Marshall: Adoption is life-changing, challenging and rewarding

Mary Teresa Marshall

Submitted photo

When people think of November, Thanksgiving and Veterans Day often come to mind. However, November also marks National Adoption Month — a time to spotlight adoption’s life-changing impact.

In November 2019, I found myself in an unexpected place. It was National Adoption Day, and I stood in a Phoenix courtroom with my husband, about to commit to adopting a 17-year-old who had come into our lives through foster care.

The moment reminded me of how I had spent National Adoption Month in 2007 — sitting in a Pittsburgh courtroom as a foster care advocate, witnessing a family adopt a child I had worked with for years. It was a powerful full-circle moment in my 35-year journey in child welfare.

That full-circle experience often leads me to consider how to encourage families and individuals to take the first step toward adoption.

Why do people adopt?

Adoption stories often begin in unique and deeply personal ways. According to the World Health Organization, one in six people globally face infertility, and many couples confronted with this challenging reality turn to options like medical interventions or adoption.

Others choose adoption without infertility challenges, believing it is meant to be part of their family’s story. For some, like my family, adoption arises unexpectedly. Opportunities to say “yes” to a child looking for connection and belonging can become defining moments.

Exploring the adoption process

In today’s social media-driven world, agencies and organizations have embraced digital platforms to connect children with prospective adoptive families more efficiently than ever before. However, the sheer volume of information can feel overwhelming for those beginning the process.

The first step is to determine what kind of adoption aligns with your family’s goals. Would you prefer private adoption, often focused on infants? Are you open to adopting from foster care, including sibling groups, older children or those with medical or behavioral challenges?

Honest conversations within your family are essential because the adoption journey requires resilience, patience and love.

Building support

Adoption brings immense joy, and unique challenges. Finding the right agency or organization to partner with is crucial — they will help guide you through the process.

Equally important is building a strong support network. Seek out social media groups, community organizations or local charities to connect with others navigating similar journeys.

If you’re unsure about adoption or need more information, consider volunteering with organizations like CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), the Foster Care Review Board or other groups supporting foster children in Arizona. These experiences can offer valuable insights and help you decide if adoption is right for you.

National Adoption Month is a reminder of the profound impact adoption can have on families and children alike. For those considering this path, the journey may be challenging, but the rewards can be life-changing.

Editor’s note: Mary Teresa Marshall is program administrator for permanency services at the Arizona’s Children Association, a Phoenix-based child welfare and behavioral health nonprofit serving Arizonans since 1912. She has been involved in adoption and child welfare since age 10, when her parents became licensed foster parents. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.