More than 150 foster parents and foster children gathered last Saturday at Bruneau Dunes State Park to launch the second year of the Foster Family Passport Program—a growing partnership between the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR). 

The strong turnout reflected both the success of last year’s pilot and the excitement around this year’s expanded offerings. With free annual access to Idaho state parks, the Passport Program gives foster families a chance to spend quality time outdoors, explore nature, and build memories together.

Saturday’s event brought together an incredible team of contributors and supporters. Key partners like Regence BlueShield of Idaho, Idaho Business for the Outdoors (IBO), and new sponsors such as the Capital City Kiwanis Club, Charles Schwab Boise Branch, Idaho Botanical Garden, and Micron helped make the day a success. Their time, donations, and volunteer efforts helped make sure families felt welcomed.

Highlights included hiking the park’s famous 470-foot dune, fishing with Idaho Department of Fish and Game, learning how to set up a campsite, and participating in hands-on STEM activities. Families explored educational booths, visited the park’s planetarium, viewed the sun and moon through telescopes, and joined the Idaho State Park Junior Ranger program—led by mascot Scout and IDPR staff.

More than 100 volunteers greeted families with gift bags, raffle prizes, and smiles. For some kids, it was their very first visit to an Idaho state park—a meaningful milestone in a safe, supportive setting.

This growing initiative builds on the foundation laid by the Idaho Legislature’s and Gov. Brad Little’s $23 million investment in child welfare this year, aiming to provide foster families with not just resources—but community, connection, and positive experiences.

More Fostering Family Adventures are planned across Idaho this summer, so stay tuned. We’re just getting started!

Idaho needs foster parents

If you’ve ever considered fostering, know that your willingness to offer a home—even for one child for one season—can change a child’s life forever. For more information, call 2-1-1 or visit the Department of Health and Welfare’s foster care page. You could be the difference that turns a story of struggle into one of hope and belonging.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.