The Inner Compass

About the Book

There are over a half million children in foster care across this nation. These children have been removed from their homes and families because the abuse and/or neglect they have experienced has been so bad that they were not safe with their own parents.

As the Child Welfare and Protection Agency for Massachusetts, our communications office has collected first person stories focusing on the way each individual foster child has not only emerged from - but has triumphed over -- the horrors of his/her early life.

These stories of healing, resilience and character can speak to the hearts of many people who face life challenges. The courage and internal wisdom that is reflected in this book will inspire many, while demonstrating real tools for self-growth. The grace and sensibility of these current and former foster children transcends their youth and circumstances. They reveal how the best of the human spirit triumphs, despite sometimes overwhelming odds.

Carol Yelverton, Public Affairs Director for the Department of Social Services, compiled this book. A former journalist, she gathered and edited each story, with an emphasis on retaining the personal style and perspective of each contributor.

About the Author

These are true first person accounts of some of the current and former foster children who have been served by the Massachusetts Department of Social Services, after experiencing abuse and neglect. This book chronicles the resiliency, courage and fortitude it takes to overcome some of life’s most painful obstacles.