Special Events
Foster Success fundraising and advocacy events offer meaningful ways to get involved and amplify the voices of young people with lived foster care experience.
SPRING:
Breaking Down Barriers
Designed as both an awareness and friends-raising experience, this signature gathering invites participants to explore one of our five Impact Areas through a unique, immersive program led by older foster youth — bringing powerful stories and lived expertise to life.
Join us next year on May 7, 2026 at Tinker House Events in Indianapolis.
FALL:
Taste of Thanks
As part of our FriendsGiving campaign, our annual signature event, Taste of Thanks event in November brings together our supporters during the season of connection and community. Attendees enjoy the flavors of autumn and winter while hearing the lived experiences of young people.
Join us November 6, 2025, at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, Indiana.
Young people host and attend events throughout the year, creating spaces to share their stories, build community, and advocate for change.
SUMMER:
Annual Youth Conference
The Indiana Foster Youth Alliance (IFYA), formerly known as the Indiana Youth Advisory Board (IYAB), hosts the Annual Youth Conference. This event is designed by IFYA members – providing resources, education, and tools to young people. This year’s theme was “Facing the Future Together” with keynote speaker, Senator Andrea Hunley.
FALL:
NYTD Fall Festival
The National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) team hosts a Fall Festival each October. At the event, young people learn about the National Youth Transition Database (NYTD) through resources and activities. NYTD helps assess the state’s extended foster care programs through collecting outcomes of young people who have aged out of care. Young people were encouraged to take the survey on-site and discussed what lawmakers can do to support older foster youth.
The event was held at Wea Creek Orchard and featured fall activities like apple picking, crafts, and more.