Fostering a child is a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. For Jason, who has been connected to the foster care system for most of his life, the experience has shaped him in profound ways. His story is one of resilience, love, and the power of finding the right support through Necco. Here’s a closer look at Jason's story, from his upbringing in foster care to becoming a foster parent himself. Watch the video to hear directly from Jason.
A Lifelong Connection to Foster Care
Jason’s relationship with the foster care system began at a young age. Even now, he remains closely connected to his foster parents, visiting them every weekend and living next door to one of his foster moms, who is now 81. This relationship has allowed Jason to maintain a sense of family, a bond that he believes goes beyond blood relations.
"Family is who you make it," Jason says, reflecting on how his own children now get to see the difference in how he was raised by various foster parents.
Choosing Necco as a Partner in Fostering
As a single parent, Jason had concerns about whether he could fulfill all the roles required of a foster parent. But when he partnered with Necxo, he found the support and reassurance he needed. From offering practical help like babysitting and assistance with appointments to providing emotional support during challenging times, Necco made sure that Jason never felt alone in his journey.
The Right Fit: Why Necco Stands Out
Jason’s decision to work with Necco wasn’t made lightly. He spoke with several fostering agencies before choosing. Necco's support and welcoming approach stood out. From the very first conversation, he felt a sense of familiarity and ease that he didn’t experience with other agencies.
From a Single Man to a Loving Dad
Jason’s journey to becoming a foster parent wasn’t just about providing care; it was about creating a family. He recalls the powerful moment when one of his foster children first called him “Dad.”
"The first time one called me Dad, I just stopped—I didn’t know what to do. But that’s what I’ve always wanted," he says, getting emotional. This moment marked a turning point, transforming Jason’s life from that of a single man to a devoted father figure.
The Impact of Fostering: Love and Lifelong Bonds
For Jason, fostering isn’t just about the time spent with a child; it’s about creating lasting memories and bonds that endure even after a child may leave his home. He emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact, even if only for a short time, because those moments can stay with a child for a lifetime.
Advice for Aspiring Foster Parents
Jason encourages those considering fostering to explore their options but to pay attention to the personal connections and support offered by different agencies.
"Check out your options, but talk with Necco," he advises. "You get a different feel when they answer the phone—they’re bubbly, outgoing, and truly there for the children and you."
Jason’s commitment to fostering and his partnership with Necco have been a steady source of support in his life. He believes in the agency’s dedication to both the children and their foster families, providing the resources needed for success.
A Journey of Love and Resilience
Jason’s story is a testament to the transformative power of fostering. Through Necco’s support, he has found the strength to navigate the challenges of fostering and create a loving home where children feel truly valued. For Jason, being a foster parent is not just a role—it’s a lifelong commitment to love, support, and the belief that family is what you make it.
Join Us in Creating Families
We are so grateful to have parents like Jason be a part of Necco and celebrate their dedication. Together, we can change lives and build a brighter future for children in foster care. We encourage you reading this to #BeHome for them.
If you want to become a foster parent or learn more about the process, visit: https://necco.org/.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of children every day you go to work, visit our careers page at https://.necco.org/careers.