11 Children Find ‘Forever Families’ Across the Northwest Panhandle

The theme for National Adoption Day this year was ‘Part of Your World’ and the children and their adoptive parents couldn’t have been more excited!

Nearly a dozen families from across northwest Florida were celebrated. National Adoption Day is an annual event that aims to raise awareness of the importance of adoption and celebrate the love and commitment of families who have chosen to adopt children. It also highlights the need for more adoptive families and encourages community support for children in foster care.

The event was opened by Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris, followed by remarks from NWF Health Network CEO Mike Watkins. Then, families were called forward to finalize their adoptions in a public ceremony conducted by the Honorable Judge Anthony Miller.

“We are excited to celebrate National Adoption Day with our local community and recognize the incredible love and commitment that adoptive families provide to children in need,” said Mike Watkins. “We hope this event will inspire more families to consider adoption and help create a brighter future for children in our community.”

After the adoption event, all attendees were invited to a celebratory reception at the Challenger Learning Center.

Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris

Thank you, Attorney Melanie Coats, for providing your legal expertise!

Camelot Community Cares Adoptions Team:

Elizabeth Crowley, Dewanna Berton, Tashiquiona Payne, Zaria McCullough, Cassandra Woodson, Alexis Corder (Adoptions Supervisor), Natasia Robinson, Ashanti Graham, Krystalynn Hudson, Rebecca Lochicture.

Thank you to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for allowing therapy dog “Sadie” to attend this wonderful ceremony!