Ernesto started a computer consulting business after graduating college. After 4 years, he entered the world of pharmaceutical sales. After several promotions, he left as Director of National Accounts and started working at Foster Care Awareness by traveling cross-country and bringing special meals to many orphanages and foster care families. It would not be until 2024 that he would formalize the organization and open the doors to many more families. Ernesto was a foster dad to two children for more than 2 years and has 4 biological children of his own. He says “Since the moment I held my first-born, I realized I had a passion for family.   Balancing life and work is imperative and although I can get side tracked, I always go back to the center: loving my family.  Then we decided to foster care and that was the beginning of an eye-opening experience. We saw first-had the tremendous need these children have. That’s why we decided to start the Foster Care Awareness non-profit organization.”

Laura moved from Puerto Rico to Florida when she got married at the age of 21 when she had just finished college.  She was the foster care mom for two children and has 4 biolocal children of her own. Laura homeschools her children and has a simple approach to her faith which has carried her all her life.  Laura tries to stay as “child” and God has always protected her. Her and her husband, Ernesto, have taken on challenges that she never thought she would. Laura says “We have now seen half the country and I can’t wait to see more!  I pray that you are open to God’s will.”

Dr. JP Keener serves as Director of Education and STEM Initiatives for Foster Care Awareness, bringing more than two decades of experience in curriculum design, instructional leadership, and science education. As Science and STEM Director for Broward County Public Schools—one of the nation’s largest districts—Dr. Keener has led professional development, program innovation, and international STEM collaborations that inspire both educators and students. His expertise in creating engaging, evidence-based learning environments supports Foster Care Awareness in developing high-quality educational and enrichment programs for youth in care, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential.

Nancy is a homeschooling mom of 3 boys.  She has been using the classical approach to education with her children for 11 years and was thrilled to find an option that incorporated our Catholic faith.  The classical approach, teaching of religious doctrine, art and science projects and opportunity for a Catholic homeschooling community is what really inspired her to open a chapter for Catholic Schoolhouse.  Nancy and her family moved from Houston, TX in 2017 where she served as Co-Director for the Catholic Schoolhouse chapter there.  She is excited to be able to operate a chapter here and make Catholic Schoolhouse available to more families in South Florida!

Dr. Taylor Sears, M.D., is a respected Gaffney-based physician and community health advocate who serves as Medical Advisor for Foster Care Awareness. A graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina with extensive experience in family and pediatric medicine, Dr. Sears is dedicated to improving access to quality healthcare for children and families across the Upstate. His leadership ensures that Foster Care Awareness programs maintain the highest medical and wellness standards while promoting compassionate, community-based care for youth in need.

Christopher Ortiz is a licensed real estate broker and community leader serving as Director of Housing and Operations for Foster Care Awareness. As Owner and Broker-in-Charge of Community First Realty, Chris brings extensive experience in property management, development, and community partnerships. His practical knowledge of housing logistics, zoning, and local development initiatives plays a vital role in securing safe, stable, and family-oriented homes for children and foster families. Deeply committed to community growth and service, Chris ensures that every housing effort aligns with the organization’s mission to provide nurturing environments where children can thrive.

serves as Director of Case Management and Family Services for Foster Care Awareness, bringing over 15 years of experience in ORR-funded and foster care programs. She previously supervised case management for unaccompanied children at Pecos Children’s Center and served as a bilingual remote supervisor with Endeavors, ensuring ORR compliance and leading reunification efforts across medical, educational, and legal providers. Naya’s background with 4Kids of South Florida and His House Children’s Home includes trauma-informed clinical training, foster-family support, and leadership of after-school and therapeutic programs for at-risk youth. Her extensive experience and compassionate approach ensure that every child and family served by Foster Care Awareness receives the guidance, care, and advocacy needed for lasting stability and hope.