November is National Adoption Month, a time set aside to spotlight the beauty and importance of adoption while addressing the critical needs of children and teens in foster care. While the statistics can be overwhelming—thousands of children waiting for a forever home—they represent real lives and untold stories, filled with hope, resilience, and the longing for connection. This is a month for all of us, whether or not we plan to adopt, to learn, engage, and make a difference.
The Role of National Adoption Month
National Adoption Month is an opportunity to bring awareness to these needs and encourage action. It’s about starting conversations, breaking down misconceptions, and opening doors for children who deserve stability and love. It’s also a chance to honor the families who step up, whether by adopting, fostering, or supporting these efforts in other ways.
This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of family connections, especially for teenagers. The reality is, every child—no matter their age—needs a network of caring adults who will stand by them. For teens, finding a forever home can mean the difference between starting adulthood with a safety net or struggling alone.
Why Adoption Matters
Imagine being a teenager, already navigating the challenges of growing up, and also dealing with the uncertainty of where you’ll live next month—or next week. As of late 2022, over 109,000 children in the United States were waiting to be adopted, with more than 20% of them in their teens. These young people often face an uphill battle in finding permanent homes simply because of their age. On average, children waiting for adoption spend nearly three years in foster care, a long time to live without the stability and love of a permanent family.
Adoption offers more than a home—it provides belonging, identity, and a foundation for the future. It’s not just about changing a child’s life; it’s also about enriching the lives of adoptive families, friends, and communities.
How You Can Help
You might think, "I’m not in a position to adopt," but there are so many ways to make a difference beyond opening your own home. Here are some ideas:
- Learn About Adoption and Foster Care: Take time to understand the adoption process and the realities of foster care. Share what you learn with friends and family—awareness is a powerful first step.
- Volunteer Your Time: Many organizations that support children in foster care are in need of mentors, tutors, and advocates. Even a few hours a week can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
- Support Adoptive Families: If you know someone who has adopted or is fostering, ask how you can help. Whether it’s offering babysitting, delivering a meal, or simply listening, your support can strengthen their journey.
- Donate or Fundraise: Organizations working in foster care and adoption rely on financial contributions to provide critical resources and support. If you’re unable to donate, consider starting a fundraiser to rally support from your community.
- Raise Awareness: Use your voice on social media or in your local community. Share posts, attend events, or even write to your local representatives about the importance of adoption and foster care funding.
If you're considering adoption or are already part of an adoptive family, be sure to check out our blog Make Foster Children Feel at Home: How to Create a Welcoming Family Environment.
Adoption and foster care are not just personal decisions—they’re community efforts. When we collectively prioritize the well-being of children and support the families who care for them, we create stronger, healthier communities. This is not about “fixing” children or families; it’s about ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
Even small actions—sharing a resource, attending an event, or offering support to a foster family—can ripple outward, creating a culture where every child feels valued and loved.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk