SUPPORTING TEENS IN FOSTER CARE
A Message from the Founders Welcome
In 2018, my family and I decided to open our home to foster care youth, specifically teenage boys aged 12 and older. This decision came after discussing it with my family, and since our son was 16 at the time, everyone agreed to welcome these teens into our home.
During our PATH classes, we were shocked to learn about the severe shortage of foster homes for teens It was distressing to find out that foster teens sometimes had to spend nights in DCS offices when placements couldn't be found, and even when they were placed, it was often temporary
Every child entering foster care comes with a unique background, problems, traumas, and triggers, but they all share one common emotion: FEAR. The lack of consistent placement results in foster youth not having the opportunity to form healthy attachments with foster parents and siblings, missing out on the unconditional love and support that a family
provides. Through their experiences in the foster system, these youth learn that love can be both given and taken away.
This is where Jonathan’s Path comes in.
Jonathan’s Path offers a safe haven where stability, love, and a sense of family begin from day one When a teen enters foster care, they can find solace and support with Jonathan’s Path, easing their fears and uncertainties Whether the path forward leads to reuniting with their family or transitioning to independent living, youth at Jonathan’s Path will always have a place to call home. Each path may be different, but the unwavering love, stability, and support provided by Jonathan’s Path remain constant for every youth.
~Carrie & Jase DuRard Foster Parents & Co-Founders
Jonathan
Known for being a gentle natured and genuinely king boy, Johnathon Hart was the eldest of four children residing in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Jonathan took pride in being the big brother. He loved his siblings dearly, and considered his brother, Taylor, is best friend
He radiated a unique warmth that endeared him to those who knew him. Always wearing a smile and with a kind word for everyone, he always looked for the good in others.
As a young boy, he was fascinated by dinosaurs, often immersing himself in their prehistoric world His creative spirit shone brightly in his journals of superhero tales, finding solace in his imagination amidst the harsh realities of his life. When thinking about growing up, he dreamed of becoming an engineer.
Behind the smiles and kindness he showed to those around him, Johnathon hid a world of deep suffering and turmoil at home He and his siblings suffered unimaginable emotional and physical abuse, food deprivation, and imprisonment at the hands of their father and stepmother.
Tragically, on May 26, 2016, at the tender age of 13, Johnathon’s sudden passing left an unbearable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Initially, it was determined that Johnathon had succumbed to sepsis from an untreated urinary tract infection However, further investigations revealed that something much worse had occurred.
Johnathon's final moments were a heartwrenching testament to the relentless cruelty of his stepmother Upon discovering he had vomited in his bed, she mercilessly yanked him from his top bunk, sending him crashing to the floor. In a semi-conscious state, he was cruelly kicked down the hall and forced into the shower. Tragically, his young life came to a devastating end when he fell in the shower, suffering a fatal head injury.
Jonathan’s story serves as a powerful message to all of us about the importance of listening to a child
Although Jonathan’s pain and suffering had ended, Taylor and their sibling's harrowing journey was far from over. Their lives, marked by abuse and trauma, took a sorrowful turn as they stepped into the foster care system.
In memory of Johnathon, we are committed to transforming his heartbreaking story into a powerful advocacy movement through the establishment of “Johnathon’s Path.” This initiative is devoted to offering teens in foster care the refuge of safe, loving group homes and a nurturing support network to guide them as they transition into adulthood.
EMPOWERING FUTURES:
Breaking the Cycle for Foster Teens
We are dedicated to breaking the cycle of repetitive trauma experienced by teenagers in foster care due to multiple placements and plugging the gap of services needed for youth to thrive as they age into adulthood.
We do not “mentor” We are committing to a life in the lives of these youth. Step for step as long as they need and want us.
Our mission is to create lasting positive change in the lives of these vulnerable youth, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive and build a path towards a brighter, more secure future.
“Teens need a home, not a hotel and a family, not a staff.
_
Taylor DuRard, Co-Founder
How does Jonathan’s Path Operate?
We believe that those who have lived through the foster care system are the best experts on what they need to thrive, and we place their insights at the core of our decision-making process
Foster youth have insurmountable expectations placed on them - “be a good kid or you have to move”, “do well in school”, “work through your trauma”, “you have to get x to access y”, and so forth Jonathan’s Path has no expectations We show up and ask for help, we show up and give it to them
By prioritizing what youth say they want and need, we ensure that our services are genuinely impactful, addressing the specific challenges these young people face as they transition to independence.
Gaps of Services and Support
Our comprehensive approach includes programs that empower youth with essential life skills and support their successful transition to independence.
Homebase Long Term Living
Our goals is to provide long-term placement for foster youth waiting permanent placement in a family-like atmosphere, their place to call home.
Independent Living
Through The Path Line, we offer wrap-around support, housing placement, professional leadership, and family support foundation for teens aging out of foster care.
Why Jonathan’s Path is Unique
What We Do:
Life beyond foster care starts with supportive adult relationships, stable housing, a commitment to addressing trauma, and access to immediate services Unfortunately, many teens lack access to these essential components.
Our mentorship program is designed to support teens and young adults transitioning out of foster care by fostering intentional, supportive, and lasting relationships. We provide Middle Tennessee youths in foster care with a new path, offering a place to call home and a chance to dream.
These teens face a tragic lack of stability, compounded by trauma, poor communication skills, and challenges in navigating resources. We offer comprehensive support tailored to each individual's needs, including friendship and love.
How We Are Different:
Our program engages teens in regular, planned interactions such as phone check-ins, group activities, and monthly family-style dinners We help them develop essential life skills like financial literacy, job readiness, time management, and academic planning. While each path is unique, the love, stability, and support from Jonathan’s Path remain constant for every youth.
Our teens at Jonathan’s Path experience consistency through stable housing, continuous support, clear direction, and unconditional love. Our teens receive emotional support to help manage stress and uncertainty. We also encourage the development of social networks, community connections, and facilitate access to resources such as housing assistance, educational scholarships, healthcare not covered by TennCare, and career support.
We are the only organization that offers stable placement and full wraparound services from the moment a youth enters foster care all the way through young adulthood. Through this process we reduce the current burden on the DCS placement team and overwhelmed social workers across Middle Tennessee
WHY IT MATTERS: Tennessee Foster Care
Nearly 8,000 youths are in Tennessee foster care, but only enough homes for just over half. Within 12 months, 30% of these youths are moved through three or more homes. This instability can cause lifelong trauma, delayed permanency outcomes, academic difficulties, and problems forming meaningful attachments.
50% of youth aging out of foster care end up homeless, addicted, incarcerated, trafficked, without gainful employment, or do not attend post secondary education
Jonathan’s Path offers Middle Tennessee teens in foster care a stable home and opportunity to dream We provide consistent housing, support, direction, and love, ensuring each youth receives the stability they deserve
Youth that will become homeless the day they age out of foster care 20%
Will never earn a degree in college or vocational school 97% of foster youth graduate high school. 51%
Less than 1 in 4 enroll in higher education.
Tennessee ranks as the WORST state for permanent placement
out of
will become homeless the day they age out of foster care.
Teens are the hardest to place in foster homes.
Challenges:
Instability and inconsistency affect both youths and social workers. Without our help, the trauma of unstable environments can negatively impact youths for life. Multiple placements lead to delayed permanency outcomes, academic difficulties, and challenges in forming meaningful attachments.
Tennessee Foster Care Crisis
Tennessee’s foster care instability rate is among the highest in the nation Since 2016, over one-third of Tennessee children entering foster care have been relocated to three or more different homes within their first year. Tackling this foster care crisis is essential to ensure that these vulnerable youths receive the stability and support they desperately need.
Youth that will become homeless the day they age out of foster care.
Will never earn a degree in college or vocational school
Less than 5,000 open foster homes in Tennessee.
Children awaiting adoption in Tennessee. 5,000 350+
Former Foster Youth Challenges
Over one-third of males and three-fourths of females who are former foster youth rely on government assistance programs.
Compared to veterans, former foster youth are twice as likely to suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Sources
By the age of 24, only half of these young adults will have stable employment, and that the same percentage will develop substance abuse issues.
We identify and address the most critical gaps in the foster care system based on direct input from the youth we serve. The Path Line is the only dedicated hotline for foster youth in Middle Tennessee and our upcoming residential program provides long-term stability, with no sudden cut-off at age 18.
Every teen deserves the opportunity of a new path.
I AM READY TO APPLY!
Jonathan’s Path Homes
At Jonathan’s Path, we believe that every child deserves the chance to grow up in a stable, loving environment, surrounded by people who care about their future Unfortunately, too many youth face challenges that no child should have to endure, including the instability and uncertainty that can come with foster care
Our Goal
We will provide long-term placement for foster youth waiting permanent placement in a family-like atmosphere, their place to call home.
~ Henry Rollins
At Jonathan’s Path, we believe in the power of collective action to create positive change By volunteering your time or making a donation, you become a crucial part of a community dedicated to making a real impact. Your involvement helps us reach more individuals in need, supports vital projects, and contributes to the betterment of our local community.
Whether it’s lending a helping hand at local events, contributing your skills to enhance the life of a teen or making a financial contribution, every effort counts.
Volunteer Registration Form
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
~ Margaret Mead
Every Donation Counts
Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to creating positive change and paving the way of a new path forward. Thank you for being a part of a foster youths journey to a new path forward.
We gladly accept donations by check or direct bank transfer, PAYPAL and VENMO.
Other ways to donate:
Recurring monthly donation.
Host a fundraiser on Facebook.
We can customize a fundraising event for your company or church
Payroll deduction
Lunch & Learn
Every dollar goes towards our mission for every foster care teenager to have a place to call home and chance to fulfil their dreams from the moment their arrive into foster care and beyond.
We Need Your Help
As a nonprofit, we rely on donations to provde the support foster teens deserve: mental health services, transportation, food, education and housing
Give Monthly Give Once
By supporting Jonathan’s Path, you help provide the care, opportunities, and support a child deserves. Your contribution ensures they feel safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we can ensure children with dreams and talents have everything they need to thrive.
Sponsor an Event
Sponsors, seize the opportunity to help craft unforgettable experiences and maximum enjoyment for our youth. For many, this will mark their first foray into such adventures! Your support will not only make these moments possible but will also leave a lasting impact and opening doors to new possibilities
Download flyer
Learn more about each event on our events pages under Get Involved tab
Each Event Sponsorships Includes:
Logo social media posts
:15-:30 second video
Logo Event T-shirts
Friends of Jonathan’s Path
The opportunity of a new path starts with community & corporate support. We believe every organization has something to offer beyond monetary donations. Tell us more about you by clicking on the button below and someone will reach out to you.
Mentors / Volunteers
Career Opportunities
Discounts for Services
Living Accommodations
Health/Medical
Interior Designer
Yard & Lawn Care
Auto Dealerships
Athletic & Sports
Arts/Music/Entertainment
Interested in Fostering?
Many people tell us that foster care is something that they may have thought about for awhile Maybe you know someone who was a foster parent or foster child? Maybe you saw something on TV or an ad in the newspaper? Maybe you saw a post on the internet? Whatever the reason, we’re glad you’re seeking more information about it!
Jonathan’s Path is proud to partner with Harmony Family Center and the Department of Children Services to help recruit new DCS foster homes.
If you are ready to take the next step, click on the Inquiry Form button, complete the form and someone from Harmony Family Center will contact you
I AM READY TO LEARN MORE
What are the qualifications?
Do you have room in your home and in your daily life?
Are you ready to learn and use proven behavioral management skills?
What are the minimum requirements?
At least 21 years of age.
Must be fingerprinted and pass background checks.
Participate in an Informational Meeting.
Must complete a training program called TN-KEY
Complete Home Study process
Provide documentation of sufficient income
Complete health screenings
Retain legal residency in Tennessee for at least 3 months
DCS carefully assesses all applicants and the department also provides the opportunity for prospective Foster Parents to work with a case manager to assess themselves before they accept the role of Foster Parent.
Can you give without the expectation of immediate returns?
Can you support birth families and help a child return home?
Can you love and care for children who have experienced trauma?
I AM READY TO ATTEND AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING!
SOURCES:
1: https://wwwacfhhsgov/sites/default/files/cb/afcarsreport24pdf
2: http://pediatricsaappublicationsorg/content/138/5/e20161118
3: https://wwwpewtrustsorg/en/research-andanalysis/blogs/stateline/2018/05/02/this-new-federal-law-will-changefoster-care-as-we-know-it
4: https://www.nfyi.org/51-useful-aging-out-of-foster-care-statistics-socialracemedia/
5: http://foster-care-newsletter.com/haunted-by-the-past-foster-childrenwith-ptsd/#.W6F4mc5KjX4
6:https://www.childrennow.org/files/7715/1613/3234/Children Now 2018 Re port Cardpdf
7: http://wwwchildrensrightsorg/newsroom/fact-sheets/aging-out/
8: https://aspehhsgov/basic-report/children-adopted-foster-care-child-andfamily-characteristics-adoption-motivation-and-well-being#_Toc300125443
9: https://www.fosterclub.com/blog/statistics-and-research/current-statefoster-care
10. https://www.aecf.org/
