Fostering is a journey filled with challenges, love, and transformation. For Lenora Jones, it has been a 21-year commitment to providing a home and support to children who need it the most. In her words, this journey has shaped her life and left an unforgettable mark on the 72 children she has fostered. Watch her story of resilience, sacrifice, and hope and read more below. Watch Lenora's video here.

Starting the Journey: Why I Became a Foster Parent
Lenora began fostering over two decades ago, taking on the responsibility of caring for children when others couldn’t. She recalls that it wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision, but one born from seeing a foster agency that truly cared about children’s well-being.
Lenora has fostered 72 children and has been a foster parent for 21 years. Why did she choose to work with Necco? She says, "What stood out about Necco was how I felt like they cared about the children and their well-being. That’s why I moved agencies – for my kids and any child that came into my home."
Lenora wanted a foster agency that would not only provide resources but also advocate for the children as much as she did.
Advocating for the Children
Lenora’s dedication to fostering goes beyond the basics. She describes herself as a foster parent willing to go to the ends of the earth for her children. Whether it's providing for their emotional or medical needs, she’s always ready to advocate for them. She states, "I go to the ends of the earth for my children." It’s not just about caring for children but ensuring they receive the necessary medical, emotional, and educational help.
The Sacrifices of Foster Parenting
Fostering isn’t without sacrifices. Lenora acknowledges that there are moments when she has to set aside her own plans to care for the children. But for her, these sacrifices are just part of the journey. For Lenora, these moments reinforce the bond she builds with the children. They teach her patience and resilience. She can't see herself not being a foster parent.
Overcoming Challenges with Agency Support
When Lenora took on the responsibility of caring for a medically complex child, Necco stepped in to provide much-needed help. From finding a specialized clinic to securing therapy for her foster child, we were there every step of the way. Our support and working with Lenora made all the difference in ensuring the child’s well-being.
Building Lifelong Bonds
Every foster child has left a mark on Lenora, but she vividly recalls her first placement—a six-year-old boy. That experience opened her heart to the possibility of changing lives, even if just for one child. Since then, Lenora has welcomed dozens of children into her home, many of whom still consider her family.
Lenora’s journey doesn’t end when the children leave her care. Many foster children return to visit during the holidays, bringing their own children to meet her. To them, Lenora is “Nana,” and her home remains a place of love and belonging. She shares:
"I have foster children who still call me mom and bring their kids to visit me. They fill my house on holidays, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Fostering 72 children has truly changed my life."
These lifelong connections are a testament to the deep bond she has built with the children who pass through her home.
The Importance of Patience and Belonging
For Lenora, fostering is about giving children a sense of belonging. She knows that these kids aren’t looking for perfection but for someone to stand by them through thick and thin. Of course, there is no such thing as a "perfect child." However, the perfect child is the one who loves being with you. She reminds us to show children patience and let them know they belong when they act up. This mindset is what drives Lenora to fight for her foster children, no matter what challenges they bring.
Join Us in Creating Families
We are so grateful to have parents like Lenora be a part of Necco. Together, we can change lives and build a brighter future for children in foster care. We encourage you reading this to #BeHome for them.
If you want to become a foster parent or learn more about the process, visit: https://necco.org/.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of children every day you go to work, visit our careers page at https://.necco.org/careers.