MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A young man who had a tough life growing up learned to not let his past control his future. Today, he works to help other kids, just like him, have a better tomorrow.

Brandon Burke has a 10-thousand watt smile and is filled with love and hope.

“I’m a lover, not a fighter,” said Burke.

However, he said that as a little boy his heart was broken a couple of times.

At three-years old, Burke ended up in the custody of the Florida Department of Children and Families which expressed concern for his welfare. In an 18 month period, he was placed into three foster homes and a group home.

“One minute you are sitting at the table with your family having dinner the next minute you are with complete strangers,” shared Burke.

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