There are days that remind us exactly why we do this work. A recent I Belong Project wasn’t just another day at the zoo, it was centered on belonging.
Thanks to the Nashville Zoo, incredible kiddos were surrounded by animal encounters, amazing community partners, and a whole lot of joy, Kids enjoyed unforgettable animal encounters, along with lunch, special surprises, and gifts… though some of the volunteers would have preferred the snakes remain in their enclosures! 🐍 The wonder of the space helped create an environment where kids could relax, be themselves, and feel celebrated.
The I Belong Project™ exists to help kids in foster care find permanency, connection, and belonging. Days like this don’t just produce beautiful photos and videos – they create memories, inspire hope, and invite families across Tennessee to say “yes” to foster care and adoption.
MEET THE KIDS
We had a “zoo-per” time meeting each child who joined us at this special shoot. Shout out to all the brave kids who pet everything from geckos to guinea pigs! Please take a moment to click on the photos below to watch each child’s unique video.
A HUGE THANK YOU to our talented creative team for helping us capture and tell these stories.
- Gabe Ford – Interview Videographer
- Shance Ware / Ware Media – Interview Videographer
- Josh Webb – B-roll Videographer
- Leif Skartland – B-roll Videographer
- Julie Hay – Headshot Photographer
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
This event was also a powerful reminder that it takes a village to surround kids in foster care with support and love. Thank you to each partner who showed up with generosity and heart:
- Crosspoint Church – Social Worker Gifts
- Chapel Hill Christian Academy – Kid Gifts
- Jockey Being Family Foundation – Backpacks
- Elizabeth Davis – Backpack Embroidery
- Morgan Brooke Paperie – Customized Stationery
- Magpies – Hat & Patch Bar
- Jessie’s Sweet Treats – Custom Cakes
- Alex’s PaperPie Reading Jungle / Alexandria Sharkey – Books
From personalized backpacks and books to confidence-boosting beauty moments, every detail communicated the same message: you matter.
FOSTER FRIENDLY® BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
We were also happy to recognize the Nashville Zoo as our Foster Friendly® Business of the Year. Their commitment to kids and families goes far beyond one day. Be sure to check out their day pass and annual membership offers on the Foster Friendly® App.
BEHIND THE SCENES MOMENTS
