Dr. Phyllis Crain, a lifelong advocate for children, believes that we must find better ways to care for abused and neglected children.  In a tiny corner of Avery County, tucked away in the mountains of northwest North Carolina, Crain has transformed a historic facility into a place of hope and healing for children from families in crisis. 

Founded in 1913, the Crossnore School had fallen on hard times when Crain became Executive Director in 1999.  A proven administrator during her time as superintendent of Avery County Schools, Crain developed a plan for new faculty and staff; new buildings, including four residential cottages; and improved programs.  However, Crain also became an inspiration for the teachers and counselors at Crossnore.  She also committed to knowing each child at Crossnore—as many as 85 at any time.

The impact that Crain is having, however, extends far beyond Crossnore and the children she has nurtured.  She is convinced that residential care like that offered by Crossnore is far superior to traditional foster care that places children in private homes.  Her view is contrary to the approach taken by most public officials, but she argues her positions and seeks to change public policy at the state and federal level. 

Crain’s service at Crossnore has been in spite of her own personal adversity.  Seven years ago, she began seeking treatment for a Stage IV breast cancer diagnosis while continuing to direct Crossnore.  Now a survivor, she approaches each day with a balance of calm and urgency because she knows she still has much to do for the children at Crossnore, as well as countless others who need and deserve the best foster care possible.