On a beautiful, warm November day in Austin, the Center for Child Protection hosted its 3rd annual Family Resource Festival – a vibrant celebration that proved it truly takes a village to create a thriving, supportive community.
Held on November 16th, the event provided families with a unique opportunity to connect with local organizations, discover valuable services, and network with one another. From information booths to interactive activities, the festival became a hub for meaningful connections, showcasing the incredible resources available to families across Travis County.
More than 30 incredible local organizations participated, including Goodwill, Austin Public Library, Austin FC, Dress for Success, El Buen Samaritano, and Mothers’ Milk Bank, among many others.
This free, family-friendly event celebrated the power of community. Local groups went above and beyond to provide not only resources but also moments of joy.
Highlights included a ‘pumpkin walk,’ LEGO building, and face painting in the dedicated Kids Zone, along with live music, raffle giveaways, a visit from everyone’s favorite mascot, H-E-Buddy, and delicious snacks.
Julia Cabin, the Center’s Community Outreach Manager, described the festival as a powerful opportunity for connection.
This year, we doubled the resources, giveaways, and attendees, making it an incredibly impactful day for Travis County! To everyone who participated, volunteered, or supported this event: thank you for being a vital part of our village. Julia Cabin , Community Outreach Manager
A standout this year was with the Austin Public Library, whose mobile library van added an extra layer of excitement.
Kids explored a fantastic selection of books and signed up for library cards, sparking a love for reading and learning.
Melissa Sanchez, Austin Public Library’s Community Services Programs Manager, emphasized the importance of events like these.
Community gathering spaces that are 100% free are becoming more and more scarce. Events like the Center for Child Protection’s Family Resource Festival provide the community with a safe and welcoming space to connect individuals and families to organizations and services that can make big and small differences in their lives and futures. It was clear that all the families were so happy to be invited, and the day was festive and community-centered! Melissa Sanchez , Austin Public Library’s Community Services Programs Manager
Together, through community, education, and compassion, we are planting the seeds of a future where all children feel safe and supported.
Here’s to continuing this shared journey and building an even brighter, stronger Austin.
See you next year!
A selection of our incredible Community Partners have shared what made this year’s Family Resource Festival so special.
Check out what they loved most and learn why events like this matter!
I’ve been attending the Family Resource event since its inception, and I’m consistently impressed by the positive atmosphere. The event always has a cheerful and joyful vibe, and the kids clearly have a wonderful time. I personally enjoy attending and working at the event, especially when I can bring my daughters along. Aneesah McClendon , Goodwill Central Texas
The festival was a remarkable showcase of the Center for Child Protection’s dedication to connecting families with the strength and support of the community. It was an honor to be part of such an inspiring event and to witness families accessing the resources they need firsthand. Tiffany Lewis , Jeremiah Program
Thank you so much for including us in such a wonderful event. The Family Resource Festival felt warm and welcoming. The attendees, vendors, music and food made the event spectacular as a whole. We can’t wait to see what is in store next year! Sherrie McNeal , Foundation Communities
I had such a wonderful time at the festival. The event was so well put together! Both children and adults really enjoyed making music with me. Thank you for everything the staff did to make this event a joyous success! Kelley Glover , THRIVE
AFSSA was truly honored to be part of the Family Resource Festival at the Center for Child Protection. Witnessing the community come together to support families and share valuable resources was an inspiring experience that highlighted the power of compassion and collaboration. Bhumika Purohit , Asian Family Support Services of Austin
The Family Resource Festival opened my eyes to so many other organizations in our community that provide valuable resources to families in need. The Resource Festival not only connected families but other also help connect non-profit organizations in order for us work together for a better community. Silvio Cruz , Austin Habitat for Humanity
