Every Step of the Way: Conversations that Inspire Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/every-step-of-the-way-the-childrens-aid-podcast Welcome to "Every Step of the Way: Conversations that Inspire," the official podcast of Children’s Aid. Our current season, "The Power of Connection," features Children’s Aid alumni in conversation with Children’s Aid leaders and subject matter experts as they explore the relationships and experiences that shape their journeys. Each episode highlights the impact that connection can have on a young person’s life. The podcast debuted with Season 1, I’m a Children’s Aid Kid, which spotlighted remarkable alumni whose lives were shaped by the support, guidance, and opportunities they found at Children’s Aid. Season 2 builds on that foundation, examining how meaningful connections create pathways to opportunity and lasting impact across generations. Tune in for inspiring stories and thoughtful conversations that show how connection can change the course of a life. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major podcast platforms. Visit our website for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and additional resources, and follow us on social media @childrensaidnyc. Children's Aid 31410f71-d716-51b2-b6a0-f62315b4524c yes Season 2 Introducing Every Step of the Way en Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:28:03 -0400 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:03:26 -0400 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/every-step-of-the-way-podcast https://img.transistorcdn.com/ZvK7lZmfTFcQoAVquG9u3GmQQplU6nD_GyNGbD13i0I/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8xMzk0/N2RkYzI4YTNmMmU4/YzExNzMwZDRmOTZh/MzBhZC5wbmc.jpg Every Step of the Way: Conversations that Inspire https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/every-step-of-the-way-podcast episodic Children's Aid Welcome to "Every Step of the Way: Conversations that Inspire," the official podcast of Children’s Aid. Our current season, "The Power of Connection," features Children’s Aid alumni in conversation with Children’s Aid leaders and subject matter experts as they explore the relationships and experiences that shape their journeys. Each episode highlights the impact that connection can have on a young person’s life. The podcast debuted with Season 1, I’m a Children’s Aid Kid, which spotlighted remarkable alumni whose lives were shaped by the support, guidance, and opportunities they found at Children’s Aid. Season 2 builds on that foundation, examining how meaningful connections create pathways to opportunity and lasting impact across generations. Tune in for inspiring stories and thoughtful conversations that show how connection can change the course of a life. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major podcast platforms. Visit our website for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and additional resources, and follow us on social media @childrensaidnyc. Welcome to "Every Step of the Way: Conversations that Inspire," the official podcast of Children’s Aid. children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit Children's Aid MAlmonor@ChildrensAidNYC.org No No From Cancer Diagnosis to Columbia Grad: How Foster Care Changed Everything for Karina Melendez 1 1 7 7 From Cancer Diagnosis to Columbia Grad: How Foster Care Changed Everything for Karina Melendez full 20bc940a-a321-40b5-b91d-8fd12f5d595e https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a0d10f7
When Karina Melendez was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with bone cancer. By 15, her family's financial strain had brought her into the foster care system. What could have been a story of loss became something far more powerful — a testament to what happens when the right people show up at the right time. In this episode of Every Step of the Way, host Georgia Booth and co-host Rhonda Braxton, VP of Health and Wellness at Children's Aid, sit down with Karina to trace her journey from medical foster care patient to Columbia University graduate and soon-to-be licensed social worker.

Karina's story is bracingly honest — about the anger she carried toward her mother, the years she spent trying to do it all alone, and the moment a therapist handed her a phone and changed everything. It's also a story about resilience as something relational, built not in isolation but through the people who refuse to let you disappear. Georgia and Rhonda use Karina's experience to widen the lens, speaking candidly about the social determinants of health, the pressures facing families today, and why safety net services are not a luxury — they're a lifeline.


Key Takeaways


[04:14] — Karina entered foster care at 15 through Children's Aid's medical program while in remission from bone cancer.

[06:59] — Rhonda explains Children's Aid's Medical Foster Care Program and its core philosophy: focus on possibility, not limitation.

[11:53] — Karina's mother shaved her own head in solidarity during chemo, refusing to let it grow back until Karina's did.

[14:40] — Karina reflects on how her mother's post-illness struggles led to homelessness and foster care, and cautions against blaming individuals over systemic pressures.

[18:11] — The hardest part of Karina's journey wasn't the cancer — it was the damage done to her relationship with her mother.

[20:22] — Karina shares what she learned through social work school: resilience is relational, built through other people, not in spite of needing them.

[23:30] — A therapist handed Karina the phone and made her call her mentor Eva — the moment that brought her back to Columbia and turned everything around.

[27:14] — Karina's message to students in foster care: progress, not perfection — and don't be afraid to lean on your people.

[27:51] — Karina redefines success: "Being in a place where you can turn around and help someone else behind you."

[47:05] — Each guest shares a symbolic object; Karina's are her high school and college diplomas, hanging on her wall at home.

[53:38] — Rhonda addresses the social determinants of health and how Children's Aid works to connect families to wraparound resources.

[55:32] — Georgia calls on citizens and elected officials to protect safety net services for families who are struggling right now.

Resources Mentioned

  • Children's Aid — childrenaid.org — Provides foster care, medical foster care, mental health services, school-based health centers, food and nutrition programs, and more across New York City.
  • Children's Aid Medical Foster Care Program — Intensive case management for children and teens with complex medical needs, including nurse case managers, physicians, and behavioral health support.
  • Health Connections — Children's Aid's healthcare home, part of the Health and Wellness Division overseen by Rhonda Braxton.
  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — Referenced as the hospital where Karina received her cancer diagnosis and treatment.
  • Administration for Children's Services (ACS) — The New York City agency through which children enter the foster care system.
  • Columbia University — Where Karina completed her undergraduate degree.
  • (Coming next episode) Children's Aid Community Schools Program — Schools as environments that support the whole child, not just a place for learning.

]]>
When Karina Melendez was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with bone cancer. By 15, her family's financial strain had brought her into the foster care system. What could have been a story of loss became something far more powerful — a testament to what happens when the right people show up at the right time. In this episode of Every Step of the Way, host Georgia Booth and co-host Rhonda Braxton, VP of Health and Wellness at Children's Aid, sit down with Karina to trace her journey from medical foster care patient to Columbia University graduate and soon-to-be licensed social worker.

Karina's story is bracingly honest — about the anger she carried toward her mother, the years she spent trying to do it all alone, and the moment a therapist handed her a phone and changed everything. It's also a story about resilience as something relational, built not in isolation but through the people who refuse to let you disappear. Georgia and Rhonda use Karina's experience to widen the lens, speaking candidly about the social determinants of health, the pressures facing families today, and why safety net services are not a luxury — they're a lifeline.


Key Takeaways


[04:14] — Karina entered foster care at 15 through Children's Aid's medical program while in remission from bone cancer.

[06:59] — Rhonda explains Children's Aid's Medical Foster Care Program and its core philosophy: focus on possibility, not limitation.

[11:53] — Karina's mother shaved her own head in solidarity during chemo, refusing to let it grow back until Karina's did.

[14:40] — Karina reflects on how her mother's post-illness struggles led to homelessness and foster care, and cautions against blaming individuals over systemic pressures.

[18:11] — The hardest part of Karina's journey wasn't the cancer — it was the damage done to her relationship with her mother.

[20:22] — Karina shares what she learned through social work school: resilience is relational, built through other people, not in spite of needing them.

[23:30] — A therapist handed Karina the phone and made her call her mentor Eva — the moment that brought her back to Columbia and turned everything around.

[27:14] — Karina's message to students in foster care: progress, not perfection — and don't be afraid to lean on your people.

[27:51] — Karina redefines success: "Being in a place where you can turn around and help someone else behind you."

[47:05] — Each guest shares a symbolic object; Karina's are her high school and college diplomas, hanging on her wall at home.

[53:38] — Rhonda addresses the social determinants of health and how Children's Aid works to connect families to wraparound resources.

[55:32] — Georgia calls on citizens and elected officials to protect safety net services for families who are struggling right now.

Resources Mentioned

  • Children's Aid — childrenaid.org — Provides foster care, medical foster care, mental health services, school-based health centers, food and nutrition programs, and more across New York City.
  • Children's Aid Medical Foster Care Program — Intensive case management for children and teens with complex medical needs, including nurse case managers, physicians, and behavioral health support.
  • Health Connections — Children's Aid's healthcare home, part of the Health and Wellness Division overseen by Rhonda Braxton.
  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — Referenced as the hospital where Karina received her cancer diagnosis and treatment.
  • Administration for Children's Services (ACS) — The New York City agency through which children enter the foster care system.
  • Columbia University — Where Karina completed her undergraduate degree.
  • (Coming next episode) Children's Aid Community Schools Program — Schools as environments that support the whole child, not just a place for learning.

]]> Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 2066
When Karina Melendez was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with bone cancer. By 15, her family's financial strain had brought her into the foster care system. What could have been a story of loss became something far more powerful — a testament to what happens when the right people show up at the right time. In this episode of Every Step of the Way, host Georgia Booth and co-host Rhonda Braxton, VP of Health and Wellness at Children's Aid, sit down with Karina to trace her journey from medical foster care patient to Columbia University graduate and soon-to-be licensed social worker.

Karina's story is bracingly honest — about the anger she carried toward her mother, the years she spent trying to do it all alone, and the moment a therapist handed her a phone and changed everything. It's also a story about resilience as something relational, built not in isolation but through the people who refuse to let you disappear. Georgia and Rhonda use Karina's experience to widen the lens, speaking candidly about the social determinants of health, the pressures facing families today, and why safety net services are not a luxury — they're a lifeline.


Key Takeaways


[04:14] — Karina entered foster care at 15 through Children's Aid's medical program while in remission from bone cancer.

[06:59] — Rhonda explains Children's Aid's Medical Foster Care Program and its core philosophy: focus on possibility, not limitation.

[11:53] — Karina's mother shaved her own head in solidarity during chemo, refusing to let it grow back until Karina's did.

[14:40] — Karina reflects on how her mother's post-illness struggles led to homelessness and foster care, and cautions against blaming individuals over systemic pressures.

[18:11] — The hardest part of Karina's journey wasn't the cancer — it was the damage done to her relationship with her mother.

[20:22] — Karina shares what she learned through social work school: resilience is relational, built through other people, not in spite of needing them.

[23:30] — A therapist handed Karina the phone and made her call her mentor Eva — the moment that brought her back to Columbia and turned everything around.

[27:14] — Karina's message to students in foster care: progress, not perfection — and don't be afraid to lean on your people.

[27:51] — Karina redefines success: "Being in a place where you can turn around and help someone else behind you."

[47:05] — Each guest shares a symbolic object; Karina's are her high school and college diplomas, hanging on her wall at home.

[53:38] — Rhonda addresses the social determinants of health and how Children's Aid works to connect families to wraparound resources.

[55:32] — Georgia calls on citizens and elected officials to protect safety net services for families who are struggling right now.

Resources Mentioned

  • Children's Aid — childrenaid.org — Provides foster care, medical foster care, mental health services, school-based health centers, food and nutrition programs, and more across New York City.
  • Children's Aid Medical Foster Care Program — Intensive case management for children and teens with complex medical needs, including nurse case managers, physicians, and behavioral health support.
  • Health Connections — Children's Aid's healthcare home, part of the Health and Wellness Division overseen by Rhonda Braxton.
  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — Referenced as the hospital where Karina received her cancer diagnosis and treatment.
  • Administration for Children's Services (ACS) — The New York City agency through which children enter the foster care system.
  • Columbia University — Where Karina completed her undergraduate degree.
  • (Coming next episode) Children's Aid Community Schools Program — Schools as environments that support the whole child, not just a place for learning.

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Season 2 2 2 1 1 Season 2 trailer 59c50b89-a5d8-443c-a014-3e31a3e870e6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1056e38c Season 2 of Every Step of the Way continues to center alumni voices while introducing a rotating co-host format that reflects the breadth of leadership across Children’s Aid. Georgia Boothe anchors the opening and closing episodes, while organizational leaders host thematic conversation tied to their areas of expertise. 


]]> Season 2 of Every Step of the Way continues to center alumni voices while introducing a rotating co-host format that reflects the breadth of leadership across Children’s Aid. Georgia Boothe anchors the opening and closing episodes, while organizational leaders host thematic conversation tied to their areas of expertise. 


]]> Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:27:47 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 84 Season 2 of Every Step of the Way continues to center alumni voices while introducing a rotating co-host format that reflects the breadth of leadership across Children’s Aid. Georgia Boothe anchors the opening and closing episodes, while organizational leaders host thematic conversation tied to their areas of expertise. 


]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No From Stickball to Surgery 1 1 6 6 From Stickball to Surgery full d89ca010-6ff8-4d73-a013-a55c80031093 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/stickball-surgery In the season finale of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Dr. Raja Flores, the chief of thoracic surgery at Mount Sinai and board member at Children's Aid. Dr. Flores shares his incredible journey from growing up in the Meatpacking District amidst challenging circumstances to becoming a prominent figure in the medical field. Through engaging discussions, Dr. Flores emphasizes the critical role of supportive mentors and safe spaces for at-risk youth. He recounts how sports, orthodontic care, and compassionate mentors at Children's Aid played pivotal roles in his development and confidence.


]]> In the season finale of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Dr. Raja Flores, the chief of thoracic surgery at Mount Sinai and board member at Children's Aid. Dr. Flores shares his incredible journey from growing up in the Meatpacking District amidst challenging circumstances to becoming a prominent figure in the medical field. Through engaging discussions, Dr. Flores emphasizes the critical role of supportive mentors and safe spaces for at-risk youth. He recounts how sports, orthodontic care, and compassionate mentors at Children's Aid played pivotal roles in his development and confidence.


]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 1964 In the season finale of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Dr. Raja Flores, the chief of thoracic surgery at Mount Sinai and board member at Children's Aid. Dr. Flores shares his incredible journey from growing up in the Meatpacking District amidst challenging circumstances to becoming a prominent figure in the medical field. Through engaging discussions, Dr. Flores emphasizes the critical role of supportive mentors and safe spaces for at-risk youth. He recounts how sports, orthodontic care, and compassionate mentors at Children's Aid played pivotal roles in his development and confidence.


]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Anthony Ramos Georgia Boothe Sandra Escamilla Dr. Raja Flores Finding My Voice 1 1 5 5 Finding My Voice full a6a02320-c1ab-4b27-bc5d-caca93af7e2d https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/finding-my-voice In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe and guest host Sarah Jonas, vice president of the Youth Division at Children's Aid, engage in an inspiring conversation with Julissa Contreras, an alumna of Children's Aid. Julissa shares her inspiring journey from a student in the South Bronx to an award-winning playwright and advocate for community justice. She reflects on the essential role the organization played in her life, empowering her through after-school programs like community justice and youth leadership. Through these programs, she found her voice, passion, and a pathway to a successful career. Julissa also details her current work with nonprofits and offers valuable advice for both the new generation and staff at Children's Aid. 

]]> In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe and guest host Sarah Jonas, vice president of the Youth Division at Children's Aid, engage in an inspiring conversation with Julissa Contreras, an alumna of Children's Aid. Julissa shares her inspiring journey from a student in the South Bronx to an award-winning playwright and advocate for community justice. She reflects on the essential role the organization played in her life, empowering her through after-school programs like community justice and youth leadership. Through these programs, she found her voice, passion, and a pathway to a successful career. Julissa also details her current work with nonprofits and offers valuable advice for both the new generation and staff at Children's Aid. 

]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 1537 In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe and guest host Sarah Jonas, vice president of the Youth Division at Children's Aid, engage in an inspiring conversation with Julissa Contreras, an alumna of Children's Aid. Julissa shares her inspiring journey from a student in the South Bronx to an award-winning playwright and advocate for community justice. She reflects on the essential role the organization played in her life, empowering her through after-school programs like community justice and youth leadership. Through these programs, she found her voice, passion, and a pathway to a successful career. Julissa also details her current work with nonprofits and offers valuable advice for both the new generation and staff at Children's Aid. 

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Sarah Jonas Julissa Contreras Anthony Ramos Georgia Boothe Harlem: 40 Years of Hope and Change 1 1 4 4 Harlem: 40 Years of Hope and Change full 519cf8ad-8acc-4a51-9b03-403cb4e73495 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/harlem-40-years-hope-and-change In this inspiring episode of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla sit down with Casper Lassiter, the director of Children's Aid's Milbank Dunlevy Center. With over 40 years of dedication to positive youth development in Harlem, Casper shares his personal journey from a child at the center to a leader impacting countless lives. He also offers valuable advice for both program youth and staff, emphasizing the importance of leveraging resources, self-care, and the transformative power of community support. Tune in for Casper's heartfelt reflections on his life's mission and the extraordinary legacy he continues to build at Children's Aid.

]]> In this inspiring episode of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla sit down with Casper Lassiter, the director of Children's Aid's Milbank Dunlevy Center. With over 40 years of dedication to positive youth development in Harlem, Casper shares his personal journey from a child at the center to a leader impacting countless lives. He also offers valuable advice for both program youth and staff, emphasizing the importance of leveraging resources, self-care, and the transformative power of community support. Tune in for Casper's heartfelt reflections on his life's mission and the extraordinary legacy he continues to build at Children's Aid.

]]> Thu, 01 May 2025 03:12:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 1884 In this inspiring episode of “Every Step of the Way,” hosts Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla sit down with Casper Lassiter, the director of Children's Aid's Milbank Dunlevy Center. With over 40 years of dedication to positive youth development in Harlem, Casper shares his personal journey from a child at the center to a leader impacting countless lives. He also offers valuable advice for both program youth and staff, emphasizing the importance of leveraging resources, self-care, and the transformative power of community support. Tune in for Casper's heartfelt reflections on his life's mission and the extraordinary legacy he continues to build at Children's Aid.

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Georgia Boothe Sandra Escamilla Casper Lassiter Anthony Ramos Building Confidence, Giving Back 1 1 3 3 Building Confidence, Giving Back full e5cb8035-84dc-4712-86e0-913195b37055 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/building-confidence-giving-back In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe welcomes Sarah Roman, an alumna of Children's Aid, who shares her personal journey with the organization. Sarah recounts her early involvement with Children's Aid summer programs, the pivotal role of Project Live, and the impact of having two mentors from diverse backgrounds. She highlights how the various extracurricular and after-school activities helped build her confidence, transforming her from a shy student into a self-assured individual. Now a successful massage therapist and business owner, Sarah speaks about how she is giving back to the community, particularly through housing initiatives for families in need. 

]]> In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe welcomes Sarah Roman, an alumna of Children's Aid, who shares her personal journey with the organization. Sarah recounts her early involvement with Children's Aid summer programs, the pivotal role of Project Live, and the impact of having two mentors from diverse backgrounds. She highlights how the various extracurricular and after-school activities helped build her confidence, transforming her from a shy student into a self-assured individual. Now a successful massage therapist and business owner, Sarah speaks about how she is giving back to the community, particularly through housing initiatives for families in need. 

]]> Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 1404 In this episode of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ host Georgia Boothe welcomes Sarah Roman, an alumna of Children's Aid, who shares her personal journey with the organization. Sarah recounts her early involvement with Children's Aid summer programs, the pivotal role of Project Live, and the impact of having two mentors from diverse backgrounds. She highlights how the various extracurricular and after-school activities helped build her confidence, transforming her from a shy student into a self-assured individual. Now a successful massage therapist and business owner, Sarah speaks about how she is giving back to the community, particularly through housing initiatives for families in need. 

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Georgia Boothe Anthony Ramos Sarah Roman Hoops, Hope and Leadership 1 1 2 2 Hoops, Hope and Leadership full a14ed7f1-ae55-4147-b853-288450d816a5 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/hoops-hope-and-leadership In episode 2 of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ co-hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Daniel Singleton, principal at P.S. 31 on Staten Island, to delve into his inspiring journey from a participant in Children's Aid programs to a pivotal figure in educational leadership.

Daniel reflects on his challenging upbringing during the 80s and 90s, a period marked by the crack epidemic, and how Children's Aid provided him with much-needed safety, structure, and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Now, as a principal, he shares how he’s improving his school and giving back to his community, illustrating the profound effect that dedicated mentorship and community engagement can have on young minds. 

]]> In episode 2 of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ co-hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Daniel Singleton, principal at P.S. 31 on Staten Island, to delve into his inspiring journey from a participant in Children's Aid programs to a pivotal figure in educational leadership.

Daniel reflects on his challenging upbringing during the 80s and 90s, a period marked by the crack epidemic, and how Children's Aid provided him with much-needed safety, structure, and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Now, as a principal, he shares how he’s improving his school and giving back to his community, illustrating the profound effect that dedicated mentorship and community engagement can have on young minds. 

]]> Thu, 03 Apr 2025 03:30:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 2327 In episode 2 of ‘Every Step of the Way,’ co-hosts Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe sit down with Daniel Singleton, principal at P.S. 31 on Staten Island, to delve into his inspiring journey from a participant in Children's Aid programs to a pivotal figure in educational leadership.

Daniel reflects on his challenging upbringing during the 80s and 90s, a period marked by the crack epidemic, and how Children's Aid provided him with much-needed safety, structure, and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Now, as a principal, he shares how he’s improving his school and giving back to his community, illustrating the profound effect that dedicated mentorship and community engagement can have on young minds. 

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Anthony Ramos Sandra Escamilla Georgia Boothe Daniel R. Singleton Growing Up and Giving Back 1 1 1 1 Growing Up and Giving Back full f8d4d92c-d2ea-48fe-aa83-1d1fe32b2278 https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/podcast/growing-up-and-giving-back In the inaugural episode of 'Every Step of the Way,' Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla, executive vice presidents at Children's Aid, co-host a deeply inspiring conversation with Frances Lopez, senior director of Family Support Services. A longtime leader at Children's Aid, Frances shares her remarkable journey from growing up in East Harlem to attending prestigious institutions like Stuyvesant High School, Brown University, and Columbia University. In this episode, we learn how the support from Children's Aid was pivotal in helping Frances overcome challenges and achieve success. Frances speaks passionately about her return to the community, her dedication to social work, and her role in the preventive services program at Children's Aid. 

]]> In the inaugural episode of 'Every Step of the Way,' Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla, executive vice presidents at Children's Aid, co-host a deeply inspiring conversation with Frances Lopez, senior director of Family Support Services. A longtime leader at Children's Aid, Frances shares her remarkable journey from growing up in East Harlem to attending prestigious institutions like Stuyvesant High School, Brown University, and Columbia University. In this episode, we learn how the support from Children's Aid was pivotal in helping Frances overcome challenges and achieve success. Frances speaks passionately about her return to the community, her dedication to social work, and her role in the preventive services program at Children's Aid. 

]]> Thu, 20 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0400 Children's Aid Children's Aid 1770 In the inaugural episode of 'Every Step of the Way,' Georgia Boothe and Sandra Escamilla, executive vice presidents at Children's Aid, co-host a deeply inspiring conversation with Frances Lopez, senior director of Family Support Services. A longtime leader at Children's Aid, Frances shares her remarkable journey from growing up in East Harlem to attending prestigious institutions like Stuyvesant High School, Brown University, and Columbia University. In this episode, we learn how the support from Children's Aid was pivotal in helping Frances overcome challenges and achieve success. Frances speaks passionately about her return to the community, her dedication to social work, and her role in the preventive services program at Children's Aid. 

]]> children, child welfare, social impact, child advocacy, non-profit No Anthony Ramos Frances Lopez Sandra Escamilla Georgia Boothe Introducing Every Step of the Way 1 1 Introducing Every Step of the Way trailer 4c0818dc-3e05-4d81-a9cd-0b8918e722ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/61187a4f From classrooms to boardrooms—Children's Aid alumni are making an impact every step of the way.


Hosted by Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe, executive vice presidents at Children’s Aid, this podcast brings you powerful stories of resilience, hope, and success.

  • Hear firsthand from alumni who’ve transformed their lives and communities with the support of Children's Aid.
  • Gain insights, tools, and tips you can use in your own life and work.
  • Be inspired by stories that prove how the right opportunities can change everything.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes that celebrate the journeys of those who took every step toward a brighter future.


Subscribe to “Every Step of the Way” on your favorite podcast platform.

 

]]> From classrooms to boardrooms—Children's Aid alumni are making an impact every step of the way.


Hosted by Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe, executive vice presidents at Children’s Aid, this podcast brings you powerful stories of resilience, hope, and success.

  • Hear firsthand from alumni who’ve transformed their lives and communities with the support of Children's Aid.
  • Gain insights, tools, and tips you can use in your own life and work.
  • Be inspired by stories that prove how the right opportunities can change everything.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes that celebrate the journeys of those who took every step toward a brighter future.


Subscribe to “Every Step of the Way” on your favorite podcast platform.

 

]]> Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:49:59 -0500 Children's Aid Children's Aid 58 From classrooms to boardrooms—Children's Aid alumni are making an impact every step of the way.


Hosted by Sandra Escamilla and Georgia Boothe, executive vice presidents at Children’s Aid, this podcast brings you powerful stories of resilience, hope, and success.

  • Hear firsthand from alumni who’ve transformed their lives and communities with the support of Children's Aid.
  • Gain insights, tools, and tips you can use in your own life and work.
  • Be inspired by stories that prove how the right opportunities can change everything.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes that celebrate the journeys of those who took every step toward a brighter future.


Subscribe to “Every Step of the Way” on your favorite podcast platform.

 

]]> Children, Children's Aid No Anthony Ramos Georgia Boothe Sandra Escamilla