Contact a foster care recruiter

Kia Granberry
(901) 252-7648
frankia.granberry@youthvillages.org

2009 Orientation and training schedule

Prospective foster parents have an option of choosing from two classes:
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about upcoming orientation and PATH (Parents as Tender Healers) training classes, please contact Kia Granberry at (901) 252-7648 or frankia.granberry@youthvillages.org.

Foster parent becomes dad to four boys through adoption

Ervin Frye had been working with children for years, but he never thought he would become a foster parent, let alone adopt. Today, the adoptive father of three is waiting to adopt his fourth son. He continues to be foster parent.

"My goal is to teach them responsibility, help them reach their goals and learn to do something for themselves," Frye says. "As long as I am doing my part, I know I am going to be blessed."

Michael was 13 when he came to live with Frye. He had just stayed for a few months when Youth Villages called the foster dad with an unexpected request. Michael needed a permanent home, and as his foster parent, Frye had the first right to adopt. His counselor wanted to know whether Frye would consider adoption.

Frye wanted to talk to Michael first. When Michael said he wanted to stay for good, Frye filed for adoption.

He has since also adopted two biological brothers -- Johnathan, 14, and Justice, 12. He is currently filing for adoption of his fourth son, Christopher, 10. The last one, he says, at least for now.

Frye is also a foster parent to a 15-year-old boy.

Michael, an outstanding son and student

Michael was tired of moving from foster home to foster home when he finally came to Ervin Frye's home. When Youth Villages called Frye to ask him whether he would adopt Michael, he and his foster dad had a very frank talk.

"I told him I would adopt him if he agreed to mind the house rules and to stay in school until he graduates," Frye says.

Michael gladly agreed. The handsome young man has been working hard in school since, and his hard work has paid off. He has been making the honor roll regularly at his high school, and his trumpet practice has earned him a spot on the school band.

"Congratulations, Michael," says Chebrew Leonard, his Youth Villages counselor. "You are an inspiration to all. Keep up the great work!" 

Chauntel graduates, prepares for college

Chauntel is a smart, young woman with a drive to achieve. After being placed in foster care at Youth Villages in the fall of 2006, Chauntel made a commitment to strive higher. She worked hard on personal goals she set with her counselor and foster mother and went from a 3.0 GPA to a 3.5 GPA. She also achieved several independent living goals, obtaining employment and learning to successfully balance her finances. But she recently also achieved two major life goals -- she was adopted by her foster mother in February and graduated from high school in May. Her next goal is to attend the University of Tennessee to pursue a degree in nursing.

"Congratulations, Chauntel, on all your achievements!" Cynthia Burks, a Youth Villages clinical liaison, says. "I commend you for your success, your energy, your amazing spirit and your willingness to work hard at whatever comes your way. You are a true inspiration, and we are all so proud of you!"