Reilly Bard, a rising sixth-grader from Southington, Connecticut, is passionate about foster care. She chose this as her communities issue this past year when she ran for Connecticut’s Kid Governor, and she continues to find creative ways to support those in foster care. To celebrate her birthday, Reilly collected gifts for children in foster care rather than for herself. She designed a logo with the slogan “Fostering Friendships,” put it on drawstring bags, filled them to bursting, and brought them to Klingberg Family Centers, where they will be received by clients in the Therapeutic Foster Care, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids, and Permanency Placement Services programs.

Reilly is a very active member of the Kid Governor’s Cabinet, and her compassion for others was evident as she delivered the bags. With poise and enthusiasm she explained that her passion for foster care stems from having extended family members who have been personally involved in the foster care system.

We are grateful for Reilly’s commitment to this important cause, and we look forward to seeing how she will continue to use her gifts to help others.