Founder of Foster Care Awareness, Ernesto Cividanes, MS, MBA, is a dynamic speaker, community leader, and advocate whose life’s work is rooted in turning adversity into purpose. With a unique blend of corporate leadership and heartfelt mission, Ernesto inspires audiences to lead with empathy, rise above life’s challenges, and take meaningful action that transforms families and communities. Whether he’s speaking on faith, foster care, or the power of compassion in leadership, Ernesto’s message moves people to see beyond circumstance—and step boldly into service, purpose, and change. Learn more about Ernesto here.
181 S. 707, Cowpens, SC 29330
Has been postponed due to ice storm in SC. Check back for new presentation date.
14 S Main St., Greenville, SC 29601
In this presentation, Ernesto shares how compassion often grows out of adversity—the struggles, losses, and challenges that shape who we are. When we face hardship, our hearts are softened to the pain of others, giving us a deeper understanding of what it means to hurt and to heal. True compassion turns that understanding into purpose, transforming personal trials into a force for good. By using the lessons of our own adversity, we find the courage to act, to serve, and to lift others who are walking through their own difficult seasons—proving that even our hardest moments can become the foundation for hope and positive change.
For men and their sons only: Join Ernesto at Prince of Peace Fraternus Chapter. Ernesto will discuss how faith-filled compassion is more than a feeling—it’s the spark that moves us from awareness to meaningful action. When we allow ourselves to truly see the pain or struggles of others, compassion becomes a call to serve, to lead, and to create change. It transforms empathy into purpose, connecting our hearts with our hands. By leading with compassion, we not only uplift those around us but also build stronger, more unified communities where kindness drives progress and service becomes a shared mission.
Ernesto will discuss his personal journey into Foster Care and the different ways of getting involved. The Bair Foundation will be available for those ready for the next step. Address: 300 East Rutledge Avenue Gaffney, SC 29340