By Dominick Mucciante, Adoption Support and Preservation Counselor
November is National Adoption Month—a time to celebrate the love that adoption brings and acknowledge the unique challenges families may face. At Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), our Adoption Support and Preservation (ASAP) Program exists for those moments when families need extra help to thrive.
As an ASAP counselor, I work with adoptive families raising children under 18 in the Central Illinois counties of Bureau, Fulton, Henderson, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, Logan, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, Mercer, Peoria, Putnam, Rock Island, Stark, Tazewell, Warren, and Woodford. No matter who handled your adoption, if you live in these areas, we’re here for you.
Our approach is home-based because healing happens where life happens. Visiting homes and schools allows us to see family dynamics firsthand—how siblings interact, how parents respond, and what daily life looks like. This insight helps us guide families toward positive change.
We use a trauma-informed model called ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency) to help children process their adoption stories, manage emotions, and build trust. Sometimes, the first step is simply creating a safe space where kids feel comfortable enough to talk. We also offer respite services, connecting families with trusted caregivers so parents can recharge.
The most rewarding part of my job is watching growth unfold—a child sleeping through the night again or laughter returning to a home. When families graduate from the ASAP program, I know they’ve become stronger, and it makes every effort worthwhile.
Adoption is a beautiful journey, and with the right support, families can heal and flourish together.
To learn more about LSSI’s ASAP Program, visit LSSI.org/ASAP.
Photo Caption: ASAP Counselor Dominick Mucciante.
