"As long as I'm alive, he has a place. And I know as long as my daughter is alive, he has a place. We are a family."
When Elizabeth reflects on her foster care journey, those are the words that come to mind.
As an empty nester, she was enjoying a full and active life, spending her free time pursuing interests like dancing and embracing the independence that came with a new season of life. She wasn't actively searching for a new chapter. Yet when she learned about foster care through Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), she felt the importance of opening her home and heart to a young person.
In 2025, Elizabeth welcomed a foster youth into her home, embarking on a journey that would reshape her understanding of belonging and reveal the lasting impact of being there for someone when they need it most.
The Journey
Elizabeth first learned about LSSNCA’s foster care program online.
"I read a story about an LSSNCA foster family in The Washington Post," Elizabeth recalls. "The article said, 'If you think you're too old, single, or have any reason you might think you won't be a good fit, please learn more,’ or something to that effect. That really stood out to me."
At the time, Elizabeth had already raised two children of her own who were now adults. Yet something about that message resonated with her.
The article included information about LSSNCA, and the agency's office happened to be near a dance studio where she took lessons. One day after class, she decided to stop by.
"I met with a staff member, and she walked me through the program. That was it. I took the first step."
For Elizabeth, becoming a foster parent began with a simple desire to help.
"The most important thing was that I wanted to do it [be a foster parent]," she says. "I didn't know exactly what to expect, but the willingness was there."
She knew she couldn't put it off.
"I'm not getting any younger, and I felt like if I was going to do it, I needed to do it now."
Elizabeth found the licensing process overwhelming at first.
"There was tons and tons of paperwork," she says. "It felt like a lot."
Her advice to families thinking about becoming a foster parent?
"Just take it one step at a time."
As she got closer to welcoming the youth into her home, reality began to set in. But LSSNCA’s support eased much of the stress.
"[LSSNCA staff] provide a lot of help, and that was very reassuring."
Before meeting her foster son in person, Elizabeth spoke with him virtually while he was living in California.
"You don't know if personalities will match," she says. "I'm an introvert."
As they talked, she noticed something familiar
"Based on the questions I asked and his responses, I sensed he was introverted, too. We both value our alone time, and I thought maybe we wouldn't be frustrated with each other," she says with a laugh.
She also appreciated that he was an older teenager because she enjoys pursuing her own activities and interests.
“A teenager can be independent, and that's exactly how it worked out."
At First Sight
When her foster son arrived in Virginia in September 2025, Elizabeth experienced a moment she'll never forget.
"When he arrived and I looked into his big brown eyes," she says with tear-filled eyes. "I knew I would love him. It was instant love."
At 16 years old, he had spent several years living in California and attending school while residing in a group home. Their first few weeks were busy as they navigated appointments, school, and settling into a new life together.
Communication wasn't always easy. He spoke Portuguese fluently and learned Spanish while living in California.
English was still a work in progress.
Yet despite language barriers — and Elizabeth's own hearing challenges — the two found ways to connect.
"We manage just fine," she says with a smile.
Like many teenagers, he enjoyed spending time with friends, staying connected on his phone, and retreating to his room. But he also flourished in school and built a strong social network.
This year, he is graduating from high school.
Looking Ahead
"He wants to continue playing soccer, and he wants to pursue a career in computer security."
Soccer is his passion. Elizabeth supports him by attending games and encouraging healthy habits — even when they disagree about one important topic:
"I keep telling him how important sleep is for an athlete," she says with a laugh. "Teenagers don't always agree."
Whether he's chasing his dream of becoming a professional soccer player or building a future in technology, Elizabeth is committed to supporting him every step of the way.
Committed to Love and Care
Elizabeth knows how important it is for her foster son to stay connected with relatives in the United States and overseas. But he also knows he has a permanent support system in Virginia.
“His brother and cousin will travel from California to attend his graduation this year.”
A very exciting time for everyone.
As she prepares for her foster son to embark on his next chapter in life, Elizabeth reiterates her commitment to show up for him as needed.
"You don't stop loving somebody just because they reach a certain age," she says.
Become a Foster Parent
When asked what she would tell someone considering becoming a foster parent, Elizabeth shares,
"My experience has been really good. I'm glad I did it."
She emphasizes that fostering is a personal decision and that every family should carefully consider its own capacity and commitment. But she also believes every child deserves someone who truly wants them and won't give up on them.
"I think these young people are entitled to someone who wants them, who is committed to them, and who is willing to stay."
Like Elizabeth, you may discover that fostering is not about having all the answers — it's about opening your heart and taking the first step.
LSSNCA provides training, guidance, and ongoing support throughout the foster care journey. If you've ever wondered whether you could make a difference in the life of a child or teenager, now is the time to explore the possibility.
Learn more about fostering with LSSNCA in the Washington, D.C. metro area and help provide the stability, support, and sense of belonging every young person deserves.
