About Us

Our mission:
To provide creative, trauma-informed programs that build emotional resilience, self-confidence, and leadership skills.

We recognize the complex journeys young people face — whether living in foster care, navigating family challenges, or transitioning into adulthood. Through the power of storytelling, performance, and connection, we offer a platform where every young person can find their voice, build community, and create lasting change for themselves and others.

FOUNDER’S QUOTE — MELODY CENTENO, LMSW

At Foster Care Unplugged, we believe every young person’s healing journey is unique — and deserves to be honored. Our focus is on creating positive, lasting outcomes by offering personalized support, creative expression, and community connection. We meet each young person where they are, helping them turn their challenges into strength and their experiences into power.

SUPPORTING GROWTH BEYOND FOSTER CARE & CHILD WELFARE


Foster Care Unplugged recognizes that the journey doesn’t end when youth transition out of foster care, child welfare involvement, or at-risk environments. We are committed to supporting young adults as they step into independence —offering programs that build strong foundations for personal and professional success. Through trauma-informed therapeutic programming, community engagement initiatives, and strong advocacy efforts, we empower alumni and youth to heal, thrive, and lead.
Every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed — and we are dedicated to making that vision a reality.

- Join us in creating a brighter future for the next generation

a Graph showing the impact of funding foster care programs

Our Mission and Vision

From essential humanitarian aid to transformative community development initiatives, our services are designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced.

Our Mission

  • Identify youth impacted by foster care, child welfare, and complex life challenges
  • Develop their emotional and social skills through trauma-informed, creative healing programs.
  • Create pathways to build resiliency and success into adulthood.

Our Vision

  • Bring awareness.
  • Develop Partnerships.
  • Create initiatives.

Testimonial Video

Thumbnail of a teen sitting on outdoor stairsA play button to start the video

93

%
Group therapy participation

300

+
Youth Served

23

%
Boost in self-esteem among participants

40

+
Youth have traveled overseas in celebratory trips

Meet the Team:
Our Dedicated Staff.

Meet our dedicated team at Foster Care Unplugged, who are passionate about serving and supporting the youth in their communities.

The visionary behind Foster Care Unplugged as an alumni of the foster care system, Melody has leveraged innovative methods to empower foster care youth.

Juanita Joseph brings a wealth of experience, passion, and leadership to Foster Care Unplugged as the acting Executive Director of the NYC Chapter.

Joel Ceballos is a registered Series 7 licensed financial professional. He excels in providing in-depth financial analysis and balance sheet management, utilizing data-driven analytics to enhance business development.

Known in the community for creating internship and casting opportunities specifically to develop foster youth interested in connecting to the entertainment industry.