November is National Adoption Month.

“I’ve wanted to adopt since I was in high school. I thought I would follow the traditional path of getting married, having my own kids, then pursue adoption,” said Lindsey Clark. “The marriage part never happened. I can’t control that, but I can control the adoption.”

As she researched adoption, she learned of the great need for foster parents. Clark decided first to become a licensed foster parent through Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI). Clark was thrilled when Logan, 2, and Victoria, 1, were placed in her care. The children experienced many changes and challenges in their young lives. Early on, there were struggles with behavioral issues. She appreciated the support of LSSI. “If I had a question or needed anything, there was always someone there,” she said.

When it became clear that the children would not be returning to their biological family, Clark was eager to adopt them. “They had lived with me for nearly three years, over half of their lives,” she said.

As the adoption process neared completion, Clark told Logan and Victoria that they were going to be with her forever. “They didn’t understand,” she said. “But when we moved to a new home that was ours, not mine, they understood that the three of us were a family.”

Nearly 18 months after their adoption, Victoria, now 4, is extremely social, takes ballet, and dreams of becoming a teacher. Logan, now 6, builds and fixes things and wants to be a police officer. “They have come a long way from two very little kids who came to live with a stranger,” Clark said. “I see character and values in them. Joy and growth. They are fiercely protective of each other and me. I pray that the lessons I’m teaching help break the pattern of generational trauma.”

To learn more about becoming a foster parent, visit LSSI.org/FosterCare.

Photo Caption: Logan, Lindsey, and Victoria Clark.