COLUMBUS, OHIO – Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted have designated November as Adoption Recognition and Recruitment Month in Ohio and are encouraging Ohioans to consider becoming adoptive families.
“More than 3,000 youth in Ohio are waiting to be adopted,” said Governor DeWine. “If you have ever thought about opening your home to a child in need, now is the time to explore what it takes to be an adoptive family.”
“Adopting a child is not only an act of love but also a promise of hope, a chance to provide a nurturing home, and a lifelong journey of building a family that transcends bloodlines,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “As a child who was adopted at a very young age, I know this firsthand.”
The theme for November 2023 is “Empowering Youth: Finding Points of Connection” which emphasizes the importance of services that connect youth with their backgrounds to support meaningful, permanent relationships.
“This year’s theme focuses on helping youth build networks of supporters to lift them up as they move through their journey,” said Kara Wente, Director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. “Older youth in particular need peers and adults who are there for them through foster care, adoption, and beyond.”
Public children services agencies (PCSAs) across Ohio are celebrating Adoption Month with a variety of activities.
Delaware County: Proclamation by commissioners; families present adoption experiences, good and bad, and have their photo taken with commissioners.
Erie County: Adoptive families will enjoy a family fun night at Ghostly Manor in Sandusky, Ohio, including roller skating, scooters, a laser maze, bounce house, games, and food.
Cuyahoga County: Families who have adopted over the past year can attend an event at Fun ‘N’ Stuff on November 18, with activities, lunch, and fellowship.
Trumbull County: Families who have adopted through Trumbull County Children Services since November 2022 can enjoy a celebration at Oh Wow!, the Roger and Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science and Technology in Youngstown.
Athens County: Adoptive families in the county, as well as agency staff, board members, and county commissioners are invited to enjoy food, crafts, fun and a photo display at the Recreation Center on November 14.
Fairfield County: Board of Commissioners declared November National Adoption Month. Protective Services will celebrate National Adoption Day Saturday, November 18th with three adoptions in Fairfield County Juvenile Court.
“From Ohio’s new adoption grant to the new online adoption application, to the Ohio Youth and Family Ombudsmen Office, Governor DeWine’s administration has developed many resources for families and youth involved in foster care and adoption,” said Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Director Matt Damschroder. “FosterAndAdopt.ohio.gov ” is a great place to learn more about adoption in Ohio.”
