Incredible surprise awaits former foster kid at half marathon finish line
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 พ.ค. 2024
- When first-gen college student and former foster kid Abel crossed his half marathon finish line, he had no idea that he was about to receive a whole lot more than a medal. Watch the emotional moment.
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Abel is a former foster kid and college freshman running a half marathon alongside his long-time mentor, Connor. What Abel doesn’t know is there’s more than just a medal waiting for him at the finish line.
From navigating the challenges of foster care from a young age, protecting and guiding his seven younger siblings through years of uncertainty, to becoming the first in his family to attend college-Abel has shown remarkable resilience and determination. His story, intertwined with the profound mentorship provided by Connor, consistent support from National Angels, and the unwavering love of his adoptive parents is a powerful reminder of the impact deep, meaningful relationships can have on our lives.
This story is an emotional testament to the incredible impact a community can have when it comes together to celebrate one of its most deserving young people.
Watch our video about National Angels to learn more about their incredible work with Abel and his family ► • Why so many foster fam...
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Watch more videos about the people working to heal American families and children in our Healing Families playlist ► • Strong & Safe Communities
And visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org/
An unreal day that we will never forget. Of course, being donated a car is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but this kind of community support is possible and necessary for every child and family experiencing foster care. So thankful for everyone who made this happen. ❤️
This is what it looks like to show up in INTENTIONAL ways for our youth! What Abel needed was transportation to be able to show up for his family. This is truly not about the car-it is about our community coming together to help meet the REAL needs of children, youth and families. The only way to know what those needs are is through relationships that are built and consistently showing up. The only one size fits all answer to changing the lives of people in our communities is people. People need people. I am so proud to be a part of this national network of changemakers! ❤
Thank you for highlighting the importance of intentional support and community involvement. You're absolutely right-it's not just about the car, but about understanding and meeting the real needs of our youth through meaningful relationships and consistent engagement. Thank you for your commitment and passion!
There is not a more incredible organization out there than the National Angels. Just more proof and evidence of this incredible organization changing lives one kid at a time. Congratulations Abel, Conner, and Meredith for completing that race; I am beyond excited that the National Angels Ironman Team has grown in size...2025 here we come! Subaru...I am officially a fan...Stand Together...incredible job once again on bring powerful messages and stories to the world!
I couldn't be more proud to be part of this team of changemakers!!!
This one gets me - THIS is how we change foster care. Not with stuff (although that car is the most amazing, life changing gift ever!) but with relationships. Consistency. Love. What a great honor to be a part of this work! What an amazing family, can't wait to support many many more like this and see our country transform!
Absolutely! Relationships, consistency, and love are indeed at the heart of transforming foster care. It's inspiring to see the impact of such deep, meaningful connections, and we're thrilled that you feel honored to be part of this important work. Thank you for your commitment to supporting families and helping drive transformation across the country.
This was the BEST DAY EVER!!!
Such a deserving young man!! So grateful to have had the opportunity to capture this magical moment!
This video shows what could be possible for every child in foster care when a community comes together. So freaking inspiring. Abel deserves this, and so does every other child who is experiencing foster care. They all deserve a supportive environment that uplifts them, provides them with opportunities, and gives them the love and resources they need to thrive. By coming together as a community, we can create a future where every child can realize their full potential. I believe that every little bit of help, every small act of kindness can create ripples of change in a child's life. Another great video. This one is the most inspiring yet.
I've watched this at least four times now and it still makes me cry! It's the selfless love and unwavering belief that every kid is worthy of a whole and fulfilling life and a chance at their version of success. This is true of Abel and his siblings, and every child experiencing foster care. My hope is that every single one of them would experience the same wrap around community support!
Exactly! Thank you so much for watching!
Look at that community showing up for him! Incredible and life changing.
This is what it is all about. The community stepping in to help is what it is all about. We can change the way people experience foster care, one child at a time.
"I believe it. I believe it. I believe it." This is not a story about a car. It's a story about how we speak life and hope back into others. Well done, y'all.
I am completely inspired by Abel, Connor, and the Angels' mission. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
This story broke me. 😭😭😭. This is what happens when a community shows up to support their own. Well done National Angels. Changing the stats and narrative that surrounds foster care one child at a time.
WOW! This is incredible! The tears are rolling down my cheeks in the best way!!
Wow! 😭 Abel- you are an inspiration!! Community. Intentional Giving. Relationship Building. Radical Support. Let's Go! Stand Together and National Angels! City Limits Subaru and the Grandma Brigade 💞
Such an amazing community and an incredible story!!
This is an incredible story of community, generosity and love! Congrats to Abel and I can't wait to get involved in my own city!🙏
What an incredible moment - and an incredible story! There is so much hope. This is the power of consistency. This is the power of community! Transformation is happening, and there is so much more potential ahead.
Couldn't agree more!
I saw the other video about National Angels last week and it blew me away. Now this!? Wrapping community around young people like Abel. Wrapping community around families who've made the step to foster. It's so straightforward. Totally inspired.
Community support really does make a huge difference, both for individuals like Abel and foster families stepping up. We're glad you're feeling inspired and hope you keep enjoying and sharing our videos!
He looks like such a good young man, and I just know he will amount to greatest things and his siblings too with him as a role model. He also seemed so genuinely appreciative and grateful.
Well, that seals the deal-grab your tissues, everyone, because this is a real tearjerker in the best possible way. Connor looks like such an incredible mentor, and Abel is going to change the world. The most powerful part was the ending was when she said "I believe it, I believe it, I believe it!" And so do I, I think National Angels is transforming foster care, and it's amazing to witness this incredible transformation happening all of over the country. Abel is just one of many stories waiting to be told. So many kids. So much opportunity. BEAUTIFUL.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt response! Connor and Abel's journey together highlights the profound impact that dedicated mentorship and genuine belief in someone's potential can have. National Angels is indeed working hard to transform foster care, and stories like Abel's are a testament to the positive changes happening nationwide.
We are so grateful for everyone who joined us that day. The turnout was incredible, with four news stations, the City Limits Subaru team, our entire staff, volunteers and all those who hold Abel and his family dear. It was a true display of community spirit, and an unbelievable celebration! A day none of us will forget. Abel's journey has been one of resilience, and overcoming challenges and we can't wait to see where he soars next! He is one of the most remarkable young people I have ever met. I will never forget what he said about his experience in foster care: "We refuse to be defined by statistics; foster care has not defined us, but rather refined us."
The gift of transportation signifies the removal of a significant barrier in his path. At our core, we believe deeply in 'empowerment'. We empower our community to take action rooted in the belief that we have responsibility to one another. Together, we remove barriers to create lasting change--and on that day, we lived this out. #BetterTogether as we #StandTogether
Your reflection on that day captures the essence of what community and empowerment are all about. We are deeply thankful to everyone involved and it’s truly heartening to see such a vibrant display of community spirit. Abel’s perspective on his foster care experience is profoundly inspiring, and his journey of resilience is a beacon of hope and strength for many. Thank you for leading such a transformative effort, and we look forward to continuing to support Abel and many others as they soar to new heights. Your work embodies the true spirit of empowerment!
This is how we change foster care!!!!
absolutely incredible!
😭😭👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 beautiful!!!
One child at a time!!!
I believe it too!🤩
Beautiful video, saw that ad
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This is how we change foster care!!!!
💜💜💜🫶🏻8888
Amazing. This is what’s needed in the world today