Under the canopy of Spanish moss, something special happens at Morningstar Children & Family Services. For more than 80 years, Morningstar has been a place where Georgia’s most vulnerable foster youth, particularly those with developmental disabilities and complex care needs find not just care, but home. The residential care program of Morningstar specializes in caring for Georgia’s foster children, ages 12-21, who have come into care due to abandonment, abuse or neglect. Here, healing is not just a hope; it’s a daily reality, woven into every safe night of rest, every warm meal, every moment of trust rebuilt. Morningstar exists to create a future where every child in our care feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. The campus provides 24/7 residential care, therapeutic counseling services, and a loving community that understands the unique needs of the children we serve. For many, Morningstar is the first place they’ve felt truly seen and safe. And this fall, our mission takes center stage in a whole new way!
WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS
Coleman Cottage: A Fresh Start.
The newly renovated Coleman Cottage, opened in April of this year, is now home to up to 15 of Morningstar’s youth. Designed with both kids and staff in mind, it offers a safe, welcoming space that supports healing and connection. Fresh colors, thoughtful layouts, and updated features make daily life brighter, more functional, and more hopeful, both for those who live here and those who care for them.
The CARE Model at Work
Morningstar is proudly implementing the CARE (Children and Residential Experiences) Model developed by Cornell University. This evidence-based approach guides every aspect of our work—shaping how we build relationships, create structure, and respond to the needs of youth in our care. By aligning our practices with CARE’s principles of developmentally informed, trauma-sensitive, and family-focused care, we’re strengthening our ability to provide safe, supportive, and life-changing experiences for Georgia’s special needs foster youth.
Where Play Meets Possibility
The campus gym has been transformed into a vibrant space for growth and play, featuring a stunning mural, fully renovated bathrooms, and bright new windows. This refreshed environment not only supports physical activity but surrounds our youth with beauty and inspiration every time they walk through the door.
A Beloved Tradition, a Fresh Twist
On Saturday, October 18, our much-loved Dinner Under the Stars returns with an exciting theme: Oktoberfest – Merriment with a Mission! This year’s gathering promises all the heart of our signature event with a fresh burst of fun, flavor, and festive cheer. Picture the Morningstar campus transformed into a lively Bavarian-inspired celebration. Guests will mingle under the oaks, sample seasonal brews in our Beer Garden, and challenge friends to lawn games scattered across the grounds. Between bites of a delicious spread curated by Halyards Catering, hop aboard charming trolley tours for a guided look at our beautiful campus, seeing firsthand where hope takes root every day.
More Than Just a Party
The evening will be filled with opportunities to give and make a difference. Our live and silent auctions will feature unique experiences, exclusive items, and handcrafted treasures, with every winning bid directly impacting the youth we serve.
An Invitation to Join the Celebration
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, Oktoberfest is your chance to experience Morningstar’s magic while enjoying an unforgettable evening. Dress in your festive best, bring your friends, and get ready for a night of good food, great company, and a cause worth raising your glass to!
We would be honored to welcome you to our upcoming event and share in an evening of joy, connection, and impact. Your presence helps us continue our mission of creating home and healing for Georgia’s special needs foster youth. If you are unable to attend, we hope you’ll remember us—whether by making a gift in support of the event or including Morningstar in your year-end giving. Every contribution, large or small, makes a lasting difference in the lives of the children we serve. For more information about Morningstar or the upcoming Oktoberfest event, visit morningstarcfs.org.
By Laura Kitchens, Morningstar Children and Family Services
