Tears of joy filled the courtroom at the 18th Judicial Courthouse on Friday, Nov. 12 as families officially became whole, formalizing their adoptions with the assistance of Arapahoe County Human Services staff and caseworkers.
The in-person event was a welcome sight to everyone involved, as COVID forced the cancellation of last year’s event. “This is a wonderful day, and it means so much to our kiddos and their parents who have journeyed through all the experiences for this moment to take place in person,” said Kelly Goodman, an adoption coordinator.
The jury box inside Arapahoe County Judge Don Toussaint’s courtroom never looked more fun, as each chair was filled with stuffed animals, and a large supply of toys and books also decorated the courtroom as Judge Toussaint and other court and County officials, including Commissioner Nancy Sharpe, helped ring in National Adoption Day. (November is also National Adoption Month.)
“I understand how important it is for a child to know that they have a place of belonging--a family they can trust, and a home they are safe in,” Commissioner Sharpe said. “Choosing adoption is a very big decision, and these parents did not let fear, doubt, or challenges get in the way. They are the true heroes in my book, and I was honored to be a part of this day.”
The County adoption team anticipates completing a total of about 90 adoptions in 2021. Learn more about our adoption services.
