National Adoption Month
What is National Adoption Month?
November is National Adoption Month, a celebration established by President Bill Clinton in 1995 to promote the adoption of children and teenagers from foster care into permanent, loving families. Adoption fosters connections that nurture growth, belonging, and security in the developing minds of youth. Raising awareness and emphasizing the importance of adoption, especially for children in Nebraska’s foster care system, is critical to creating brighter futures.
The Importance of Adoption
According to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 3,500 children and youth are in Nebraska’s foster care system, with about 800 still awaiting placement in permanent homes. Adoption provides profound and lasting benefits:
• Belonging for Youth: It creates a sense of belonging for adolescents, fostering emotional security and well- being.
• Hope for Parents: Adoption gives hopeful parents the chance to raise a child they may not otherwise have.
• Family Fulfillment: Adding a child to a family through adoption brings immense joy and fulfillment.
• Supportive Connections: Adoption unifies families, emphasizing encouragement and stability.
• Developmental Benefits: Emotional bonding with a family is crucial for healthy brain development.
• Shared Growth: Both youth and parents benefit from the positive experiences and moral values that come with family life.
• Security and Stability: Adoption provides children with the consistent care they need to thrive.
Adoption Month 2024 Theme: Honoring Youth and Strengthening Pathways for Lasting Bonds
Youngpeople need strong, supportive networks that embrace their racial, ethnic, and cultural identities. Recognizing and honoring these aspects of their background is essential for their self-understanding and personal growth. By fostering family, community, and cultural connections, we can create meaningful adoptions that promote healing, well being, and long-term stability.
How You Can Get Involved
The Nebraska Children’s Home Society (NCHS) organizes events to promote and educate communities about the importance of adoption and support the transition process. Events in Omaha and Lincoln are listed on their website: nchs.org/events.
Better Living’s Commitment to Adoption Awareness
This month, Better Living proudly supports Adoption Awareness Month by actively participating in both Lancaster County and Douglas County Adoption Days. These events celebrate the journey of adoption and the families who have reached this milestone. As a supporting agency, Better Living emphasizes the importance of community engagement and creating joyful memories for families on this special day.
Our dedicated employees are present at these events, ensuring they are festive and fun. We provide interactive games, exciting prizes, and a variety of candy for the youth and their families to enjoy. These activities are designed to foster a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere, making the day even more meaningful for everyone involved.
Better Living’s presence at Adoption Days reflects our commitment to supporting families and raising awareness about the significance of adoption in building strong, loving homes. By participating, we aim to bring smiles, create lasting memories, and highlight the importance of family connections in every child’s life.
Looking to make an impact with us? Visit BetterLivingNE.com or give us a call at 402-476- 0104.