South Carolina — Preston was placed in foster care after experiencing abuse as his biological mother struggled with substance use. After being in foster care for a short time, he was adopted by a family in Nebraska who moved to South Carolina. Sadly, the trauma that Preston had experienc
The Foundation originally shared Ellie’s adoption story in May 2020. We caught up with her in June 2024 to hear how having the support of a permanent, loving family has changed her journey. Utah – Born into a family in which she suffered years of abuse, Ellie missed four years of school before
Hannah, Senior Director of Ecommerce Site Merchandising at Carter’s, Inc., opened her home as a foster parent to Hayden. After fostering him for a year, Hannah adopted Hayden when he was 3 years old. The stability of a permanent family provided Hayden with the support and love he needed to thrive.
From teaching their child how to ride a bike, to cheering them on in school activities, to sharing favorite hobbies, there is nothing like the heartwarming bond between a father and their child. Read some of the ways fatherhood has made an impact on the lives of Ken, Jamar, Brian, James and Geffrey,
Having the support of a loving, forever family means everything to youth who once lingered in foster care. Read reflections from children served by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program and their moms. Pictured: Emilie, Harlow (sister) and Merriah. Merriah (a
The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption welcomed more than 600 child welfare professionals to Columbus, Ohio, April 23–25, for the 2024 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® Summit. During this annual event, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids recruiters and supervisors from across the United States and Canada come tog
Ohio — Born with health challenges that required a triple organ transplant, Samantha was placed into foster care as an infant due to medical neglect. Her biological family was unable to care for her complex needs. And for the next 14 years, Samantha moved in and out of foster homes. Thankfully, ever
Wayne, a Customer Care Agent at Hilton Grand Vacations, and his wife have been fostering for years, opening their homes and hearts to children who need it the most. In 2019, a 10-month-old baby boy entered their home, and the couple developed a special bond with him. The priority of the
Six years ago, Beth, an external communications professional at nVent, and her husband, Andrew, began to wonder what their future family life would look like. With family members who had been foster and adoptive parents, the couple was aware of the urgent need. When Beth and Andrew obtained their fo
Texas — For more than three years, Isaiah, Jordan and Sophia lingered in foster care after enduring physical abuse and neglect as their biological parents struggled with substance use. The siblings bounced from house to house, often separated from one another. “When I was in foster care, I had a lot
