Local IDS DFW design firms partner with Pathways Youth & Family Services to raise $150,000 and redesign homes for foster families in need—turning design into a gift of hope.
In a quiet Fort Worth neighborhood, a foster mom who has spent years giving everything to others finally received something in return—a home designed to heal. That simple act of love sparked a statewide effort as Texas designers joined forces to use their craft not just to transform spaces, but to restore the people within them.
When Linda Baker, Founder and CEO of Baker Design Group (BDG) and Past President of the Interior Design Society (IDS) DFW Chapter, first imagined a way to use design to give back to foster families, she reached out to fellow IDS leaders to make the vision bigger than any one firm. The result was From Leadership with Love—a collaborative initiative between IDS DFW and Pathways Youth & Family Services, bringing together past IDS presidents, design firms, and partners to redesign foster family homes across Texas.
“This project is about more than design—it’s about giving families dignity, comfort, and love through their spaces,” said Baker. “Seeing this idea grow from a conversation into a statewide effort involving so many talented leaders and generous partners—it’s been incredible.”
Collectively, the initiative has raised more than $150,000 to support Pathways Youth & Family Services and its foster families across Texas — funding that will directly help improve living conditions, family resources, and long-term stability for children in care.
“We do what we do because these lives need help,” said Brad Brush, Chief Program Officer for Pathways. “We can’t do it without the families. And to support these families in this way is so unique… I just want to see this kind of endeavor spread, because it’s going to help them. Their space is comfortable, it’s clean, it’s fresh, it’s new — and they can focus on caring for the kids they (and we) are so privileged to serve.”
Supported by Surya and Global Views, From Leadership with Love has transformed spaces for foster families who have devoted their lives to caring for children in need. Each participating designer was matched with a family through Pathways, reimagining their homes to foster connection, stability, and hope.
A Dallas Foster Home Makeover That Brings Healing Through Design
The first completed project, led by Baker and the BDG team, reimagined the home of Charlse, a Dallas foster mom who has opened her doors to 24 children since 2009—many with complex medical needs. Her days are filled with doctor’s appointments, therapies, and all the quiet acts of care that ensure each child feels loved and dignified.
Partnering with local contractors and industry sponsors, BDG transformed three key rooms with new flooring, furniture, lighting, and art—creating spaces that feel both functional and full of life. Thoughtful storage solutions now give every item a place, bringing a sense of calm and balance to the family’s daily routine.
“It may look like a coat of paint to someone else, but to me it’s invigorating, vibrant, hopeful,” Charlse shared. “Even little things—like a spot for our foster son to grab his own pull-up—help create independence and dignity.”
Statewide Collaboration: Past IDS Presidents Unite
In addition to Baker and the BDG team’s Dallas-area transformation, the From Leadership with Love initiative expanded across Texas through the work of three fellow Past Presidents of the IDS DFW Chapter—each partnering with a foster family identified through Pathways Youth & Family Services. Together, these leaders turned their professional expertise into something deeply personal: creating spaces that restore dignity, invite joy, and remind families they are not alone.
Lori Withey, Founder & CEO, Bellisa Design – Rowlett, TX
Withey’s team brought warmth and creativity to the home of Norkeshia, a devoted foster mom, and her three children—MJ, Loyalty, and five-year-old Braxton. The centerpiece of the project was Braxton’s bedroom, transformed into a space filled with personality and purpose. A twin-over-full bunk, custom cubby storage, and a hand-painted dinosaur mural became the heart of the design, reflecting his sense of wonder. “I knew this project would be meaningful, but there were moments throughout that genuinely moved me,” said Withey. “Watching our partners and team members go above and beyond was humbling—a reminder of how powerful it is when people come together to make a difference.”
Michael Bauer, Director of Trade Relations, Feizy Rugs – Dallas, TX
Bauer’s team partnered with Eric Thurston and Julie Gunn, foster parents to two young brothers, Tai and Ivian. Their former guest room—where the family gathered nightly to read and connect—was transformed into a true family retreat. A new sleeper sofa, layered rugs, and inviting textures turned the space into a serene setting for what matters most: time together. “Being a part of this initiative has not only given me and our team insight into the foster family experience,” said Bauer, “it has given this family a comfortable and peaceful place to have real family time.”
Nicole Arnold, President & Principal Designer, Nicole Arnold Interiors – Dallas, TX
Arnold’s project focused on transforming a converted single-car garage into a private, fully furnished bedroom for a Dallas-area foster teen. A custom-built closet system, nightstands with storage, new bedding, and personalized artwork now make the room feel warm, functional, and permanent—an important distinction for a teen entering foster care. “Our goal was to create a bedroom that feels like a real home—a space where this teen can feel confident, comfortable, and cared for,” said Arnold. “Every detail, from the built-in closet to the full-length mirror, is meant to remind them they deserve a space that reflects their worth.” “I typically foster teens, and they’re the hardest to place. Having this room designed just for them means so much—it won’t feel like a temporary placement anymore. It will feel like home,” said Jamie, a foster mom through Pathways for seven years. Together, these leaders exemplify the heart of IDS—turning professional talent into tangible impact.
How to Support Pathways Youth & Family Services
As From Leadership with Love continues to grow, Pathways Youth & Family Services invites the community to be part of the story—rewriting what’s possible for Texas children and families in need. Every donation helps provide safe, nurturing homes and the wraparound care that allows children to heal and thrive. Whether through a one-time gift, an employer match, or a legacy contribution, each act of generosity builds a stronger, more resilient Texas—one child at a time. To learn more or make a tax-deductible donation, visit pathwaystx.org/donate or contact Pathways Youth & Family Services at 830-515-4343.