ABOUT THE FOUNDATION
We believe support should not disappear when a placement, circumstance, or family situation changes.
The Ones Who Stayed Foundation, Inc. is a developing nonprofit rooted in lived experience and a commitment to children and young people affected by foster care.
Our purpose is to provide consistent, meaningful support to children and youth in foster care, former foster youth, and the families and caregivers who care for them. We believe trust grows when people show up, follow through, and continue to care through life's transitions.
To build lasting relationships and connect youth and families with mentoring, advocacy, education, and practical support—especially during periods of change.
A community where no child feels forgotten when a placement changes, a service ends, or adulthood begins—and where caregivers have support along the way.
We want young people to have dependable relationships, not another temporary connection.
Foster, biological, kinship, and adoptive families all play important roles in a child's life and may need encouragement and resources.
From entering care to reunification, a new placement, adoption, or independent adulthood, transitions should not mean facing challenges alone.
The foundation was founded by Chris Gathof, a former foster youth, author, and youth advocate. His experience—both growing up in care and working with young people and families—shaped a simple conviction: a child should not have to start over with every change in their life.
Our name reflects the people who remain present when things become difficult. Learn more about the experiences that inspired this mission on our Our Story page.