First Forever Family Funfest Celebrates Power of Permanency

Celebrating the nearly 300 children who found “forever homes” over the past year through adoption or finalization of a kinship placement, Franklin County Children Services hosted its first Forever Family Funfest.

“When children can no longer safely remain in their parents’ custody, they deserve to have the permanent sense of belonging that comes with finding a family,” said Raquel Breckenridge, Family Service Director for Permanency. “And we want to celebrate those lasting connections.”

Over the past year, more than 100 children and teenagers who were in the agency’s care found their forever homes through adoption. In addition, almost 200 children were permanently placed with family relatives - grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, or adult siblings - or close family friends such as teachers and coaches, church members, or neighbors.

Dozens of those children and teens who found their forever homes through adoption or permanent kinship placement, along with their families and caregivers, attended the free Forever Family Funfest at Scene 75, an indoor entertainment center on Columbus’ west side with roller coasters, go-karts, laser tag, and arcade games.

In addition to lunch, the young people who were there received a two-hour pass to play games and experience all of the rides and attractions at the game center.

The event served as a kickoff to November’s National Adoption Month recognition and the countdown to our 25th annual National Adoption Day Ceremony at the Franklin County Courthouse on November 19.

In Franklin County, a majority of the children waiting for forever homes are ages 10 and older, often in sibling groups who need to stay together or children who have special needs.

Through adoption, older children are connected to a family that can provide a sense of stability, lasting connections, and guidance with important life tasks such as enrolling in higher education, finding stable housing, securing employment, and establishing healthy relationships.

“Right now, FCCS has more than 250 children in agency custody who are available for adoption. Fortunately, more than half of those children are matched with families and in the process of adoption,”

The FCCS Adoption Team has made it easier for families to virtually meet some of the children seeking a permanent home. Profiles of the teens approved for adoption here in Franklin County - and more information for families who want to consider becoming adoptive parents - can be found on the FCCS website at fccs.us/adoption.

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