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Smile Forward and founder Dr. Angela Oliver-Burgess were honored with the Outstanding Nonprofit Champion for Children Award at the 2026 Florida’s Children First awards, alongside Brevard Youth Leadership Council member Katie Matthews, who received the Outstanding Youth Advocate Award. From local youth leadership in Central Florida to trauma-healing efforts abroad, these honors celebrate a shared commitment to ensuring every young person feels seen, supported, and heard.

Our journey in Ukraine continues as we share an update on our mission of faith, healing, and hope. We recently completed a Training of Trainers program in faith-based trauma care with leaders from across the country—including Lviv, Kyiv, Dnipro, and Odesa—equipping them with holistic practices for mind, body, and spirit healing. Alongside training, we supported rest and renewal retreats for women and children affected by war. Our journey continues as we stand with Ukraine.

War leaves hidden wounds. Smile Forward CEO Dr. Angela Oliver-Burgess is returning to Ukraine with Grace Life Outreach and Hope House International to launch a Training of Trainers initiative. Equipping church leaders and war widows with practical, biology-informed tools for trauma healing, this project fosters lasting resilience across communities through ongoing mentorship.

At just 13, Michael joined the Brevard Youth Leadership Council unsure of what to expect. Today, through mentorship, acceptance, and advocacy—including speaking directly to state legislators in Tallahassee—he is using his lived experience in foster care to inspire, empower, and guide the next generation of young leaders.

"Lived experience in the foster care system didn't just shape my story—it shaped my purpose. As a social worker and advocate with Smile Forward, I combine my background and passion to support youth in care and drive meaningful, systemic change."

From its roots as Smile for Budgie, Dr. Angela Oliver-Burgess shares the inspiring evolution into Smile Forward. Discover how a legacy of compassion is transforming lives—from youth in foster care to communities recovering in Ukraine.