and advocate