Our Story  ---  Our Legacy

Friends of Foster Families began in 1998, when a group of community members came together around a table to find ways to financially support foster parents beyond what the State of Wyoming and Department of Family Services (DFS) were able to provide. That original group of people was led by Rev. Vic Walter, a local pastor at the time, and his wife Leora Walter, along with Suzanne Knoettgen, the DFS liaison; Nurse, Karen Marcy; and Edna Woods, a mother of five. Edna's brother-in-law, Rick Woods, was invited to participate as a local Cheyenne businessman.

Friends of Foster Families was incorporated with the State of Wyoming in 1998, and in 2000, Friends of Foster Families, Inc. was formally established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, with it's first official fundraising campaign raising just under $2,000.

Early activities included a Foster Parent Appreciation Dinner at First Christian Church and a Back-to-School Picnic, where children received school supplies. Tuff Sheds donated a storage shed, which was placed on property generously provided by B & B Appliance. The shed was stocked with clothing, car seats, strollers, toys, stuffed animals, and other essentials for children entering foster care.

Among the most meaningful items provided were suitcases. DFS caseworkers shared that children entering foster care often arrived carrying their belongings in garbage bags. Friends of Foster Families wanted children to have something of their own in which to carry their belongings, offering a small measure of dignity and care during an incredibly difficult transition. 

In 2001, Bernadine Woods stepped in as treasurer. In addition to her role as treasurer, Bernadine continues to collect suitcases she finds around the community at garage sales, thrift stores, and through donations, to provide to children coming into care. Fundraising efforts continued primarily through an annual fundraising letter, coordinated for many years by longtime member Jim Hastings. Jim also became the driving force behind the organization’s annual Christmas Party at the Red Lion, helping it grow into a much-anticipated celebration for foster children and families. The event featured a holiday buffet, toys and books, face painting, candy, balloons, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus.  The Back-to-School Picnic at Lions Park became the organization's annual summer event, with community partners Putt Hutt, Wing Shack, and Texas Roadhouse generously donating food, coupons, and activities to foster families year after year.  

Beyond events, Friends of Foster Families has continued their long history of responding directly to the needs of foster children and families by supplying DFS caseworkers with $25 Walmart gift cards to purchase necessities such as diapers and formula when infants enter foster care. Families can also request assistance for musical instruments and lessons, dance classes and outfits, sports uniforms and fees, high school graduation supplies, and other extracurricular opportunities. 

Over the years, Friends of Foster Families has also been there when foster children and families faced unexpected and difficult circumstances. The organization has helped with needs such as allergy medication, replacement shoes for a teen whose only pair was stolen, replacement Christmas gifts following a home burglary, and vehicle repairs after an accident. In one especially heartbreaking circumstance, Friends of Foster Families provided assistance with funeral expenses following the loss of a foster teenager to suicide. 

These stories and experiences have shaped Friends of Foster Families and sustained its commitment to foster children and families for nearly three decades. As we honor our past and look toward the future, we invite you to help us keep the wheel turning and carry this legacy forward.

With your support, the work that began in 1998 can continue for generations to come. Every contribution, large or small, gives us the opportunity to do more for the foster children and families in our community.

“The more we receive, the more we can give.”
— Bernadine Woods

If you feel compelled to be part of that legacy, please consider making a donation using the button below.