Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Ale.
Hi Joanna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Building TSI Cares Network was not born from a business plan, but from witnessing the gaps that young adults aging out of foster care and individuals in vulnerable transitions routinely fall through. It also started with a stubborn girl from New Jersey in her early 20’s who transplanted to Florida to escape the winter. After working for various agencies focusing on mental health, disabilities, and child welfare, I saw something lacking in our Jacksonville community–appropriate housing and supports for kids aging out of the foster care system. After conducting my own research and not finding any REAL adequate programming or housing, I refused to accept that there was a deficit and decided to do something. We opened our first Extended Foster Care home in 2018 and continue that work now with several varieties of homes and apartments for young adults. In 2025, we started adding youth homes to be able to offer support from a younger age. I believe everyone needs a home and a safe space.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
What began as a vision for safe, stable housing quickly evolved into a complex journey of navigating regulations, funding hurdles, staffing challenges, and the emotional weight of serving people whose lives have been shaped by trauma. Professionally, the process demanded constant adaptation–developing policies from scratch and advocating for a model of care that didn’t neatly fit existing systems. Personally, the struggle has been balancing the heart-driven purpose with the realities of the world. I am grateful for my background in counseling as it has helped maintain resilience, focus and patience in a field of never-ending challenges.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about TSI Cares Network, LLC?
We are a mission-driven housing organization dedicated to creating safe, stable, and dignity-centered living environments for young adults and vulnerable individuals navigating major life transitions–especially those currently in and aging out of foster care. TSI believes that housing is not just shelter, but a foundation for healing, growth and long-term, stability. Our homes partner with local agencies to provide wrap around services, ensuring our residents have a lasting connection with our local community.
What sets TSI apart is its blend of heart and structure, bridging the gap between institutional care and true independent living in a way that feels both supportive and empowering. TSI is even more proud of the culture we continue to build daily–one where both residents and staff feel respected and supported. Our organization measures success not just in numbers, but in the quiet milestones that matter most: a high school diploma, a new job, a driver’s license.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most is dignity in housing. We believe that stable housing and the appropriate supports are the starting point for everything else-employment, education, mental health, and long-term independence. When someone feels safe and respected where they live, they are far more capable of making healthy choices and planning for their future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tsicaresnetwork.com
- Instagram: tsicaresnetwork
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/tsicaresnetwork
