Tedric Johnson, Author at Arrow Child & Family Ministries

On May 1, 2024, 4Kids4Families launched Stage Two of Community-Based Care, marking a transformative step in how we serve children and families across region 4. With this shift, we took full responsibility for foster care case management, along with Youth Achievement (PAL), care management, legal affairs, community engagement, adoptions, kinship support and more.

The past year has brought both growth and challenge, but through it all, we’ve remained anchored in our mission: helping kids and strengthening families. Every department, every team, every role has played a part in building something meaningful.

On May 2, 2025 — one year later — teams across region 4 came together to celebrate one full year in Stage Two—a milestone marked by purpose, pride and progress.

As part of the celebration, we proudly named Crystal Lopez our Champion4Kids of the Year, honoring her outstanding dedication, compassion and commitment to the children and families we serve.

To everyone who helped us reach this moment, thank you. Your integrity, excellence and heart continue to make a lasting impact across East Texas!

On Monday, May 19, a beautiful chapter came full circle as Marcus Giovanni Westley Dennis was officially adopted into his forever family.

Arrow Case Manager Michaela Zocchi was honored to witness the emotional hearing, where more than 10 DHS workers — spanning from Marcus’ first CPS caseworker to his final foster care advocate — gathered to celebrate this life-changing moment. Also in attendance were Marcus’ biological sister and her adoptive family, adding to the deep sense of connection and support in the room.

The presiding judge, who had overseen Marcus’ case since he entered care at just five years old, shared heartfelt reflections before declaring Marcus the legal child of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis. In a powerful act of belonging, Marcus chose to take both their last name and Mr. Dennis’ middle name as his own.

It was a moment marked by joyful tears, long journeys and the kind of love that lasts a lifetime.

Congratulations to Marcus and the Dennis family! 💙

Arrow was proud to serve as a sponsor of the 48th Annual Military Appreciation Event, held on the historic land of Aberdeen Proving Ground. It was a privilege to join fellow businesses and community organizations in recognizing the incredible service and sacrifices of our military members and their families.

The event opened with heartfelt remarks from Harford County Executive and former Senator Bob Cassilly, along with Michael Pherson, president and CEO of Freedom Federal Credit Union. Both speakers paid tribute to the strength, resilience and commitment of our armed forces.

Major General James Turinetti IV, Senior Commander of Aberdeen Proving Ground, expressed deep gratitude to the community—including businesses, schools and nonprofit partners—for supporting the installation’s 2,856 residents and approximately 21,000-member workforce.

Arrow is honored to stand with those who serve and we remain committed to supporting the military families who call this community home!

Huge shoutout to the incredible generosity of our East Texas communities as more than 200 prom dresses were collected for youth in foster care. Each donated by individuals and organizations from Paris to Tyler.

We were proud to partner with The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) of Whitehouse, where students and instructors provided complimentary hair and makeup services to help young women feel their best for prom night.

TSPA has made an ongoing commitment to sponsor 1–3 youth in foster care in each incoming freshman class and will offer monthly appointment days for girls in care.

The prom, hosted in Tyler, welcomed youth ages 16 and up whose legal county and placement fall within region 4. It was a joyful, confidence-boosting celebration made possible by the dedication of our Youth Achievement Team (YAS) and the many community members who stepped up to show our youth just how valued and supported they are.

This was a reminder that when community comes together, beautiful things happen.

This past Wednesday, the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Baltimore County Excellence in Education Teacher Awards, an event that shines a spotlight on the outstanding educators who go above and beyond to shape the future.

We’re thrilled to announce that two exceptional staff members from Tangram School were nominated for Awards for Excellence in Education, sponsored by the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce:

Each year in March, more than 176 Baltimore County Public Schools, along with several non-public school principals, submit nominations for this prestigious recognition. Candidates undergo a rigorous vetting process that verifies the impact they’ve made in education and in the lives of their students.

Benjamin Gordon, Assistant Teacher: nominated in the EIE–Student Support Personnel category

Jovool Baltazar, Art Teacher: nominated in the EIE–Secondary Schools Teacher of the Year category

We’re proud to announce Jovool Baltazar won in her category!

Both Jovool and Benjamin exemplify what it means to serve students with heart, creativity and unwavering dedication. This recognition is a well-earned reflection of the meaningful work they do each day to inspire and uplift.

Congratulations to all nominees and winners! Your passion and commitment help prepare students in our community to thrive as the next generation of leaders and change-makers.

This month, Arrow leaders joined education advocates from across the nation in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC). Together, they championed the importance of maintaining a full continuum of special education services for children and youth with diverse needs.

Arrow representatives met with the offices of Maryland federal officials, including Congressman Andy Harris, Senator Chris Van Hollen and Senator Angela Alsobrooks. These meetings opened the door to meaningful conversations about increasing federal funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), preserving critical Medicaid support for treatment services, and promoting equity and dignity for people of all abilities.

It was an honor to represent Arrow’s mission on the Hill—and to do so alongside our dedicated NAPSEC partners.

The courtroom was packed as friends and family gathered in matching shirts proudly reading “The Wood Clan Est. 1979.” After two years of love and growing together, the moment finally arrived—Adalynn was officially becoming a Wood.

Adalynn was just one week old when she was placed with Caleb and Jessica Wood. From the very beginning, she became family. Now, at two-years-old, she’s full of personality, joy and is the perfect piece to the Wood’s family puzzle. To sweeten the pie, Adalynn and her grandmother, who barely left her side during the adoption hearing, share an extra special bond.

The morning was overflowing with happy tears, hugs and celebration as Adalynn Joel officially joined the Wood Clan forever!

Natalia’s adoption story is a beautiful testament to love, faith, and family. Since joining the Arrow community in 2021, the Cummins family has held a heartfelt hope—to adopt a child who would complete their home. That dream came true in 2024 when Natalia officially became part of their forever family.

From the moment they met her, the Cummins knew Natalia was the one. Every step in the process unfolded smoothly, as if each moment had been guided by something greater. What began as a hope turned into a story of connection and belonging. Natalia quickly became a source of joy, laughter, and light in their lives.

On the day of the adoption, family and friends gathered to witness a life-changing moment in Natalia’s adoption story. As the judge made it official, tears flowed freely, hugs were shared, and hearts overflowed with gratitude. It wasn’t just about signing papers—it was about affirming what everyone already knew: Natalia was always meant to be a Cummins.

Now at home, Natalia’s days are filled with love, structure, and playful energy. Her bond with the family is strong, and her smile says everything. She’s not just part of the Cummins family—she is the heart of it.

Natalia’s adoption story is one of many that reflect the mission of Arrow: to help kids and strengthen families. Every child deserves a loving, stable home, and every adoption is a celebration of hope fulfilled.

We’re proud to support families like the Cummins and honored to share these stories of forever love.

One morning, a little girl named Ella was placed with the Moore family—a family that found a pocket of joy through the adoption of her older sister Charleigh in 2022.

On March 13, 2025, Ella’s journey came full circle as her adoption was finalized. The people who have walked alongside every step of the way surrounded her. In this photo, you’ll see Jacque Gunter, her case manager; Ella herself; her proud big sister Charleigh; and Courtney Moore, the incredible foster mom turned forever mom—twice.

These moments of creating connections, building families and helping love grow is what Arrow is all about.

Courtney says their family is complete, but we have a feeling a little brother could change her mind.

Students from our Arrow Center for Education Tangram campus recently had an unforgettable experience during a community outing to M&T Bank Stadium, the iconic home of the Baltimore Ravens! This exciting adventure gave students the chance to step outside the classroom and immerse themselves in a dynamic, real-world environment where learning and fun went hand in hand.

During the visit, students explored the stadium on a guided tour, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at one of Baltimore’s most recognized landmarks. From walking through the players’ tunnel to seeing the press box and locker rooms, the tour was filled with awe-inspiring moments. Along the way, students also participated in a fun and engaging scavenger hunt that encouraged teamwork, observation skills, and critical thinking.

Beyond the excitement, this outing served a deeper purpose. It was a powerful opportunity for our students to practice real-world life skills—such as following directions, asking questions, managing time, and navigating a new environment. These skills are essential for building independence and self-confidence, especially for students who benefit from structured support.

Community outings like this are an important part of our educational model. They help reinforce classroom lessons, strengthen social and communication skills, and allow students to apply what they’ve learned in meaningful ways. More importantly, they provide a safe and supportive space for students to connect with peers, teachers, and the broader community.

By visiting M&T Bank Stadium, our students also got to celebrate their hometown pride and learn more about Baltimore’s rich sports culture. With every high-five and smile, the day reinforced that learning can—and should—be exciting and empowering. We’re proud of our Tangram students for stepping out of their comfort zones, and we’re grateful to our staff and community partners who make experiences like this possible. 🏈