Raising awareness & equipping OH communities in the care and support of vulnerable children & families
Ohio’s foster care system is in crisis. There are so many vulnerable children and families in need of services and support and just not enough of the Church knowing HOW to provide that.
The Mobilize OH Conference was born from a place of knowing the many levels of needs and wanting to help others learn exactly HOW to step in to help. While not everyone can become a foster family, we believe everyone can do something.
Join us for Mobilize OH 2025.
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
North Canton Chapel
715 Whittier Ave NW
Canton, OH, 44703
Inspired by deep compassion for others and informed from a Christian perspective, psychiatrist Curt Thompson shares fresh insights and practical applications for developing more authentic relationships and fully experiencing our deepest longing: to be known. With a considerable dose of warmth (and surprising measure of humor), Curt weaves together an understanding of interpersonal neurobiology (IPNB) and a Christian view of what it means to be human — to educate and encourage others as they seek to fulfill their intrinsic desire to feel known, valued and connected. He understands that deep, authentic relationships are essential to experiencing a healthier, more purposeful life — but the only way to realize this is to begin telling our stories more truly. Curt’s unique insights about how the brain affects and processes relationships help people discover a fresh perspective and practical applications to foster healthy and vibrant lives, allowing them to get unstuck and move toward the next beautiful thing they’re being called to make. Through his workshops, speaking engagements, books, organizational consulting, private clinical practice and other platforms, he helps people process their longings, grief, identity, purpose, perspective of God and perspective of humanity, inviting them to engage more authentically with their own stories and their relationships. Only then can they can feel truly known and connected and live into the meaningful reality they desire to create. Curt and his wife, Phyllis, live outside of Washington DC and have two adult children.
Jamie C. Finn is the author of bestselling book, Foster the Family and Filled: 60 devotions for the Foster Parent's Heart, the founder and President of Foster the Family, the host of the Real Mom podcast, the founder and owner of Goods and Better, and a sought-after speaker for retreats, conferences, and events for foster and adoptive parents. Her popular social media accounts offer a glimpse into the real life of a foster parent and provide encouragement to thousands of foster parents. Jamie is the mother to 6+ children through foster care, adoption, and birth. She lives in Sicklerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Alan
Jason is a writer and speaker who encourages families and equips church and organizational leaders on their foster care and adoption journeys.
He currently serves as the Director of Church Mobilization and Engagement with Christian Alliance for Orphans. In his work he develops resources, coaches leaders and teaches in a variety of contexts on church-based ministry structures, organizational leadership and strategy. He is also a sought-after speaker for churches, retreats, conferences, and events for foster and adoptive parents as well as for those considering getting involved.
Prior to his work at CAFO Jason spent 14 years in church staff ministry, including planting and pastoring a church in Houston. It’s there that his family’s foster care journey began.
Jason and his wife, Emily live in Texas with their daughters. He has authored 4 books: Reframing Foster Care, Everyone Can Do Something, ALL IN Orphan Care and Effectively Engaging Churches. You can find many of his resources at www.jasonjohnsonblog.com.
Stephanie Ellison’s story will grab your heart, squeeze it, and leave you inspired and empowered. As a former foster youth, she was in and out of the system for over 15 years. She never imagined her life would amount to anything due to a lack of stability and security. As a kid, she had believed the false truths of the disturbing examples surrounding her.
Stephanie learned through “outsiders,” as she refers to them, that there was another way of life, a healthier way. These educators, community members, and friends encouraged her to see the value she had to offer the world. Through hard work and perseverance, she rose above the dark challenges.
Through mentorship and her community’s help, she became the first in her family to graduate from high school and college. She earned a Master of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Tx.
Stephanie was extremely grateful for everyone who helped her navigate her way through life and wanted to help other youths navigate their path.
In 2002, she began sharing her turbulent story of hope, forgiveness, and the power of education with youth, parents, and educators. Intending to help others see the good in the world, no matter what circumstances they face.
Today, Stephanie is an elementary school behavior specialist, inspirational speaker, children’s book author, activist, and host of Fostering Hope with Stephanie Ellison. Above all, she believes her most important role is as a wife and mother.
Stephanie is an activist for the voiceless and aims to be a light in the darkness by shining hope.
5251 Landmark Blvd, North Canton, OH 44720
(330) 966-4907
Planting seeds of hope by creating Christ-centered communities for vulnerable children and families
Hope Bridge, Inc. 501(c)3
P.O. Box 205 Hartville, OH 44632
330.877.2612