Kentucky — For nearly two years, siblings Hailey, Jayden, Alexis and Jase lingered in foster care after experiencing abuse and neglect. They longed for a permanent place to call home where they could grow up together. That’s when Jayden bravely reached out to someone he trusted — his fifth-gra
Ohio — At 6 years old, Ernesto (“Ernie”) was found wandering the streets, trying to find food. Not receiving the care he needed, he was placed in foster care and waited for a permanent home for eight long years. “I was a little stressed out because I’ve moved around, I think four or five
Tennessee — Placed in foster care as a young child, Likisha lived a life in and out of care. Pregnant with her first child at age 16, she was also struggling with poverty, homelessness and trying to escape domestic violence. By 19 years old, Likisha was working hard to give her children the best lif
More than 600 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® recruiters and supervisors, speakers, supporters and Foundation staff gathered in Columbus, Ohio, for the 2023 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Summit, May 9–11. Hosted by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, the event offered opportunities for collaborating and shari
By Rita Soronen, President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption There are no more critical voices in this business than those with lived experience. David Ambroz has a powerful voice and a compelling and very difficult story that he has shared in “A Place Called Home.” His rive
In 2017, Mathew, an employee of Cardinal Health, and his wife Jessica became foster parents to a baby boy named Blake. From the moment the couple laid eyes on him, they knew he was meant to be part of their family. At 18 months old, Blake entered the couple’s lives, and they have been by his side ev
In 2020, Andrea became a licensed foster parent for older youth — a decision that would ultimately change her life. Shortly after obtaining her license, Andrea met 10-year-old Kaylen. Kaylen had been in foster care for three years and was longing for a permanent home. It wasn’t lon
“It’s too expensive.” “Children in foster care are too set in their ways to blend in with my family.” “I’m not married, so I can’t adopt, right?” “I don’t want to deal with the child’s family of origin or the child welfare system — it’s all just too complicated!” It’s importa
Foundation focused on finding permanent homes for children who have been in foster care the longest Columbus, Ohio — The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, is proud to announce that more than 1,500 Ohio children who lingered in foster care now have permanent, l
Arizona — Johnathan and Patty were placed in foster care due to neglect as their biological mother struggled with drug addiction. Scared for their future, Johnathan vividly remembers the night they were removed from their house. “It was just me and my little sister,” said Johnathan. “I was pre
