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Adoption Day: Why we do what we do 

December 8, 2014

Observed annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, National Adoption Day was celebrated this year on November 22, 2014.  SCAN’s Alexandria/Arlington CASA Program was able to support the adoptive families celebrating in Alexandria and Arlington.

The City of Alexandria celebrated 7 adoptive families with a total of 11 children, ages 1 to 17.  Four of those families were able to be present for the celebration involving special crafts and story time for the children.  Each family was highlighted through a heart-warming introduction specific to their family story, then they were presented to Judge Frogale who gave them a certificate recognizing the special day.  A wonderful breakfast buffet was provided for all who attended, including extended families and friends, City officials, DCHS Social Workers, CASA staff/volunteers, and other volunteers. Each family was given a frame commemorating the day and a gift bag which included a book donated by SCAN for each child.

Arlington County celebrated 12 adoptive families with a total of 17 children, ages 0 to 18 in a celebration at the Synetic Theater in Crystal City. The day began with Face Painting, making a family plate that described the children’s place in their respective families, a demonstration in the soft room and a performance of “The Red Balloon”. Each family took time to enjoy a delicious lunch with their children and catch up with their social workers who some families had worked with for more than 6 years. Each family was given a gift bag which included a book donated by SCAN for each child, another book entitled “Twenty Things Adopted Kids Wish Their Adoptive Parents Knew” and stationary. The families left with smiles on their faces, ready to start their new journeys.

As a professional who has been in the child welfare field for over 12 years, it was wonderful to see how well-matched and cohesive the families at Adoption Day were. The foster care system can be an extremely difficult transition for children and adoptive placement homes and it was amazing to see how well-trained and supported the adoptive families appeared. Adoption is a life changing process and the families were committed to their children and ready for the joy and challenges that come with parenting.

At SCAN, our vision is that every child deserves a safe, permanent home where they can thrive. We work for children to be happy, healthy and heard…Adoption Day was a beautiful reminder that there are families dedicated to just that!

– Diamond Vann, CASA Program Manager

Learn more about SCAN’s Alexandria/Arlington CASA Program here.