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gatlin foster family

From Foster to Adoption: A follow up on the Gatlin Family

By: Gelasia Croom
2/11/2020  |  Adoption, Foster Parent Mentoring

Last we spoke with Mary and Todd Gatlin, they were foster parents to then six-year-old Serenity. Since then, their lives have transformed in the best way. Serenity’s adoption was finalized in July of 2019 – Mary describes it as, “the best day of our lives”. On the day of Serenity’s adoption, friends, family, and dozens […]

family on bridge

Mentors Provide Help and Hope to Foster Parents

By: Gelasia Croom
12/31/2019  |  1 Comment  |  Foster Parent Mentoring

Update: Serenity has now been adopted by the Gatlins. Her adoption was finalized during the summer of 2019.  When Mary and Todd Gatlin became foster parents to four-year-old Serenity, their dreams came true. The Gatlin’s have been through many ups and downs in their 22 months as foster parents to now six-year-old, Serenity. Supporting the […]

kim berk

Radio Host Kim Berk on Making an Impact for Foster Children

By: Gelasia Croom
5/22/2019  |  Champions for Children, Foster Parent Mentoring

You may know of Kim Berk, of radio show Mornings with Kim and Dave on WLS-FM 94.7. However, you may not know of her deep involvement with Children’s Home & Aid and her passion for fostering youth in need. This week, the Mornings with Kim & Dave show will feature Children’s Home & Aid and […]

Children’s Home & Aid at National Child Abuse Conference in Washington D.C.

By: Gelasia Croom
5/01/2019  |  Child Welfare, Foster Parent Mentoring, In the News

Two innovative programs created by Children’s Home & Aid were featured at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect (NCCAN) held in Washington, D.C. in April. This biennial conference brings together over 1,800 professionals and community residents from across the country to learn best practices in preventing […]

judge with kids

3 Things you should know about Ashley, Foster Parent Support Specialist

By: Gelasia Croom
7/26/2018  |  135th Anniversary, Foster Care, Foster Parent Mentoring

Throughout 2018, we are celebrating 135 years of meeting every child, every family, where their need is greatest. Doing whatever it takes so children and families can thrive. We are proud of our legacy of meeting the changing needs of vulnerable families throughout Illinois and inspired by the children and families we serve and their stories of resilience. […]

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