Charlotte Honors Adoption Awareness Month with Heartfelt Celebrations and New Family Connections

Charlotte Celebrates Adoption Awareness Month with Heartwarming Connections

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As November rolls in, it’s not just about falling leaves and cooler days; it’s also a special time to recognize Adoption Awareness Month. The beautiful city of Charlotte is stepping up to embrace this occasion by shining a light on the joys of adoption, particularly for children in foster care. The atmosphere was filled with joy as families came together at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse to take part in National Adoption Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the loving connections between children and families.

Celebrating Love and Commitment

The event was an emotional rollercoaster as proud families gathered to mark the unique journeys of adoption. Mackenzie Brailsford, a senior social services manager for the Mecklenburg County Child, Family and Adult Services Department, shared that the goal of their program is to link foster children with families who can provide the love and support they deserve. “It celebrates the commitment and bond that these families have shown to these young people and just overall love and the care and compassion that they have for these children,” said Brailsford, reflecting on the dedication his team puts in every day.

Connecting Kids with Families

2023 has proven to be a successful year for the department, as they managed to connect 97 foster kids with loving families. It’s a cause that resonates deeply. Brailsford emphasized, “Our children deserve to be in homes and environments that are nurturing and that promote their safety and well-being.” This sentiment shows just how important these connections are for children who may have faced adversity in their young lives.

Family Stories that Inspire

Angel James, a dedicated mother of three, knows firsthand the profound impact fostering can have on a child’s life. “It puts everything in perspective,” she shared, articulating the changes and challenges families often face when embracing new children. “It shows that very, very often you don’t know what you’re getting out of it, but you see somebody say, ‘Hey, I’m a part of your family,’ and the rights and responsibilities within. It’s everything.”

James and her family view their involvement as an opportunity to expand their love and embrace children who need it most. This family has opened their hearts and home to those who might have been left feeling alone and unsupported. When asked about the true meaning of family, James’ daughter, Alina, expressed it beautifully: “Someone that cares about you and they actually cherish you for who you are in a big house.” This simple yet powerful definition highlights the essence of what it means to belong.

The Road Ahead

As we celebrate Adoption Awareness Month, it’s important to remember that fostering and adopting can change lives—not just for the children but for the families as well. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, but the love and connections that are formed make it all worth it. The community of Charlotte continues to show amazing support for these initiatives, helping to ensure every child has a loving home at the end of the day.

This November, let’s spread the word about the joy of adoption and encourage more families to consider opening their hearts to those in need. If you’re interested in getting involved or learning more about the adoption process, don’t hesitate to reach out to local resources in your area.