Event Highlights:

Ta’Nika Gibson used her voice to advocate for children and youth in foster care, particularly older youth who are eligible for adoption. With her enchanting singing voice, Gibson captivated the audience with a heart-touching rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” accompanied by her father on the cello.

Gibson was in foster care until she connected with her parents at 17. Gibson’s high school principal, Kathryn Gibson and her husband, David, adopted her when she was 22. Today, Gibson credits their love, support and encouragement for pushing her to pursue her acting and musical career.

The event also celebrated individuals who are helping transform child welfare service and served as a call-to-action for prospective parents to open their hearts by opening their homes to youth who are historically harder to place, including older youth or those facing unique challenges.

You Gotta Believe Executive Director, Jennifer Pinder, said, ” We are still beaming from the powerful stories and beautiful voices during the event. We look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate with OCFS and extend our abundant thanks for inviting us.”