Youth Villages to host free movie screening of Sound of Hope Jan. 21
PRESS RELEASE FROM YOUTH VILLAGES:
Youth Villages to host free movie screening for community
“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” highlights impact of foster care
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Jan. 16, 2026) — Youth Villages, a leading children’s mental and behavioral health nonprofit, invites the public to a special free screening “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” at New Greater Bethel AME Church (148 Cartmell St.) in Jackson on Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m.
The movie shows the true story of Donna and Reverend W.C. Martin and their East Texas church in which 22 families adopted 77 children from the local foster system, igniting a movement for children everywhere.
This inspiring event is designed to raise awareness about the urgent need for foster parents in West Tennessee, including Jackson and Madison County, and community support for children in foster care. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion and Q&A session after the film. Foster care staff and local foster parents will share personal experiences and insights into the foster care journey.
The event will highlight opportunities for individuals, families, churches and businesses to learn how they make a difference in the lives of children in state care. The event is presented by Youth Villages, Jackson-Madison Prevention Coalition, Tennessee Kids Belong and New Greater Bethel AME Church.
“Great foster parents can come from anywhere. This movie helps us realize the power we all must DO something in our community, with our neighbors, for our kids,” said Stephen Nelson, Youth Villages assistant director of foster parent recruiting.
For more information, contact Donna Goodman at 731-660-6767 or visit youthvillages.org/foster.
About Youth Villages
Youth Villages is a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health committed to building strong families, delivering effective services and significantly improving outcomes for children, families and young people involved in child welfare, mental health, and juvenile justice systems across the country. Founded in 1986, the organization’s 5,000 employees help more than 47,000 children annually in 29 states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia. Youth Villages has been recognized by the Harvard Business School and U.S. News & World Report and was identified by The White House as one of the nation’s most promising results-oriented nonprofit organizations.
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