Seen, Heard, Loved
Virginia Kids Belong Creates Meaningful Moments For Foster Youth Waiting To Be Adopted
The Virginia Kids Belong I Belong Project is redefining what advocacy for children in foster care can look like by creating an experience rooted in joy, dignity, and connection. Coordinated by I Belong Project Manager Ashley Jones, the initiative brings together children in foster care who are available for adoption throughout Central Virginia for a special day designed to help them feel seen, celebrated, and supported while also increasing awareness about the urgent need for forever families.
The heart of the event centers around children between the ages of 6 and 17, an age group that often faces greater challenges when it comes to finding adoptive homes. While many people envision adoption involving infants or toddlers, the I Belong Project shines a light on older youth who are equally deserving of love, stability, and lifelong connection.
Throughout the day, children participate in professionally produced video sessions created specifically for each child. These personalized videos are shared with the public to help prospective families learn more about the children’s personalities, interests, dreams, and individuality. Rather than focusing solely on circumstances, the videos highlight who the children truly are — energetic, creative, funny, talented, thoughtful young people hoping for a family to call their own.
What makes the experience especially meaningful is the atmosphere intentionally created around the production process. Instead of feeling like an interview or formal recording session, the event is structured as a celebration filled with engaging activities and positive interactions. Volunteers are paired with children throughout the day, offering companionship, encouragement, and support while helping create a welcoming environment.
The venue transforms into a space filled with laughter and creativity as youth participate in activities such as board games, jewelry making, cookie decorating, karaoke, and other interactive experiences. These moments allow the children to relax, have fun, and simply enjoy being kids while volunteer videographers capture authentic candid moments that showcase their personalities naturally.
There is also a strong emphasis placed on helping each child feel confident and camera ready. Volunteer barbers and hairstylists donate their time and talents on site, providing haircuts, styling, and grooming services before filming begins. The attention to detail sends a powerful message to the youth participating: you matter, you are valued, and this moment is about celebrating you.
Beyond the activities and video production, the I Belong Project represents something much deeper. It creates visibility for children who are often overlooked and reminds communities that adoption conversations should include older youth as well. Every smile captured on camera, every encouraging conversation from a volunteer, and every personalized video shared publicly becomes part of a larger mission to help children find permanency and belonging.
For Ashley Jones and the team behind the I Belong Project, the goal extends beyond producing videos. It is about creating meaningful human connection and ensuring children feel supported during every step of the process. By combining advocacy with compassion and creativity, the event continues to make a lasting impact on both the children participating and the communities learning their stories.
In a world where many foster youth simply want the chance to be noticed, the I Belong Project provides something powerful: visibility, hope, and the possibility of a forever home.
