September Highlights: Running Together and Fostering Hope
September was a month of community, celebration, and generosity for Utah Foster Care. From the energy of our first-ever 5K at Wheeler Farm to the magic of our annual Gala at Siempre, each event reminded us of the power of people coming together to support children in foster care and the families who care for them.
Running Together for Foster Care 5K
As the sun rose over Wheeler Farm, volunteers and staff gathered to set up for a morning of fun, fitness, and community spirit. Soon, the quiet space buzzed with energy as runners laced up their purple shoes and families, foster parents, and friends came together for the Running Together for Foster Care 5K.
The event was more than just a race—it was a chance to connect, share stories, and show visible support for kids in care. A big thank you goes to our amazing Salt Lake team for pulling it all together, to Utah Foster Care staff who made the morning shine, and to our incredible Board Chair, Matt Moore, who doubled as DJ and kept spirits high all morning long. Board members Missy Krause and Rob Mooney also joined us, showing that at Utah Foster Care, leadership is truly hands-on (and sometimes behind the turntables!).
The 5K left us with a powerful sense of togetherness—and with excitement for the future. Something tells us this won’t be our last.
A Magical Evening of Fostering Hope Gala
Just a few weeks later, supporters gathered again—this time dressed in their finest—for our Fostering Hope Gala at Siempre. Inspired by the wonder of the circus and the mystery of magic, the evening featured everything from smoke-filled bubbles (a favorite of Youth Ambassador Freedom Shearer) to tarot card readings, live art, and a purple carpet welcome.
But behind the festive atmosphere was a deeper purpose: raising critical funds to support Utah’s foster families. Guests heard directly about the impact of donor-funded programs such as therapy services for foster families, the Wishing Well program that provides youth with music and sports opportunities, and the Fostering Storytellers initiative that amplifies the voices of youth in care.
We were honored to welcome Utah’s First Lady Abby Cox and several state legislators, whose presence highlighted the growing commitment across our state to support children in foster care. Special recognition was given to Western States Lodging, recipient of the Nikki Walker Fostering Hope Award, for their creative and ongoing support of foster families.
From the live auction featuring once-in-a-lifetime experiences (including golf with Kyle Van Noy and a custom jacket by local artists Fred Frost and Fa’avae Fa’avae) to the paddle raise that inspired incredible generosity, the night was proof of what’s possible when a community rallies around a shared mission. Thanks to our sponsors, including First Utah Bank, Car Guyz, Entrata, and Aptive, every dollar raised went directly to programs that strengthen and support foster families across Utah.
A Shared Mission
Together, these two events—one filled with sneakers and sunshine, the other with sequins and sparkle—show the many ways Utah Foster Care’s community shows up for children and families. Whether running a race or raising a paddle, our supporters make it possible for kids in care to experience connection, healing, and hope.
As we look back on September, we are filled with gratitude for every runner, donor, sponsor, volunteer, and foster family who made these moments possible. Your dedication ensures that children in foster care have what they need most: strong, supported families to love and care for them.
