Collaborating to support families during National Adoption Month

For a child in foster care, there is no greater gift to receive than being welcomed into a ‘forever family’. It’s more than a gift, though, it’s the fulfillment of a dream made possible by the efforts of countless individuals from various places.

In celebration of National Adoption Month in November, the Human Resources’ Volunteer Services team partnered with the Children and Family Services’ Adoption team and community partner, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Minnetonka, to create gift baskets for newly adopted children and their families. They made fleece blankets for the children at an employee speed volunteering event. The baskets also included hand-sewn bags made by county volunteers, treats donated by Droolin’ Moose Chocolate Shoppe and presents purchased by church parishioners.

“Supporting National Adoption Month means so much to me because I was adopted,” said Nancy, a volunteer from Immaculate Heart of Mary who sponsored a basket for Waylin, a young boy with special needs. She donated seven tickets to a monster truck rally for Waylin, his family, and his nurse. “It was a wonderful opportunity to give back and make a difference in a child’s life,” she said.

“The family loved their basket and were especially thankful for the thoughtfulness of the items they received,” said Adoption Resource Worker Amanda Szymkowiak. “They’re grateful the donor went above and beyond so they could comfortably and safely attend the event.”

“His dreams came true,” said his mother, Jenny. “He has his forever family, and he got to see real monster trucks!”

Earlier in December several adoptive families, including Waylin’s, were provided with professional photography sessions, thanks to another generous donation from a caring community member.

In total,11 children adopted in November and December and their new forever families received gifts from the county and its partners. “We are so grateful for our many collaborators that help us recognize, appreciate, and celebrate our foster and adoptive families throughout the year,” said Child Foster Care Licensing and Adoption Manager Melissa Sherlock.

Each finalized adoption during National Adoption Month reflects the commitment of our staff, volunteers and partners. As we continue to observe the importance of this work, we thank those who continually demonstrate our People First value with a spirit of compassion, inclusivity and support.

“This group of amazing partners make it possible for us to support our relative and non-relative foster parents who do such an outstanding job caring for the children and youth who are in foster care. Many become the permanent parents to children and youth who cannot safely be reunified with their parents. This time each year, we celebrate together the joy of adoption, and the incredible stories of families united through this process.”

Learn more about Hennepin County foster care and adoption.