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Regina Calcaterra New York Times Best-Selling Author, Advocate for Foster Youth and Children in Need

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Spring 2024: Regina Calcaterra is a powerful speaker whose words impact all who are fortunate enough to hear her. We had Regina tell her story to High School students, teachers, parents, community members and supporting sponsors. Her words and story hit people deeply and have them brought them to action. After hearing Regina speak, you are motivated to stand up and do something to help children in need. She was so effective in raising awareness that we invited her back again. Large School District on Long Island joined together to raise funds and collect new items for youth in need on Long Island.

Bethpage Plainview School District "Belongings" Coordinator, Cheryl Dender

“I can't tell you how happy I am that I attended Regina Calcaterra's presentation last night! I was moved when I read Etched in Sand…but must say that hearing Regina in person was a compelling experience and the most inspiring presentation/program that I've experienced at Clarkson in my memory.”

Clarkson University

August 2023: Regina spoke candidly about the unimaginable challenges she and her siblings endured and the educators who made a lasting difference in her life. Her message reinforced the critical role that school connections and SEL support play in shaping a child's future. Regina's honesty, articulate storytelling, and compelling presence left a profound impact on our team, reminding us that every interaction with a student has the potential to be life-changing. Her presentation was inspiring and a call to action—reminding us all that, as educators, we have the power to foster resilience, hope, and achievement beyond the classroom. Regina's lessons are invaluable, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from her.

Mattituck Cutchogue School District Superintendents Conference

“Each illuminated figure in Regina Calcaterra's life brings us into intimate relationship with the author's personal experience. We recognize how kind acts can be a beacon of hope, direction and support to a faceless human languishing on the fringes of society.”

Maura Sweeney, Huffington Post

November 2024: Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro honored Regina at their Annual Gala. November 2024: Regina Regina is a true champion for children and families across Long Island and I am truly inspired by her dedication and commitment. In 2024, Regina gave a moving speech at our Fall Celebration event. Regina put her whole heart into learning about our organization and worked thoughtfully to raise awareness for Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro. Matthew Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) New York Metro

Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro Annual Fall Celebration

“Regina Calcaterra's life as expressed in Etched in Sand is heart-wrenching, breath taking and awe-inspiring. She speaks with transparency and truthfulness without sugar-coating or passively expressing what life was like. It was an evening that has galvanized further action in support of foster care.”

Vicki Clark, SPECTRUM, Clarkson University