By Michaela Guthrie, Director of Bloom Beyond
After spending nine years in foster care and aging out at 19, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to my work at Bloom. As a licensed clinical social worker, my unique journey ignites my commitment to creating better outcomes for others impacted by the system. This passion, combined with my professional dedication to transforming the child welfare landscape, makes me proud to be part of Bloom’s team.
In Georgia, approximately 6,000 young adults ages 18-26 have experienced foster care, each facing unique challenges as they navigate independence. That is why, thanks to your support, we have launched Bloom Beyond, an innovative program designed to bridge the gap between foster care and living independently.
What makes Bloom Beyond unique is our commitment to personalized care rooted in empowerment and choice for those we serve. Through our Navigator Support, we work one-on-one with young adults, recognizing that each person’s journey is different. Whether finding stable housing, pursuing education, developing career paths, accessing healthcare, or building essential life skills, our navigators provide practical, hands-on guidance tailored to individual needs and goals.
The Bloom Closet and Bloom Closet Express represent another crucial aspect of our support system. We understand that having access to professional attire, everyday clothing, and essential items can make a significant difference during a young person’s transition out of foster care. But the value goes beyond just the provision of items, as it is also about building a community support network that young adults can rely on as they move toward independence.
I am particularly proud of Bloom Beyond’s Leadership Council, which brings together young people with lived experience in foster care. These council members meet virtually every month, providing invaluable insights that help shape our programs and services. This dynamic approach puts young people’s voices and lived experiences at the heart of everything we do. This collaborative spirit ensures our work remains relevant, meaningful, and truly transformative.
Through the Fostering Success Tax Credit, Georgia taxpayers can redirect their state taxes to support Bloom Beyond at no additional cost. Your support helps ensure every young adult who has experienced foster care has access to the resources and opportunities they need to Bloom Beyond Foster Care. To learn more about supporting Bloom Beyond or redirecting your state tax dollars, contact Michaela Guthrie at 770.460.6652 x124, m.guthrie@bloomfosters.org, or visit bloomfosters.org/donate. Together, we can create lasting change in the lives of young adults transitioning from foster care.
