Building Families and Futures through National Adoption Month
A Conversation with Erin Howard – Director of Permanency Services
Every November, Families United Network puts National Adoption Month on center stage. With thousands of children in foster care waiting for forever homes, National Adoption Month serves as a beacon of hope and awareness. It’s a movement highlighting the pressing need for adoptive families and celebrating those who work tirelessly so that every child finds a place where they belong.
Families United Network recently sat down with Erin Howard, our Director of Permanency Services, to discuss National Adoption Month. She revealed some of the common myths surrounding adoption, discussed the campaign’s goal, and mentioned some of the activities and events you may see being held in your area in November and resources available to families interested in beginning the adoption journey. Erin also added that although many believe adoption to be an insurmountable challenge, for every family willing to open their hearts, there are many resources available to guide them through the process.
FUN: Can you explain the primary goals and focus of National Adoption Month?
ERIN: National Adoption Month was created to bring awareness to foster care adoption, as there is a significant need for adoptive families for older youth, large sibling groups, and children with a higher level of needs. It acknowledges the individuals who work daily to support our families and ensure children have safe, loving, and permanent homes. It also brings awareness of the necessary improvements to support foster care and adoption laws and initiatives.
FUN: How does National Adoption Month support and raise awareness for children awaiting adoption?
ERIN: In November, there are an increased number of community activities and promotional campaigns to raise awareness of the need for adoptive families. The State offers grant funding to agencies for community events that will promote awareness and attract more adoptive families for our waiting kids.
FUN: What events or activities are typically held this month to promote adoption?
ERIN: Many different activities are held across the State. There are matching events and events within the community where information on adoption is distributed. FUN will have a table at a couple of community malls with raffle baskets and information regarding adoption and a community event at Strasburg Rail Road. We will also be at an indoor activity park and doing a toy drive. In the past, we have organized various events for our families, such as light shows, bowling, fall festivals, etc., where we also provided information to the public during the events.
FUN: How can individuals or organizations participate in National Adoption Month initiatives?
ERIN: We are always looking for adoptive families, so spreading the word and encouraging those considering adoption to pursue more information actively is the best way to support the cause! Anyone with a platform to reach many people, whether through social media or other avenues, would also benefit. Donations are also appreciated to promote providing ongoing services, support, and awareness in the community.
FUN: What are some common misconceptions about adoption that National Adoption Month aims to address?
ERIN: Adoption is not just for babies or young children. There are a lot of older youth who want to be adopted and are aging out of the foster care system without adoptive families every year. We want to find families for these youth because we know they’re out there. Children and youth in the foster care system have experienced trauma, so families must take the time to learn about this and understand that parenting children with trauma is different than parenting children who have not experienced trauma. Also, we consider all types of families for approval for adoption!
FUN: What resources are available for prospective adoptive parents during this time?
ERIN: There is a wealth of training out there regarding adoption and various topics associated with adopting special needs children. There are also a ton of books written about this subject. Our staff can provide prospective adoptive parents with training opportunities and make recommendations for additional resources as needed.
FUN: Do specific themes or focus areas change yearly for National Adoption Month?
ERIN: This year’s theme is “Honoring Youth: Strengthening Pathways for Lasting Bonds.” The focus is on creating a supportive network around foster youth that promotes identity, family, community, and cultural awareness.
FUN: How has National Adoption Month changed or evolved over the years?
ERIN: In 1976, Michael Dukakis, who was the governor of Massachusetts at the time, initiated adoption week for his State. It became so popular that President Ronald Reagan founded National Adoption Week in 1984. It continued to evolve with state celebrations and awareness events about adoption, so in 1995, President Bill Clinton proclaimed November National Adoption Month. On November 18, 2000, National Adoption Day was founded by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoptions, Congressional Coalitions on Adoption Institute, Alliance for Children’s Rights, and the Children’s Action Network. National Adoption Day is the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It is celebrated with courts opening that day to finalize adoptions to eliminate further delays of permanency from the backlog. In Pennsylvania, the State awards grant money to agencies that hold awareness events to promote adoption in the month of November.
Are You Considering Adoption?
If you are considering adoption or have any additional questions, please contact Erin Howard at ehoward@families4kids.org or 717-307-9817.