Our Philosophy
Our philosophy is that children are most likely to thrive in a joy-filled environment, with one or two healthy primary attachments. Denial of that vital attachment, or the ability to explore, will result in a diminished development of well-being and purpose. The varying degrees of trauma experienced by a child exposed to neglect, abuse, and separation are real. The impact of that trauma on a child’s vital connection to his world can range from mild to profound, consequently affecting their ability to survive or thrive in the world. As a program that receives these children in varying states of trauma, our responsibility is to do everything within our means to match them to a family that can fortify the child with healthy relationships and a sense of security that can eventually result in attachment.
Advantage
Board of Directors
RYAN HAMA – BOARD PRESIDENT
CATHERINE LIEDAHL – SECRETARY
LINDA JUNIR
VICKI RIDER
WILLIAM RIDER
ADAM SANDLER (ALTERNATE)
Our Team
Vicki Rider
Vicki Rider is the Executive Director of Advantage Foster Family Agency. She started as an agency social worker 30 years ago, taking over the position of Executive Director in 2013. Vicki graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a degree in Human Services and obtained her master’s degree in Social Work and PPS Credential from the University of Southern California. She also worked for the Orange County Probation Department as a School Counselor for the Orange County Department of Education. Vicki is passionate about working with foster youth and has dedicated her professional life to helping children in the foster care system.
Anshumala Ram
Anshumala Ram is the Resource Family Approval (RFA) Manager at Advantage Foster Family Agency. She plays a key role in the organization, responsible for approving individuals or families interested in becoming foster adoptive parents. She also manages the agency's day-to-day operations, completes home studies, and supports recruitment efforts. She has been working with children and families from various ethnic and social backgrounds for over 15 years. Her prior experience includes ABC Foster Family Agency, Children and Family Services-Orange County, Hannah's Children's Homes, and Institute for Black Parenting. Anshumala has an M.S.W degree from California State University, San Bernardino. She also has a B.A. and an M.A. in Sociology from Carleton University, Canada. She is passionate about working with children and families and providing resources, support, and coping strategies to promote safety, permanence, and well-being.
Stephanie Aspgren
Stephanie Aspgren became a full-time member of the Advantage team in May 2024. She recently retired from Orange County Social Service Agency. Stephanie gained experience as a Senior Social worker in differing positions, which included: Quality-of-Care Investigations; Foster Care Licensing; Foster Care Placement; and Court Services. She began her county career 30 years ago, at Orangewood Children's Home as a Group Counselor in 1994. Prior to that, she worked in various group homes and psychiatric facilities. Stephanie has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado.Stephanie is devoted to serving, supporting and advocating for children and families dealing with trauma and crisis.
Kasey Tippets
Kasey Tippets is a full-time social worker at the agency. She developed a passion for supporting those in need while earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Brigham Young University. She continued her education at the University of Phoenix, obtaining a Master of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy in 2020. While pursuing licensing hours, Kasey gained extensive experience working at various organizations as a social worker supervisor, Transitional Housing Program (THP) Manager, school counselor, and therapist. Kasey became a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in January 2022 and worked as a licensed therapist for a year. However, she missed the hands-on interaction with children and families, which led her to pursue a position in foster care. This quest brought her to Advantage in January 2024. As a social worker, Kasey enjoys working closely with foster youth and their families, meeting them where they are, and building strong, healthy relationships to support them better.
Olivia Oliver
Olivia Oliver recently joined the Advantage FFA team as a full-time social worker. Before working for this agency, she gained multiple years of experience working with at-risk foster care youth in a group home setting. This is where Olivia found her passion for advocating for foster youth of all ages. Olivia graduated with her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Development, proceeded by a M.S. degree in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton. Olivia enjoys working one-on-one with the youth and helping them reach their full potential.
Socorro Avalos
Socorro Avalos is our Bilingual Administrative Staff, but she wears many hats. First and foremost, she helps families navigate the road to becoming a Resource Parent. She is our go to person when questions come up and she is responsible for collecting the needed paperwork and maintaining files. Socorro has been with the agency for over 20 years, working her way to her current position. She plays a very important support role, doing so with a positive attitude and a smile on her face.
Kylie Clark
Kylie Clark has been with Advantage Foster Family Agency since 2017. She is currently working as an Administrative Assistant, helping behind the scenes to maintain files, manage receipts, and complete audits. Kylie is responsible for planning events, soliciting donations, and designing forms and handbooks. Kylie graduated from Stanbridge University and is a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Her specialty is in the mental health and substance abuse field.