Welcome to Out of the Starting Blocks and Into the Race, a podcast series dedicated to exploring the multifaceted world of supporting children affected by the foster care system. Each episode delves into the complex challenges these children face and offers practical insights for professionals, caregivers, and anyone interested in fostering positive change in their lives.
Join us as we follow Joe’s personal journey in Out of the Starting Blocks and Into the Race, navigating the intricacies of working with foster care children. We provide tools, insights, and inspiration for those committed to making a meaningful impact.
Joseph Toles
Joseph Toles is a New York State licensed Mental Health Counselor, entrepreneur, and father of eight adopted young men. He received his MS in Sports Psychology from Brooklyn College, and he specializes in the comprehensive assessment of adolescent needs. A former Division One All- American Track and Field athlete at Auburn University, Joseph also earned the honor of leading the Tigers as Captain. Having grown up in the New York State foster care system, Joseph has dedicated his entire professional career to working with community-based not- for-profit service agencies and public education. In 2005, Joseph formed The Joseph Toles Foundation to continue his work of supporting families beyond what could be done at an agency. He believes that “family” is the best way to help a child who has been placed in the foster care system. In 2016 Joseph retired from his full-time responsibilities as School Counselor, Coach and Mentor to “evolve” while continuing his mental health practice. He has since assisted professionals seeking a license as a Mental Health Counselor by teaching graduate courses for Alfred University, hosted a Geico sponsored series of social media shows for The Dad, created multi-media videos which he distributes via social media and has authored his first book, The Spirit of Christmas. Joseph spends most of his time working towards educating and encouraging people to learn more about the plight of children who are living their lives in the foster care system. He uses his story to demonstrate the impact positive connections can have on a child and how family is the most powerful elixir.
Renee Damon
Renee Damon brings over 30 years of dedicated service to the child welfare system, guided by compassion, integrity, and a trauma-informed approach. Her commitment to vulnerable youth stems from a personal calling rooted in her own experiences growing up in a fractured family and a lifelong desire to advocate for children whose voices are too often unheard.
Beginning her career as a case planner, Renee worked directly with families navigating some of the most challenging moments of their lives, including child removals and reunifications. She later served as a Trauma-Informed Residential Counselor, where she supported youth as they processed the impacts of abuse, displacement, and systemic failures.
Throughout her career, Renee has borne witness to both heartbreak and hope—attending graduations and adoptions, and mourning the loss of young lives taken too soon. She remains connected to many of the youth she has served, drawing strength and inspiration from their resilience.
While she did not grow up in foster care, Renee’s lived experience has been shaped by proximity, presence, and persistence. She has walked alongside youth through their journeys, listened deeply to their stories, and held space for their grief, anger, healing, and triumph.
Her mission remains clear: to elevate youth voices, humanize systems, and bring heart to hard places.
Book Us
Resources & Articles
Mental health, wellness, and the pursuit of success in the foster care system. Each article is designed to empower and uplift those impacted by foster care. Here you’ll also find various resources to help you navigate this journey with confidence and compassion, creating a brighter future for all.
