2027 SPECIAL RECOGNITION
THE UNSEEN AMONG US
Honoring Foster Youth, Kinship Families & The Bonds That Keep Us Together
Different Journeys. Equal Dignity. Every Child Belongs.
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Some young people grow up learning how to say goodbye before they learn how to explain why.
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Some have lived in more than one home.
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Some are being raised by grandparents, relatives, or caring adults who stepped forward when their families needed help.
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Some have brothers and sisters they cannot see every day.
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And some have quietly become a source of encouragement, connection, and hope for the people they love.
Their experiences may be different, but one truth remains:
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Every young person deserves to know they belong.
TWO TRACKS. ONE TABLE.
ONE CEREMONY.
The Torch of Care has always honored the military-connected teen caregiver. In 2027 it also honors the foster youth and the kinship family, because both are defined by gaps in visibility, not gaps in worth. Some are unseen because they carry. Some are unseen because they are carried. Both belong at this table.
KNOW A YOUNG PERSON WE SHOULD SEE?
A military child caring for an injured parent. A teenager helping a sibling with a disability. A student helping a grandparent. A young person carrying responsibilities at home that teachers, coaches, friends, and even extended family may never see. We want to see them. We want to recognize them. We want America to know they matter.
NOMINATE — THE UNSEEN AMONG US
KNOW A YOUNG PERSON WE SHOULD SEE?
The Military Child World Expo - Torch of Care Recognition & Awards
April 17, 2027
Army Navy Country Club
1700 Army Navy Dr.
Arlington, Virginia 22202
Nominations Are Now Open
Nominate a teen or foster youth today.