Nov. 30, 2025

From Passion to Possibilities: Empowering Foster Children with Phyllis DiNardi

From Passion to Possibilities: Empowering Foster Children with Phyllis DiNardi
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In this powerful episode, Candice talks with Phyllis DiNardi, founder and president of We Are Loved, a New Jersey nonprofit supporting children and teens in foster care. Phyllis shares the story that inspired her to foster 49 children and eventually build programs that bring comfort, dignity, and hope to kids navigating the hardest moments of their lives. Joining her is Liz, the organization’s fundraising and development lead, who offers insight into the daily operations that keep their mission moving forward.

Together, Phyllis and Liz break down the reality of foster care, the emotional and practical needs of children entering the system, and the life-changing impact of a single act of love. Their work shows how compassion can become action and how a community effort can create safety, stability, and possibilities for young people who deserve a brighter future.

 

In this episode, they discuss:

  • How the words “We are loved” from two foster daughters sparked a life-changing mission
  • Why older youth in foster care need more attention, support, and confidence-building
  • The programs created by We Are Loved, including comfort bags, holiday boxes, and birthday boxes
  • How police departments across New Jersey use comfort bags to ease emergency removals
  • The Love Program and its focus on teaching life skills, financial literacy, and resilience
  • The emotional journey of fostering and the importance of consistency and compassion
  • The long-term vision for a full-scale life skills center that becomes a safe home base for foster youth

     

This episode is a reminder that hope grows where love is offered and that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported as they step into their future!

 

About Phyllis:

Phyllis DiNardi is the Founder and President of We Are Loved, a New Jersey nonprofit that supports children and teens in foster care through programs that bring comfort, dignity and hope. She has fostered 49 children, built long-standing partnerships across the community, and continues to grow programs that give kids the stability and love they deserve. Her work reflects her belief that small acts of kindness can change the trajectory of a child’s life.

 

Website: www.weareloved.info

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weareloved2019/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearelovednj

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-loved-nonprofit/

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