Windham, Maine – Walk a Mile in Their Shoes invites the community to a special Foster Family Appreciation Event on Sat., May 31, 2025, at The Woodshed in Manchester, Maine. This free, family-friendly gathering will celebrate the dedication of foster and kinship families while raising awareness of the challenges they face. A rain date is scheduled for Sat., June 14, 2025.
From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, attendees will enjoy a day filled with fun activities, informational programming, and opportunities to connect with local foster care advocates. Special guest Bill Diamond, founder of Walk a Mile in Their Shoes, will open the event with remarks recognizing the vital role foster families play in Maine communities.
“Hundreds of caring foster parents in Maine continue to provide loving homes for children who are at their most vulnerable time,” said Diamond. “We want to recognize and salute these special people who make a tremendous difference to children at risk.”
Families can expect an engaging lineup of activities, including a kid-friendly lunch provided by The Woodshed, games, face painting, a drum circle, and hands-on art projects. Children will also love exploring fire trucks and police vehicles in the Touch-a-Truck exhibit.
For foster parents and caregivers, the event offers facilitated discussion circles, a Foster Café for networking, and informational booths featuring local advocates, agencies, and providers. These resources aim to offer guidance, support, and a sense of community for those involved in foster care.
“Supporting our foster families is more than just an event—it’s a chance to honor the resilience and dedication of foster families who provide love and stability when it’s needed most. This cause is deeply personal to The Woodshed, as we’ve seen firsthand how vital these families are in shaping brighter futures. Every contribution helps us celebrate and strengthen the community that is vital to our children’s well-being,” said Jill Cunningham, General Manager of The Woodshed at Kennebec Cabin Company.
As the day concludes, Walk a Mile in Their Shoes will deliver closing remarks, reinforcing the importance of fostering awareness and appreciation for Maine’s dedicated foster families.
This event is open to all ages and free to attend. Whether you are a foster parent, considering fostering, or simply want to show your support, this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate, learn, and connect with the foster care community.
More details to come.