This April, FosterClub was honored to join our premier philanthropy partner, Alpha Xi Delta (AXiD) Women’s Fraternity, for a powerful virtual panel discussion centered on foster care, youth homelessness, and the impact of community-led support.

AXiD members from across the country gathered for the panel featuring representatives from FosterClub and StandUp for Kids. The conversation created space for learning, storytelling, and deeper understanding of the realities faced by young people experiencing foster care and homelessness.

Together, panelists explored the history and mission of FosterClub, the importance of lived experience leadership, and the challenges and opportunities that exist within the foster care system. Executive Director, Celeste Bodner, Board Member Lupe Finckward, and Lived Experience (LEx Leader) Leigh-Anna Faith shared personal stories and data that helped illuminate the barriers many young people face while also highlighting the power of connection, belonging, and advocacy in changing outcomes.

A central theme throughout the discussion was the importance of shifting narratives about foster care. Panelists emphasized that young people in foster care are often navigating complex systems without consistent support and that meaningful change happens when communities step in with awareness, compassion, and sustained engagement.

AXiD members were also invited to learn how their ongoing partnership directly fuels this work—through fundraising efforts such as their Letters of Love program, chapter service events, and awareness campaigns that elevate the voices and needs of young people in care. From small acts of service to large-scale philanthropy efforts, AXiD continues to play a vital role in expanding FosterClub’s reach and impact nationwide.

We are especially grateful to the panelists who shared their time, expertise, and lived experience, helping bring these conversations to life. Their stories underscored a shared message: no young person should experience foster care alone, and every connection made through this work helps build a stronger network of support and possibility.

We extend our sincere thanks to Alpha Xi Delta for their continued partnership and commitment to uplifting youth in foster care and to Stand Up for their collaboration and for the important work they continue to do in supporting youth experiencing homelessness.

Together, we are not only raising awareness—we are helping shape a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.