Carrie Brown, a teacher at Hyde Park Baptist, first heard about Children’s Trust through a casual conversation with a friend during school drop-off. What started as an informal chat evolved into a transformative journey of philanthropy, community, and profound impact.
Mother of four boys, Carrie recalls the moment that sparked her passion for the group. Her friend shared stories about grants funded by Children’s Trust—stories that as a parent, hit close to home. Among them was a beautiful initiative to provide comfort and dignity to families experiencing the unimaginable—the death of a child. The Trust had funded extensions for a special kind of hospital bed, a “bereavement bed” that enables parents to hold their terminally ill children in their final moments. “As a mom, that just stopped me in my tracks. I couldn’t imagine being in that situation and not having the ability to hold my child,” Carrie says.
This story, among many others, made Carrie realize the unique purpose of Children’s Trust: to address the gaps that hospital budgets can’t always fill, providing tangible, impactful solutions that directly enhance the care experience for patients and their families.
What Sets Children’s Trust Apart
Unlike many philanthropic organizations, Children’s Trust gives its members a hands-on role in decision-making. Each member contributes to a collective fund and has a vote in determining which grants to support. This collaborative approach ensures every dollar goes to projects that members believe will make the greatest impact.
“For me, it was incredible to know exactly where my money was going,” Carrie shares. “Whether it’s funding therapy dogs like Reba, Vein Finder devices that make procedures less traumatic, or child-friendly hospital room décor, you can see the difference your contributions make. It’s so unique and rewarding.”
Meaningful Moments and Personal Impact
Carrie’s involvement with Children’s Trust has not only enriched her life but has also brought her family closer to the hospital’s mission. Her own children have experienced the care funded by the Trust—like the Vein Finder devices that reduce the need for multiple IV attempts and therapy dogs that bring smiles during hospital stays.
“I’ve had moments where I’ve been in the hospital with my kids and seen the tools and programs we’ve funded in action. It’s a reminder that anybody, regular people like me, can make a meaningful impact,” she says”
A Message to Potential Members
When asked what she would say to someone considering joining Children’s Trust, Carrie is clear: “This is your chance to make a difference you can actually see. So many of us go through life hoping to leave a legacy but unsure how to do it. With Children’s Trust, you know your efforts are helping children, families, and clinicians in a way that’s tangible and life-changing.”
Carrie emphasizes that you don’t need to be a philanthropist to join. “This isn’t just for the big donors. It’s for anyone who wants to give back and be part of something bigger than themselves. If you want to see your contribution at work, this is the place to do it.”
Looking Ahead
Carrie’s hope for the future of Children’s Trust is simple yet powerful: to expand its reach and continue filling the gaps that make Dell Children’s a world-class medical facility and a center of hope for families across Central Texas.
“This hospital serves everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. We’re supporting care that might not otherwise exist, and that’s what makes Dell Children’s and Children’s Trust so special,” she says.
Join Dell Children’s Women’s Trust
Join Children’s Trust or contact Suellen Brown for more information at [email protected].