In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, this episode of Restoried highlights the incredible impact of volunteers at Hope Bridge and the vital role they play in supporting foster families, single moms, and vulnerable children. While not everyone is called to foster, we are all called to care, and Hope Bridge gives people tangible ways to step into that calling. Simply put, this work would not be possible without the faithful, consistent presence of volunteers who give their time, talents, and resources to serve others.

You’ll hear firsthand from Matt, a dedicated volunteer, as he shares what inspired him to step in, how serving aligns with his faith, and the joy he’s found in building meaningful relationships with the kids and families he serves.

This episode also explores the many practical ways you can get involved, whether through childcare, mentorship, transportation, meals, or even leveraging your unique skills or resources. If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference, this conversation is a reminder that everyone can do something. When we choose to care for the vulnerable in our community, even the smallest step can create a lasting impact.

Episode Highlights:

• Volunteer Appreciation Month
• Volunteer opportunities
• Everyone can help
• Consistency builds impact
• Use your gifts
• Small acts matter

Find More on Hope Bridge/Links from this episode:

• Volunteer Form
• Join the Bridge
• Comfort & Care Bag Amazon Wishlist
• Empower U Meal Train
• Louisville Single Mom Support Group Meal Train
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook

Join us for our Annual Benefit Dinner!

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and in this episode of Restoried, we sit down with author, speaker, and advocate Stephanie Ellison to talk about the realities of child abuse, especially the parts we don’t always see.

Stephanie shares pieces of her own story growing up in instability, navigating trauma, and learning how those experiences shaped her as both a child and an adult. She helps us understand how kids cope in different ways, some becoming quiet and unseen, others acting out, both responses rooted in survival.

We also talk about how complex abuse really is, how generational cycles play a role, and why compassion matters, not just for kids, but for struggling families too. This conversation is a reminder that we don’t have to do something big to make a difference. Sometimes, being a safe, consistent presence is enough to change a child’s life.

If you’ve ever wondered how to recognize signs of abuse or how you can help, this episode will both challenge and encourage you.

Episode Highlights:

• Child Abuse Prevention Month
• Abuse isn’t always visible
• Kids cope in different ways
• Trauma shapes behavior deeply
• Small actions make big impact
• Safe people change lives

Find more on Guest:

• Listen to Stephanie’s Previous Restoried Episode Here
• Stephanie’s Book- Always Forever
• Stephanie’s Non-Profit’s Website
• Fostering Hope Podcast
• Stephanie’s Blog
• Stephanie’s Instagram
• Stephanie’s Facebook

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook

Join us for our Annual Benefit Dinner!

In this episode of Restoried, we’re talking about Sabbath, what it actually looks like in real, everyday life. It’s not just about taking a day off, but about creating a rhythm of stopping, resting, delighting, and spending time with God.

We get into how Sabbath can sometimes feel rigid or unrealistic, but how it can actually become something really freeing and life-giving. Even small, intentional shifts, like unplugging from your phone or slowing down enough to connect with the people around you, can bring a sense of peace back into your home and your week.

At the end of the day, Sabbath is a gift, not a rule, and it doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

Episode Highlights:

• Sabbath is intentional, not legalistic
• Start Sabbath with realistic rhythms
• Rest is an act of trust
• Remove distractions, deepen connection
• Small rhythms transform your home

Find More on Hope Bridge/Links from this episode:

• Sabbath for Families PDF
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook

Join us for our Annual Benefit Dinner!