BRIGHT SKY SPOTLIGHT: THE STEELE FAMILY

For the Steele Family, fostering was an easy choice. Meet Jen and her husband, Mark, who have been volunteering to host/foster children for 4 years. Their goal is to always provide a safe, loving home as children and their families go through transition. 

"Seeing families reunite stronger than they were before and getting to be a small part of that process has brought our family so much joy," Jen said. 

With a heart of service, they hope to instill the same values to their own children by teaching them what it means to help others and helping them to realize it is not always an easy task. 

"Sometimes it's messy and hard and sometimes it doesn't go the way we pictured, but finding the joy in the mess is so rewarding," she said. 

Differences can be made just by sharing what you have and being there in a time of need. "Opening up our home has taught all of us the importance of working together as a team. I think it has shown our kids that people's situations and circumstances are all different and unique. Not everyone's family looks or acts the same but we're all children of God and want to feel safe and loved," she said.

While not everyone may feel called to foster or host children, there are many ways to still be involved and support the community. Monetary donations, giving gently used items or simply donating your time for someone who has taken in a child can go a long way. 

"If you have a passion or a calling to help, don't let fear stop you. Join a community and ask for help along the way. There are resources, such as Bright Sky Ministry, to support you on this journey," Jen said. 

The Steele Family are proud supporters of Bright Sky Ministry and have seen firsthand the benefit of having the necessary resources. However, sometimes being a host family means the greatest obstacle to overcome is managing time. Being flexible is key.

"There's never a good time for change, but there's also never a better time to help someone than today!" she said.