When Blessed Michael J. McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882, his mission was clear—protect and support the most vulnerable, beginning with the widows and orphans of his parish. Today, our St. Louis Martin Council carries that same torch of charity forward by championing the needs of foster children in Loudoun County. We are committed to raising awareness about the urgent need for foster parents, increasing the number of foster parents approved to welcome these children, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with foster families who open their hearts and homes. In doing so, we live out the very mission entrusted to us by our founder—faith in action for those who need it most.

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What is Foster Care?

Foster care is a protective service provided to children in the custody of the Department of Family Services. It provides temporary care for when a child, through no fault of their own, must be separated from his/her own parents or relatives due to issues in the home. Foster parents provide a safe, stable environment for these children in need. 

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Children in Foster Care

Loudoun County needs more approved foster parents to address the current need. Children in foster care range in age from birth to 21 years old; most are 11 years old and older. These children come from diverse backgrounds and may have experienced abuse, neglect or lived in families in need of supportive services. The needs of a child in foster care can vary but all children in foster care have a need for safety, security, and well-being. 

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How can you help?  Become an approved Foster Parent / Family!  

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2. Become a Mentor to a Foster Child Who Ages Out:  Every year, 500 youth age out of foster care in Virginia. Statistics show that forging connections through mentorship is a critical factor in the future success of foster children who age out of the system:

• 93% of connected youth are working on completing their education. 53% are pursuing post-secondary or skilled trades.

• Less than 1% of foster boys who age out, who are connected to a Mentoring Family, have had any interaction with the law.

• Less than 5% of girls connected to a Mentoring Family have become pregnant.

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Our Council has partnered with Project Belong on their Don't Go Alone program to help these youth who age out by becoming mentors in their journey of life. Mentoring information sessions are coming up where you can learn more about mentoring for those in need:

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• Don't Go Alone Info Session: Thursday, April 29, 2026 | 7pm-7:30pm

• Don't Go Alone Mentor Training: Wednesday & Thursday, May 13 & 14, 2026 | 6:30pm-8:00pm

• Don't Go Alone Info Session: Sunday, August 02, 2026 | 7pm-7:30pm

• Don't Go Alone Mentor Training: Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm

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