{"id":94605,"date":"2025-12-24T07:37:11","date_gmt":"2025-12-24T07:37:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/94605\/"},"modified":"2025-12-24T07:37:11","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T07:37:11","slug":"a-decade-of-difference-florida-weekly","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/94605\/","title":{"rendered":"A Decade of Difference – Florida Weekly"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Better Together. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Every day in Florida, more than 20,000 children wake up in someone else\u2019s home. Not because they lack love, but because life\u2019s challenges\u2014job loss, illness, or disability\u2014 arrive uninvited, shaking the foundation of families and forcing children into foster care.\n<\/p>\n

In times of crisis, parents can feel lost and isolated, unsure where to turn for support.\n<\/p>\n

For the past decade, Better Together has stood by families facing hardship, transforming challenges into hope and creating lasting change across Florida.\n<\/p>\n

This year marks a significant milestone: 10 years of hope and healing. From humble beginnings to statewide influence, Better Together\u2019s story is one of innovation, compassion, and unwavering commitment to families in need.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cGrowing up, my family faced poverty, job loss, and domestic violence. The local church came alongside us in our greatest time of need. Because of that love, care, and community, our family stayed together and grew stronger,\u201d shares Megan Rose, CEO and founder of Better Together.\n<\/p>\n

The Naples-based nonprofit supports families across Collier, Lee, Palm Beach, and Charlotte counties, helping them stay together and rebuild stability with the resources they need.\n<\/p>\n

Rose shared that mission grew from a bold idea\u2014to prevent children from entering foster care by bringing together local churches and caring communities\u2014a vision that continues to guide its work today.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter spending more than a decade in child welfare, I became heartbroken by how much trauma children endure when families are torn apart. I knew there had to be a better way, one that started from the ground up and was led by the community to reach families before government intervention was ever needed,\u201d says Rose.\n<\/p>\n

Better Together began as a small startup, creating safe and nurturing spaces for children while families worked to rebuild stability. The organization provides guidance on everything from employment and housing to healthcare and education, while connecting thousands of children with volunteer host families.\n<\/p>\n

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Better Together. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is simple\u2014families helping families. Volunteer host families open their homes to care for children temporarily while mentors guide and support the parents,\u201d Rose explains. \u201cMost of the parents we serve often feel isolated.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

At its core, Better Together addresses the root causes of hardship, helping families emerge stronger and more resilient.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe served 105 children in our first year. This year, we will serve 8,000 children and more than 10,000 people seeking employment,\u201d Rose says.\n<\/p>\n

From its early days as a trusted community resource, Better Together has touched thousands of families\u2019 lives, continually expanding its programs to meet evolving needs.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe began with a small state appropriation and a three-person team serving Collier and Lee counties. Today, we are privately funded with about 75 team members serving 48 Florida counties and operating with a $10 million budget,\u201d Rose says. \u201cWe are volunteer-driven and professionally supported\u2014and we strive to do everything with excellence.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

Better Together has helped more than 12,000 children avoid foster care and connected over 46,000 individuals with job opportunities, reaching six regions across Florida and partners with churches in 24 states.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cTo date, we have provided more than 20,000 instances of help to children and families through hosting, mentoring, resource support, and relational care, along with helping connect people with meaningful work opportunities,\u201d explains Rose.\n<\/p>\n

The organization has grown from a short-term hosting program into a multifaceted nonprofit providing comprehensive family support and disaster relief. By focusing on financial hardship and family crises, Better Together empowers parents and children with the resources, guidance, and care they need to not just survive\u2014but thrive together.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cMany families on the verge of losing their children to foster care face financial hardship as the root issue. Our church-based job fairs help prevent those crises by connecting families to meaningful work, job coaching, encouragement, and resources that remove barriers to employment,\u201d Rose says.\n<\/p>\n

Over the years, Better Together has refined its approach to meet families where they are\u2014building on their strengths, goals, and dreams. Through job coaching, childcare, transportation, and housing support, the organization empowers parents to rise above challenges and stay connected long after their immediate needs are met.\n<\/p>\n

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Better Together Job Fair. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

\u201cPoverty often stems from a lack of relationships as much as a lack of money. Our professional team helps parents achieve their goals so they can reunite with their children safely. It is voluntary and relational, more like co-parenting than separation, and those relationships often continue long after hosting ends,\u201d Rose explains.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe believe a job is more than a paycheck. It provides dignity, community, and stability,\u201d she adds.\n<\/p>\n

Rose shares that throughout the years Better Together has faced its share of challenges\u2014each one strengthening its mission and shaping its remarkable growth. By cultivating a healthy culture and uniting volunteers and local churches, the organization has discovered that placing the right people in the right roles can transform entire communities.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cOur biggest challenge has been scaling responsibly, which requires the right tools, processes, and people to sustain long-term impact,\u201d she says. \u201c It takes time, patience, and consistency. There have been many hard lessons, but each one has made us stronger. When you are learning, you are winning, and we are grateful we have been able to put the right systems in place and pivot when necessary.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

Behind every statistic is a story of a family given a second chance\u2014and those stories are what have shaped Better Together through the years.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe take a holistic approach. When a family comes to us, we get to know them, their strengths, goals, and challenges, and then build a plan to help them succeed,\u201d Rose adds. \u201cOur goal is to strengthen the entire family so they can thrive long after our formal involvement ends.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

In its early days, one single mother arrived hesitant and afraid, her eyes bruised and Child Protective Services already involved. What began as a moment of crisis became a turning point, both for her and for the growing mission of Better Together.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI had the privilege of caring for her son for only a few days, but reuniting them was beautiful,\u201d Rose recalls. \u201cOver time, we built a deep friendship. Even 10 years later, we are still close. I am incredibly proud of the woman she has become. Her story reminds me every day why this work matters so much.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

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Better Together Job Fair. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Marking a decade of dedication, Better Together reflects on its achievements\u2014and looks to the future with even greater ambition.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI am proud of our outcomes, the relationships we have built with churches, volunteers, and employers, and the culture we continue to strengthen. Most of all, I am proud of the stories of families who have faced hard times and found hope and a stronger future through Better Together,\u201d Rose shares.\n<\/p>\n

Better Together is prepared to reach more children, families, and job seekers across Florida. The organization remains focused on creating a deeper impact where help is needed most.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cOur goal is to be serving families statewide by 2030, reduce foster care entries by 20 percent, and begin replicating our model in other states. We also plan to expand our church-based job fairs nationwide, bringing hope, faith, and opportunity to communities across America,\u201d Rose shares.\n<\/p>\n

For ten years, Better Together has been a lifeline for children and families across Florida, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. With programs grounded in care and innovation, the organization has sparked lasting change and inspired hope. Looking ahead, it aims to help more families stay together and build stronger communities.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are proud of what we have achieved in our first decade, and the best is yet to come,\u201d says Rose.\n<\/p>\n

IMPACT STORIES:<\/p>\n

Naples: Reuniting a Family\n<\/p>\n

The blessing came on a Saturday, as two children sprinted into their father Jordan Gentry\u2019s arms. Gentry wrapped the 7- and 9-year-olds in a hug that spoke louder than words ever could.\n<\/p>\n

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Jordan Gentry with Nathan and Natalie. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Nearly 400 days earlier, Gentry entered St. Matthew\u2019s House in Naples, committed to overcoming substance abuse and reclaiming his life for his children.\n<\/p>\n

Gentry was determined to finish the year-long program, gain employment, and move into his own apartment. He arranged for his children to be cared for by their mother while he focused on recovery.\n<\/p>\n

After seven months of battling homelessness, the children\u2019s mother turned to a relative for help with their care. Three months later, feeling overwhelmed and with foster care looming again\u2014they reached out to Better Together.\n<\/p>\n

As a Better Together host family, Katelyn and Barron Collier stepped forward with compassion and open hearts. They provided for the children\u2019s medical and dental care, supported their learning and therapy, and guided them with love toward their long-awaited reunion with Gentry.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was everything we hoped for\u2014for them. That\u2019s the ultimate goal. That they\u2019re reunified. It\u2019s a fresh start for all of them,\u201d shares Katelyn Collier.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m grateful for my family, Better Together, and the Colliers,\u201d says Gentry. \u201cI couldn\u2019t have asked for anything better; the only other option was them going into foster care, and then I would have had to fight to get them back.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

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Katelyn Collier with Jordan Gentry. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Gentry successfully completed his program and began a full-time career with a plumbing company, creating new opportunities for himself and his children.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m overwhelmed by the love and joy. It\u2019s empowering. It\u2019s a blessing,\u201d adds Gentry.\n<\/p>\n

Better Together helps families reunite and rebuild, ensuring children don\u2019t just survive\u2014they thrive. The Gentry family\u2019s reunion demonstrates how love and guidance can turn struggle into strength.\n<\/p>\n

Palm Beach County: Doors of Opportunity\n<\/p>\n

Marubeny \u201cMaru\u201d Lemus stood at the threshold of homelessness.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cEvery door I thought was open was closing,\u201d she recalls, a single mother of three boys.\n<\/p>\n

But sometimes, closed doors guide us to new openings.\n<\/p>\n

When Urban Youth Impact connected Lemus with Jacqueline Hardin, faith met action\u2014opening the first door to safety and hope for her family. Already familiar with her family from Twin Lakes outreach, Hardin moved quickly, securing a hotel and guiding them through shelters with unwavering faith in God.\n<\/p>\n

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Marubeny \u201cMaru\u201d Lemus, Palm Beach. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

\u201cGod was saying, \u2018Don\u2019t worry about tomorrow, I\u2019ve got tomorrow, just walk in today, keep loving, just keep walking,’\u201d says Hardin.\n<\/p>\n

The second door opened when Lemus and her sons were welcomed into AVDA Shelter in Delray Beach. Her gratitude grew even more when Hardin and her husband, Scott, took two of her boys into their own home, giving them love and stability.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe knew them from doing outreach, so it was a no-brainer,\u201d says Scott Harin.\n<\/p>\n

Her third door opened when she connected with a Better Together mentor. They shared meals, books, and life stories, building a bond rooted in faith.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cWe became sisters in Christ,\u201d Lemus reflected. \u201cShe was exactly what I needed.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

The final door of faith opened after three months of perseverance and the support of Better Together. Lemus and her sons moved into their own apartment in Azure Estates, a home built on faith and hope.
\u201cThey were here to help,\u201d Lemus said, speaking of Jacqueline and Scott Hardin and the community that supported her. \u201cIt was the only reason why I was able to focus on what I had to do.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

\u201cMaru (Lemus) witnessed the magnificence of God\u2019s hand in each and every one of God\u2019s people,\u201d Jacqueline Hardin shares, \u201cA magnificence that can open any door.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

Better Together helped unlock doors of opportunity and support, guiding families like Lemus\u2019s toward hope and stability.\n<\/p>\n

Charlotte County: A Family by Choice\n<\/p>\n

When Amber Nolan talks about Katherine and Tyler Petersen, she doesn\u2019t call them a host family\u2014she calls them family.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not host family, it\u2019s just family now,\u201d she says without hesitation.\n<\/p>\n

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The Petersens (host family). -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Over the years, the Petersen\u2019s have opened their doors\u2014and their hearts\u2014to ten children, creating bonds that go far beyond a temporary stay. Through Better Together, they cared for newborn twins while Nolan received treatment and built a lasting connection with her through mentorship.\n<\/p>\n

Katherine Peterson even recently joined a Better Together shopping day, connecting with other families and offering encouragement and support. Her presence wasn\u2019t just about showing up\u2014it was about lifting others, sharing experience, and inspiring confidence in families navigating challenges.\n<\/p>\n

The impact of their dedication was on full display when Nolan and her two-year-old daughters cheered as Katherine and Tyler were honored as \u2018Host Family of the Year.\u2019 When the twins ran up to the podium and embraced the couple, it perfectly captured the love and connection the Petersens have nurtured over the years.\n<\/p>\n

The Petersens\u2019 generosity shines through every act, from mentoring and hosting to supporting community events. The Petersen\u2019s company, PDS Architecture, also contributes to the mission, sponsoring events that help strengthen families.\n<\/p>\n

Through their unwavering dedication, Katherine and Tyler Peterson embody the mission of Better Together. Their love, care, and commitment transform lives and inspire others to do the same.\n<\/p>\n

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The Petersens (host family). -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Fort Myers: Running Toward a Second Chance\n<\/p>\n

Victor Carr spent most of his life running\u2014but not from life. He was chasing hope, love, and towards a future he refused to give up on.\n<\/p>\n

At a young age, Carr left home to live with his aunt. Yet the pull of love was stronger than fear, and he ran back to his mother despite warnings about her lifestyle.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI missed my mom so much,\u201d he recalls.\n<\/p>\n

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Victor Carr. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS<\/p>\n

Even as his mother tried to change for him, it wasn\u2019t enough. Carr ran again\u2014this time to the streets\u2014\u2014where poor choices quickly handcuffed his hope.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI was living the life that the average 9- or 10-year-old shouldn\u2019t be,\u201d shares Carr.\n<\/p>\n

In 2008, he faced his first major setback when he was arrested and sentenced to a year in a juvenile program at just 12 years old. For the next 15 years, he struggled with the cycle of running in and out of jail. Yet through those challenges, the seeds of change and resilience were steadily growing.\n<\/p>\n

Even amid hardship, Carr discovered moments of growth. He earned his GED, mended his relationship with his mother\u2014who had transformed her own life\u2014and strengthened his faith.\n<\/p>\n

On November 12, 2024, Carr\u2019s life took a turning point with the birth of his son, Lyric. Motivated to build a better future, he ran toward stability and opportunity, supported by Better Together\u2019s guidance. Even when doors closed and challenges arose, Carr was determined to provide for his family.\n<\/p>\n

With the support of Better Together, Carr was able to embrace opportunities that transformed his journey. Their programs connected him to resources and the Nationwide Day of Second Chances job fair at Riverside Church in Fort Myers, where he earned a position with All American Barricades.\n<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m able to provide for them. I\u2019m able to be a father,\u201d\u00a0 Carr says, grateful for the second chance that Better Together helped make possible.\n\t\t<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Better Together. -PRIORITY MARKETING \/ COURTESY PHOTOS Every day in Florida, more than 20,000 children wake up in…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":94606,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[209,211,210],"class_list":{"0":"post-94605","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cape-coral","8":"tag-cape-coral","9":"tag-cape-coral-headlines","10":"tag-cape-coral-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/94605","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=94605"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/94605\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/94606"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=94605"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=94605"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=94605"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}