An Adoption Manager’s Story for National Adoption Month 2019—Ashley Wilkinson #OCHKids
When I started my career in child welfare 12 years ago, I had no idea what to expect. Child welfare is not an easy profession; there are good days, at times really bad weeks, and even difficult months. The children served have been through hell and back. They have gone through circumstances only nightmares are made of and it is utterly heartbreaking. These children are some of the most challenging youth in the state. They come to us feeling broken, rejected by families and seemingly at a loss for a future. These experiences cause these children to believe they are not lovable, unwanted, and the idea of adoption feels like a fantasy.

This month, I can reflect on all the adoptions I have been a part of and it is downright incredible at Our Children’s Homestead. Compassion, love, patience, and positive attitude can change a child’s life! Adoptive parents have seen these children at their absolute worst and have been challenged mentally, physically, and emotionally. Every part of their being says, “it is time to give up” …. But they don’t. They hold tightly to their support team; their caseworkers, therapist, family members and friends. They courageously do it again and again. They know their job is important; they are changing a child’s life, breaking down walls that are years deep in rejection. And then, when they break through, we see those walls slowly (very slowly) fall down, we celebrate together!
We celebrate small successes — because they matter. And when I have the privilege of seeing families win these children’s hearts, support them through their trauma, and show them they are not giving up, I know I am a part of something very special! It is truly an incredible feeling! These children did not deserve the lives they were given and when you get to see them turn their lives around, have a chance, and finally find a family they deserve; there are no words to describe how incredible that feeling is. National Adoption Month is a time to celebrate these Amazing Families! I am truly grateful for all of them.
— Ashley Wilkinson, OCH Adoption Manager
#NAM2019 #ochkids #fosterlove #foreverfamily #adoption
The mission of Our Children’s Homestead is to build a strong, stable, foundation of support for each youth we serve, and develop opportunities that enable them to discover and sustain a positive life. www.ochkids.org | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Donate