Special Advocates for Children
in New York City. Their mission is
to, “ensure that children in fos-
ter care have their needs met and
rights protected; that they move
out of foster care and into per-
manent, safe and loving homes as
quickly as possible; and that young
people aging out of foster care
have the resources and support
they need to live independently.”
Charell points out that many peo-
ple have misconceptions about
youth in foster care. She reminds
us, “Youth who are in care are in
care because of something that
happened to them, not because
they did something wrong. So,
that’s a very big misconception
that I try to correct whenever I can.
People equate foster care with
a juvenile delinquent and those
are two totally different things.
Again, you are in foster care be-
cause of the people around you
had issues, not you. They couldn’t
take care of you and handle their
responsibility. It has nothing to
do with the youth themselves.”
By living in her passion and being
an advocate for youth, Charell isn’t
only bringing joy to herself, she is
bringing joy to countless families
and making a difference in their lives.
Charell is a journalist and online media personality, contributor and featured
lifestyle expert for on-air, on-camera and online video shows and segments.
She has contributed to broadcast and digital media outlets such as HARRY, Fox
5 - Good Day New York, NBC 4 New York Live, Marie Claire, Business News
Daily, and Second Look TV. She is also the founder, publisher, and writer of
“Not Just a Girl in a Dress”, a highly popular lifestyle blog which shares inspiring
stories and trending news that help women readers define their own versions
of success.
Charell Star
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Charell is also a former foster care youth, and knows first hand the challenges
facing the foster care population. She has been passionate about partnering
with organizations, advocates, and brands that provide foster youth needed
services, support and encouragement over the years
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