The Orange County Board of Supervisors proclaimed November 2017 as Adoption Awareness Month in Orange County and presented a resolution to the Social Services Agency and Tony and Erin Kim of Irvine for their significant contributions to support and advocate for adoptive families in Orange County.
Erin Kim, a resource parent from Irvine, received a proclamation on behalf of adoptive families in Orange County from the Board of Supervisors for their work as resource parents, educators and advocates. Erin began the process of becoming a resource parent in 2008, and she and her husband Tony ultimately became adoptive parents. The Kims now have two adoptive children and two biological children, all the while continuing to foster other children through County of Orange Social Services Agency. In addition, Erin helps train new resource families in order to help them understand the challenges and rewards that come along in the resource family journey.
“Adoptive parents help provide better lives for their children while creating stronger and more vibrant citizens,” said Chairwoman Michelle Steel. “We thank our Orange County adoptive families like the Kims for their commitment to ensuring a brighter future for all youth.”
“We are grateful for the love and compassion that adoptive parents provide to their children,” said Vice Chair Andrew Do. “A loving, stable family is the single most important resource that all children need as it has the power to give support and show compassion.“
This year’s National Adoption Awareness campaign is focused on the needs of the thousands of older youth, ages 15-18, who face the challenges of aging out of foster care and are beginning their independent, young adult lives. The theme this year is “Teens Need Families, No Matter What.” Federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as non-profit organizations around the country, plan events and activities throughout the month of November to raise awareness for children and youth in foster care who are ready and waiting for permanent families.
“Adoptive families take on the important responsibility of supporting children in need and by extension support the health of our community by providing a nurturing environment for potentially at-risk youth. These families have our appreciation and deserve our support,” said Supervisor Todd Spitzer, Third District. “The love and support that can be found by Orange County’s adoptive parents is truly heartwarming. We thank them for all of their time and commitment to ensuring a better future for our youth,” said Supervisor Shawn Nelson.
The number of finalized adoptions in Orange County remains steady. In 2016, there were over 275 finalized adoptions. So far in 2017, there have been 233 finalized adoptions. Orange County continues to lead the way in uniting children with their forever families.
Supervisor Lisa Bartlett stated, “Adoptive families that welcome children into safe loving homes truly make positive impacts on their children’s lives. Not only have Tony and Erin Kim provided their children with a reliable support system, they set an example for other families hoping to do the same.”
For more information on becoming a Resource Family, please call (888) 871-KIDS, visit www.oc4kids.com.
