Episode 9

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Published on:

25th Feb 2026

A Foster Care Movement Grounded in Dignity with David White

***This Episode***

In this episode of Civically Grown, Dr. Shaniece Criss talks with David White, founder and CEO of Fostering Great Ideas, about leadership, dignity, and building movements that last. David shares how his teen experiences, from sharing meals with men experiencing homelessness to hearing that he was special, shaped his confidence, resilience, and willingness to take bold risks.

He reflects on his journey from corporate finance to foster care transformation. Today, the organization engages more than 150 volunteers and 20 staff members to support youth in foster care through mentorship, advocacy, and innovative community-based programs.

David emphasizes that foster care is a community effort. Biological parents, foster parents, siblings, mentors, volunteers, and neighbors all play a role in restoring dignity for children navigating trauma and instability.

Throughout the conversation, David addresses the realities of foster care. Youth enter care with belongings in trash bags, siblings are separated, young adults face homelessness, and some experience disproportionate vulnerability to trafficking. Yet he transforms these challenges into energy for building movements.

He closes with practical wisdom for aspiring movement builders: start with dignity, stay curious, recognize the specialness in yourself and others, build platforms that elevate people, and surround yourself with truth tellers.

When asked to describe his leadership style as a flower, David chose a rose, balancing strength, beauty, and vulnerability.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• How David’s teen experiences shaped his resilience and boldness

• Why transforming foster care takes community-centered thinking, not just programs

• Practical strategies for building movements that restore dignity and make lasting impact

• The power of mentorship and relationships in shaping young lives

• Turning personal experiences into collective action and meaningful change

Connect with Fostering Great Ideas at https://fgi4kids.org.

***Guest Bio***

David White holds an MBA in Corporate Finance and an MSW in Child Welfare. After spending 12 years working in corporate finance, he decided to pivot his career into serving individuals who are severely marginalized. He worked at two child-focused non-profit organizations prior to creating Fostering Great Ideas in 2011, an innovative organization serving children in foster care. https://fgi4kids.org/

David was an Adjunct Professor with Clemson University’s MBA in Entrepreneurship program for ten years. He taught Community Impact Entrepreneurship: bringing entrepreneurial spirit to difficult world problems.

David enjoys hiking, gardening, cycling, and spending time with his family. He can be reached at david.white@fgi4kids.org.

***Show Host***

Dr. Shaniece Criss

#CivicallyGrown #LeadershipDevelopment #FosterCare #FosterYouth #Dignity

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About the Podcast

Civically Grown
Where changemakers share the roots of their leadership and the impact they’re cultivating today.

Civically Grown shares the stories of leaders whose early steps in civic engagement began in youth leadership and have grown into legacies of lasting community impact. Dr. Shaniece Criss, a former youth governor turned health scholar and public servant, hosts this podcast. It is your source for inspiration, insight, and actionable strategies that fuel your momentum and amplify your influence.

Each episode blends uplifting conversations with tools to help you overcome obstacles, strengthen your leadership, and spark meaningful change. Whether you’re looking to deepen your impact or build a lasting legacy, Civically Grown equips you to grow as a leader and empower the next generation. Join a community of passionate changemakers committed to making a difference that endures.

About your host

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Dr. Shaniece Criss

Dr. Shaniece Criss is a civic leader and podcast host who believes in the power of community to drive meaningful change. At Furman University, she serves as Associate Professor of Health Sciences and Director of the Advocacy and Social Policy master's program. Her career spans local and global impact, from producing a national health television program in Guyana during her Peace Corps service to roles at the CDC, ICF International, and CNN. She earned degrees from Harvard University (ScD, MPA), Emory University (MPH), and Oglethorpe University (BA). Dr. Criss brings experience, optimism, and authenticity to every conversation.