A retired Court Appointed Special Advocate is bringing holiday cheer to foster children in San Antonio by crafting handmade wooden toys. John Faultersack, 79, dedicates his time each year to creating these toys, which he delivers to the local CASA office during the Christmas season. His passion for woodworking has transformed his backyard workshop into a place of joy and creativity, aimed at making the holidays a bit brighter for children in need.
Crafting Joy from Wood
Faultersack’s workshop may appear unassuming from the outside, but it comes alive with the spirit of Christmas as he spends hours shaping wood into delightful toys. “I started tinkering around the shop and some toys came out,” he said with a chuckle. “The wood talks to me once in a while and tells me what it wants to be.” His journey began over a decade ago when he realized he could channel his skills into something meaningful for the children he once advocated for in court.
Each creation is a labor of love, born from scraps and leftover materials. “I’ll have wood scraps lying around, and the result is, ‘Oh, that’s a car,’” Faultersack explained. His philosophy of “doing what you can while you can” reflects his commitment to giving back to the community. “Pay it back. Pay it forward,” he emphasized, showcasing his dedication to supporting foster children.
Spreading Smiles During the Holidays
The impact of Faultersack’s work is evident in the joy it brings. He enjoys the anticipation of delivering his creations to CASA, where the staff eagerly awaits his annual visit. “The staff really seems to love them,” he noted with a smile. “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.” This humorous admission highlights the connection his toys create, even before they reach their intended recipients.
Faultersack’s approach to crafting allows him the freedom to create at his own pace, inspired by whatever materials he has on hand. “I grab bits and scraps of things that didn’t quite work out or that I was saving for something else,” he shared. This creative process not only brings him personal satisfaction but also ensures that each toy is unique and special, meant to bring joy to children who need it most.
Reflecting on his time as a CASA advocate, Faultersack noted the lasting impact it had on him. “Watching out for them, almost being that surrogate parent,” he recalled. His commitment to CASA remains strong, as he advocates for more volunteer support. “CASA could do so much more if they had more volunteers. They do good work there, and we need to support them when we can.”
Through his woodworking, John Faultersack exemplifies the spirit of giving during the Christmas season, ensuring that foster children in San Antonio feel valued and remembered. His journey from advocate to craftsman showcases a beautiful way to give back, reminding us all of the difference one person can make in the lives of others.