Dayton Teen Honored at White House for Foster Youth Advocacy

A former foster youth from Dayton, Ohio, Jordan Deaton, received recognition at the White House on February 3, 2023, for his impactful advocacy work on behalf of foster youth. Deaton, a graduate of Northmont High School, participated in an event hosted by the Office of the First Lady and the Administration for Families and Children. This occasion celebrated the Fostering the Future initiative, which is part of First Lady Melania Trump‘s Be Best program.

Deaton, now 19, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the recognition. “It was amazing, awesome and an honor,” he said, admitting he felt a mix of nerves and courage. “My passion drove my fear away. I want the world to know my experience because it’s important to show my peers and those younger than me that youth can make an impact.”

His journey through the foster care system has not been easy. Deaton was adopted by Sara Beth Deaton and Rodney Deaton, who faced legal issues last summer involving allegations of physical punishment against their six children. Despite these challenges, Deaton remains focused on his advocacy work. “I have a lot of experience — a lot of good and a lot of pain — but it’s not holding me back,” he explained.

Heather Kirkland, a friend and former foster parent, praised Deaton for his resilience and accomplishments. Under Kirkland’s care, Deaton lived for nearly three years, during which he excelled academically and personally. He graduated with honors from Northmont and received the Samuel Halperin Youth Public Service Award from the Children’s Defense Fund of Ohio. Furthermore, he was acknowledged as a 2025 PCSAO Leader of Tomorrow and achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer in the Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps.

Kirkland noted, “Jordan has chosen to take what has been meant for harm to make it good and to help others.” She highlighted how many young people do not follow a path of positivity after such experiences, making Deaton’s choices all the more admirable.

Deaton continues to actively engage with the foster care community. He is a member of the Ohio Youth Advisory Board and participates in the Bridges program, which aids young adults aged 18 to 21 who have transitioned out of foster care. The program provides vital support to help participants navigate adult life successfully.

During his visit to the White House, Deaton was joined by Jeff Van Deusen, Assistant Director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, and his Bridges advocate, Lisa Carlin. The group met with key officials, including Sarah Gesiriech, the First Lady’s policy director, to discuss initiatives aimed at enhancing support for foster youth. Van Deusen highlighted several programs in Ohio that align with the Fostering the Future initiative.

In addition to advocacy discussions, the visit included a private tour of the White House. Deaton shared his excitement about seeing the historic paintings and rooms. “Some of my favorite things were seeing all the different paintings of the presidents,” he remarked.

Van Deusen commended Deaton for his testimony and advocacy efforts. “It was an incredible honor to represent Ohio and the DeWine Administration at the White House,” he stated. “Jordan’s story is a shining example of resilience and what’s possible when young people are supported and encouraged.”

Currently attending Sinclair Community College, Deaton aspires to pursue a career in public service. He aims to inspire other youth within the foster care system. “We have a voice and we know how to articulate it,” he declared. “We are victims but we won’t stay victims. We will change the world.”

His journey from foster care to the White House serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of advocacy, illustrating that young voices can indeed make a significant impact.