Founder of Foster Care Unplugged (fostercareunplugged.org)
Foster Care Unplugged is an organization dedicated to "enriching and developing the lives of youth in foster care and is committed to promoting positive outcomes for disadvantaged children at risk of being placed in the child welfare system." Ms. Centeno is a Licensed Master Social Worker and currently works as a Applied Behavioral Analyst working primarily with autistic children. Three years ago she embarked on the journey of starting "Foster Care Unplugged" to give back to a community that she is very passionate about. The desire to help this population stems from her own experiences growing up in the foster care system.
A few of the programs hosted by Foster Care Unplugged (some in conjunction with other organizations) include a fashion show (with foster care children as models), feeding the homeless, back to school drive, an NYPD/foster care youth unity basketball event and most recently a stage play (where foster children perform). Combining her two passions of providing therapy and acting, she has discovered an effective way to provide therapy in an unconventional way. All her programs and initiatives contribute to the goal of giving back and engaging the community.
Melody is also a motivational speaker, consultant and an advocate. She is also an aspiring actress and mother. "
