Ruby Foster is a lovely young woman who works as a development manager for Miracles for Kids, a California non-profit which empowers individuals and communities to “be the miracle” for families with critically-ill children, by supporting the struggling parents and surrounding the siblings in that family with additional care and comfort.

A development manager for any non-profit is a coveted position that is held by a limited number of Black women. So, Ruby Foster is definitely a Black History trailblazer and the subject of this week’s Feel-Good Friday.

Foster grew up in a military family, and was heavily into sports. She gravitated to non-profits through a connection with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and she discusses how she found a niche that suited her purpose and mission.

Foster explained so succinctly how Miracles for Kids distinguishes itself among a sea of non-profits with similar missions, and how her role works to build relationships with sponsor organizations, as well as relationships within the community.

Because Foster is like a unicorn in the non-profit world, she could have worked anywhere she wanted. She explains why she specifically wanted to work with Miracles for Kids co-founder Autumn Strier, and make her distinct imprint through this organization, while making an impact in her own backyard.

Foster also introduced me to a phrase that I really liked: “If you can see her, you can be her.” Alluding to the fact that women, and especially Black women in unique roles have the power to inspire and instill vision in others that might not otherwise have occurred.

This has been my experience as a Black Yoga instructor, and it’s valid.

Representation does matter.

Miracles for Kids acts as a back up for families struggling under the weight and devastation of a child who has been diagnosed with a critical illness. Bills do not stop when a medical tragedy hits; if anything, they increase. Miracle for Kids helps to keep the lights on, the water running, and they do a whole lot more, as Foster concisely laid out:

We brought the discussion around to inspirations, and Foster’s parents are hers. Foster is a shining example of how work ethic and a sense of purpose are taught, and how parents do the work of instilling that into us.

When Foster talked about her work with the families, her beautiful, radiant smile and sharp eyes became even more brilliant. We discussed examples and archetypes from Black History, as well as the importance of patriarchal focus. Just like representation matters, so do the men who lead our families and our communities.

Ruby Foster is fulfilling her purpose and mission, and making a difference in the lives of children; one family at a time. Miracles for Kids is blessed to have her, and it was a pleasure to interview her.

To discover how you might contribute your time, talent, or treasure to Miracles for Kids, visit their website at miraclesforkids.org.