Single foster mom has fostered over 300 kids

Sandra Robinson had worked with kids as a school bus driver and a youth leader in her church when she became a foster parent in 1996. Over the last 29 years, Sandra has fostered over 300 children and youth. Sandra is now a therapeutic foster parent who specializes in working with teen girls, many of whom come from residential facilities. 

“I am a very spiritual woman, and this is something that God has led me into. I have a heart for kids. I’ve always had a caring heart, and taking care of kids has always been a part of my life,” Sandra said about why she became a foster parent. 

Sandra stays active with the young women in her home, adding that. “there is never a dull moment.” Sandra enjoys supporting the young women by taking them to libraries, to the gym, to go swimming  and out to the movies. In the summer, they especially enjoy going to Elitch Gardens and the many outdoor festivals available in the area. Sandra says her goal when working with teens is to redirect their behaviors so they don’t experience as many pitfalls in life. 

“The key to my success is listening to them and knowing that I will never be able to step into the role of their mother, but trying to be that woman, motherly figure, for them to try to help them through life’s issues. I try to help them get through the struggles of foster care and let them know that somebody cares enough to try to steer them in the right direction,” said Sandra.

Many of the young women who leave Sandra’s home are aging out of foster care. Sandra’s goal for these young women is to prepare them for adulthood and teach them important life skills. Sandra wants these young women to know they have purpose in life and they should be confident in who they are. She also stresses that they focus on their education and what they want to do in life. 

“We work on cooking, how to budget and what to expect when you’re looking for an apartment. I introduce them to resources that are available to them like the Chafee program, mentorships, and the workforce program. I try to teach them how to budget their money, get a job and save their money. I really strive to help them be concerned about going out into life and not fall through the cracks,” said Sandra.

As a single foster parent, Sandra finds it is important to prioritize self-care and takes breaks for herself, which may include her favorite – visits to the hot springs or spending time with friends. When she is having a tough day, she likes to buy herself flowers. 

“My parenting style is definitely loving and caring but also stern and consistent. There’s structure because you’re going to have rules wherever you go. There’s going to be some times when they don’t like what I’m saying and that goes with the territory,” said Sandra.

Sandra has remained in touch with many of the young women who have left her home, many of whom still call her when they need support. Sandra has continued to mentor some of the young women after they leave her home. 

“The most rewarding part is when you see that you have actually helped somebody and they have received your help. I [… have seen..] foster kids who are adults now and have been through my care and I see their successes. When they come back and thank you or apologize and you can see that the growth, it is really rewarding,” said Sandra.