Welcome to National Adoption Day 2008!

[Cynthia Billey]

We are pleased to welcome you to the National Adoption Day community forum! For nearly ten years, since the first National Adoption Day in 2000, The Alliance for Children's Rights has been working with all of you around the country to help make the dream of a permanent, loving home come true for thousands of children in foster care. Because of your efforts, what began in Los Angeles as "Adoption Saturday" has now grown into a national celebration of foster care adoption by communities in all 50 states. That is remarkable growth, and together we are making an impact on raising public awareness about the many thousands of children still in need of permanent homes. None of this would be possible without you. At The Alliance, I have had the privilege of representing adoptive families and seeing first-hand the joy on childrens' and parents' faces at adoption hearings when they finally become a family. And, I have been privileged to see your energy and passion and commitment in organizing these wonderful National Adoption Day celebrations that are making children's dreams come true. We look forward to hearing from you, sharing ideas and learning even more about National Adoption Day in your area. Thank you for your dedication to National Adoption Day and to the children you serve in your community every day.

[Kathryn A. Pidgeon]

Maricopa County in Phoenix Arizona is excited to plan our 10th annual celebration to take place on Saturday November 21st! We were the largest celebration in the US last year! We are proud to be a part of this remarkable celebration of adoption!