Nonprofit Raises Funds for Local Adoption Efforts
The Heart and Sole Fun Run in Meridian secured over $14,000 to help families navigate the adoption process.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The nonprofit Foster and Heart raised more than $14,000 for 11 families to cover legal and home study fees. The funds were generated during the Heart and Sole Fun Run, which saw registration grow from 40 to 230 participants.
Why it matters
The event aims to lower the high financial barriers often associated with adoption. By providing direct funding for court and legal fees, the organization helps families mitigate costs that typically range from $18,000 to $25,000.
Registration for the event surged to more than 230 participants, up from an initial 40 entries. The fundraising total includes a $3,000 promotional package provided by Maddyn Homes.
The players
Foster and Heart
This is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting families with the financial and logistical requirements of the adoption process.
Alpha Xi Delta
This is a national women's fraternity that provided volunteers to manage event check-in and the raffle table for the fun run.
Boise State University
This is a public research university whose track and field athletes assisted with the marketing efforts for the charity race.
Maddyn Homes
This is a residential construction company that contributed a $3,000 football gameday experience package as a promotional prize.
The details
Volunteers from the Alpha Xi Delta sorority managed check-in and raffle operations, while Boise State University track and field athletes promoted the race via social media. The event took place at Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park to support families undergoing adoption.
Timeline
The Heart and Sole Fun Run occurred on October 10, 2026.
The Boise State football game giveaway date is scheduled for October 31, 2026.
National adoption month is recognized in November 2026.
Market Landscape
This effort counters the industry trend where adoption costs at external agencies frequently reach between $40,000 and $50,000. By keeping costs lower through direct support, Foster and Heart positions itself as a critical alternative to traditional, high-cost adoption agencies.
Local families looking to adopt can access financial support through these fundraising efforts to help cover expensive court and legal fees. Residents can also participate in future charity events to contribute to the pool of funds available for these families.
The takeaway
Community-driven fundraising can significantly lower the financial hurdles for families pursuing adoption. Interested supporters should monitor upcoming events scheduled for November to help sustain these support programs.
What happens next
Foster and Heart plans to partner with the Alpha Xi Delta sorority for future events scheduled during national adoption month in November 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable initiatives in the Meridian Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Arbiter.
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