The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption emphasizes the critical role legal professionals play in achieving permanency for children and youth in foster care—especially those most at risk of aging out, such as youth 9+, children with special needs, and sibling groups. Legal professionals are encouraged to adopt practices that directly influence permanency outcomes, including:
Recommended Actions for Legal Professionals #
- Advocate for evidence-based recruitment approaches proven to increase adoptions for high‑needs youth.
- Believe that all children are adoptable, regardless of age or background.
- Prioritize legal permanency rather than relying solely on placement stability.
- Support the role of biological family in permanency planning when appropriate.
- Understand youth reluctance toward adoption and address their concerns with empathy and information.
- Recognize that youth are never too old for a family and deserve lifelong connections.
