The Umamies (Maya Lehmann, Robert Lehmann, and Teiana Nakano) will perform during the reception hour. They’re a Minneapolis-based band of Asian musicians with Filipino and Japanese backgrounds. Through their music, they hope to foster spaces for Asian expression, celebration, and joy!
Gaelin Elmore, our keynote speaker, is a dynamic and nationally sought after speaker, trainer, and thought leader. He works with organizations and people to become belonging-informed in order to help children overcome trauma and unleash their potential.
Gaelin’s passion and energy for his work stems from his heart for justice and his own lived experience including as a foster youth. His own belonging journey led him to the National Football League, and now stages, boardrooms, and organizations across the country where he inspires, encourages, and equips others to think differently.
The program will also feature inspiring personal testimonials from families who have adopted youth from foster care.
After raising her own daughters to adulthood, Yolanda Taylor adopted her two great nephews to keep them with family and out of the system. She’ll share the hurdles she faced and how she overcame them.
Chris Iverson adopted Cora from foster care in 2012, when she was a teen. Chris and Cora will share their 12-year journey as a family.
Ampersand Families’ dynamic co-founder Michelle Chalmers will also share remarks.
Schedule
5-6 pm: Reception Hour with live music by the Umamies, cash bar, silent auction/raffle/gift card wall
5:45 pm: Doors open for buffet style dinner by K’s Revolutionary Catering
6:30 pm: Program featuring video, speakers, music, prize announcements
8 pm: Farewells
