CDHS Recognizes Five Colorado Adoptive Families in Celebration of National Adoption Month

DENVER (Nov. 7, 2022) — In celebration of National Adoption Month in November and to encourage
more Coloradans to consider adoption from foster care, the Colorado Department of Human Services
(CDHS) recognized five exceptional adoptive families from across the state in an event at the Denver
Museum of Nature and Science on Saturday.

“The five families we celebrate this month demonstrate the power of unconditional love and
support that helps kids thrive,” said Michelle Barnes, Executive Director of CDHS. “This year we are
celebrating several families who have adopted family members and children they know through
kinship care.”

Since January 2022, 475 Colorado children and youth in foster care have been adopted in Colorado.
Currently there are 408 Colorado children and youth who are waiting for a family. Most children and
youth who are adopted from foster care are adopted by their foster parents.

Every Colorado community needs adoptive and foster parents, especially families who are willing to
care for children with complex behavioral and mental health needs, sibling groups and children whose
first language is not English. Foster parents must be at least 21 years old and be able to provide a safe,
loving and stable family environment. There are no limitations based on income, race, ethnicity,
religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

“We know that people are curious about foster care and adoption and want to know more about
the process,” said Minna Castillo Cohen, director of the CDHS Office of Children, Youth and Families.
“By sharing their stories in our public awareness campaign, these five families will help us inspire
others to support children and youth who need foster or kinship care.”