Empowering Foster Youth to Thrive

Education, Mentorship, and Lifelong Support for Brighter Futures

Founded in 2022, Fostering Hearts Florida was created to meet the unique needs of children and teens in foster care. We provide comprehensive educational, emotional, social, and life skills support — helping each young person gain confidence, stability, and the tools to succeed. Through community, compassion, and opportunity, we’re building stronger futures for foster youth.

Our Mission is Bigger Than Just Us!

At Fostering Hearts FL, we’re dedicated to more than just education; we’re committed to empowering each foster child with the tools they need for a flourishing life. Our mission goes beyond academic achievement; we offer a personalized, safe space for growth where every child receives individualized support in social, emotional, and practical life skills essential for navigating today’s world.

Together with our community and partners, we create a caring and supportive environment that supports the holistic development of foster children, ensuring they have access to comprehensive education and life skills training necessary for thriving. Our approach is deeply holistic, nurturing not just the intellect but also the heart and spirit of each child. We equip them with the resilience, wisdom, and practical skills needed to transform life’s challenges into opportunities, preparing them for a successful future beyond the foster care system. 

At Fostering Hearts FL, we’re not just supporting academic success; we’re building well-rounded individuals ready to believe in themselves with confidence and embrace their journey with hope and determination.

Our Vision:

To ensure every foster child not only earns a high school diploma but also has access to the resources and support needed to pursue a bright, successful future. With personalized guidance and comprehensive support, we transform potential into achievement, one child at a time.

Fostering Hearts Florida

Katy Rey Foundation DBA Fostering Hearts FL

Fostering Hearts FL, established in 2022, is deeply committed to making a profound difference in the lives of foster children in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco Counties, Florida. Our foundation started from a simple belief: every child deserves a shot at a bright future no matter their start in life.

We know the road isn’t easy for these kids. They’re navigating life’s twists and turns, often feeling alone and outpaced by their classmates. Understanding the complex challenges these children face; unexpected home changes, academic hurdles, and emotional setbacks. We’re here to ensure they’re never left to navigate these waters alone. Fostering Hearts FL stands as a steadfast ally, offering guidance, support, and a sense of belonging.

Education is our toolkit. We’ve teamed up with caring educators to create learning experiences that are just right for each child, no matter where they find themselves. This setup isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about giving these kids the chance to join in on extracurriculars, to discover their talents, and to just be kids.

But our dreams for them go beyond the classroom. We’re here to whisper to every foster child that they are seen, they are heard, and yes, they are loved. Through our programs and lessons in life skills, we’re grooming these young ones for a world of possibilities.

In partnership with Friends of Joshua House and other kind-hearted organizations, we’ve rolled out a program designed with a special touch for children healing from past wounds. It’s a safe space where learning is joyous, not daunting, a place where they can start to rebuild their confidence and catch up academically.

The Fostering Hearts FL team is the heartbeat of this mission. Fueled by a blend of passion and determination, we’re here to change the narrative for foster kids, making sure they have the support they need to cross the graduation stage and leap into life with both feet.

Fostering Hearts FL isn’t just an organization; it’s a community, a family, extending its arms wide open to those in need. We’re dreaming of a future where every foster child in our corner has the tools, care, and love they need to flourish.

Want to be a part of this beautiful journey? Reach out to us at info@fosteringheartsfl.org. Together, we’re not just making a difference; we’re nurturing futures, one child at a time.

Meet Our Board Members

At Fostering Hearts Florida, our board members are the driving force behind our mission to empower foster youth. Each member contributes valuable experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping young people succeed. Together, they provide strategic guidance and oversight, ensuring our programs deliver meaningful impact and lasting support to the youth and families we serve.

CEO

Katy Rey

katy@katyrey.com

Board Chair

Jamie Klingman

jamie@theklingmangroup.com

Grant Writer

Amy Mangueira

grants@fosteringheartsfl.com

Board Member

Lynn Gonzalez

lynn@theklingmangroup.com

Board Member

Alan Peterson

apeterson@firstib.com

Board Member

Chris Smith

mr.lcsmith21@gmail.com

Board Member

Kevin Tydlaska Dziedzic

kevin@bkncreative.com

Board Member

Cassidy Wright

cassidywright22@gmail.com

Board Member

Ambee Stephens

ambee@empowherment.org

Get in Touch With Fostering Hearts FL

Whether you’re a young adult in need of guidance, a potential volunteer looking to make a difference, or a supporter wanting to partner with us, we’d love to hear from you. At Fostering Hearts FL, every message matters, because together, we’re building brighter futures for youth who have aged out of foster care.

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Have questions about our programs, partnerships, or how to get involved? Fill out the form below and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.