Every Halloween, Boise’s Harrison Boulevard draws thousands of families with elaborate decorations and treats. This year, Harrison resident Katie Saad is using the tradition to share an important message: Every child deserves a safe, loving home. 

Inspired by The Wizard of Oz, her Halloween display features Dorothy and her friends (as skeletons) alongside the message “No Place Like Home.” Working with the Department of Health and Welfare, Saad has incorporated messages encouraging visitors to consider becoming foster parents or volunteering as court-appointed special advocates (CASAs) for children in foster care.

“Harrison Halloween brings our community together in a wonderful and exciting way, and with so many people flocking to Harrison in October, I had an opportunity to use my yard as a platform to do a little good of my own, “she said. 

Saad is hopeful her outdoor display inspires curiosity and conversation that results in the recruitment of more foster families and CASA volunteers. The iconic movie is inspiring. The Tin Man reminds visitors to have a heart, the Lion encourages courage, and the Scarecrow shows that you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. All are important qualities needed in a foster parent. 

The character displays provide information (via QR code) about becoming a foster parent and remind current foster families that recruiting new families takes a community. With tons of pre-Halloween onlookers already strolling Harrison to see the displays, it has sparked interest in fostering. 

“I stopped by on Sunday afternoon,” said Jean Fisher, DHW Youth Safety & Permanency Division Administrator. “I spoke with the resource peer mentor who had been there on Saturday and Sunday and she told me that they had passed out a lot of pamphlets and information and had a sign-up sheet for people who want additional information on foster parenting. That’s a huge impact!” 

Saad has partnered with Fostering Idaho and Family Advocates to help with outreach on her display. They help dispel misconceptions about CASA volunteers, such whether or not they are required to be attorneys. They aren’t. “They are trained volunteers who help investigate cases of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment and then advocate for those children in court to make sure the child’s voice is heard,” Saad said. 

These organizations often need volunteers to support foster children. Saad said their work is essential to ensuring these children have safe, stable homes and for someone to advocate for their best interests in court. 

“Both Fostering Idaho and Family Advocates provide the training, resources, and ongoing support people need to become a successful foster parent or CASA volunteer,” Saad said. “They offer clear steps to help volunteers get started and the guidance they need to make meaningful differences in a child’s life.” 

In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy was unexpectedly transported from her safe and loving home to the unknown world of Oz. She spends the entire movie trying to get back home, to the people she loves. Foster children want that safe and loving home to go to as well.  

“Giving time to support youth in our community is a meaningful way to give back and make a lasting impact. I encourage everyone to learn more about these programs and explore how they can help create a brighter future for children in need,” Saad said.

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