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For most teens, trust takes time. But for teens in foster care, it can feel almost impossible.When a young person has experienced broken trust, loss, or inconsistency, meeting someone new often means risking disappointment again. That’s why relationships—real, intentional, consistent relationships—are at the heart of everything we do at KCMO Angels. Recently, one of our case managers, Bre, went on a meet up—a moment we love to witness when a youth or family in foster care is introduced to their new volunteer match for the first time. This time, Bre was meeting with a teen who had been having a tough day at school. He sat quietly, unsure, guarded. Meeting new people wasn’t exactly at the top of his list that day.
The conversation started to flow. A shy smile turned into laughter. When the mentor arrived, the connection unfolded naturally—walls came down, trust started to build, and something good began to take root. At KCMO Angels, these are the moments that remind us why we exist. Because often, it’s not about the bracelet—it’s about the conversation that comes from it. It’s about the shared humanity that shows up when someone takes the time to see you, listen to you, and remind you that you matter.
For the youth we serve, relationships like this can be life-changing. They create space for hope, stability, and healing. They remind children and teens in foster care that consistency still exists—that people can be trusted again. And all of it starts with one person saying yes. If you’ve ever wondered what difference you could make, know this: it doesn’t take a grand gesture. It takes showing up, listening, and maybe being willing to buy a bracelet when it matters most.
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At KCMO Angels, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and included. This Halloween, we got to witness that belief in action at our annual Halloween Family Event—one of the most joy-filled gatherings of the year for children and families in foster care across Kansas City, Missouri. The celebration is made possible by the generosity of the DeMage family, who lost their dad far too soon. His passion was simple yet powerful: making sure every child had the chance to celebrate Halloween. In his honor, the DeMage family donates brand new costumes each year so that children in foster care can pick out a costume they love, free of charge. This year’s event was nothing short of magical. 75 children and caregivers gathered together Hundreds of costumes lined the racks, waiting for new owners Yummy donuts and fall treats filled the tables Face painting and laughter brought smiles to every corner of the room One of the highlights of the day came from something as simple—and magical—as face painting. Christina, an incredible volunteer, generously donated her time and supplies to bring joy to the kids with her artistry. But what made it even more special was when a teenager in our program asked if she could help. Christina didn’t hesitate—she welcomed her in, handed her a brush, and encouraged her to make it her own. For that teen, it wasn’t just about painting faces. It was about belonging, having a purpose, and making other kids feel special. Watching her light up as she connected with younger children was a reminder of the power of community—how moments of empowerment can ripple outward and create lasting impact. For many of the kids we serve, moments like this are more than just fun—they’re healing. Choosing a costume isn’t just about dressing up. It’s about getting the same childhood experiences as their peers. It’s about feeling normal, included, and valued. It’s about knowing there is a community in Kansas City that sees them and celebrates them. The legacy of the DeMage family reminds us that the impact of one person’s passion can ripple for generations. Because of their gift—and the support of so many in our community—kids in foster care didn’t just get costumes this year. They got memories, belonging, and a joyful Halloween they’ll never forget. At KCMO Angels, we are proud to walk alongside children, youth, and families in the foster care system here in Kansas City. From holiday celebrations to everyday encouragement, we are building a village of support—together. Because of families like the DeMages, and because of our community, we are reminded that love and belonging can truly change everything. Sometimes it’s the little things—flowers, brownies, a hand-drawn picture—that make the biggest impact. Two years ago, a committed Love Box Leader met Kaden, a young boy in foster care, through a reading volunteer program at his elementary school. At the end of their first session, she smiled and told him, “When you get home, have someone help you practice your reading!” Kaden looked at her quietly and said, “I don’t have anyone. I’m just a foster kid.” Those five words changed everything.
That moment shattered her heart—but it also sparked something powerful. When she returned to volunteer the next week, Kaden was gone. He had been moved, as so many children in foster care often are. But this wasn’t the end of the story. Our team worked tirelessly for two weeks to find him—and when we did, that same volunteer made a promise: “If Kaden doesn’t have anyone, I’ll be his someone.”
And for the past two years, she has been just that. Through our Love Box program, she’s shown up month after month with care, consistency, and love. What started with cookies and card games, flowerpots and brownies, turned into a steady relationship that helped Kaden shift the way he saw himself. No longer “just a foster kid”—but a kid who is seen, valued, and deeply loved. Today, Kaden is thriving. He was reunified with his mom and siblings nearly two years ago. He still stays close with his former foster family—and is even heading to church camp with them this summer. His life is full of people who care, thanks to a village that never stopped showing up. This is what relational permanency looks like. It’s a relationship that outlasts a placement. That sticks around after reunification. That follows a child home. In a system where over 23,000 young people age out of foster care each year without ever having a permanent, stable adult in their life, Kaden’s story is rewriting the statistics. Research shows that youth who age out without a stable adult are more likely to face homelessness, incarceration, and unemployment. But having just one committed, caring adult can dramatically change that trajectory. Kaden has that one. And the truth is—it didn’t take anything fancy. It took someone who cared enough to show up with flowers. To play games. To make brownies. To be his someone. You don’t have to fix everything. You just have to care about one kid. Be their someone. That’s how lives are changed. *Name has been changed to protect the privacy of the child featured in this story. Graduation caps flew this May, but for David and Anna, this milestone meant so much more than finishing high school—it marked the beginning of a new chapter they’ve worked hard to create for themselves. The teen twins were matched on the same day last year through our Dare to Dream program, and the transformation over the past year has been nothing short of inspiring. With the consistent guidance, encouragement, and love of their mentors, David and Anna didn’t just survive their senior year—they thrived. Both teens came into the program with dreams but little direction. Like many youth in foster care, they’ve experienced trauma and neglect, and at times, they were unsure what the future could hold. But thanks to mentors who believed in them, who showed up, listened, coached, and celebrated every win, David and Anna began to see—and pursue—the future they deserve. Their mentors helped them apply for and land the jobs they wanted, develop life skills, and plan for what comes next. For Anna, that meant chasing a dream: applying to acting school. With her mentor’s help, she did just that—and got in. For David, it meant stepping into independence with confidence, equipped with tools and support to build a future he's proud of. But this story doesn’t end with a graduation cap and a handshake. Because the Dare to Dream program doesn’t stop when high school does. Their mentors are staying by their side this year—a year that’s especially critical for youth approaching aging out of care. These young adults are now navigating some of life’s biggest firsts: finding housing, managing money, opening bank accounts, juggling jobs, and learning time management and self-sufficiency. AND THEY'RE NOT DOING IT ALONE. At KCMO Angels, we believe every child deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated. David and Anna’s mentors are helping them write a new narrative—one defined not by their past, but by their incredible potential. Their story is far from over. But what’s clear is this: with the right support system, David and Anna are writing a future full of promise. To honor and protect the privacy of the youth we serve, names have been changed in this story.  Fostering is not just about providing a roof over a child's head--it's about offering stability, consistency, and unconditional support. That’s why our Love Box program is designed not only to meet the immediate needs of foster families with essentials like food and supplies, but also to build lasting, supportive relationships between volunteers and families. The connection made between volunteers and foster parents can make all the difference in helping them continue their important work and reducing the number of moves children in foster care face.  A New Match, A New Beginning One of our recent match meetups perfectly illustrates the value of community support in the foster care journey. Just a month ago, Hillary, one of our newest dedicated volunteers, was matched with Abi, a foster mom. From the start, there was an immediate sense of connection. Both Hillary and Abi have teaching backgrounds, and that common ground gave them an instant way to relate. Their shared passion for kids and making a difference sparked engaging conversations and helped them form a bond quickly. For Hillary, this match was particularly meaningful. She’s considering becoming a foster parent and had many questions about the process. It was inspiring to watch her connect with Abi, who is already an experienced foster parent. Hillary gained valuable insight into what foster care truly looks like, the challenges and rewards it brings, and the importance of having the right kind of support system. For Abi, the opportunity to share her experiences was an empowering reminder of why she chose this path—especially as she balances trying to work and being a full-time mom. The Importance of Support for Foster FamiliesIt’s no secret that fostering can be overwhelming. Many foster families juggle multiple responsibilities—raising children (often with trauma they are processing), managing jobs, maintaining relationships, and navigating the complexities of the foster care system. Without the right support, it can be difficult to sustain the emotional and physical energy needed to continue fostering. That’s where the Love Box program steps in, offering more than just material support. When foster families receive consistent help, whether through thoughtful gestures like a meal delivery, a gift card, or simply having a reliable volunteer to talk to, it makes a world of difference in their ability to keep their homes open. The simple act of connecting with someone who understands the challenges of fostering can ease the emotional burden and encourage families to persevere. This support system is critical not just for the caregivers, but for the children in foster care who depend on stability to thrive. The Impact of Stability on Children in Foster CareFor children in foster care, the lack of a stable, consistent home can have lasting emotional and psychological effects. Every time a child is moved from one foster home to another, they experience disruption—from losing their community, to the trauma of adjusting to new rules, new people, and new environments. Studies have shown that frequent moves can lead to attachment issues, academic challenges, and difficulty trusting adults. The emotional toll can also affect children’s long-term development and wellbeing. When foster homes stay open longer and are supported by organizations like KCMO Angels, children experience fewer moves, which means they have the opportunity to form deeper, more secure attachments. The consistency of remaining in one home, surrounded by caring adults, allows children to heal, grow, and thrive in a stable environment. This is why our mission is so crucial—not just for the foster parents but for the children who need a steady, loving home.
Strengthening Foster Families, Strengthening Communities
At KCMO Angels, we know that foster families are the backbone of the foster care system. We are dedicated to supporting these families with resources, love, and most importantly, meaningful relationships that make a difference in their lives. When foster families are supported—whether through our Love Box program or through personal connections with volunteers--children are the true beneficiaries. Fewer moves, fewer disruptions, and more opportunities for healing and growth. We are so grateful for volunteers like Hillary and foster parents like Abi, who are helping to build stronger, more stable homes for children in need. By continuing to offer these crucial support systems, we can help reduce the number of foster home closures, keep more children in stable homes, and ultimately make a long-term difference in their lives. If you are interested in making a difference in the life of a foster family or want to learn more about becoming a volunteer, we invite you to join us at KCMO Angels. Together, we can provide the support foster families need to continue fostering and give children the chance to experience the stability they deserve.
The Love Box program is not just about delivering food, gifts, or necessities—although those things are incredibly important. It’s about showing up for each other, fostering trust, and enriching lives through shared experiences. Building Relationships Beyond the Box Vanessa, a Love Box volunteer, shared a heartwarming experience that highlights how small acts of kindness and time spent together can make a world of difference. In early November, the volunteer delivered a selection of fresh, frozen, and pantry foods to her Love Box family, ensuring they had what they needed for the coming weeks. The mother, Heather, wasn’t feeling well that day, so the volunteer simply dropped off the items on the porch. Even though it was a brief interaction, it was meaningful. The connection made in that moment was enough to show that someone cared. Vanessa was also sure to celebrate the foster mama’s birthday with a surprise gift card. Often parents don’t get celebrated for their birthday - but this volunteer wanted Heather to know that she was cared for and thought of. It didn’t stop there. Just days later, the volunteer went above and beyond by taking Heather and her two young boys out for a special evening. Together with her own son, they enjoyed dinner at a local restaurant followed by a drive-through Christmas light show. The excitement in the boys’ eyes as they watched the lights flash in time with the music was priceless. For a few hours, they could forget about everyday struggles and simply enjoy the magic of the season. Beyond the fun outing, what truly made the evening special was the time spent together—the conversations, the laughter, and the shared experience. The volunteer reflected on how important it was to spend time with Heather and the boys, emphasizing that these moments of connection were far more meaningful than any material gift.  The Power of Connection in the Love Box Program
At KCMO Angels, we understand that fostering is about much more than just providing material support. While the items in our Love Box program are important, it’s the relationships we build that truly make a difference. For families like Heather’s, the time spent together—whether through shared meals, outings, or simply checking in—has the greatest impact. The trust and bond formed between volunteers and foster families create lasting memories and provide the emotional support needed for families to thrive. Fostering can be overwhelming, especially without a strong support system. 50% of foster homes close within the first year due to the emotional, financial, and logistical strain. That’s why the Love Box program is so crucial. It’s not just about delivering goods—it’s about showing up for families, offering encouragement, and helping them stay open longer. Through these consistent connections, we’re seeing foster homes provide stable, nurturing environments for children who need them most. At KCMO Angels, we’re proud to offer that support, helping keep families together and creating stronger, more resilient communities.
The First Annual BJ DeMage Halloween Shop
On September 21st, Amy attended our Halloween Shop event alongside her three children and BJ’s mother. Together, we witnessed BJ’s dream become a reality as children browsed through costumes and found the one that made them smile the brightest. For children in foster care, moments of normalcy—like picking out a Halloween costume—are essential. They allow children to feel like every other kid, to embrace the excitement and fun of childhood, and to experience traditions that give life a bit more color. BJ’s legacy was woven into every part of the event. His vision and spirit were felt in each child’s joy, and Amy’s commitment made it all possible. The dream was born that this Halloween Shop would become an annual tradition, allowing BJ’s legacy to impact more children each year. Continuing BJ’s Legacy Amy has already begun preparing for next year, sharing BJ’s story on social media to gather Halloween costumes for the 2025 BJ DeMage Halloween Shop. We are beyond honored to carry this legacy forward. BJ’s dream aligns beautifully with KCMO Angels’ mission of providing children in foster care with moments of normalcy, love, and belonging. Thank you, Amy, for your generosity, for sharing BJ’s legacy with us, and for helping to bring a bit of Halloween magic to children in foster care. Together, we’re creating a ripple effect of joy and connection, and we look forward to making the BJ DeMage Halloween Shop a beloved annual event.
 "It's moments like these that remind us of the importance of two of our program goals - relational permanency and normalcy."
We wanted to take a moment to share a heartwarming story that truly embodies the impact of your generosity and support. Just recently, one of our case managers checked in with a Love Box leader for an update on January activities, and we were touched by the consistent support he is giving this family and young boy in care. He shared that he attended not one, but two basketball games to cheer on this sweet boy experiencing foster care. Being in the stands month after month at all of his activities has had a huge positive impact on this young boy. It's moments like these that remind us of the importance of two of our program goals - relational permanency and normalcy.
Your support is instrumental in helping us achieve these program goals and making a difference in the lives of foster children and families. Together, we're building a community of support and compassion that empowers children and families in the foster care system to thrive. We have a final story to share with you from 2023 that we couldn’t leave behind. The ending quote from this Love Box Leader left us feeling grateful for all of you, and hopeful for all the continued impact we will have in the coming year. One of our Love Box Leaders, Angie, and the foster family relished in "regular" activities in December, starting with enjoying lunch together at a Mexican restaurant during the week —a cherished tradition for the foster family, despite the challenge of accommodating 11 kiddos. These moments of normalcy provided space for meaningful conversations, connection, and sharing in the children's infectious excitement for Christmas. Later in the month, Angie and her husband delivered holiday treats, including Gingerbread Man kits, which the family joyfully embraced during a special evening of bonding. The Love Box Leaders had big plans to experience Enchant KC with their foster family before the Holiday season came to an end. Once their older kids got home from college, they all decided to join in together as a big group! All 17 people absolutely loved the festive atmosphere, the dazzling Christmas light display and each and every one of them were filled with joy! Amidst the laughter and play, a seemingly small moment left a lasting impact on one of these Love Box Leaders! A sweet girl in the family - who is slow to trust - reached toward Angie asking if she would skate with her. A moment that affirmed Angie that all the moments up to this point laid a foundation of trust.  Their last meetup of the month was a visit to the foster family's home and was marked by a heartwarming gesture. Angie’s husband was able to bring two generously donated holiday food baskets from his company. Additionally, they delighted in shopping for and delivering Christmas gifts for each member of the family. Toward the end of the night, the two moms found themselves able to chat alone. Angie tells us it was a moment of connection and a chance to feel known by another mom. “I was honored she felt comfortable enough to be vulnerable with me to share how she is feeling. We were just two moms connecting on a level only moms can." These cherished moments spent with the Foster Family illuminated the true spirit of the season, reminding the Love Box Leader and her family of the profound impact of love, connection, and generosity. Their experiences with the Foster Family not only enriched their own holiday season but also underscored the transformative power of community and compassion.  |
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