The HOPEful Connection

The HOPEful Connection

por Restoring Hope, LLC
Salud mental
Temporada 2
Fostering By Faith with Guest Kimberly Lowe & Co-Host Whitley Lemon
IA
In this inspiring episode of The HOPEful Connection, Whitley sits down with attorney, author, songwriter, and non-profit founder Kimberly Lowe for a powerful conversation about surrendering control and living every area of life for God’s glory. Kimberly shares her unique life story - from growing up in a teepee and coming to faith as a young girl, to navigating law school, discovering true grace after divorce, and starting her own law practice. She breaks down how dedicating just 10 minutes a morning to God bloomed into daily devotionals, over 40 original worship songs, and co-founding Fostering by Faith - a 2,000 sq. ft. boutique where local foster youth receive brand-new clothes, shoes, Bibles, and an empowering shopping experience built on dignity and love. In this episode, we discuss: Finding true purpose by doing everything for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) Shifting from "check-the-box" religion to authentic daily surrender How God turned 10-minute morning devotions into books and 40+ original worship tracks The story behind Fostering by Faith and creating a boutique-style shopping experience for foster kids Overcoming burnout by recognizing God as the true owner of our work and ministries How local communities, volunteers, and tradespeople step up to support vulnerable youth Resources & Links: Learn more about Fostering by Faith and Go Faith Strong: gofaithstrong.com Follow Fostering by Faith: https://www.facebook.com/FosterGraceByFaith Listen to more episodes of The HOPEful Connection: werestorehope.com/the-hopeful-connection-podcast
T2 · E6
12 ago 2026
1:12:45
Foster Care & Joplin Triumphs with Darcie Silvers and show Co-Host Whitley Lemon
IA
What happens when a client finds the perfect environment to thrive? In this episode, host Whitely Lemon connects with Restoring Hope, LLC Program Manager Darcie Silvers to discuss a beautiful turnaround story in the Joplin region. Darcie also shares a massive personal update: she is officially starting her journey to become a licensed foster parent this August. We talk candidly about the foster care system's true goal—healing and reunification—and why leading with an open, attached heart is essential for a child's success. Plus, we break down practical ways you can support Darcie directly and get involved with essential local resources like Fostering Hope. In this episode, you’ll learn about: The Power of Placement: How a tailored host home environment allowed a Joplin client to completely blossom. Reframing Attachment: Why staying guarded hurts foster children, and how to embrace the goal of family reunification. Building the Village: A guide to supporting Darcie's foster care setup and diving into Joplin-area resources like Fostering Hope's Caring Closet. Links & Support Resources: Follow Darcie's Journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dsilvers.86 Support Darcie's Foster Home Launch (GoFundMe): https://gofund.me/0ad057612 Fostering Hope Website & Caring Closet: https://www.fostering-hope.com/ Restoring Hope, LLC Website: https://www.werestorehope.com
T2 · E5
15 jul 2026
28:33
Bridging the Gap: Expanding Our Impact with the Children’s Division Contract
IA
In this episode of The Hopeful Connection, host Daniel Coffey sits down with Staci Owen to discuss a major, exciting evolution happening at Restoring Hope. While Restoring Hope currently provides support to children in the foster care system through the Department of Mental Health (DMH) contract, strict criteria often mean many youth in need fall through the cracks. Staci shares the vision behind Restoring Hope’s journey toward securing a direct contract with the Children’s Division, starting with Therapeutic Foster Care in early 2027. Tune in to learn how this contract will expand their impact, provide vital resources for kids stuck in limbo, and offer incredible new flexibility for current and future host homes. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Filling the System Gaps: Why a direct Children’s Division contract is necessary for kids whose needs or IQ levels don't strictly fit existing DMH criteria. What is Therapeutic Foster Care? How this individualized, trauma-informed service mirrors the host home model while accommodating different health and behavioral needs. The Reality of Foster Care Today: Addressing the critical shortage of therapeutic placements that leaves youth waiting in offices, hotels, and hospitals. What This Means for Host Homes: How current host homes can choose to remain exactly as they are or become dual-contracted to expand their support. The Road to 2027: The timeline for licensing, process development, and looking forward to the first official placements. Stay Tuned! If you are a host home interested in getting involved with Therapeutic Foster Care, keep an eye out for updates. More detailed information on the transition and application processes will be shared by Fall.
T2 · E4
30 jun 2026
18:18
Rooted in Resilience — R3 Conference 2026 with Staci Owen & Whitley Lemon
IA
Welcome back to The HOPEful Connection! In this episode, host Staci Owen is joined by Restoring Hope's own Whitley Lemon to announce that registration for our annual r3 Conference is officially live. Taking place September 11th and 12th, 2026 at Camp Barnabas in Purdy, Missouri, this year's event is evolving into an optional, fully inclusive two-day experience. Best of all? It remains completely free for our caregivers, team members, clients, and—new this year—natural children of our caregivers (ages 7+). Stacy and Whitley dive deep into: The true meaning of r3: Reach, Restore, Repeat. How caregiver feedback shaped this year's exciting changes, including the Friday night decompress session featuring karaoke, swimming, and an ice cream truck. A preview of keynote speaker Josh Varner’s upcoming trauma-informed sessions on behavior management and caregiver mental health. The logistical details of client and child registration to ensure a safe, preference-based camp experience for all abilities. If you need a weekend to network, discover tighter connections, and reignite your passion for the incredible work you do every single day, listen to this episode and get registered before the deadline! Important Dates & Links: Registration Deadline: June 30, 2026 Conference Dates: September 11–12, 2026 Registration Link: werestorehope.com/about-our-services/r3 (Note: Separate registrations are required for each caregiver, client, team member, and child). Contact: For registration questions or specific accommodation requests, please email the conference committee via the links on our website.
T2 · E3
24 jun 2026
22:06
More Than a Shirt | Guest Katelyn Hellmer with Co-Host Danielle Coffey
Can a custom t-shirt serve as a stepping stone to a dream career? This week on The HOPEful Connection, host Danielle Coffey catches up with Katelyn Hellmer to discuss InclusiviTee, a brand-new custom apparel business operating out of Nixa, Missouri. Discover how individuals supported by Restoring Hope are taking full ownership of every step of the business—learning graphic design, mastering commercial heat presses, and managing digital shipping logistics. Danielle and Katelyn talk about the daily operations of the shop, the magic of simple workplace accommodations, and how they are actively breaking down community stigmas to pave the way for inclusive, competitive employment. Want to support the crew or place a custom order? Bulk business orders, event merchandise, and individual custom designs are available! Check out their premium options (including customer favorites like Bella Canvas and Comfort Colors). Find the shop by visiting the Restoring Hope website and navigating to the InclusiviTee Shopify store. Got questions or want a custom quote? Reach out directly via the inquiry page or email the team today! https://www.werestorehope.com/worksemploymentservices
T2 · E2
27 may 2026
38:19
Finding a Voice at the Capitol: Disability Rights Legislative Day Recap
When decisions are made at the state level, it is vital that the people most affected have a seat at the table. In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Danielle Coffey is joined by Emma Odell (Buffalo Excel Program Coordinator) and Kayla Shoop (Warsaw Excel Coordinator) to discuss their experiences taking clients to the Missouri State Capitol. The team shares behind-the-scenes insights into Disability Rights Legislative Day, exploring the logistical challenges of navigating a crowded Capitol and the emotional breakthroughs of clients who realized their opinions truly matter. Key topics include: The Power of the Rally: How the energy of the crowd helps individuals feel seen and included. Advocacy vs. Anxiety: Practical tips used by staff to help clients manage overstimulation while still participating in democracy. The Budget Battle: A look at how personal stories influenced the conversation around Missouri’s waiver services and budget restorations. Gratitude in Action: Why the team returned for a second day to hand-deliver thank-you notes to supportive legislators. Join us for a conversation about empowerment, the importance of "staying hopeful," and the beauty of seeing a client blossom into a self-advocate. About the Podcast: The HOPEful Connection connects you to the disability community through authentic stories and expert insights. Hosted by Staci Owen, Whitley Lemon, and Danielle Coffey. #TheHOPEfulConnection #DisabilityAdvocacy #MissouriPolitics #ExcelPrograms #RestoringHope
T2 · E1
13 may 2026
28:04
Temporada 1
From Host Home to Forever Family | Guest Kathy Jo Glenn with Co-Host Staci Owen
What starts as everyday life… can turn into a forever kind of calling. 🤍 In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, host Staci Owen sits down with Kathy Jo Glenn to share her 10+ year journey as a Host Home. From navigating Missouri’s unpredictable weather 😅 to building a home filled with belonging, growth, and purpose—this conversation is a real look at what it means to open your life to others. ✨ Creating family beyond blood ✨ Walking alongside individuals as they experience life for the first time ✨ The challenges, the beauty, and the lifelong commitment ✨ Why community support is everything Because they don’t know what they haven’t experienced yet… And sometimes, all it takes is someone willing to show them. Welcome to The HOPEful Connection. A podcast that connects you to the disability community. We're your hosts, Staci Owen, Whitley Lemon, and Danielle Coffey. #TheHOPEfulConnection #RestoringHope #HostHomes #CaregivingCommunity #DisabilitySupport #LifeTogether
T1 · E21
22 abr 2026
59:29
A Lifeline to Natural Families | Guests Jeremy & Shon Morris with Co-Host Whitley Lemon
Jeremy has been part of Restoring Hope’s respite services since 2023, and he’s got stories to tell! From coloring at Grandma Brenda’s, petting goats, watching Westerns, dancing to country music, and splashing in the pool — respite gives him joy, freedom, and new connections. His brother Shon shares how these services have brought balance and breathing room back to their family after years of full-time caregiving. A touching reminder that respite isn’t just a break — it’s hope and connection for everyone involved. If you'd like to know more about Restoring Hope's Respite Services, visit our website. https://www.werestorehope.com/out-of-home-respite Welcome to The HOPEful Connection podcast. A resource that connects you to the disability community! Were you're hosts, Danielle Coffey, Staci Owen, and Whitley Lemon.
T1 · E20
8 abr 2026
34:51
Intentional Service in Community | Guest Julie Olsen with Co-Host Whitley Lemon
"Real change happens when we see people for who they are, invest intentionally, and let community become family." In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Whitley Lemon talks with Julie Olson, Program Coordinator of Restoring Hope's Willow Springs Excel Day Program. Julie shares her journey from undergrad at SBU to leading a program built on purpose, inclusion, and intentional service. Highlights include prepping 250 surprise promo bags for Hannah Harper's hometown concert, securing a Rotary grant for a therapy pod with mock coffee shop role-play, deep ties with the Chamber of Commerce, downtown beautification, community garden expansion, and skill-building in cooking, budgeting, hygiene, and outings that spark joy and independence. Julie opens up about overcoming challenges through faith, person-centered support, and ongoing master's studies—proving everyone can excel with the right encouragement. This episode is for anyone passionate about: > Disability day programs and community inclusion > Faith-driven leadership and service > Building purpose through skill-building and advocacy > Advocating at Disability Rights Legislative Day Because real change starts when we show up, see people fully, and let community become family. Welcome to The HOPEful Connection! A podcast that connects you to the disability community. We're your hosts, Danielle Coffey, Staci Owen, and Whitley Lemon.
T1 · E19
5 mar 2026
49:38
Heart of Social Work | Guest Aaron Harms with Co-Host Staci Owen
In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Staci Owen sits down with Aaron Harms to discuss behavioral supports, the honeymoon phase in placements, burnout prevention, and the growth of Restoring Hope’s Medical ISL programs. Aaron shares insights from years in mental health, his role on the behavioral team, and what it takes to build strong DSP teams that create real quality of life for the individuals they serve. This episode highlights teamwork, preparation, and meeting needs as they arise — all centered around belonging in community.
T1 · E18
25 feb 2026
50:12
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