CYFS brings community together with annual Trunk or Treat celebration

Image courtesy of the Center for Youth and Family Solutions

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Families filled the Center for Youth and Family Solutions for the annual Trunk or Treat event, celebrating Halloween with games, treats and community fun on October 10.

Foster Parent Recruitment and Retention Specialist Alix Zimmermann shared why the Trunk or Treat event is more than just a Halloween celebration and why it is important to the community.  

“This event serves as a joyful and inclusive celebration that strengthens bonds between foster families, CYFS staff, and the broader community,” said Zimmerman. “It’s a chance to show appreciation for foster parents, create positive memories for children in care, and build a supportive network that reinforces the value of fostering.” 

 Zimmermann shared that the event was open to both foster families and the public, a decision that reflects CYFS’s commitment to inclusion. 

“While the event is designed to honor and retain foster families, it’s open to all families in the community,” said Zimmerman. “This dual focus fosters inclusion, raises awareness about foster care, and encourages community engagement with CYFS’s mission.” 

Their mission, to support children and families through connection, care, and stability, is woven throughout the event’s activities. 

“Our Trunk or Treat aligns perfectly by offering a safe, uplifting environment where children and families can experience joy, connection, and community support,” said Zimmerman.

 Zimmermann shared that local businesses and community partners played an essential role in making the event possible. Major prize donors this year included YMCA, Denny’s Donuts, Tobin’s Pizza and Rader Farms. 

For Zimmermann and staff at CYFS, the most rewarding part of the evening wasn’t the competition or the candy, it was the sense of belonging that fills the air. 

“I love to see the amazing trunks our community and staff put together. But even more than that, it’s a sense of connection,” said Zimmerman. “You see kids laughing, families chatting, and people who might not know each other coming together over something simple and fun. It’s one of those moments where you really feel the community showing up for each other, and that’s what makes it so special.” 

 Through this family-friendly event, CYFS continues to fulfill its mission of strengthening families and communities, one decorated trunk at a time.