Just One “I Believe in You” Can Change a Kid’s Life
Child welfare professionals: Join our community to watch an inspiring presentation by Dr. John Gaines, CEO and founder of PUSH for Dreams. Free recording, available for a limited time!
Session Overview
In June 2025, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption welcomed more than 600 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® professionals and agency administrators to Columbus, Ohio for our annual Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Summit. The event featured three days of learning sessions from experts and advocates in child welfare, including Dr. John Gaines, CEO and founder of the nonprofit PUSH for Dreams.
Dr. Gaines’ childhood was one of extreme adversity. Growing up surrounded by drugs and violence, facing personal struggles, and being bullied for his differences, he had every reason to give up. But Dr. Gaines pushed through thanks to a caring adult. In this presentation, he shares how educators and other caring adults can make a difference in the life of a child.
Available for a limited time, the Foundation is pleased to offer our child welfare community exclusive access to a free recording of Dr. Gaines’ insights to support your advocacy on behalf of children in foster care.
About Dr. Gaines
Dr. John “Push” Gaines is the CEO and founder of the nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, a best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant and mentorship advocate. He earned his nickname “PUSH” because he believes in the power of perseverance and teaches others to “keep pushing” through life’s obstacles to become the best version of themselves.
Dr. Gaines has heartfelt enthusiasm for his audience and embraces crucial subject matter with a highly organic, kind-hearted approach fueled by positivity and the intrinsic desire to unite community. He is celebrated for nurturing youth and professionals through his own trauma, life experience and unique challenges that ultimately became the driving force behind his mission and genuine desire to elevate and motivate students, teachers, administrators, professionals and communities. Read more about Dr. Gaines.
