BETTY foster
donor
When Betty Foster moved from Connecticut to Washington D.C. in 1962, she did not imagine that her new home in the capital of the United States would lead her to Honduras and an enduring interest in the transformative power of sustainable agriculture.
But once Betty got involved with St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Capitol Hill, that’s exactly what happened.
It was with St. Mark’s that she took her first service trip to Honduras. It was a life-changing, hands-on experience for both Betty and her entire family. "It's important to care about issues that are meaningful to you," says Betty. "And it's one thing to give money, but it's also important to do the physical work, too."
Betty Foster (center) with former SHI program staff Yovany (left) and her grandson Cal (right) while on a trip to visit SHI’s programs in Honduras.
A family affair
These days, Betty splits her time between Old Town Alexandria and her beloved home state of Connecticut. Over the years, her family has grown larger and larger. Today, she’s the proud mother of three children and the proud grandmother of six grandsons. Inspired by Betty, each and every one of her family members supports SHI’s work.
Betty’s grandson Cal with SHI-Honduras partnering farmer during their trip to Honduras.
She was especially grateful for the opportunity to bring her 13-year-old grandson on an SHI trip to Honduras. "I think that was one of the most important times I've had with him, and it really made an impression on him," Betty reflects.
While she regrettably couldn't have the same experience with each grandson, Betty firmly believes teaching the next generation about philanthropy is essential.
Betty and her husband, Wes Foster, started a family foundation where their children and grandchildren are responsible for a certain sum each year and must decide where they want their funds to go.
“Using money responsibly is a charge, and I can lead by example to show the next generation how to do that.”
seeing the work first-hand
Betty during one of her trips to Honduras, helping a school girl make a book.
Betty believes deeply in the importance of cultural immersion. "The experience of living in the home with one of the community members and waking up every morning to be treated to black beans and rice – these kind people and their generosity was amazing," says Betty.
While in Honduras, Betty and Cal helped plant corn with compost along the contour of a steep hillside and built raised garden beds. In addition to her philanthropy, Betty is also an accomplished artist and helped lead two craft workshops for both children and adults.
During their trip, Betty and Cal saw first-hand how the compost initiatives were taking off, how people were harvesting vegetables that SHI had helped plant in previous years, and how newly established fish ponds created a whole new food and revenue source for the community.
“To see the impact the work had and the difference it made in people’s lives was incredible. The community was so proud, and to see this five-year project come to fruition and help people was amazing.”
