Foster Village was born from the hearts of real foster parents, Chrystal and Nick Smith, who deeply understood the overwhelming challenges of the foster care system. Chrystal saw firsthand the gaps that left families struggling and children without the support they needed to truly thrive, which spurred her into action. With this experience in mind, and with the support of her husband and other local foster parents, Chrystal set out to create something that would make a difference—something that would give foster families and children a fighting chance.
It’s a sobering reality that most foster families foster for less than a year, and nearly 50 percent of them quit after their very first placement. The emotional, physical, and logistical demands can be too much to bear without the right support. Foster Village steps in to fill those gaps, providing crucial services that empower both caregivers and the children in their care.
Each fall, Foster Village hosts its annual Grow the Village Gala, where our mission-driven community comes together in a big way to support an even bigger cause. The event features an exciting silent auction and a live auction with the Cowboy Auctioneers, along with raffle prizes that have included luxurious vacations, diamond jewelry, artwork, and even a Bernedoodle puppy—all generously donated by community members. This year marked a record-breaking achievement, as the gala raised $500,000 in funds that will be put to great use in supporting Foster Village’s mission.
Foster Village equips caregivers and children with essentials like beds, car seats, and clothing, ensuring families are ready from day one. Additionally, their “welcome packs,” delivered within 24 hours, help ease the stress of new placements. Beyond material support, Foster Village encourages community and therapeutic support services among foster, kinship, reunifying, and adoptive families, connecting them with experts to navigate the complexities of caring for children who have experienced trauma. They also advocate for systemic change, raising awareness and pushing for reforms to address the root causes of foster care and help families break cycles of generational adversity.
Foster care may be filled with trials, but through the work of Foster Village, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Foster Village reminds us that family is about more than blood; it’s about love, stability, and showing up when it matters most. By giving, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, we can all play a part in ensuring every child has the chance to thrive.
One foster mom shares, “Once again, I am so overwhelmed with emotion at the continued support, how blessed we are to be where we are compared to this time last year! The only way I will ever be able to repay the truest, most genuine kindness I have ever known is to pay it forward and be a part of such an awesome organization that gives so much to so many in true need of support ... I am just so thankful.”
FosterVillageAustin.org | @fostervillageaustin