At Whaley Children’s Center, the back-to-school season is more than a calendar event—it’s a chance to restore dignity, build confidence, and create stability for the 48 foster youth who call the Center home. Living alongside dedicated staff and counselors 24/7, these children receive care that goes far beyond the basics.
“Whether it’s August or October, whenever a child starts school, we want them to feel like they belong,” said Mindy Williams, president and CEO. “They’ve been through enough. The least we can do is make sure they walk into that classroom feeling like any other kid—confident, supported, and ready to learn.”
Williams emphasized the importance of this experience, recalling her own childhood school shopping memories.
“I remember picking out my own clothes, planning my first-day outfit, making a whole day of it with my mom. For many of our youth, this may be the only time they get that kind of experience. We do everything we can to make it special.”
She added, “There’s something powerful about a child walking into school in a new outfit, special shoes, fresh haircut, and a backpack filled with items they chose themselves. It’s about more than just supplies—it’s about self-worth.”
Preparing Every Child for Success
Whaley ensures every child starts school equipped with:
- Brand-new clothes
- Properly fitting, stylish shoes
- A fresh haircut to boost confidence
- A fully-stocked backpack
- A year’s worth of school supplies
- A budget for spirit wear, school dances and game tickets
For many, this is the first time they’ve had their own supplies or chosen their own first-day outfit.
Finding the Right Educational Fit
Whaley partners with more than a dozen school districts and charter academies to place each child in the setting that best supports their academic, emotional and social needs. Some students require trauma-informed classrooms, special education services, or alternative programs. Each child receives an individualized education plan. Not all attend mainstream schools—some need nontraditional environments in order to thrive.
Addressing Educational Disruption
Foster youth often experience interrupted education due to frequent placement changes. Many at Whaley have endured 12 or more moves—some more than 20. These transitions often result in:
- Delayed or lost records
- Missed credits or repeated grades
- Emotional and academic setbacks
Whaley advocates for timely record transfers, personalized plans, and consistent support to help children stay—or get back—on track.
Confidence Is Key
Confidence is essential for foster youth. While fall marks the traditional back-to-school season, Whaley welcomes children year-round. That means a “first day” can happen at any time—and it’s always treated with care.
“It’s hard enough being a foster child starting a new school,” Williams said. “But entering mid-year is even harder—they stand out for reasons they can’t control. That’s why we work so hard to make sure they stand tall, feel prepared and know they’re supported.”
The goal is for every child to begin school feeling confident, proud, and ready to learn.
Community Support Makes It Possible
Ashleigh Sanders, Director of Community Development, expressed gratitude for those who make the program possible.
“Thank you to everyone who gave their time, energy and heart to make back-to-school a success. Because of you, our kids felt seen, supported and celebrated. You reminded us how much community matters.”
Whaley’s back-to-school program is powered by community donations, volunteers, business supply drives, individual sponsors and proceeds from the annual Cars 108 Roof Sit—a key funding source.
More Than Just Supplies: A Season of Hope
At Whaley, back-to-school is about more than new clothes and pencils—it’s about giving each child a sense of normalcy, hope and
belonging. Staff and supporters work to ensure every youth begins the school year feeling seen, valued and ready to thrive.
“We are so incredibly grateful to our community for making this a season of hope,” said Olivia Nagel, Director of Development. “Because of you, our children walk into the classroom prepared, confident and cared for. You show them they are never alone.”
See how you can help make a difference at whaleychildren.org
