Being a Hope Broker in Troubling Times
How One Advocate Finds Light When the System Feels Dark
I’ve been doing a lot of podcast interviews lately, speaking up for the educational needs of children in foster care. In one of those conversations, the host called me a “Hope Broker.” That phrase stuck with me so deeply, I wrote it on a sticky note and put it somewhere I’d see it every day.
Because let’s be honest—it’s hard to hold onto hope right now.
With deep cuts looming at the federal level, I’ve found myself questioning how long I can continue doing this work. I train foster parents to advocate for the children in their homes—especially when it comes to education—using laws like the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). But with threats to dismantle or defund the Department of Education, the very laws I teach are at risk of being ignored.
And the negative thoughts creep in:
“Foster parents are already overwhelmed. If these protections disappear, they’ll burn out even faster. Schools will push out kids with trauma—not because they’re ‘bad,’ but because they require more support.”
“These kids are already falling behind. If we lose these legal protections, outcomes will only get worse.”
“Education is underfunded as it is. Without federal oversight and Title funds, states may cut support for the very students who need it most.”
Hope Isn’t Naive—It’s Strategic
That “Hope Broker” comment made me realize I’d fallen into a trap of despair. But hope isn’t about ignoring reality. It’s about refusing to let darkness win.
Here’s where I find my hope:
Our system still has checks and balances. Executive orders aren’t laws. Only Congress can change the law—and they answer to us.
The courts still hold the line. When executive overreach happens, the judiciary often intervenes.
I’m not alone. Every day, I talk to people and organizations fighting for children, equity, and justice. There’s an army of quiet warriors out there.
Ways You Can Be a Hope Broker Too
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try these:
Connect with others who care. Shared values fuel resilience.
Pick one cause and go deep. You can’t fix everything. But you can make a difference in one area.
Take one small action. When I heard about efforts to dismantle the Department of Education, I called my senators and representatives. It took 15 minutes. I don’t know what difference it made—but I do know I didn’t stay silent.
Step away from the noise. Social media can amplify panic. Take breaks. Protect your peace.
Hope isn’t wishful thinking. It’s courageous action.
And we need Hope Brokers now more than ever.
