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Lived experience

Mother and daughter, Erin and Emma, smile and hold hands across a dining table.

AdoptUSKids profiles of hope: Adoption from foster care

AdoptUSKids profiles of hope is a series of stories highlighting youth who have experienced foster care and their adoptive families. Hear from Erin and Emma as they share their path to becoming family and advocates of change.

Stahl family sitting next to each other in room.

​AdoptUSKids profiles of hope: Nuamey and Jonathan

AdoptUSKids profiles of hope is a series of stories highlighting youth who have experienced foster care and their adoptive families. Hear from Jonathan and Nuamey as they reflect on their journey to becoming a family.

A young woman and her mom sit across from each other at a dining table and hold hands.

AdoptUSKids profiles of hope: Shania and Sahra

Sahra and Shania, share a few of the moments that shaped their journey to become a family. Their story is a heartfelt reminder of the resilience, patience, and love that can guide families toward permanency.

Mendez family smiling and sitting together on couch.

Planting seeds for future generations 

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.

Jamarri Kane-White, a young Black man, sits at a table with fellow panel guests and is holding a microphone as he addresses an audience question.

From foster care to policy advocate: Jamarri’s journey 

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.