There are millions of children of all ages throughout the United States, and even the world, who have gone through the breakup of their families. It is a heartbreaking journey for everyone involved, but particularly for the children. Children really have no voice in the breakup circumstances of divorce, a situation in which they must live, but have no part in creating. The reality is that the current care systems are ill-equipped to handle the mental orchestration that really underscores the divorce process and life after divorce. In particular, children are often caught in the middle of the psychological struggle between parents. Although it is truly a complex and concealed psychological effort that is difficult for children to intellectually recognize, articulate, and confront, they do have an innate perception that their consciousness, moral sense, and self confidence are being exploited and distorted.



What is the recourse for children in emotional need that removes an inadequate court system and harmful parental control from the decision-making process? A nonprofit for children and teens by children and teens may be the necessary path.



The Kennedy Austin Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and supporting women and families whose lives have been impacted by tragedy. Its founder, Ethel Gardner, has created outreach programs within the organization that focus on living, speaking, and sharing, courageously. Particularly for children and teens suffering the trauma of psychological abuse through and after the divorce process, it is important to instill that message of courage.



Ava B. interviews Ethel Gardner for insight into a child’s mind and heart to uncover a unique approach to reaching out to children and teens. With the model of The Kennedy Austin Foundation, children and teens who have lived and continue to live through this kind of struggle can take the first steps to emotional well-being with courage.