As we observe National Single Parent Day, we take a moment to recognize the incredible dedication and resilience of single parents in our community. Did you know that 25% of our verified foster homes are led by single parents? This statistic speaks volumes about their commitment to providing love, stability, and security for children in need. Their generosity and willingness to open their hearts make a profound difference in young lives, creating a crucial temporary home for those who need it most.

Some stories remind us of the incredible impact that love, stability, and opportunity can have on a child’s life. Cassie's* journey is one of those stories—a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of a family’s unwavering support.

In 2017, Cassie was placed with her foster parents through CK Family Services. With the love and encouragement of her foster family, she began to thrive. Eventually, they made it official—she was adopted into the family that had already become her home.

Every Child Deserves a Home—Not Just a Bed

Imagine a child being awakened in the middle of the night, their small world turned upside down. With only a few belongings hastily gathered into a bag, they are placed in the backseat of a caseworker’s car—a complete stranger—unsure of where they are going or what comes next. Everything they know—their home, their family, their routine—is suddenly gone, through no fault of their own. They are worried, scared, and deeply sad to leave the familiar.

When it comes to fostering safety, stability, and permanence for children in foster care, it takes a dedicated team of professionals and community partners working together. These diverse players each contribute their unique perspectives and expertise, and through collaboration and teamwork, meaningful change is made.   

A Symphony of Teams: Working Together for the Same Mission   

The holiday season can be a joyful time, but for children in foster care or those who have been recently adopted, it can also be challenging. Many of these children may have difficult memories of past holidays or come from homes where celebrations were different or absent altogether. The contrast between the festive atmosphere around them and their own emotions can make this season particularly hard to navigate.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, there are currently more than 400,000 children in foster care in the United States. The children range in age from infants to 20 years old. While a majority of children are less than one year old, there are tens of thousands of kids who are between the ages of one and 16 years. These children, when they are not placed in foster homes, are put in residential treatment centers or psychiatric hospitals.

Too often, foster dads don’t get enough credit. However, the value, impact and influence of a great foster dad can alter the life and legacy of a child for generations. This Father’s Day we highlight three remarkable CK Family Services’ foster and adoptive dads — Nicholas Ozegbe, Tarik Johnson and Kelly Bednar. Their stories of compassion and love remind us of the resilience foster dads possess and how transformative their mentorship and leadership can be.

The moment a person decides to open their heart and home through foster care or adoption their world is turned upside down. It’s a decision filled with hope, courage, and determination to make a difference in a young life. For some, it may come after years of longing to expand their family, while for others, it may be a sudden realization that they have the capacity to make a positive impact.

7-year-old Jackie Davis sat alone in a dark closet on punishment. Getting into trouble was routine and isolation was no stranger. He was neglected, separated from his family, abused, adopted and returned all before the age of 10. However, in the pit of his trauma a seed was planted that would bloom into a bright future.

“It was the first time I asked myself, ‘what do I want from my life and how do I want to make my life different?’” Jackie said.

3rd grade – a time filled with giggles, exploring, and epic recesses. For most 9 year-olds, that’s the perfect trifecta (just add in a tablet)! However, for gifted and talented student Luke, fun and games are a small piece of a bigger picture.