A small workshop in the backyard of John Faultersack, a retired volunteer for the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), becomes a hub of creativity and joy during the Christmas season. Each year, Faultersack dedicates his time to crafting wooden toys intended for foster children, embodying the spirit of giving and community support.
At 79 years old, Faultersack reflects on his past experiences as a CASA advocate, which began over a decade ago. He transitioned from courtroom advocacy to creating handmade toys, filling his workshop with what he describes as “happy holiday feels.” “I started tinkering around the shop, and some toys came out,” he shared with a laugh. “The wood talks to me once in a while and tells me what it wants to be.”
Transforming Wood into Smiles
Faultersack’s workshop may appear unremarkable from the outside, but it is a treasure trove of joy for children in need. Every year, he creates a variety of toys, from cars to other imaginative designs, using leftover wood scraps. “I’ll have wood scraps lying around, and the result is, ‘Oh, that’s a car,’” he explained. “Do what you can while you can and give back. Pay it back. Pay it forward.”
His dedication culminates in heartwarming annual deliveries to the CASA office, where he experiences the joy of giving. “The staff really seems to love them,” he noted, chuckling as he recounted their enthusiastic responses. “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.”
Faultersack’s process is driven by inspiration rather than a strict schedule. He picks up bits and pieces of wood, often reimagining their potential. “It’s part of the joy of seeing things take shape and knowing maybe somebody else will enjoy them,” he said. “This is my way of giving back to CASA for supporting kids who desperately need it.”
A Lasting Impact on Foster Children
His time as an advocate has left a profound impact on him. “Watching out for them, almost being that surrogate parent,” he remarked about the children he once represented. He believes that CASA could expand its reach and support with more volunteers. “They do good work there, and we need to support them when we can.”
Through his woodworking, Faultersack not only provides tangible gifts but also fosters a sense of hope and joy among children facing challenging circumstances. As the holiday season approaches, his small workshop continues to be a beacon of generosity, reminding all of the importance of community and support for those in need.
