In San Antonio, a retired volunteer named John Faultersack is bringing joy to foster children this holiday season through his handcrafted wooden toys. At 79 years old, Faultersack utilizes his backyard workshop to create these special gifts, which he has been making for over a decade. His commitment to supporting children in need continues even after stepping back from his role as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).
Faultersack’s workshop, while modest in appearance, transforms into a hub of creativity during the festive period. He describes the process of crafting toys as a joyful experience, stating, “The wood talks to me once in a while and tells me what it wants to be.” Each toy, whether it’s a car or another creation, is made from leftover wood scraps, showcasing his resourcefulness and passion for giving back.
Creating Smiles One Toy at a Time
The act of creating these toys brings Faultersack immense satisfaction, especially when he delivers them to the CASA office during the Christmas season. “The staff really seems to love them,” he recalls with a laugh. “I don’t know about the kids. The staff plays with the toys, so I don’t know how many make it to the children.” His light-hearted approach underscores the spirit of the season and the joy of sharing.
Faultersack builds toys at his own pace, allowing inspiration to guide his craft. “I grab bits and scraps of things that didn’t quite work out or that I was saving for something else,” he explains. This creative freedom is part of what makes his contributions meaningful. “It’s part of the joy of seeing things take shape and knowing maybe somebody else will enjoy them,” he adds.
A Lasting Impact on Foster Children
His time as an advocate has deeply influenced Faultersack, who reflects on the importance of supporting foster children. “Watching out for them, almost being that surrogate parent,” he notes, emphasizing the vital role that CASA plays in the lives of these children. He believes that with more volunteers, CASA could significantly enhance its impact. “They do good work there, and we need to support them when we can,” he urges.
Faultersack’s dedication serves as an inspiring reminder of how individual efforts can make a difference in the lives of those in need. As he continues to create wooden toys, his hope remains that each gift brings a smile to a child’s face, embodying the true spirit of the holiday season. His story exemplifies the profound impact of kindness and community support in fostering hope and joy.
