AdoptUSKids profiles of hope is a series of stories highlighting youth who have experienced foster care and their adoptive families. In this feature, Sahra and Shania reflect on their journey to becoming a family.
Sandra and Jorge Mendez adopted Emily and Michael from foster care in 2019. As their children step into adulthood, they reflect on lessons in healing, trauma-responsive parenting, and supporting connections with birth siblings.
For more than 25 years, Vaughn has provided families the resources, training, and encouragement needed to successfully navigate their journey. Inspired by her grandparents’ experience as foster parents, she understands that fostering is most effective when families have the right support system.
Jamarri “Sugar” Kane-White lived in foster homes for a decade before his adoption in 2020. He said the experience influenced the path he took to grow into a successful adult who now speaks up for others with similar experiences.
Kelley Cooper’s career in child welfare began by chance, but her impact has been anything but accidental. The Tennessee foster care professional was nominated as an outstanding caseworker by a family who praised her approach to ensuring smooth transitions and long-term success as she helped them adopt their 17-year-old son.
You deserve to feel supported and informed as you grow your family, and our recently released Navigating Adoption podcast and accompanied discussion guide are designed to help you confidently traverse the adoption journey.