Foster Angels of Central Texas’ annual Shining Stars Luncheon was held at the Hyatt Regency with more than 600 guests in attendance, all in support of an organization that empowers children and youth in the foster care system to thrive despite the challenges they face. Funds raised at the event go directly to meeting the essential needs of those in foster care across Central Texas.
The event kicked off with an exciting $100,000 challenge match, funded by Lina and Matt Flake, the Carl C. Anderson Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Charitable Foundation, and the Topfer Family Foundation. Attendees enthusiastically stepped up and met the match, and sponsors contributed more than $400,000.
The luncheon was presented by H-E-B and H-E-B Tournament of Champions and was chaired by Danielle Delgadillo and Lina Flake.
Keynote speaker Ryan Steam captivated the crowd with a dynamic blend of storytelling and music that elicited both laughter and tears. He described how he persevered through foster care, homelessness, addiction, and profound loss. His military experience took him to Afghanistan twice and strengthened the hard-earned perspective of hope and healing that he carries today. Steam’s message of resilience and believing in yourself left a lasting impact on everyone.
The program also recognized three Resilience Honorees, foster youth who have faced difficult circumstances and built their resilience with the help of supportive people and organizations. As short videos shared each of their stories, the audience stood to applaud every honoree.
Foster Angels serves children and youth from birth through age 26. Since 2010, the organization has supported more than 50,000 children and young adults in foster care across 30 counties. Their goal is to give those in foster care the same opportunities all children deserve to learn, grow, and thrive.
To support Foster Angels, visit www.fosterangelsctx.org.
