Dozens of members from local chapters gather to learn how to support youth in foster care

For many members of the Divine Nine, a collaborative organization of nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, joining their organizations means finding a family away from home. Brothers and sisters become mentors, guides and cheerleaders through college, early careers and life’s challenges.

Wake County is now asking these leaders to extend that same spirit of care to some of the County’s most vulnerable children and teens in foster care. This is a call to step into their lives and provide the kind of support that can shape a child’s future, just as D9 organizations have shaped generations of Black leaders.

This week, Wake County Social Services hosted the “Step in the Gap for Foster Youth” event, bringing together local D9 chapters to explore ways members can support children in foster care. Participants learned how they can make a difference through mentoring, volunteering, hosting information sessions or even considering becoming foster parents.

“Organizations like those among the Divine Nine have long been pillars of service and leadership in our community. Their commitment to lifting others mirrors the care and stability our children in foster care need most,” said Safiyah Jackson with the Wake County Board of Commissioners. “By stepping up for these teens and children, they show that this service is a responsibility we all share to protect our communities’ most vulnerable.”

Currently, more than 500 children and teens are in foster care in Wake County with only 72 foster homes available to take them in. Many youth experience uncertainty, frequent moves and a lack of consistent adult support. Wake County is calling on the nine historically African American fraternities and sororities that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council to help fill that gap, creating safe, stable and nurturing environments for these children and youth.

You don’t have to be part of the Divine Nine to make an extraordinary impact as a foster parent, what matters most is your heart to serve. Wake County’s children in care are waiting for adults who will show up, step in and provide safe homes. We’re calling on the brothers and sisters of the Divine Nine and anyone ready to make a difference to help fill this gap. Click here to sign up for the next Foster Parent Information Session and learn how you can support our youth today. Visit wake.gov/foster to learn more.