Kristina Hillstrom

Kristina is the mother to 4 amazing/energetic kiddos ranging in ages from 12, 10, 8, and 5 as well as a foster mom. They recently said goodbye to two foster sons and believe wholeheartedly in the power of family and reunification when possible. Motherhood has been her greatest adventure and biggest source of joy. Kristina began dancing at the age of 3 and has been deeply impacted by the influence of art, music, and dance in all varieties. She received various dance awards and was a Modern Dance major at the University of Utah. Dance has been a positive outlet and source of healing and happiness throughout her life. Before becoming a mother, she spent over 6 years working in the Burn Trauma ICU. Here she learned so many valuable lessons about life, resilience, true strength and beauty, and the goodness of people. Her faith is very important to her and she is involved in her church working with children. James, her husband of 14 years, is her biggest supporter and best friend. Kristina also enjoys dabbling in graphic design, branding, event planning, and just designed their new dental facility. She recently returned to school and is slowly completing her degree in Child Development and Family Studies.

Her journey advocating for vulnerable children began at the age of 20, when she spent several months in the orphanages of Ecuador. She recently returned to serve in the same orphanages with her husband. Her time there opened her eyes to the tragedy of broken families and also the strength and innate goodness of children. Her experience ignited a desire to speak up and raise awareness for vulnerable children in the US.

She has since gotten involved with and volunteers for several non-profit organizations who work tirelessly to fight for and support children in need. She started an Instagram page and an online business called Amity & Anthem where she educates, shares stories, raises awareness, and advocates for children in foster care. She feels incredibly grateful to join hands with Fostering Hearts and believes in their philosophy and mission to nourish, heal, and change the trajectory of children's lives through the arts.

We may not all be called to foster or adopt, but we can all find a way to do something for a child in need. "We don't have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in change. Small acts can transform the world." - Howard Zinn