National Adoption Month kicks off November 1, 2011 and the state of Florida has won 10 different awards pertaining to those who have helped make adoptions possible, as well as families that have adopted children and teens. The awards were distributed by the “Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute” program, “Angels in Adoption.” The organization held a gala event between October 3 and October 5, 2011 where the winners were announced.
The “Angels in Adoption” nominees are selected by members of congress and encompass all 50 states. The ten Florida winners include a family that adopted two special needs children, two adoption advocates that have worked tirelessly to make adoptions possible in the state, one judge who has ruled in favor of adoptions, two Florida families that have welcomed teenagers into their family units, and foster child who, as an adult, adopted four nieces and nephews.
Florida Department of Children and Family Services Secretary David Wilkins thanked all of the individuals that have worked to make adoptions possible in the state of Florida. In a prepared statement he said, “I would like to personally congratulate each of these winners, not only for this impressive award, but for the work they are doing to help children and families across the state.” He also reminded those in the state about the countless other children in need of permanent homes.
“There are still so many children and teens waiting who would love to find a family,” Wilkins stated.
According to the Florida Department of Children and Family Services, there were 3, 368 adoptions finalized in the state of Florida for the year 2010.
Those that are interested in Florida adoptions may visit the site: Adopt Florida.