Posted November 4, 2022
Foster and adoptive families gathered at the Granville County Convention and Expo Center on Tuesday, November 1 to celebrate National Adoption Month. Granville County Department of Social Services was able to recognize the work and dedication of these individuals to provide safe and caring homes for children in the Granville community. The event also placed a focus on ensuring that these children know that they are special and important parts of the Granville County community.
County Commissioner Sue Hinman, who serves as Chair of the Social Services Board, was in attendance along with District Court Judge Caroline Burnette, Granville County Clerk of Superior Court Yancey Washington, and Guardian Ad Litem Gail Birdsong. All these officials spoke about their passion for doing the hard but critical work of serving the most vulnerable citizens of Granville County. Each spoke about their partnership with Granville County Social Services as they help these children, and their future foster or adoptive parents, navigate the judicial system during these emotional cases. The Department of Social Services recognized foster parents David and Carmen Quinn and Michael and Jodie Helfrich for their work fostering Granville County children over many years.
The true highlight of the evening was a talent show featuring adopted and foster children. Performers included Ray, Jeremy, Faith, and Samantha Young performing acapella, Aiden and Cierra Stark showing a pumpkin they designed with a new foster child in their home, a dance performance by Anjil and Victoria Leak, a musical performance by the “Fantastic Four” of Harmony, Cayden, Mailyah, and Ethan, and a dance performance by Echo Soltes.
For more information about fostering or adopting children in Granville County, please visit the Department of Social Services website.
For more information about National Adoption Month, visit the US Child Welfare Office website.