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CLIENT STORY: Hope In Action With Sheri Jones Episode 00: Davon & Tavon Woods

CLIENT STORY: Hope In Action With Sheri Jones Episode 00: Davon and Tavon Woods

Hope in Action: Davon & Tavon Woods Turn Foster Care Pain Into Purpose Across America

Some stories stop you in your tracks. Others keep walking—mile after mile—until the whole country starts paying attention.

That’s exactly what’s happening with Davon and Tavon Woods, twin brothers and founders of Foster Kids Matter, whose mission is transforming foster care awareness into a movement built on hope, healing, and human connection. Featured through Hope in Action, the new community-centered series from Uno Deuce Media, the Woods brothers are proving that even the hardest beginnings can become the foundation for something powerful.

And they’re not just talking about change. They’re walking it. Literally.

Walking With Purpose Across Every State

Davon and Tavon committed themselves to an ambitious mission: walking 20 miles in every state across the country to raise awareness for children in foster care.

Not for attention. Not for headlines. For the kids who feel forgotten.

“We’re walking 20 miles in every state to raise awareness for children in the foster care system. We want everyone to know they matter.”

It’s a simple message, but one that hits hard. Because for many foster youth, feeling invisible becomes part of everyday life. The Woods brothers know that reality firsthand. As they travel city to city—from their home state of South Carolina to Lansing, Michigan, and beyond—they’re creating moments that go deeper than social media clips or speeches. They’re shaking hands. Listening to stories. Hugging kids who finally feel seen.

And every mile carries meaning.

A Childhood Defined By Uncertainty

Before there was a national walk, there was survival.

Davon and Tavon were born into difficult circumstances. Their mother struggled with addiction and didn’t know she was carrying twins. Shortly after birth, the brothers entered foster care, where they would remain for most of their childhood. They didn’t meet their biological family until they were 17 years old.

Those years weren’t easy. Foster placements, instability, emotional hardship, and unanswered questions shaped much of their early lives. Even adoption brought its own challenges and pain.

But instead of allowing trauma to define them, the brothers made a different decision: turn pain into purpose.

“We decided to do the hard part—speaking up for kids who are afraid to speak up.” That choice became the foundation for Foster Kids Matter.

Foster Kids Matter Is More Than A Name

For Davon and Tavon, the organization isn’t just advocacy—it’s personal responsibility.

Foster Kids Matter exists to remind young people in foster care that their stories, struggles, and futures carry value. Through events, community outreach, speaking engagements, and their nationwide walk, the brothers are creating spaces where foster youth feel heard instead of overlooked.

And the impact is already undeniable.

Former foster youth regularly message them to say thank you. Some share their own stories for the first time. Others simply express relief that someone finally understands what they’ve experienced.

“One person messaged us crying, saying, ‘Thank you for giving us a voice.’” That kind of connection fuels the mission forward.

The “Keeping It Fresh” Program Brings Confidence One Pair At A Time

One of the most heartfelt pieces of the Foster Kids Matter initiative is the “Keeping It Fresh” program, which provides brand-new sneakers to foster youth across the country.

It may sound small to some people. To foster kids, it can mean everything.

Growing up with hand-me-downs, limited choices, or feeling different from everyone else can chip away at confidence. Davon and Tavon remember what that felt like. So now, they’re making sure other kids experience something different.

“A fresh pair of sneakers gives you encouragement and confidence to keep stepping.”

The shoes are symbolic, but the message behind them runs deeper: You deserve something new. You deserve dignity. You deserve to feel proud walking into a room. And honestly? That kind of hope changes people.

Leaving Comfort Behind To Make A Difference

At some point, Davon and Tavon realized this mission couldn’t stay part-time.

So they stepped away from traditional jobs and committed themselves fully to Foster Kids Matter and the national awareness campaign. It was a leap of faith—one built on belief, purpose, and community support.

The road hasn’t been easy. There are long days, financial challenges, and emotional moments that come with constantly revisiting painful experiences.

But they keep going. Because they know there are kids watching.

Building Community Through Hope In Action

What makes their story fit so naturally into Hope in Action is that it’s rooted in community. Everywhere they go, the Woods brothers create conversations around healing, resilience, and possibility.

In Lansing, they connected with local foster youth and community leaders who embraced their message immediately. Kids lined up for photos, autographs, and conversations—not because Davon and Tavon are celebrities, but because they represent something rare: Understanding.

The brothers continue to remind audiences that everybody goes through struggles, whether they grew up in foster care or not. Their message isn’t about comparing pain. It’s about refusing to let pain have the final word.

“Trials and tribulations are supposed to give us hope, not destroy us.” That perspective has become the heartbeat of their movement.

The Next Chapter: A Documentary & The Big Walk

The mission is only getting bigger.

Davon and Tavon are currently working on a documentary that will share their full story—the hardships, the healing, and the journey behind the movement. They believe people need to see the full picture, not just the polished highlights.

They’re also preparing for a major walk event at the State Capitol on May 23rd, inviting communities everywhere to join them in supporting foster youth and spreading awareness.

And if their journey so far proves anything, it’s this: One conversation can create hope. One act of kindness can change confidence. And one step can inspire thousands more.

Final Thoughts

Davon and Tavon Woods are doing more than raising awareness. They’re creating visibility for kids who often feel unseen. They’re building confidence where insecurity once lived. And they’re proving that resilience can become leadership when people choose purpose over bitterness.

Their story is exactly what Hope in Action is all about: real people creating real change through compassion, courage, and community. One mile at a time.

INNOVATE STATE: Matt Thomas | Burgess Institute, FY26

INNOVATE STATE: Matt Thomas | Burgess Institute, FY26

Matthew Thomas is a fellow MSU Spartan and the Founding Managing Partner of Bourgeois VC, a data-centric venture capital firm he created in 2024 with a $12 million thesis-driven fund focused on helping founders leverage the power and agility of the data layer and hybrid cloud technologies. Matthew combines deep technical expertise in data science, AI/ML, and financial analysis with extensive entrepreneurial experience, having previously founded Bond Shop Club, a luxury retail omni-channel platform that was recognized as a top startup to watch by Built-In News.

The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University empowers students to lead lives of impact through entrepreneurship. With an education-first approach, we equip Spartans with the mindset, experience, and community they need to create meaningful change.

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Todd Martin Youth Leadership

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Todd Martin Youth Leadership

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Todd Martin Youth Leadership

Last but certainly not least, our final nominee for the Most Outstanding Video of the Year Deucey Award is Todd Martin Youth Leadership!

Step inside TMYL (Todd Martin Youth Leadership) and see how this powerful program is shaping the next generation through mentorship, leadership development, and a community that shows up long after the game ends. From first swings to lifelong connections, this story captures how consistency, support, and real relationships create impact that extends far beyond the court.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Hands Across the Water

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Hands Across the Water

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Hands Across the Water

Our third nominee for the Most Outstanding Video of the Year Deucey Award is Hands Across the Water!

Discover the story of Hands Across the Water (HATW)—a nonprofit changing lives for over 26 years. From foster care support and family reunification to behavioral health services, HATW empowers children and families to thrive. Hear inspiring stories, learn how the community can help, and see why real relationships make the difference.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Big Brothers Big Sisters

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Big Brothers Big Sisters

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region

Our second nominee for the Most Outstanding Video of the Year Deucey Award is Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region!

This video highlights the life-changing impact of mentorship through Big Brothers Big Sisters. Hear firsthand how teens and kids grow through connection, support, and shared experiences that inspire lasting change in both mentor and mentee.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Tri-County Office on Aging

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Tri-County Office on Aging

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Outstanding Video Nominee: Tri-County Office on Aging

Our first nominee for the Most Outstanding Video of the Year Deucey Award is Tri-County Office on Aging!

Tri-County Office on Aging supports independence, dignity, and connection for older adults across Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. From Meals on Wheels and congregate dining to in-home care and caregiver support, TCOA is strengthening the Lansing community one relationship at a time.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU Landscape Services

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU Landscape Services

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU Landscape Services

Our final nominee for the Most Entertaining Video of the Year Deucey Award is MSU Landscape Services!

Behind the scenes at Michigan State University, a dedicated grounds crew works year-round to keep the campus safe, beautiful, and welcoming for the entire Spartan community. From innovative sustainability efforts to early-morning maintenance and storm response, their work quietly supports every step of the MSU experience.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Choose Lansing

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Choose Lansing

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Choose Lansing

Our third nominee for the Most Entertaining Video of the Year Deucey Award is Choose Lansing!

Located on Lansing’s north side, the Capital City Family BMX facility is the perfect location for next your BMX event. It offers the only USABMX sanctioned track in the region and a newly added pump track. Amenities include convenient access to water, restrooms, electronic scoreboard system, concessions and more.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine

4th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine

Our second nominee for the Most Entertaining Video of the Year Deucey Award is MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine!

Emotions were running high once again at the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Match day! They had us out to cover their event, and capture the raw emotion of their students as they found out where they are going next on their journey of becoming a Doctor.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Wharton Center

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Wharton Center

14th Annual Deucey Awards Most Entertaining Video Nominee: Wharton Center

Our first nominee for the Most Entertaining Video of the Year Deucey Award is the Wharton Center for Performing Arts!

High school musical theater takes center stage in Michigan every year at the Sutton Foster Awards, a celebration that goes far beyond trophies and applause. Named after Broadway star Sutton Foster, this event brings together students from across the state to perform, learn, and connect with a community that will inspire them for years to come. For many, it’s a transformative experience—part performance showcase, part professional training, and part family reunion for theater lovers.

Watch the video and VOTE!: https://unodeuce.superwebpros.com/deucey-awards/

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