More than 50 foster families from across Kansas joined Saint Francis at the “Safe at Home” event during the Wichita Wind Surge’s game against the Tulsa Drillers in May. Hosted by SFM as part of Foster Care Appreciation Month, attendees received free tickets and an opportunity to participate in the pre-game parade on the field.
The event also featured a community gathering at the Wichita Baseball Museum in Equity Bank Stadium. Representatives from 28 local organizations attended to hear remarks from SFM leaders and watch videos highlighting SFM success stories. Attendees included elected officials, community leaders, faith leaders, and other partners.
Those elected officials were State Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau, minority members of the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight, and State Representative Cyndi Howerton, Chair of the Child Welfare Committee and Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight.
One of the highlights of the evening was watching Saint Francis CEO William Clark throw out the first pitch with his 11-year-old grandson, Ben.
Executive Director of Development Ginny Ellis said the occasion also provided an opportunity to preview the Foundation’s “Everyday Heroes” summer campaign.
The “Everyday Heroes” campaign highlights all the incredible work performed daily by SFM employees, foster/kinship/adoptive families, and community partners on behalf of the families and kids in SFM care.
“We’re thrilled to spotlight our incredible staff and partners, the true everyday heroes who work directly with youth and families every day,” said Ellis. “They provide healing, hope, and vital support. This campaign is about celebrating their impact and inviting our generous community to be part of the story.”
One such hero is David Bost. An educator and former principal, David currently serves as a behavioral specialist at a Wichita elementary school. He also wrote a children’s book titled “I’m Important, Too.”
David is a Saint Francis Ministries foster parent who advocates for students and kids in care. He has dedicated his life to enhancing the well-being of young people and helping them discover their purpose.
… And he does all this with humility, kindness, and genuine concern.
David Bost is an everyday hero who makes a difference every day.