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Parenting as a Foster to Adopt Family

Community Heroes
PARENTING AS A FOSTER TO ADOPT FAMILY

By: Janet Carter | March 23, 2023

A stable home that provides a sense of security and support is one of the basic requirements for a child’s well-being. Unfortunately, some children experience only instability and family discord. When Rodrigo and Jason were ready to start their family, they considered their options, including surrogacy and private adoption. They knew that fostering was not the traditional path towards adoption, but felt that even if it ultimately did not lead to adoption, they had the ability to provide a stable and loving home environment for children in need. They began the fost-adopt process in 2018 and ultimately adopted their daughter, Anabelle, in 2019 and son, Layton, in 2022.

Their home is a permanent placement home, meaning that they are willing to consider adopting a child placed for foster care. They have been through the process twice, and both times were incredibly rewarding. Fostering allows them to make a direct, positive impact in a child’s life when he or she needs it the most. Children enter into foster care through no fault of their own, many having experienced some form of trauma. Fostering introduces stable force into that child’s life. The task may seem daunting, but there is a lot of support and a large community to help with resources, funds, and volunteers at the Marin Foster Care Association.

When asked for advice for a potential foster parent, their main message is that you can do it! “When we first started the journey to become foster parents, we had all of the emotions most everyone feels. We were excited to get started. We were nervous and scared about our first placement. We were worried about what it would look like and how our lives would change. But most of all, we have felt supported and have found a new family in the foster care community. If you’re considering becoming a foster parent, we encourage you to take that first orientation class. Meet a foster family and spend time in their home. You can also become part of the foster care network by volunteering to help a foster family if you’re not quite ready to become a foster parent. We’re here to help and support you and tell you our family story if you have questions!”

Fostering can be a rollercoaster, but the rewards far outweigh the struggles. Being able to walk alongside a child and their family during difficult days is a humbling experience. Adopting through foster care is a unique path with the greatest reward. Whether you plan to foster, adopt, volunteer, or support, foster care looks like you.

Janet Carter serves on the SMMC board as Director of Philanthropy. She is committed to helping members learn more about the wonderful organizations in Marin that support children, youth, mothers, and families. You can volunteer for events through the calendar or contact Janet at janetsmmc@gmail.com.