Idaho’s foster families were guests of honor at Memorial Stadium on June 6 for Foster Family Night — an event that brought community partners together to celebrate the strength, compassion, and impact of foster care in Idaho.

Hundreds of Idahoans, including many foster families, filled the stands as the Boise Hawks faced off against the Ogden Raptors in Garden City. While the final score (an 8–6 Hawks loss) mattered to some, the night’s true victory was in the show of unity and appreciation for the families who open their hearts and homes to children in need.

The event was made possible by a coalition of partners — the Hawks, Department of Health and Welfare, Foster and Hart, Freedom Youth Foundation, and Project Filter — all of whom played a role in making the evening memorable. Their presence was felt in digital billboards around the stadium and through announcer shoutouts that highlighted their dedication to improving the lives of Idaho’s children and families.

More important still, Foster Family Night was just one example of the broader, statewide collaboration required to support foster youth. Across Idaho, nonprofits, state agencies, local communities, health providers, mentors, educators, lawmakers, business owners, and volunteers all play a role in building a system that helps children and families thrive. It’s a shared responsibility — and a shared opportunity.

Events like Foster Family Night are a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t come from a single group or effort. It comes from all of us — working together and showing up for kids and families when it matters most.

Raising a child, especially one in foster care, takes a village, and in Idaho that village is strong.

Monty Prow is Deputy Director over Child, Youth, and Family Services at DHW.