When people think about November, they often think about a month that is set aside for Thanksgiving. Even though it is true that November is a month that is filled with turkey and football, it is also true that November is National Adoption Awareness Month. It is important for everyone to think about what this month means, that countless children that still need to be adopted, and the legal process to have to be completed in order for someone to adopt a child.

When Did National Adoption Awareness Month Start?

The history behind National Adoption Awareness Month dates back to the 1970s. In 1976, the governor of Massachusetts at that time, Michael Dukakis, and announced adoption week in MA. This idea grew massively in popularity. Eventually, it spread throughout the entire United States. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan announced the very first National Adoption Week. Eventually, this event became so popular that National Adoption Awareness Month was proclaimed a regular event in 1995 by President Bill Clinton.

What Happens During National Adoption Awareness Month?

The entire goal of National Adoption Awareness Month is to highlight that there is still a tremendous need for foster families, adoptive parents, and additional social resources for not only children who are adopted but children who are still looking for a home.

Right now, these statistics regarding children in need of adoption in the United States alone is scary. According to information that has been published by the Adoption Network, there are still close to 100,000 children in foster care who are eligible for and waiting to be adopted. Furthermore, the number of children who are adopted annually has remained relatively consistent during the past five years. Close to 30 percent of all children in foster care are going to spend at least three years waiting to be adopted. Finally, the average age of children who are currently looking for an adoptive home is just under 8 years old. Clearly, something needs to be done to help these children in foster care.

The Legal Process To Adopt a Child

For those who are looking to adopt a child, there are a number of steps that have to take place. First, the adoptive parents have to provide notice to anyone who is currently legally involved in the life of a child that they would like to adopt. Next, they have to fill out an adoption petition. This is where the adoptive parents actually apply to adopt the child. Finally, the adoptive parents also have to go through a hearing to show that they are fit to be parents for the adopted child. This process can be complicated and it is helpful to enlist the help of a trained attorney.

Rely on the Help of a Trained Adoption Attorney in Utah

If you are thinking about adoption in Utah, then this is an exciting time. At the same time, it is important to enlist the help of a trained National Adoption Awareness Month adoption lawyer. That is where we can help. At Wall and Wall PC, we have an unparalleled amount of experience when it comes to helping families adopt children. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you complete the adoption process!

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