As we reflect upon our blessings, we feel grateful for you!

Thanksgiving Message from Pastor Lori

Give thanks in all things. (1Thess 5:16)

We teach our children to say, “thank you.” It’s just good manners. But Paul is saying something more and this command feels difficult when life is hard. We are called to be thankful in all things, not for all things. In the rough times we don’t have to pretend we’re grateful. We just need to remain faithful. Gratitude transforms our perspective, allowing us to find light even in unexpected places. If we are intentional, it is a practice that deepens our connections with others and strengthens our spirit, guiding us to recognize the countless blessings woven into the fabric of our lives.



Today, let us pause and give thanks—not only for the abundance of what is obvious but for the quiet lessons, even the trials that mold us, and the moments that teach resilience. The Baby Fold is grateful for all who help us do our work with children and families. We see their lives transform as they learn and grow together. We are blessed to witness it. In this season, may we all nurture hearts that reflect gratitude, even in the simplest things, and be vessels of hope and encouragement to those around us.

Rev. Lori Bultemeier

We're thankful for fun events that help children grow!

Hammitt School students had a wonderful time dressing up and trick-or-treating during the annual Halloween parade. They practiced their social skills, showed off their unique costumes, and giggled at their teachers who dressed up, too! It was a fun and memorable day for all.

Our Foster Care program families also got in the Halloween spirit at their very own Trunk-or-Treat celebration! Events like this bring families together, encourage social and emotional development, and offer a much-needed chance to relax and connect in a fun, festive atmosphere.

Healthy Start families recently enjoyed fall outings to Rader Family Farms and Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch! It was a wonderful day of family bonding, creating cherished memories, and sharing special moments together in the autumn air.

Our Healthy Start families in McLean County gathered for our annual literacy party, celebrating the joy of reading and its vital role in early brain development. Families shared a meal and enjoyed engaging, hands-on activities designed to strengthen family bonds and inspire a love for reading. This year’s theme centered around The Little Blue Truck book series, creating a fun and meaningful experience for parents and children alike.

The Baby Fold's Community Schools coordinated a lively Trunk-or-Treat event for students at Fairview Elementary School, bringing Halloween excitement and community spirit to all. Students enjoyed a festive afternoon filled with costumes, decorated trunks, and plenty of treats!

We're thankful for our dedicated staff!

At The Baby Fold, we are incredibly thankful for the dedication of our staff who work tirelessly to improve the lives of the children and families we serve.

This year, we’re especially proud to highlight the innovation of Hammitt School Program Coordinators Kelsey Kercheval and Alissa Calandra, who developed a groundbreaking data system called the “Road to Regulation.” This approach to data collection features two developmental charts—Social Emotional and Executive Functioning—based on current research in neuroscience, trauma, and child development. Their work enables our educators to tailor learning and support strategies to each student’s unique developmental needs.

We're thankful for our clients!

We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve children and families in our adoption support and preservation program with new, thoughtfully designed therapy spaces!

An additional room is now available for family therapy, child, and parent sessions. Outfitted with a cozy loveseat, rug, chairs, and soon, a table, this room will be stocked with essential therapy supplies and games. The room provides a warm, welcoming environment that helps children feel safe, supported, and open to healing.

We're thankful you've adopted so many Christmas Wish Lists!

Thanks to your incredible generosity, over 500 of our children’s Christmas wish lists have already been adopted—amazing!

We’re so grateful for your support of our kids and families. Just 283 children are still hoping to have their lists adopted. Your kindness helps make Christmas morning magical for hundreds of local children who might otherwise go without holiday gifts this year. Thank you!

We're thankful for our Board of Directors!

We are incredibly thankful for The Baby Fold’s dedicated Board of Directors, whose guidance and generosity sustain our mission every day.

Today we highlight Becky Mills, the Senior Vice President/Director of Marketing and Customer Experience for Heartland Bank and Trust. Becky is a national motivational speaker and has a legacy of commitment to organizations that focus on women and children, including awards for her service from Rotary International and YWCA. 

Becky Mills

I’m involved with The Baby Fold because I am deeply committed to improving the lives of children and families, particularly those facing challenging circumstances. As a new member of the Bloomington-Normal community, I believe it’s crucial to support local organizations that make a tangible, positive impact. The Baby Fold’s mission of providing services like adoption, foster care, and early childhood education aligns with my values of nurturing stability, growth, and opportunity for vulnerable children. Through my involvement, I hope to contribute to an organization that strengthens families and creates lasting change in the lives of at-risk youth.

In addition to my personal commitment, I bring professional expertise in strategy, brand, and marketing to the board, where I focus on supporting the organization’s strategic goals, sustainability, and long-term impact. I’ve seen firsthand how critical The Baby Fold’s work is in addressing issues such as child abuse, neglect, and mental health, and I want to help amplify that work through effective governance and advocacy. Being part of The Baby Fold gives me a sense of fulfillment, as I am not only able to give back to my community but also collaborate with like-minded individuals who share the vision of creating brighter futures for children and families.

Others should consider donating to or becoming involved with The Baby Fold because it plays a pivotal role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community—children and families in crisis. As I stated, the organization offers vital services such as foster care, adoption support, early childhood education, and therapeutic services, all of which help break the cycle of poverty, abuse, and neglect. By supporting The Baby Fold, donors and volunteers directly contribute to providing safety, stability, and opportunities for children who may otherwise face uncertain futures. Their involvement can help ensure that these children grow up in environments where they can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

Additionally, being involved with The Baby Fold offers a chance to make a meaningful, long-term impact on the community. Whether through financial contributions or volunteering time and expertise, individuals can help sustain and expand programs that are transforming lives. Donating or volunteering with The Baby Fold is not just an act of charity; it’s an investment in the future of children, families, and the entire community. Those who get involved can be part of a larger movement to create systemic change, addressing the root causes of family instability and supporting the next generation to reach their full potential.

#BeTheChange

We're thankful for your support of the Festival of Trees!

The trees shimmered, the wreaths glowed, and Santa warmly welcomed children's Christmas wishes.

Last week, our community gathered to make The Baby Fold's 2024 Festival of Trees a huge success, turning our annual fundraiser into one of the best yet!

Every auction bid, ticket, cookie enjoyed, and the incredible support of our sponsors, volunteers, and designers helped raise essential funds for the children and families we serve.

Thank you for supporting The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, and thank you for helping change lives.

Whether you're making year-end, tax-saving financial decisions or ensuring children aren't forgotten at Christmas, your generosity blesses many!