Celebrating Community: Inside Heartshare’s Foster Care Alumni Association, Network 66
For youth in foster care, the journey to adulthood is often marked by challenges that those outside the system may never fully understand. Recognizing the need for connection, support, and empowerment, Heartshare has invested in building a vibrant alumni association—Network 66. This community unites current and former youth in care to provide support and guidance while learning crucial life skills that many people take for granted. From homeownership planning to networking workshops, Network 66 is a living, breathing program, led by the youth of St. Vincent’s and their needs.
This year, Network 66 marked a significant milestone with its second annual Homecoming celebration. Over three days, current and former youth in foster care, staff, and supporters who have all been part of the Heartshare St. Vincent’s Family Services community gathered to share experiences, celebrate successes, and build lasting bonds.
Kicking off the festivities was an opening reception featuring an inspirational chat between Network 66 board members Chris Beverly, Johna Love, Dareth Ogle, and Armando Martinez, and this year’s Good as Gold award honoree, Founder and Vice President of FUBU, J. Alexander Martin.
Moderated by Network 66 member and podcast host Donald Reid, each speaker was given a folder, symbolizing how youth in foster care are often viewed as nothing more than a case file. Each was then assigned a word—Authentic (Dareth), Innovative (Armando), Persistent (Chris), Lovable (Johna), and Superpower (J.) —and invited to share how it resonated with their individual journeys. What emerged was a raw, honest conversation about breaking free from preconceived notions and rewriting your story on your own terms.
As someone who came up in foster care, I think a lot of the time I hid my circumstance. I made up stories to seem normal. Somewhere around college, I began to accept and realize that it’s not a stain to have come from the system. It’s a part of my authentic journey. It’s part of my authentic self.
Dareth Ogle, Network 66 board member
At the end of the talk, the speakers joined together to symbolically rip their files, powerfully demonstrating that they are not defined by their circumstances. The evening concluded with the presentation of this year’s Good as Gold award to J. Alexander Martin, along with a commemorative varsity jacket.
The energy from the kick-off celebration carried through the rest of the weekend, which included a community basketball game and an alumni brunch. Events like Homecoming are a testament to the importance of community and the power of shared experience. From storytelling circles to networking and social activities, the three-day event offered alumni opportunities to reunite, welcome new members, and celebrate their collective resilience.
As Network 66 continues to grow, so does its impact. If Heartshare was ever part of your journey as a youth in care, Network 66 invites you to reconnect and join our vibrant community. Whether you’re looking to share your experiences, build connections, or discover new opportunities, Network 66 is here for you. Reach out to Director of Alumni Engagement, Lauren Lee (Pettiette) Schewel, Esq. (lauren.schewel@heartshare.org) to connect.
Get in touch today to learn more and become part of a supportive network that understands your journey. Your voice matters, and your story is welcome here!
Experience this year's Heart Talk from Network 66 board members and Good as Gold award honoree J. Alexander Martin in full below.