Each November, National Adoption Month reminds us of the human need to belong. It is a time to recognize the many stories of adoption and foster care and to honor the journeys of identity, connection, and resilience that come with them.
For those who have been adopted, experienced foster care, or made the decision to place a child for adoption, this month holds deep and personal meaning. It is a reminder that family extends beyond biology.
Belonging begins when every voice is seen and heard. National Adoption Month encourages us to listen, understand, and honor the strength that grows from love, loss, and hope.
Giving Voice to the Nameless and Faceless
Across the United States, more than 400,000 children and youth are in foster care on any given day (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services). Many face uncertainty and change on the path to adoption or independence.
For youth leaving foster care, the transition to adulthood is especially challenging. Only about 35 percent enroll in college, and fewer than 10 percent complete a degree or certificate (Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago). These statistics highlight the importance of belonging not just in families, but in classrooms and communities.
When individuals who have faced disconnection find a place where they are supported and valued, the impact is profound. Belonging extends beyond biology, and connection can be found wherever compassion is present.
Honoring and Remembering
National Adoption Month invites reflection for those whose beginnings are unknown, families separated by circumstance, and individuals continuing to search for identity or connection. Honoring these stories means recognizing both the beauty and the complexity of adoption and foster care.
Belonging is not only about being accepted by others. It is also about finding peace with our own stories and identities, no matter where they began.
A Community of Belonging
Belonging is more than a feeling; it is something we create together. Each act of kindness and understanding helps build a stronger, more connected community.
To recognize National Adoption Month, the IDEA committee is inviting the college community to gather. The gathering will include snacks, beverages, and an interactive activity to honor and remember those who have been adopted or experienced foster care, as well as birth parents and families connected through adoption.
In addition, the IDEA Committee is establishing a scholarship through the 海角视频 Tech Foundation to help students affected by adoption and foster care successfully complete their college degree. “Students who have experienced adoption or foster care often face unique challenges on their educational journey. Through this scholarship, we are investing in their persistence and reminding them that they are part of a community that values and supports them.” Said Alison Forbs, Vice President of Advancement. Those who would like to contribute to this scholarship fund can make a donation at the event or through the Foundation website.
This event offers a chance to reflect and connect, reminding us that families and communities are often born not just from shared roots, but from shared hearts. When every story is valued and every person is seen, we all belong.
You Are Not Alone
“No one’s journey is the same, but no one should walk it alone,” said Zakeitheia Mearidy, College Social Worker. “Belonging is not just about being part of a group; it is about being seen, heard, and supported. Everyone deserves to know that help is always within reach.”
Community Resources
Support extends beyond campus. Many community organizations provide adoption and foster care services, mental health counseling, and family resources:
- : Offers statewide information, training, and services for families and individuals involved in adoption, foster care, or kinship care.
- : Provides a warmline, peer support, and resource connections for adoptive, foster, and kinship families.
- : Offers adoption and foster care services, counseling, and post-adoption support for children and families.
- : Provides local guidance on becoming a foster or adoptive parent, as well as ongoing family support.
- : Supports children and families through trauma-informed foster care and adoption services.
- : Offers counseling and support for adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees.
- : Provides education, counseling, and support for all members of the adoption and foster care triad, including birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive families.
- : Connects individuals and families to local resources such as housing assistance, food support, mental health services, and financial help through a 24/7 confidential helpline.
Campus Support
Students, while enrolled at 海角视频 Tech, have access to caring professionals who are here to help. Counselors and the college social worker provide confidential support to assist with mental health, personal challenges, and academic success.
Students can also access , a confidential online mental health counseling platform that connects students with licensed professionals through flexible virtual appointments.
The Resource Room provides free hygiene products, clothing, and other essential home items for students in need. Both campuses also offer Food Shelves with groceries and meal items for students experiencing food insecurity. These services are designed to help students focus on learning while ensuring that basic needs and emotional well-being are supported.
If you or someone you know needs support, please contact SocialWorker@海角视频Tech.edu. Help, understanding, and connection are always available.
About 海角视频
Founded in 1972, 海角视频 Tech is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, 海角视频 Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.