There aren't always, especially in low-income communities, the arts and the dance and the drama and the things that can really show a kid, 'Look, even if I'm three years behind in math, there's something I'm good at that can help me be successful in life.' Vanessa Diffenbaugh artcommunitydance share on social
I love Toni Morrison and Jeanette Winterson. 'The Passion' is my favourite book. Vanessa Diffenbaugh bookfavouritejeanette Change image and share on social
I did a minor in creative writing in college, but I didn't start writing until I stayed at home with my own children. Vanessa Diffenbaugh childcollegecreative Change image and share on social
Writing has always been an interest of mine, and 'The Language of Flowers' combined my experience with foster care with something I've always wanted to do. Vanessa Diffenbaugh carecombineexperience Change image and share on social
Everyone needs something they're good at. You want your kids to be passionate and figure out something they're good at. Vanessa Diffenbaugh figuregoodkid Change image and share on social
We all make mistakes, and we all need second chances. For youth in foster care, these mistakes are often purposeful - if not consciously so; a way to test the strength of a bond and establish trust in a new parent. Vanessa Diffenbaugh bondcarechance share on social
You have to really prove yourself to young people, and if your answer is clear and consistent and loving - even if it's angry and disappointed - what's important is that you're being real and honest and not going anywhere. Vanessa Diffenbaugh angryanswerclear share on social
I'm missing work. We didn't have enough money for preschool. I had a panic attack. I couldn't do it. I became one of those horrible foster parents who give the kids back. Vanessa Diffenbaugh attackbackfoster Change image and share on social
I founded Camellia Network with my dear friend Isis Dallis Keigwin. The mission of our organization is to create a national network that connects every youth aging out of foster care to the critical resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive in adulthood. Vanessa Diffenbaugh adulthoodagingcamellia share on social
I was a screenwriting and studio art major in college, so even though I don't have any training as a floral designer, I have a very particular visual aesthetic. Vanessa Diffenbaugh aestheticartcollege Change image and share on social
