“As we stand together, united by our mission, we can trust that we will find the strength to overcome whatever lies ahead.”
I recently came across a powerful idea: when reflecting on gratitude, don’t just think about what you’re grateful for—think about who you’re grateful for. That thought stayed with me. In times of stress and uncertainty, gratitude for the people who support you can help create a mindset of resilience and connection.
Since the very beginning, A Better Chance for Our Children has believed that challenging times are not just obstacles; they are lessons. They reveal our strength, show us who we can count on, and remind us of what truly matters. As we stand together, united by our mission, we can trust that we will find the strength to overcome whatever lies ahead.
Our work is—and always has been—about people and relationships. Ensuring that children grow up in safe, loving families requires building strong connections with them, earning their trust, and providing unending support. None of this would be possible without our dedicated, skilled, and hardworking team. Their commitment is the driving force behind our mission, and the relationships they build with children and families are the heart and soul of everything we do.
So today, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who plays a role in making a difference. To those who step up to provide a child with a permanent family—thank you for giving your family for a child. To those who give generously to ensure our mission continues—thank you for supporting our children, families, and team. You are helping us change the world, one child at a time.
NUMBER OF CHILDREN HELPED BY PROGRAM
144 Delaware children who received post-permanency services
109
Children supported through adoption or foster care services
54 Children helped in family court cases
107 Kids supported through ICPC (Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children)
MEET THE SPEECHLEY FAMILY
THE STARFISH STORY
A young girl was walking along a beach upon which thousands of starfish had been washed up during a terrible storm. When she came to each starfish, she would pick it up, and throw it back into the ocean.
She had been doing this for some time when a man approached her and said, “Little girl, why are you doing this? Look at this beach! You can’t save all these starfish. You can’t begin to make a difference!”
The girl bent down, picked up another starfish, and hurled it as far as she could into the ocean. Then she looked up at the man and replied,
“Well, I made a difference for that one!”
The old man looked at the girl inquisitively and thought about what she had done and said. Inspired, he joined the little girl in throwing starfish back into the sea.
STARFISH CIRCLE 2024
Our Starfish Circle recognizes individuals who have made gifts of $500 and greater. We are deeply appreciative for their support and partnership in changing the world, one child at a time.
Gerald and Jennifer Baker
Chuck and Elsje Bean
Michael and Katie Beyer
Lori Captain
Vaughn and Debbie Charlton
Robin Duquella
Daniel and Mary Lou Edgar
Joseph Edgar and Family
Brian and Susan Gallagher
Meg Garey and Mike Karpyn
Mary Ann Korb
Ed and Veronica Gordon
John and Meg Grieshaber
David and Sarah Holliday
Lawrence Iorii
Doug Kook
Benjamin Mell
Thomas Moore Jr. and Mariann Kenville-Moore
Lisa Peyton Mc Neill
Amy Renwick
Gina and Tyler Robinson
Jess and Matt Sinarski
Michael and Michelle Speechley
Robert Valihura and Debra Pace
Michael and Mary Jo Wolfe
Ron Zambrano
Supporting Delaware’s Children: Meet Pam Starling
1. You retired after a long career in social work and child welfare but then came to work at ABCFOC. What drove you to return to work and specifically, for ABCFOC?
When I decided to retire from DFS, I knew that I would have to continue to work. As a DFS permanency worker, I had the opportunity to work with ABCFOC. The agency was always held in high regard, especially the founder, Mary Lou; a lot of our families requested to work with ABCFOC only. When ABCFOC team member, Celeste Bishop heard was I retiring, she approached me and asked what my future plans were, and we discussed me possibly coming to ABCFOC. I truly believe it was meant for me to be at ABCFOC.
2. Tell us a little bit about what you do here at ABCFOC.
I wear many hats at ABCFOC. My newest role at ABCFOC is overseeing the Rec-n-Respite program where children between the ages of 6 - 14 spend the day at ABCFOC while their parents get a break. I really enjoy working with children, spending time with them and making a positive impact on their lives along with their parents’ lives. One parent whose child has attended R-n-R for years stated that she sees ABCFOC as “her village.” She believes that if she did not have us in her life, things would be ten times worse.
3. What is it about the work we do that touches you the most personally?
I have always had a BIG HEART and a caring nature. At the end of the day, I can come home and feel good about the lives that I have touched. I really enjoy what I do. I have inspired my daughter to also want to work with children and this makes me feel so happy. I have met so many families and children doing this job. I see them during their happiest times and during their most challenging times. For me, to be there and to be able to help lets me know that my living is not in vain, there is purpose and meaning to my work.
4. Share a moment where you thought, “Okay, our work is making a difference, this is why I get out of bed every day.”
I’ve had many in my long career, but one that stands out is when I received a referral for a 15-yearold who wanted to be adopted. He came into care because his long-term guardian passed away unexpectedly. This young man was so exceptional, and I felt from the beginning that I would not have a problem finding an adoptive family for him. He ended up being adopted by one of our ABCFOC families and I still think about their first meeting. Seeing the process from the beginning to the end and seeing the adoption finalized when he was 17 was a very special moment in my life.
Pam Starling Child and Family Specialist Milford RNR Program Supervisor
“At the end of the day, I can come home and feel good about the lives that I have touched. I really enjoy what I do.”
Every child deserves a safe, loving, and permanent family.
We cannot do this work alone and we are so grateful for each and every gift of support. Together we can work to ensure our children and families receive the support and care they deserve and need.
FOUNDATIONS
America’s Charities
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
CAF Charities Aid Foundation of America
Crystal Trust
The Discover Brighter Futures Fund
Highmark Delaware Fund of the Delaware Community Foundation
Leonardo Schubert Foundation
Speedway Children’s Charities, Dover Motor Speedway Chapter
Spur Impact Association
United Way of Delaware
Wilmington Flower Market
GIFTS IN HONOR AND MEMORY
We are especially humbled to receive donations in honor and in memory of your loved ones.
Patrick Arkins for George Arkins
Kathleen Canning for Helen Holiday
Laurie Coventry for Georgette Williams
Gerald and Candace Dunning for Karen Wilson
Daniel and Mary Lou Edgar for Rita Simon
Thomas and Marilyn Finger for Karen Wilson
Michael and Kathy Goldsmith for Karen Wilson
Grandma Jordan Fund for Karen Wilson
Tesa Patrice Greene for Edwardson Greene Sr.
Mary Holland for Andy Meyer
Joseph and Barbara Inter for Karen Wilson
Carrie Larson for Tom Larson
Linda Ramig for Virgie Ramig
Amy Renwick for Jamie and David
Garry and Gail Ridgeway for Karen Wilson
Michelle Skoranski for Grandma and Grandpa Johnston
Venus Smith for Lashainnia Navarro
Mary Swan for Mary Arkins
Keera Trubiano for Gaige Dehaven and Skylar Jones
YOU CAN DOUBLE YOUR DONATION WITH A MATCHING GIFT! ASK YOUR EMPLOYER! DID YOU KNOW?
BENEFIT CONCERT HOSTED BY VICTOR STOEHR
Bette and David Van Kavelaar
Susan Brook
Jason and Lois Stoehr
Alan and Marcia Williamson
Alan and Cynthia Carter-Wedgewood
Joan/Kathryn Moore/Gorsky
MATCHING GIFTS
Bank of America
Johnson & Johnson
JP Morgan Chase
USB
INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES
Adventure Aquarium
Tyshawn Allston
Lymari Arkins
Patrick Arkins
Arthur Hall Insurance
Jess B. Enterprises
Bachetti Bros.
Barclays
Charles and Elsje Bean
Ruby Bellamy
Jacqueline Benson
Michael and Katie Beyer
Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children
Emily Bishop
Chonnie Blair
Sarah Bond
Shauntyle Bradford
Brandywine Museum of Art
Bob Bryfogle and Son, Inc.
Basia Bubel & Michael Kimpel
Jennifer Burnett
Charlene Butasi
Janice Campbell
Kathleen Canning
Lori Captain
Shannon Cipolla
Stephanie Cirafesi
Almenia Cohen
Corrinda Collick
Continental Jewelers
Laurie Coventry
INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES
Dave and Buster’s
Delaware Art Museum
Delaware Theatre Company
Alexa Dembek
Dewey Beach Lions Club
Nicholas and Nicole Dibuono
Diamond Mechanical, Inc.
Kathy Dooley
Yvette Drazich
Tina Duff
Justin Duquella
Robin Duquella
Gerald and Candace Dunning
Yvette Drazich
Daniel and Mary Lou Edgar
Monica Edgar
Joseph Edgar and Family
Kelly Ensslin
Emily Evans
Rebecca Feathers
Edward and Barbara Fersht
Michael Fischer
Fork
Diana Gaiss
Thomas and Marilyn Finger
Gallagher Fluid Seals
Joe Gallagher
Susan and Brian Gallagher
Meg Garey and Mike Karpyn
Mike and Liz Garey
Zonnie Gebeh
GFP Cement Contractors LLC
Arnita Gibson
Danielle and Corey Giddins
Michael and Kathy Goldsmith
Melissa Gonville
Martha Gopal
Ed and Veronica Gordon
John and Meg Greishaber
Highmark Delaware Fund of the Delaware Community Foundation
Heather Holiday and Benjamin Mell
Mary Holland
Sarah and David Holliday
Gonser and Gonser
Tracy Ignatieff
Joseph and Barbara Inter
Lawrence Iorii
Michele and John Karpyn
Catherine Kearns
Elizabeth Kelly - Johnson
Deborah Kerley
Lynda Keyser
Chip and Cindy Knapp
Doug Kook
Mary Ann Korb
Korb Counseling
Larsen & Landis Inc
Carrie Larson
Aaron and Laurie Lattomus
Lawn Doctor
Stephanie Leight
Gene Longo
Longwood Gardens
Lianna Magerr
Colleen Maglione
Anna Marie Studio
Mike McAfee
Brian McCurdy and Steve Crooks
Paula McEvoy
Gina McKinney
Robert and Christine McMahan
Metanoia Counseling
Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League
Donna Mell
Thomas Meyer
John Milroy
Thomas Moore Jr. and Mariann Kenville-Moore
Amy Morgan
Lisa Morgan
Michael Mortimer
Morton, Valihura & Zerbato
Nicole Mozee
Chez Nicole Salon
Note to Self Wellness
Elaine O’Connell
Noreen O’Grady
Susan Oldenburg
Nancy Outten
Glen and Nicole Outten
Amber Patti
Cherie Patti
Peco’s Liquors
Shana Petruccelli
Lisa Peyton Mcneill
Philadelphia Museum of Illusions
Porsche Club of America
Delaware Region
Christine Pratts
Megan and David Price
Maribeth and Rich Przywara
Linda Ramig
Angela Randazzo
Kimberly Ranshaw-Ford
Lee Raymond
Jenny Reed-Shaw
Rehoboth Art League
Amy Renwick
Ericka Ricketts
Bridgette Riess
Garry and Gail Ridgeway
Gina and Tyler Robinson
Jennifer Saienni
Sanctuary Spa
Siegel JCC
Matt and Jess Sinarski
Michelle Skoranski
Sister Mary Smith
Venus Smith
Anna Sollenberger
Sourcepass
Michelle and Mike Speechley
St. Thomas the Apostle
Knights of Columbus
Pam Starling
Grace Stockley
Beth and Chris Swan
Mary Swan
Total Wine & More
Keera Trubiano
Marty and Anne Trumpler
Chris Turner
Kaddy Turner
Unlimited Construction Co., Inc.
Ellen Uzelac
Robert Valihura and Debra Pace
Bernard VanOgtrop
Poppy Ward
Trudy Watkins
Deborah Warren
Karin and Mark Weining
Winterthur
Mary Jo and Michael Wolfe
April Woods
WSFS Cares Foundation
Ron Zambrano
the
You’ll Never Walk Alone
Last November, ABCFOC hosted our annual fundraiser, Music from the Heart, a night filled with music, inspiration, and generosity. In a special moment, our dedicated staff joined in a musical performance, showcasing the deep connection between our team and our mission. The evening also marked the unveiling of our new logo, symbolizing our continued growth and commitment to serving children and families.
A particularly moving part of the event was a heartfelt poem read by Aribeth Heller, a young woman who left the foster care system at the age of 18 without a permanent family, sharing her powerful journey and resilience. Additionally, we proudly launched our annual giving society, Friends of ABC, bringing together supporters dedicated to sustaining our vital work.
Through the generosity of our donors, we raised over $69,000 in unrestricted funds, ensuring continued support for the children and families we serve. Music from the Heart was a true celebration of community, hope, and the impact of post-permanency support.
SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS!
Arthur Hall Insurance
Barclays
Chuck and Elsje Bean
Beau Biden Foundation
Bumpers and Co.
Lori Captain
Dewson Construction
Dan and Mary Lou Edgar
Robin Duquella
Frederica Pizza
GFP Companies
Meg Garey and Mike Karpyn
Gonser and Gonser
John and Meg Grieshaber
Sarah and David Holliday
Larsen and Landis Construction
Lawn Doctor
Thomas Moore Jr and Mariann Kenville-Moore
Morton, Valihura and Zerbato, LLC
Amy Renwick
Gina and Tyler Robinson
Jess and Matt Sinarski
St. Thomas Knights of Columbus
Unlimited Construction
WSFS
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE: A NEW RESOURCE FOR PARENTS
Although every guardianship, permanent guardianship, and adoption journey is different, there is one constant – caregivers need connection and support! In 2024, we supported 949 families in Delaware with a new publication, An Insider’s Guide, which we developed as part of our post-permanency program.
An Insider’s Guide was created to provide guidance, resources, and quick tips specific to different age groups. The realities of caring for any child can change year to year (if not day to day!). This is especially true for children whose stories include separation from their birth parents and a difficult early history. As they grow, new challenges arise. Sometimes, problems surface due to developmental or capacity issues previously unidentified and unanticipated. Other times, troubles are due to new questions children have about their story. A child’s perspective and understanding of their story changes at different developmental stages. Therefore, we send the guide each time a child enters a new age range.
In 2024, we created six issues segmented by age range and one special edition on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. This publication is one of the many components of our robust post permanency program, which is available at no cost to any family in Delaware that has adopted a child or received guardianship or permanent guardianship of a child.
Scan the QR code below to take a look at our Special Edition: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
The Power of Post-Permanency Support: An Adoptive Family’s Journey
Am I doing this right? Am I thinking clearly? These are questions most parents ask, but for adoptive parents like Mandy and Keith Prowitz, the stakes feel even higher. We sat down with Mandy to discuss their challenges and how ABCFOC’s post-permanency support services have been a lifeline.
“The hardest thing for me as a parent has been managing teenager anger that is there because of all the trauma they’ve endured. This anger gets thrown on us a lot because we are safe people. They know we aren’t going anywhere. And I know this logically but when you’re being called terrible names and that you’re not their mom, it’s incredibly difficult. One of our kids was born addicted to cocaine, and we deal with the long-term effects.
Handling their big emotions while they push us away is tough. I constantly ask myself, ‘Is this normal teenage angst, or a trauma response?’ because they require different parenting approaches. And I don’t always guess right!” Mandy chuckled.
“Whenever I struggle—whether with trauma responses, setting boundaries, or feeling overwhelmed—I turn to Amber, our Child and Family Specialist at ABCFOC. When my son slapped their sister, I called Amber in a panic. My daughter was terrified, and my son was angry. Amber suggested finding a temporary place for my son, which helped
us work through it. That solution never would have occurred to me. When I’m in the middle of a crisis, even at 3 am, I can text them for support. Being able to reach out is just so incredible.
Amber also connected me with another adoptive mom of five, now a close friend. She had faced similar struggles and even recommended our amazing child therapist. The first time we met up for lunch, I just sat there and cried. Our connection has been invaluable.
Amber is great at pushing me to think beyond emotions. She’ll ask, ‘Is that how you really feel, or just emotions talking?’ She would help me take a step back and look at things from a different perspective. If she doesn’t know the answer, she finds out. We are usually on the same page when it comes to decisions but even if they don’t 100% agree with what we choose they always have our back.
ABCFOC supports parents every step of the way. When we adopted our one daughter, they gave us a $500 Target gift card since her foster mom refused to give us her belongings. My kids also love the Christmas presents ABCFOC provides.
ABCFOC’s post-permanency support is crucial. Adoption is unique—these kids need to be parented differently, and we need different support. Having a community that truly understands makes all the difference.”
Mandy Prowitz
ABCFOC Mom of Seven
“When I’m in the middle of a crisis, even at 3am, I can text them for support. Being able to reach out is just so incredible.”
BRINGING PLAY TO MILFORD: A COMMUNITY EFFORT
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, children in Milford now have a safe and exciting outdoor play space to enjoy! This incredible project was made possible through the collective efforts of our community, with an initial $15,000 in grant funding from Speedway Children’s Charities, Dover Motor Speedway Chapter, and the support of countless donors who contributed to our public fundraising campaign.
We officially launched the campaign during Delaware’s Do More 24 day of giving, rallying the community to help us turn this vision into reality. Over the next five months, we worked tirelessly to secure the remaining funds needed for the ambitious project, which totaled an impressive $100,000.
A key part of this project was the involvement of our Rec-n-Respite kids, who not only use the playground but also feel a deep sense of ownership over it, having helped design the space. Their creativity and enthusiasm were evident at the groundbreaking ceremony, where they planted flowers and painted rocks to leave their personal mark on this special place.
The ceremony also featured a touching tree dedication in memory of one of our parents, Felicia Bowe, an incredible woman who devoted her life to helping children, particularly those in distress and trauma. Felicia did not just talk about making a difference, she took action. As a CASA (CourtAppointed Special Advocate) volunteer for children in Maryland and Delaware, she tirelessly worked to support and uplift young lives.
The highlight of this journey was undoubtedly seeing the joy on children’s faces as they explored the new play space for the first time. Their laughter and excitement confirmed that every effort, every dollar, and every hour dedicated to this project was well worth it.
This achievement is a testament to the power of community collaboration. We are deeply grateful to all who played a part in making this dream a reality. Because of you, Milford families now have a wonderful space where children can grow, play, and heal.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LEADERSHIP DONORS
Bob Bryfogle and Sons, Inc.
Dewey Beach Lions Club
Diamond Mechanical Inc.
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware
Speedway Children’s Charities, Dover Motor Speedway Chapter
Bob Valihura and Debra Pace
Mark and Karin Weining
Alexa, Jaxton, and Julian Zambrano
Making a Difference: Volunteering, Leadership, and Advocacy
John Grieshaber Board Member
Volunteer Advocate
“Each child is unique and deserves to be loved. No child should be taken for granted. They are indeed our future, and each should be given opportunities to succeed. I hope to make a positive difference in a child’s life.”
In high school, a friend and I volunteered for a service project at a local boys’ orphanage. The boys were so friendly and craved our attention. While I enjoyed our time with the kids, I was troubled by the living conditions. Their entire personal belongings were in a shoe box. The orphanage closed, and I always wonder what happened to the kids, especially other kids who ended up in these situations. While orphanages are usually difficult circumstances, at least they provide a home. What happens when kids do not have a family or a home?
Over the years, having been blessed with a wonderful wife and two magnificent daughters, I had been looking for a service organization. I joined our local St. Thomas the Apostle council of the Knights of Columbus. Armed with a group of volunteers looking for service projects, we volunteered for local organizations that help children in challenging situations.
By chance, through my full-time job as a structural engineer, I met Dan Edgar and his wife, Mary Lou. Mary Lou founded a Better Chance for Our Children, and Dan is the current Chief Financial Officer. I noticed Dan’s signature in the email and asked about the organization. Dan invited me into his home, introduced me to Mary Lou, and shared a portrait of their beautiful, blended family. If you spend 5 minutes with Mary Lou, you immediately become a devoted fan!
As part of our volunteer efforts, our Knights of Columbus Council volunteers monthly for A Better Chance for Our Children’s awardwinning Rec-n-Respite program. The program provides respite care for parents and brings the kids together for fun. We are fortunate enough to plan activities, interact with the kids, and enjoy the fun! The kids vary in age and come from different circumstances. Some kids are lively and enjoy being the center of attention, while others are timid.
One April, we made and decorated kites and then attempted to fly them. Unfortunately, there was no wind. Everyone was running around trying to get their kite in the air, but as soon as they stopped running, the kites came down. One boy, who is always exceedingly kind but extremely timid, always enjoyed activities where we made things fly, whether paper airplanes or Styrofoam gliders. He diligently made his kite and then tried to fly it. No one else’s kite got up in the air, but just as he started running, the wind blew, and his kite soared. The other kids were amazed! We were astonished. He was so proud, and we all could not have been happier!
Since I joined the board, I have seen tremendous growth and stability in the agency. Even through the challenges of COVID, the agency increased its financial stability.
Throughout my professional life, I frequently interact with state and federal legislators regarding infrastructure renewal. When meeting with legislators, I often tie the infrastructure needs to the needs of future generations. My interactions with the kids from A Better Chance for Our Children give personal meaning to the messages I give to legislators.
Separately, asking legislators for new or increased funding to assist children in need is a cause everyone concurs with. Requesting funding for an agency with a history of financial stability, excellent leadership, and success stories makes the discussions with legislators quite easy.
Unfortunately, the needs of children are ever-increasing. There are many causes of homelessness and conditions that tear a family apart. When a child becomes a part of A Better Chance for Our Children, they have a friend and an ongoing advocate. The agency’s team are the heroes who take the children and families under their wings and bring them hope and guidance. While the needs are ever-increasing, the agency’s leadership is well-positioned for future success and brings every child hope and stability.
What drives me to support ABCFOC? Children are vulnerable and special. Each child is unique and deserves to be loved. No child should be taken for granted. They are indeed our future, and each should be given opportunities to succeed. I hope to make a positive difference in a child’s life.
