Upbring News: Spring 2023

'No Rain, No Flowers'

BeREAL Helped DaVina Overcome Adversity

DaVina’s journey began at just two years old. Her biological mother’s drug addiction and her father’s absence left her in the foster care system, where she lived in group homes and a residential treatment center. But she never gave up. Instead, she found hope and support through BeREAL, Upbring’s Supervised Independent Living (SIL) program that helps youth aging out of foster care successfully transition to self- sufficiency and independence by providing support, education planning and mentorship.

With the guidance of LaNisha Bell, BeREAL SIL Program Director, DaVina found a home and set priorities for her education and life goals. “She told me, ‘You never struggle in silence. If you need help with something, you call me,’” says DaVina. “BeREAL gave me a sense of relief because I didn’t have to move around anymore,” she adds.

Today, DaVina is studying biology at St. Phillip’s College, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, and even earned the title of 50th Miss Black San Antonio along with a $2,000 scholarship. She dreams of one day becoming an anesthesiologist and owning a home in the country where she can raise horses and miniature pigs. And she’s proud to be a role model for young African American women with aspirations of their own. She would tell them:

“It’s going to be hard. Don’t expect something to happen if you’re not putting in the effort. I live by that every day—no rain, no flowers!”

DaVina’s story is a testament to the power of support and mentorship in changing the course of a young person’s life. Because of those who support us, young adults like DaVina can write the next chapter in their lives. To learn more about the BeREAL program, visit our website.

Uniting for a Cause

Texas Legislators Attend Upbring's Advocacy Event for Child Wellbeing

At Upbring, we are committed to promoting policies that positively impact the lives of Texas children and families. Recently, we hosted our first advocacy event to engage state legislative offices in discussions about the incredible work we do. Attendees included representatives from the offices of Rep. Gene Wu, Rep. Carl Sherman, Rep. Chris Turner, Rep. Erin Zwiener, and the Office of the Governor, as well as staffers from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Our Vice President of Advocacy, Amy Bruno, expressed her excitement about the event, stating that “It’s definitely something we will continue to do as part of our work to engage legislators.” As the 88th legislative session is currently underway, members of the Texas House and Senate are meeting to assess and vote on bills that will impact Texans’ health, education, welfare, environment, and overall wellbeing.

Through our advocacy efforts, we remain vigilant in monitoring the legislature and actively promoting policies that promote the health and prosperity of Texas children, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

Get Ready to Tee Off for a Great Cause!

Join Upbring’s Golf Tournaments in 2023 and Make a Difference for Texas Children

Upbring is excited to invite you to our annual golf tournaments in San Antonio on September 25, 2023 and Houston on November 15, 2023. Get ready to swing for the green and support the children, families, and communities we serve through our Texas programs.

By participating in our 18-hole scrambles and prizes, you can make a real impact on the lives of children in need. All funds raised will go directly towards empowering families and communities to break the cycle of child abuse. Join us as we work towards a world where every child is valued and cherished.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to have fun and make a difference. Save the date and register today! Visit our events page for more information on the event.

We’ll see you on the course!

Transforming Lives Together

Updates from Upbring's Dedicated Development Team

Imagine a Texas where every child has the opportunity to thrive and every family has the support they need to succeed. Upbring's Development Team is working tirelessly to make this vision a reality by connecting with individuals, businesses and churches across Texas that support our mission through financial contributions.

Lenora Doerfler, a long-time member of the development team, retired on March 1. During her time at Upbring, Lenora raised over 5 million dollars to support children and families in Texas. Her contributions have made a significant impact on the Upbring community and family.

Kurt Westveld is the newest addition to the development team, joining as Philanthropic Advisor. Kurt brings with him years of experience in marketing, sales, and fundraising, including nineteen years at The University of Texas’ Longhorn Foundation. With his expertise, Kurt is eager to help Upbring advance children’s wellbeing.

Brittany Kegley has been appointed as Director of Donor Relations. With over ten years of fundraising and engagement experience at the University of Miami, her alma mater, Brittany is well-equipped to steward our donors and foster a culture of philanthropy among Upbring supporters. She has also worked in marketing and operations in the fashion industry.

Logan Robledo has been welcomed to the team as Manager of Community Engagement and Volunteers. As a recent graduate of Texas State University with a degree in Digital Media Innovation, Logan brings fresh ideas to the team. He will focus on promoting Upbring in innovative ways and revitalizing our volunteer programs.

Holly Raymond, former Chief Financial Officer, has taken on the role of Chief of Community Engagement. This position aligns with Upbring’s vision and Holly will lead the development team in engaging the community and making Upbring a household name.

Join Us in Making a Difference!

There are many ways you can support Upbring:

• Contribute to our cause with a donation
• Volunteer with Upbring
• Events: attend, sponsor, or provide an auction item
• Spread the word about Upbring within your peer groups
• Host us at your organization
• Follow us on social media and share our posts
• Learn more about a program by touring or visiting a campus or facility
• Conduct a diaper, shoe or clothing drive for the children in our care.