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MaryJoyce's Story
When MaryJoyce moved to Los Angeles from Nigeria, she carried with her a deep sense of purpose—to care for others. A devoted nurse, mother, and daughter, she shares her home with her 11-year-old, Miracle, and her own mother, Grandma Joyce. Together, they’ve built a home rooted in love, faith, and service.
For six years, MaryJoyce has worked as an LVN and group home administrator while pursuing her dream of becoming a pediatric RN. But it’s through fostering that she’s found her truest calling. She first reached out about becoming a resource parent before the pandemic, but everything came to a halt. Just as she was losing hope, she came across information which led her to All For Kids—and a new beginning.
From her first orientation, she knew she’d found the right fit. “The staff were so warm,” she recalls. “They made me feel like I was part of something bigger.” Since then, she’s cared for several children, creating a bridge between families and helping kids stay connected to their parents through calls and visits.
Her daughter, Miracle, has embraced fostering with open arms. “She welcomes the children warmly,” says MaryJoyce. “They love her.” Between volleyball, pickleball, and school, Miracle’s compassion shines as brightly as her name.
When asked about the challenges of fostering, MaryJoyce smiles. “If you have passion, you don’t see difficulties—you see steppingstones.” With experience, she’s built what she calls her “toolbox” for understanding trauma and meeting children where they are—with patience, empathy, and faith.
Looking ahead, she dreams of adopting a sibling set. “I can’t have more biological children,” she says, “so Miracle truly is my miracle.” With Grandma Joyce cheering her on—“She loves having the kids around!”—this three-generation household continues to open its heart to every child who crosses its threshold.
Meet Foster Care and Adoption Social Worker, Jasmine:
At All For Kids, our mission is powered by team members who bring compassion, purpose, and heart to every child and family they serve. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Jasmine De Los Santos, whose passion for helping others and commitment to vulnerable youth embody the spirit of our work.
With a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from California Baptist University, Jasmine has built a meaningful career in social services—supporting victims of domestic violence, juveniles in custody, unaccompanied minors and youth in residential treatment programs. Through these experiences, she witnessed the power of consistency, compassion, and care.
Her deep understanding of trauma and resilience led her to foster care and adoption. “I’ve always believed in the power of safe, stable, and loving homes,” she shares. “Helping children find permanency and healing through family is what drives me every day.”
Guided by her motto, “Aspire to inspire,” Jasmine helps children see that their past does not define them and that even small steps can create lasting change. She credits her father for teaching her the value of hard work and responsibility—to use opportunity to create positive change.
Jasmine also finds strength in the supportive culture at All For Kids. “My supervisor is approachable and genuinely invested in my growth,” she says. “Having that kind of teamwork makes such a difference—it’s empowering.”
For Jasmine, the heart of her work lies in transformation—seeing children heal, families grow stronger, and connections deepen. “Being part of a child’s journey toward safety and stability is truly an honor,” she reflects.
Through her dedication and empathy, Jasmine De Los Santos reminds us that when we aspire to inspire, we help build brighter, stronger futures—one family at a time.
RaiseAChild is now part of the All For Kids family—working together to support and celebrate diverse families, especially our LGBTQ+ community, on their path to fostering and adoption. Sign up for an upcoming information session to get all the information you might need about fostering!
More Events for Prospective or Approved Resource Parents:
Fall into Gratitude:
A Simple Habit to Nurture Thankful Kids
As families gather this season, it’s the perfect time to help children practice thankfulness in meaningful ways. Learn how gratitude journals can build empathy, joy, and resilience in kids — all year long.
Thinking About Fostering or Adopting?
Let's Get You Started
Whether you’re just curious or ready to take the next step, we’ve made it easy to learn more about becoming a foster or foster-adoptive parent.
Choose What Works Best for You:
Review at Your Own Pace
We offer a self-guided online PowerPoint orientation that you can view whenever it’s convenient for your schedule. Email us today to request the PowerPoint or PDF and we'd be happy to send it along.
Join Us Live for a Zoom Orientation
We also hold monthly live Zoom orientations from 4:00-5:00pm PST. It’s a great way to ask questions and hear directly from our team. Our next session is coming up on November 18, 2025
If you need a Spanish-language version, please give us a call at 800.730.3933 and a bilingual staff member will be happy to assist you.
Once you’ve completed either orientation, you’ll be on your way to becoming a resource parent. It’s a meaningful step, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Ready to Apply?
Our application is available online—fill it out and email it to rfrecruitment@allforkids.org. You’ll also get free online training through Foster Parent College. Got questions or need a little guidance? Reach out to beatrizcruz@allforkids.org—we’re happy to help.
Help Keep Siblings Together: Become a Resource Parent
Every day, children enter foster care in need of safe, stable homes—and the need is especially urgent for sibling sets. In Los Angeles County alone, there are over 25,000 children in foster care, with more than 200 waiting to be adopted. Many are part of sibling groups, and unfortunately, All For Kids must turn away at least 10 sibling sets each week simply because there aren’t enough families to keep them together.
At All For Kids, we believe strong families and caring adults create a world where every child is safe to grow. We welcome individuals and families from all backgrounds to consider opening their hearts and homes. We provide training, guidance, and continued support—you won’t be doing it alone.
Have questions or ready to get started? Call us at 800.730.3933 or below to fill out a quick inquiry form.
