Our vision at Family First, the parent organization of All Pro Dad and iMOM, is for every child to know the love of a mom and a dad. Children are waiting to know that love through foster care and adoption.
We’ve put together firsthand stories of foster and adoptive families who have gone above and beyond to provide a stable and supportive environment for the children in their care.
Families were chosen based on the following criteria:
1. How the foster and/or adoptive family is unique and what sets them apart
2. The family’s demonstrated performance to work with the system of care, family members, and community resources
3. The family’s ability to understand and recognize the needs of the child(ren) placed in their care—to be accepted and respected as an individual, to be treated with dignity, and to be valued for their contributions
2022 – 2023
Jerry Jones, Miami
Nominated by Anthony Carvalho, Citrus Family Care Network
Larry Lack, Port St Lucie
Nominated by Christina Kaiser, Communities Connected for Kids
Larry Lack opened his Port St. Lucie home in 2021 to children in the local foster care community and hasn’t shied away from a challenge since.
During his first year as a foster parent, he welcomed 14 boys into his home! He was willing to see past what was reported to him on paper, opening his home and heart to give these young men a chance.
Communities Connected for Kids recently awarded Lack the Topaz GEM – or Going the Extra Mile – award for his dedication to foster care. The recognition is part of a series of awards given throughout the year to caregivers and employees in the CCKids community of care.
Mr. Lack has stated that he never experienced a time in his life when he encountered abuse or did not have enough to eat. He considers himself blessed and wanted to help kids that were going through traumatizing times.
Despite only caring for youth temporarily, Mr. Lack goes out of his way to show them how much he cares and is always flexible to be able to meet the youth’s needs.
William Presswood, Miami-Dade
Nominated by Madalina Alexuc, Citrus FCN
Mr. Presswood has opened his heart as a foster parent for many years. He has been able to offer permanency through adoption to many children from the dependency system. He continues to accommodate and make all the children that step into his home feel welcomed and deserving of his love and attention.
Mr. Presswood is trauma-informed and child specific. He is fully able to understand that each child is unique, and trauma can manifest in many ways and through different behavior manifestations. He advocates for each individual child’s needs because of his extensive experience.
Mr. Presswood has treated all children that stepped into his home with love, dignity and respect. He has honored their uniqueness and respected their likes, dislikes and their preferences.
Tracey Doeman-Cockfield, Miami-Dade
Nominated by Katerin Chavez, Citrus FCN
Mrs. Doeman-Cockfield and her husband are very involved in their adopted son’s life. They advocate daily for his needs and show a great amount of love and support for their son. They are determined to set him up for success and are always open to receiving support. Mrs. Cockfield and her husband do not focus on negative behaviors. They continue to focus on the positives in his life.
Richard and Tabatha Sims, St Lucie County
Nominated by Jerra Wisecup, Communities Connected
After the Sims family adopted two children from foster care, the family-maintained connections with their children’s biological siblings. Through their ongoing connection with one of the siblings, who was placed in a therapeutic foster home environment, the Sims family felt compelled to re-open their foster home and explore the possibility of acting as a placement resource with this child. The family pursued a therapeutic level of licensure to ensure they would have the tools needed to best meet the child’s needs. They have been dedicated to her care and healing since she was placed in their home in January of 2023. The Sims continue to work with their licensing team, case management, providers, and the clinical team on helping this child heal from previous traumatic life experiences as they feel it is important for biological siblings to maintain bonds with each other.
Emily and Jay Holland, Stuart, Florida
Nominated by Kandace Brooks, Communities Connected for Kids
The Holland family adopted a child from Communities Connected for Kids in 2014. While their child’s mental and behavioral health needs are extensive, the Hollands have fought hard for their daughter. They want her to be happy and healthy. They have expressed that the road to treatment has been a challenging one, but they will never stop advocating for their child and her needs. They are committed to giving their child the best life possible.
The Hollands view ongoing treatment as an opportunity to better cohabitate, communicate, and love one another. Whenever there is an opportunity for the family to better understand the child’s needs and diagnoses, they learn everything they can and apply that knowledge to become more educated family members for their daughter. They never fail to communicate updates and concerns whenever necessary. When a new service or provider may be appropriate, they take the lead in asking questions. They never fail to notice or mention even the smallest victories.
Trudy and Michael Keene, Royal Palm Beach
Nominated by by Nicole Slade, ChildNet
Trudy and Michael are amazing foster parents who embrace working in collaboration with system members and most importantly with birth families.
During their most recent placement, the foster parents immediately jumped in and began working with the mother and communicating with her to promote co-parenting. This included supervising the mother’s visitations, enrolling them in activities that the mother agreed upon, including dance and soccer and inviting the mother to come see their participation in these events, and being willing to continue to support the children through their reunification with their mother. The foster parents’ willingness to truly co-parent and work with the biological family resulted in children being able to maintain a really positive relationship with the family while in care and promoted timely permanency through reunification. The biological mother of the children in the home texted the case manager about how grateful she was when her children were placed in the Keene’s home. This is extremely unique for foster parents to be so willing to supervise visits and really co-parent with biological families.
The Keene’s care about all the needs of the children, from their move into their home and the disruption that caused in the children’s routine and connections, and they worked with everyone to preserve all those that could and to identify new activities that could support the children’s transition into their home.
Crystal and Anthony Zinn, Navarre
Nominated by Tammie Veader, NWF Health Network
Crystal and Anthony Zinn began their foster care journey in 2021 after traveling the world for 20 years while Anthony was in the Air Force. They moved to Florida in 2020 to “retire” and establish roots with their 4 biological children. While many families would opt to rest, relax, and unwind from the busy military lifestyle, the Zinn’s chose to move forward with being licensed foster parents. The couple has welcomed 7 children in their home during their time as foster parents.
The couple has received the highest praise from case managers and system partners. Recently, the couple accepted a child who had been disrupted from several placements. Crystal and Anthony teamed together and immediately focused on the positives with their new little guy and provided him with structure, consistency, and redirection. The couple knew that their little guy would only be in their home short term until a permanent placement could be found for him. When the Zinn’s were notified a new placement was approved for the child, they immediately began working on a transition. They offered support and guidance to the new caregivers. In addition, they offered to donate a crib, a small trampoline, clothing and to help provide respite when needed. The Zinn’s received praise from the MDT Coordinator with the Department of Children and Families as this being “one of the best transition plans between caregivers I have attended in all of my years.”
The family has also just finalized an adoption of a child and are moving forward with adopting another sibling group. The Zinn’s are true servants who have answered the call to serve their community. NWF Health is so thankful to have them on our team!
Alicia and Donnie McMillan, Odessa
Nominated by Tami Kent, No More Foundation
Alicia and her husband Donnie started fostering about 5 years ago and had 2 separate placements their first year. Four years ago, they answered the phone call from placement asking for them to take in a set of preemie twin girls who had just been released from the hospital. Alicia and Donnie said yes to taking the girls for a 4 day weekend but soon that they would be a long term placement for the girls. A little over a year after taking the twins they found out that their mother was pregnant again and that she would soon give birth to their little sister. Having the same birth parents and realizing the importance of sibling relationships, Alicia and her husband Donnie said yes once again, and within a few months brought home another baby from the hospital. Their commitment to fostering and loving well meant choosing what was best for these three girls over what was the comfortable norm.
For over 4 years, Alicia and Donnie have worked with multiple case managers assigned to the case, took on the responsibility of driving the children to almost all of the in-person visits with the biological parents. They have been present for every court hearing and meeting regarding the girls and along with the guardian ad litem have advocated for what was in their best interest at all times.
In addition to caring for the children in their home, Alicia and Donnie are fierce advocates for the needs of children in foster care. They support other foster families, served with local organizations to share their story, and helped recruit even more foster families.
Michele Suso, Miami
Nominated by Trudy Petkovich, Citrus Family Care Network
As a single mom, the roller coaster ride of foster care has been very difficult, but Michele continues to advocate for the best interest of the children in her care AND their mother and siblings.
In the four-plus years the children have been in her foster home, she has been committed to the goal of reunification, working to provide the mother with the tools to reunify. When the siblings were in need she was there to support mom, always keeping the best interest of the children in mind during difficult circumstances.
Michele used all community resources to provide the many educational, cultural and extracurricular activities available to the children in her care. She made sure they attended even if activities happened while they were visiting with their mother and siblings. She transported the children everywhere including to their mother’s home for visits, overnights and weekends.
Michele strives to ensure that the children in her home feel loved, taken care of and safe. She provides a culturally sensitive home full of love and acceptance grounded in strong values and principles.
Tyler and Leslie Fuller, Niceville
Nominated by Melissa Love, The NoMore Foundation
Tyler and Leslie Fuller are passionate about caring for children in the system. They have two biological children and have adopted four children they were fostering. Tyler is the Missions Pastor at a local church and ensures that the church regularly provides foster classes and trainings. He facilitates serve days and weeks devoted to supporting foster families through parents night out, meal deliveries, car washes, family fun days, and so much more.
Leslie is completing her Master’s Degree in social work and is certified in TBRI training. She serves with the Pearl Project, a non-profit that provides training and support groups for Caregivers.
The Fullers utilize the skills they have learned in their parenting. They share with other families about these. They are a big family of 8 but are intentional about celebrating the individual personalities and interest of each of their children. They are truly living the gospel and inspiration to all who know them.
Karen and Billy Queen, Riverview
Nominated by Kymberlye Smith, Children’s Network of Hillsborough
The Queens became Foster Parents in 2008. They raised 3 bio-children and adopted 3 children from the system of care, providing siblings the opportunity to stay together.
The family goes above and beyond. Karen assists with the Hillsborough County Family Preservation Association (HCFPA), attends all court hearings, stays in the hospital if the children are admitted. They have a strong commitment to their children. Many of the children that have been reunified with their parents still visit their home and keep in touch- a testament to the relationships they’ve built.
The Queens are always willing to assist anyone in the system of care, whether another foster parent, relative caregiver, case manager or licensing specialist.
Chris and Louisa Williams, Tallahassee
Nominated by Lauren Nable, NWF Health Network
The Williams’ love fiercely and endlessly. They see the best in everyone they meet and call it out. They are the most intentional with their words and guide gently, yet firmly. They are willing to go the distance to help these children get the support and love they need, while also working along with the birth families to set their reunification up for success. Having adopted two boys with various needs themselves, the Williams’ are truly resilient and fight the good fight to make sure their children are never left without and are always supported.
The Williams’ have had back-to-back long-term placements where they have successfully assisted in reunifying the children with their families. They have created such incredible partnerships with these birth families and continue to stay involved in their lives. Every week, the Williams send out a “Weekly Update Email” to all parties involved (even birth family) with pictures of the children they are caring for, accomplishments of the child, what they’re doing, and new discoveries. They never stop championing for these birth families, even after the child has been reunified.
The Williams have cared for newborns to toddlers. They see each child as an individual with unique needs and extraordinary callings. They listen intently to every cry, worry, joy, and laughter. The Williams’ carry a child-like faith that is unmatched and is truly a breath of fresh air, especially to these children who may have never seen any sunshine or joy in their lives.
The intentional impacts they have made in these families will radiate into the generations to come. We are so thankful for their loyalty and intentionality when it comes to caring for those who come from hard places. They keep going, they keep moving forward, and they keep learning, every step of the way.
Racine and Christopher Coleman, St Augustine
Nominated by Sheri McCammon, Family Integrity Program
Racine (Rae) and Chris are phenomenal foster and adoptive parents. They are very open, loving and accepting of every child in their home and include the children as a part of their family. They are both very down to earth individuals and provide a structured but relaxed environment that allows each youth to feel at home. Rae and Chris have had some very challenging placements, but stayed the course, tirelessly advocating for the youth to ensure that they received all the services needed. At times, they have even rearranged their bedrooms to make space for a youth that needs immediate placement. They’ve stabilize youth in crisis and assisted them in transitioning to a new placement, if needed, and have also adopted 2 children that were placed with them.
The Colemans are ready and willing to work with all providers, educators, guardian ad litem, family members and attend all meetings and court hearings. They continuously advocate for the children in their care. They remain in contact with the children that have moved on to other placements or reunification. They are excellent with the providers and the staff at our Agency, always sharing information and looking for better ways to assist the children
The Colemans are one of the most well-rounded and accepting families that I have had the pleasure working with. The foster/adoptive community could use more families like them.
Kerry and Christopher Conover, St. Johns
Nominated by Sheri McCammon, Family Integrity Program
Kerry and Chris have been fostering in St. Johns County for over 5 years. They are a loving family who often go above and beyond for the youth placed in their home. They are very accommodating and will often take in placement at a moment’s notice. Kerry is well versed in trauma informed care and has been training for a medical foster care license. He is a wealth of knowledge on parenting and often speaks to our Pride class at graduation, giving wonderful tips on parenting kids with trauma.
The Conover’s take the time to get to know the children placed in their home, their needs, likes/dislikes and frequently keep in contact with the Case Manager and providers to ensure every child’s needs are met.
Not only are they considerate in caring for every child that is placed in their home, they include a welcome gift of a brand-new blanket, water bottle, stuffed animals, books and small toys so that the child can have something new that they can call their own. They include the children in their family and treat them as their own, including them in all family functions and vacations. They are incredible at working with the biological families to maintain connections for the children, often taking the children to parent or sibling visitations on the weekend and holidays and have traveled out of county to do so. They continuously send pictures and updates of the children to their biological parents.
They welcome children with open arms and take the time to get to know each child’s needs and continuously advocate for them. The Child Welfare community needs more families like them.
Joan and Wayne Blake, Palm Bay
Nominated by La Christa Jones, Brevard Family Partnership
Joan and Wayne have opened their hearts and home to over 35 children over the past four years. Many of these children were dealing with complex trauma and challenging behaviors. Joan never says no to our kids. She will go above and beyond to support all children coming into care while maintaining contact with children after they are placed elsewhere.
The Blakes are great team members in helping children transition to a permanent home, having helped three children this past year. They maintained contact with the parents, encouraged them to comply with their case plan task and assisted in scheduling overnight visits until the children were reunified.
The Blakes work well as a part of the professional team. They treat every child with a non-judgmental and caring approach. Joan and Wayne have been a huge support to the agency and always willing to assist with all children regardless of age and needs. They take emergency, short- and long-term placements. Brevard Family Partnership is so fortunate to have Joan and Wayne as part of our team.
Tyler and Jennifer Pratt, Polk County
Nominated by Katie Campbell, One More Child
The Pratt family has exemplified the ability to love a child through difficult times and help a child overcome challenges physically, emotionally, and mentally. They went from being a household of two to a household of five within two weeks and never blinked an eye.
They are willing to advocate for their foster children as well as their biological children. They do their best to coparent, do sibling visits, and create an environment of healing for the whole family. They maintain close contact with all those involved in their foster children’s lives and want to be the building block that keeps the unity together.
Tyler and Jennifer Pratt strive to foster an environment of individuality and uniqueness in their home. They open their home to children of all ages and genders and truly desire to help those children explore their interests and grow into beautiful people. They’re always willing to jump into a school event, family event, or other function that their foster children have a desire to pursue. The family is always eager to learn about ways to help their children navigate life and overcome difficulties. They truly desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus when loving others.
Derrick and Kendra Burrus, Monticello
Nominated by Calyn Stringer, Northwest Florida Health
The Burrus became foster parents in 2020 and jumped in with both feet accepting a sibling group of 4 the day their license came through! When asked the reason that they wanted to foster, they said that it was actually their daughter, Reagan, who encouraged them to take the leap. She wanted to help kids in their community and knew that foster families could do that. Derrick is a fire fighter and a pastor, and Kendra is a teacher, so helping others runs through their blood, but the family already had 5 children, so taking in 4 additional children was no small task.
Shortly after their adoption they received a bonus Christmas gift by welcoming another sibling of their newly adopted children.
Logistics is their superpower.
Even with all the needs and commitments for their children, the family organizes a foster closet at their church and mentors new foster families. Two of their children have significant medical needs and delays, so getting to different specialists and appointments is a part-time job for Kendra, who always advocates for the best services and providers for the kids in her home. They have children in 4 different schools because different schools can each meet their children’s needs more uniquely. They maintain good relationships with biological families, promote sibling connections, and speak up in court to speak for the children in their home.
Carrie and Samuel Dean, St Augustine,
Nominated by Aimee Befort, Family Integrity Program
Adoption is not a foreign concept to the Dean’s, because Carrie and her brother were adopted by a family themselves. During their dependency case, the mother of the child they were adopting became pregnant again and on the day of the adoption of one child, she gave birth to another. Carrie was present at the birth this child, getting placement of him when he was released from the hospitaland adopted him a few months later.
Carrie had open, honest communication with the case managers that visited her home as well as a good relationship with their licensing specialist. The family participated in meetings and court hearings and advocated for their children during appointments and in daycare or school.
Even with their family of three biological and two adoptive, they provide ongoing support, guidance, and a listening ear to the birth mother of their adopted boys – maintaining contact with her, the half-siblings and extended family members so the children can grow up knowing their roots and extended family.,
Kevin and Mallory Everitt, Tampa
Nominated by Amber Varney. Adopted through Eckerd Connects.
Seeing the need for older children in the foster and adoptive system to be matched with forever families, Kevin and Mallory fervently sought the Lord for many months as they navigated the adoption process. They have provided so much stability and direction for their daughter who is well adjusted and flourishing today.
Mallory adopted a child with a different ethnicity than she and her husband. She has been quick to protect and enrich her life by celebrating who she is both through adoption AND her culture. She has spoken over her and invested in her as uniquely designed to bring honor to the Lord and worthy of following Him. As a young adult, her nominator has watched her coach and lead her daughter through difficult times in which the easy thing for her daughter to do would have been to settle for less than God’s best, but Mallory pushed her to step into all God has for her.
Dominick and Michelle Giordano, Pensacola
Nominated by Amy Simpson and Lesley Bateman. Agency is Adoption-Share’s Family Match Program
Michelle and Dominick adopted three siblings who were in foster care. But that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to her impact on adoptions.
Michelle sees the system from all sides — in addition to being an adoptive parent, she has worked at community-based care agencies to recruit families for waiting children, and currently works at Adoption-Share helping agencies effectively implement the Family-Match program across the state of Florida.
While at FamiliesFirst Network, Michelle’s role included recruiting families and supporting the adoption’s team. Her efforts resulted in 140 children being adopted between July 2018 and December 2021. Since joining Adoption-Share in January 2022, Michelle has expanded her impact by working with agencies and workers across the state, helping them utilize the system to find forever families for waiting children. Michelle’s expertise and experience has also led to innovative programs to support families pre- and post-adoption
After all the years dedicated to finding families for children, she and her family have been blessed as parents. Michelle and Dominick strive to meet the unique needs of each of their children so they can reach their full potential.
Kimberly and Derek Grimsley, Fort Meade Florida
Nominated by LeAnna Hollis. Safe Children Coalition – Manatee Office
The Grimsleys opened their home to five siblings that were in need of a safe home, originally through foster, but ultimately through adoption.
They first took in Megan, age 6, and Ethan, age 1. Soon after, they received the call that the children had another sibling that needed placement at just 4 weeks old. The Grimsleys did not hesitate and took her in and cared for her. Throughout the next couple of years they received two more phone calls, one for 5 day old Tyson, and the other for Nora who was in NICU. They acted without hesitation and immediately made them family.
The nominee has built an extensive network of support for this family of 5- from their church, family members, teachers, and friends who are there for the children when needed.
Each child has unique needs and requires special attention. Kimberly always responds by researching the best therapists, resources, and schools to best help each child.
The Grimsley family has had their share of joys and challenges, but through each one, Kimberly and Derek attend to them with love and commitment.
Randee and Christopher Ketner, Nokomis
Nominated by Katie Kennedy and Allison Mentzer
The Ketners became adoptive parents to sweet Rylee after years of infertility. A year after adopting Rylee, Randee became pregnant with twin girls.
Nearly a year after Randee and Christopher became parents to their newly adopted daughter, they found out they were pregnant with twins. The way these two love their 3 girls under 3 is an amazing experience to watch.
Randee understands all 3 of her girls have different personalities. She gets down on their level to help them understand how to make the best choice when facing decisions. Randee is a speech therapist and Chris is a lineman with Florida Power and Light.
Though Randee gave up her career to stay home with the girls, she continues to work part time with other children providing care and services. They both are very involved in the community and are role models to other adoptive parents.
Mike and Kim Klokus, Webster
Nominated by Rachel Cardoso and Jamis Robb
With two children adopted from Columbia and one from the Florida foster system, the Klokus’s are also fostering two children who have been with them for a couple of years. If you’re counting, that’ a total of 7 children in their home.
Kim and Mike are very accommodating and adaptive for the case managers as well as other workers in the Florida foster system. They remarkably adapt their schedule for the best interest of each child and are sensitive to relationships with the biological family. Kim is a constant encourager and nurturer to her children. They also provide each child the care or therapy needed.
This family is unique in the fact that they are constantly asked to stretch themselves a little further for another child, which they happily and readily do continually. They sacrifice many many hours for the needs of at -risk children and children who need homes. They love God and they serve him uniquely in this way. They value each child as a unique masterpiece of God and intentionally show each child their worth by encouraging words, acts of kindness, meeting of needs, and loving care in their home., Webster
Alex & Kim Peralta, Sarasota
Nominated by Cameron McGough. (Calvary Chapel Sarasota)
The Peraltas had four biological children before they began their adoption and foster journey. They have since adopted two little ones that they cared for as foster parents. Alex and Kim’s children are treated with the same dignity, love, and care as those Kim carried in her own womb. The Peralta’s have nurtured their family to be “one” family versus a conglomerate of families. They make themselves available for medically severe children within the system. They are strong advocates for the foster care system and actively participate within the system to help others and those who have helped them.
The Peralta’s are active with groups like One More Child in seeking help for them in donations, resources for distribution, and helping other foster parents within the church (and probably beyond). They are heroes for our children.
Bethanie & Alexander Richards, Lakeland
Nominated by Briana Edwards (Heartland for Children)
This family was dedicated to their son and his well-being even before they ever met him They ended each visit with a group prayer for him and plenty of hugs. The Richards provide him with choices in everything he does – and now he finally feels that he has a voice in his own life.
Since he was very young, the Richard’s son wanted to play football. They got him involved in the community and he’s got quite the cheering section at each game!
Although they had not parented previously, the Richard’s parenting style was impressive from the beginning! They focus on the good and share with everyone what an amazing kid he is. They remain consistent and clear so he knows what to expect. They lift him up while teaching him accountability and respect. As a result of all their wholehearted love, devotion, and trauma responsive parenting, their son no longer needs many of the outside supports he once relied on.
The Richards are what children in care need, a soft place to land with people who will cherish them, love them, and fight for them in a way no one has before.
Mark and Rebecca Rothman
Nominated by Leon Battle, and Erica Hall of One More Child.
The Rothmans story is one of generational impact of adoption as Rebecca was adopted by her maternal grandparents atbirth. She understands the joys and hardships of adoption and has been willing to step into those difficult places so that her nieces and nephews can have a family who loves and cares for them.
When they learned that Rebecca’s sister had children who were in the foster care system, they reached out to their caregiver and began to form a family relationship with their niece and nephew. When Rebecca’s sister became pregnant again, the Rothman’s decided to become the foster and eventual adoptive parents to Gionna, and were committed to the additional care she need in being born with a drug dependency. They fostered Gionna well and eventually were able to adopt her. During that time, another nephew was born drug dependent and the Rothman’s partnered with his foster parents to support them and to provide all the siblings opportunities to have a relationship. There is now a new sibling that has joined the family and is also in foster care. The Rothmans are already helping to forge a relationship with that child, as well.
In addition, Rebecca has committed her profession to helping countless foster children and families as the Senior Director of Foundations for One More Child.
She credits her parents for stepping in to give her life through adoption and now can share with her own children that they were chosen, they have purpose and that God has special plans just for them.
Jake and Peggy Smith
Nominated by Tami Kent at the NOMORE Foundation
When they were dating, Jake and Peggy talked about their desire to adopt a child some day. Jake’s parents had been foster parents; Peggy had grown up in a home where compassion was modeled and some of her older sisters had adopted children. They knew it would be a part of their future but had no idea that their whole life would change in an instant when they would go from a family of 2 to a family of 6 overnight.
Just a year after getting married, Jacob’s parents were sent a picture of a sibling group of 8 with the a message attached….’Will you consider this?’ Although his parents had fostered and adopted, they thought they were done, because most of their children were grown and out of the house. After 4 or 5 similar messages about this group of siblings, they knew they HAD TO pray about this situation. As they prayed, they felt that God was asking them to be open to this, but they also knew 8 was just too challenging to ensure everyone’s needs were met. As Jacob’s parents sat in their living room and discussed this with their adult children, Jacob and Peggy spoke up and said ‘We will take some of them!’
However, there was 1 more! Baby number 9 was born as they were moving forward with the adoption process. It was determined that Jacob and Peggy would take the youngest 4 children and his parents would take the 5 older children.
Their decision to keep this family together has set a course for the future that would have otherwise been impossible.
Scott and Whitney Waechter, Odessa
Nominated by Ashley Jones, Family First.
Scott and Whitney have 10 children, 5 biological and 3 adopted and have two long term foster children. They have fostered over many more and continue to provide respite care for other foster families as well.
Whitney has an amazing amount of energy. Because she homeschools all ten children, her day is full of teaching and various therapeutic appointments while providing their kids with unique opportunities to be outside in nature at their family camp, fishing and boating as well as hockey and other sports the kids are interested in. Their walls are full of artwork and they love to be involved in their church.
Scott and Whitney are very gentle parents. They quietly address behavior and consistently model a gentle communication approach. They lead a foster/adoptive support group in their church to provide encouragement to other families in the journey.
Scott and Whitney exemplify James 1:27 which says “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God means caring for orphans (and widows) in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.”
R.J. And Heather Walters, Lakeland
Nominated by Leon Battle, One More Child
While initially licensed as foster parents the Walters have adopted children that were placed in their care. Now with 6 children, 3 adopted and 3 biological, it’s clear their calling is to care for children in need. They made so many changes in their lives to accommodate the children like buying a bigger house and getting a big transit van to transport them around.
RJ and Heather go above and beyond to work with biological parents and with the local Community Based Care Agency. Heather is a teacher and she is highly respected within the school system. RJ has worked within the child welfare system. Both of them use their wide array of knowledge to continue to advocate for their children and provide their children with the best family life possible.
2021 – 2022
Linda and Michael Bolger, St. Johns
Nominated by Sheri McCammon, Family Integrity Program
Linda and Michael Bolger began their foster/adoption journey 25 years ago in New Jersey before moving to St. Johns, Florida in Sept. 2014.
As an educator and a water safety/lifeguard instructor, Linda is always willing to teach foster children in St. Johns and surrounding counties how to swim. She often says that “every foster child in Florida should know how to swim.”
Throughout 2021, Michael battled medical issues and became hospitalized. Sadly, Michael passed away on November 9, 2021. We lost a loving foster parent.
Even through Linda’s grief, she was willing to take in a 16-year-old male to try to put him on the path to success. Linda always opens her home to teens in need, often at the last minute.
Jamie and Michael Cardin
Nominated by Briana Edwards, Heartland for Children
Initially licensed as a traditional foster home in 2015, the Cardins have walked through adoption and caring for many kids. When first licensed, they took in a sibling group with a significant trauma history and mental health needs. The family never gave up on these kids, keeping family connections even though it would be a difficult journey at times. To see the change in each of the children’s lives from the time they are initially welcomed into the Cardin home is beyond heartwarming.
In December 2021, the Cardins officially adopted a 17-year-old girl, working alongside her as she processes the hard stuff that comes with the trauma she’s endured.
The Cardins always say they are not a family that “gives up,” even when times are hard—and they mean it. Because of them, we have one less child who likely would have aged out without a family.
Melissa and Chris Ducios, Largo
Nominated by Jillian DeMarco, Family Support Services of Suncoast
As foster parents for five years and adoptive parents to two children, the Ducios co-parent, supervise visits, and take children on vacation with them—whatever is needed to help the parent reach permanency.
Whether inviting biological parents to all sporting or special events or birthday parties to attending court hearings, the Ducios are proactive in seeking services and making sure everyone’s voice is heard.
Starting a foster closet, starting a support group at their church, and sitting on the FAPA board exemplify the Ducios’ contribution to the fostering community.
Teresa Everette, Fort Lauderdale
Nominated by Christal Neal, 4Kids of South Florida
Teresa began fostering in 2001 and moved into a family-style home to foster more children in 2020. Currently, she is fostering 5 teen girls in a teen neighborhood foster home.
Teresa makes each teen girl in her home feel loved and supported. Over the past 20 years, Teresa has fostered about 25 children ranging from 0–17. Every child who enters her home feels love, safety, security, and fun.
She meets the children/teens where they are and walks them through the difficulties in their lives. Teresa attends court hearings, school meetings, medical/dental appointments, and anything else on her children’s caseloads. She communicates with each child’s case manager, GAL, teacher, therapist, and even the biological family as appropriate.
Every child she fosters is made to feel a part of her family but is also able to thrive individually.
Bethany and Justin Forbes, St. Augustine
Nominated by Sheri McCammon, Family Integrity Program
Since being licensed in 2016, the Forbes have welcomed many children into their home, providing for them just as they do their own children. While the Forbes have three biological children, they’ve also opened their hearts to the adoption of three children—one internationally from Ethiopia and a sibling group through the foster care system that they have had since their births.
As speakers at the 2021 November National Adoption Month Proclamation, the Forbes talked about the importance of preventing family disruption through families stepping up to become foster parents. They live what they teach.
Barbara and Johnny Jackson, Arcadia
Nominated by Rebecca Lovegrove, Safe Children Coalition
Having fostered for more than 35 years, it’s no surprise that their first foster is turning 40 this year! Not only has Barbara adopted children when reunification could not occur, but she also has ongoing relationships to this day with her former foster children.
Barbara picks up parents for visitations, even out of county, and even invites them to her home for holidays. She’s purchased bedroom furniture for a mother, so that her home study could be completed for reunification. Whether helping out with daycare costs or providing car seats, she’s willing to set the family up for success by any means possible.
The children in her home are overwhelmingly loved and cared for. She sends the children’s items home with them rather than keeping them for the next child because she says that “they belong to the child.”
Claudia and Mark Jeffrey, Largo
Nominated by Katie Madden, Family Support Services of Suncoast
Since becoming foster parents in 2019, the Jeffreys have jumped in feet first, building a community of foster parents to provide mutual support and resources, frequently taking additional children to help keep siblings together, and mentoring the families of their foster children.
Even when faced with challenging circumstances—like the child in their home who does not have Medicaid due to a legal circumstance—the Jeffreys advocated to ensure the child still gets her medical and dental covered.
The Jeffreys go above and beyond for birth parent visitation and always accommodate all reasonable requests of the parents. They are committed to ensuring the bond between the children and birth parents remains.
Jackie and Aaron Johnson, Palm City
Nominated by Mary Altiery, Communities Connected for Kids
As foster parents of two-year-old twin boys whose mother is preparing for reunification, the Johnsons not only invited the mother to their home for Thanksgiving dinner, but also advocated for the mom to spend the night at their home on Christmas Eve so the family could enjoy the holiday together.
Clearly, the Johnsons are assisting the mom to become a successful person and mother. They plan to remain involved with her and the boys during reunification and beyond. Jackie and Aaron represent the values and mission of Communities Connected for Kids as well as what it truly means to be foster parents.
Brittany Lindsay
Nominated by Soulaine Destinval, Gulf Coast JFCS
Brittany is incredibly supportive of case management and children, whether or not those children are in her home. She is always available, even if it’s after hours, willing to assist when there’s a crisis.
Brittany puts the child first. For example, during the pandemic, she stepped in to to help another foster home by creating meals and snacks for a child with diabetes. According to Soulaine, “Brittany lives up to this quote by Fred Rogers: ‘We need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say it’s not my child, not my community, not my problem. Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.’”
Carey and Michael Thurman, New Port Richey
Nominated by Jennifer Kramer, Florida Support Services of Suncoast
As a medical foster home, the Thurmans care for foster children with complex and demanding needs. A day in the life includes home visits and therapists in and out of their home, as well as teachers and tutors!
Carey shares her knowledge by training bio parents and other family members in their children’s medical procedures and educating them on medications so when a child returns home, the family is equipped. The Thurmans supervise visitations with bio families and include them in medical appointments.
Through all these obligations, the family still has time for game and movies nights and celebrating birthdays as well as other special occasions as a foster family.
Jeremy and Julie Golibersuch, Tallahassee
Nominated by Danny Bevil, Florida Baptist Children’s Home/OneMore Child
Jeremy and Julie dove into foster care in 2020 with their first placement and the very next year, moved into a foster family home to allow them to serve sibling groups. They currently have six foster children (four under four) and manage four different cases, keeping up with school, therapies, court, home visits, appointments, and activities for the precious children in their home. Jeremy and Julie make the little moments count and get to know each child placed with them.
They reach out to biological family with an encouraging and accommodating attitude to maintain attachments and create a teamwork mentality. This past year, they helped a teen in their home establish a relationship with her estranged father, which led to her being placed with him.
Christopher Fernandez and Dannielle Harper, Mims
Nominated by April Coyle, Brevard Family Partnership
Dannielle Harper and Christopher Fernandez have been foster parents in Brevard County for 11 years. Over the years, they have cared for children with many different special needs, including medically fragile children, children with behavioral challenges, and children on the autism spectrum. Dannielle and Chris are also currently caring for a sibling set of twins to ensure they maintain their close bond. In these years of experience, they have been able to provide an environment and routine that allow their own children as well as children in care to receive the attention they require, allowing them to thrive.
Dannielle and Chris have partnered with biological parents and have participated in successful reunifications. They also have successfully partnered with potential adoptive parents helping children find their forever home. Dannielle and Chris develop relationships that last a lifetime—they are still involved with and provide support to children who previously have been placed with their family, even some who were placed many years ago.
Dannielle and Chris have themselves also adopted five children out of foster care. When many of the children in their home are initially placed, they arrive with exceptional medical needs. After many struggles, long nights, tears, appointments, and diligence, the children stabilize and then thrive. Dannielle and Chris also do not avoid caring for the children who may act up to make it easier for them as foster parents. Instead, they put those kids in situations that make it possible to teach them how to behave appropriately despite how challenging and frustrating it may be. Because of their consistency and determination, they can be successful in shaping a child’s behavior for the positive. Dannielle and Chris encompass everything we look for in a good, quality foster home and Brevard County is so blessed to have them caring for some of our most vulnerable children.
Michael Turner, Miami
Nominated by Stephen Gedeon, Citrus FCN
Michael Turner is deserving of being in the Florida Foster & Adoptive Family Hall of Fame because of his ability to provide a stable and supportive environment. Michael Turner opened his home and heart to a sibling group of four ranging from the ages of 9 to16. From the time the children were placed, Mr. Turner has assumed the role of a mentor, parental figure, and ally to the bio family and case management agency. As a single parent, he has ensured that all the children’s needs are met. Mr. Turner rearranged his schedule to certify that he is available for the children when needed.
Quortney Richards, Florida City
Nominated by Lynette Brooks, Citrus FCN
Quortney has taken in several hard-to-place teen males and has worked hard to provide a loving, supportive home. He has exposed the children in his care to trips to Vegas to visit his family, and trips to Jamaica, and he includes them in his family activities. Even when children age out, they maintain the relationship, referring to him as “Pop.”
2020- 2021
Joslyn and Jeremey Ahlgren, Gainesville; Nominated by Kim Johnson, Partnership for Strong Families
Seth and Lacey Bourne, Merritt Island; Nominated by Kristin Pirozzi, Impower/BFP
Kimberly and Brian Gerard, Jupiter; Nominated by Nefretiri McGriff, ChildNet
Arian and Aileen Gonzalez, Lehigh Acres; Nominated by Melissa Schoenagel, Children’s Network of Southwest Florida
Dan and Teresa Johnson, Lehigh Acres; Nominated by Melissa Schoenagel, Children’s Network of Southwest Florida
Christopher and GiGi Kean, Lauderhill; Nominated by Tina O’Brien, ChildNet
John and Melissa Kling, Tallahassee; Nominated by David Emmert, One More Child
Megan and Brad Mullett, Sarasota; Nominated by Erica Baker, Safe Children Coalition.
Beth Ann and Dustin Prickett, Lakeland; Nominated by Susan Ripley, Heartland for Children
Merrie and David Schwartz, Pensacola; Nominated by Michelle Giordano, FamiliesFirst Network
Julie and Tony Secchiari, Pensacola; Nominated by Michelle Giordano, FamiliesFirst Network
2019 – 2020
Tajuana Bronson
Ricarda and Thomas Conely
Elisabeth and Michael Desmond
Melissa and Daniel Doering
Marsha and Steven Foster
Courtney and Steve Gogan
Magalay and Gregory Hamm
Katherine and Todd Kelly
Stephanie McLeod
Hans and Brittany Nielsen
Jennifer and Brendan Peattie
William Presswood
Meghan and Travis Ten Brink
Dawn and Derek Zitko
2016 – 2017
Terry and Kathy Beyer
Jim and Kristen Hallas
Eric and Lori Mitchell
Piedad and Jan Pinto
Leon and Jackie Swain
Are you looking to foster or adopt a child? To find a Florida agency, click here. Outside of Florida and would like to learn about the foster care and adoption process in your state? Click here.
Foster Hotline: 1-83-FosterFL | Adoption Hotline: 1-800-96-ADOPT
Copyright © 2024 Family First, INC. All Rights Reserved.
Site Design by Design Extensions