Governor Kristi Noem has made recruiting foster and adoptive families one of her top priorities. Accordingly, she has proclaimed November as Adoption Month in South Dakota.
The proclamation coincides with National Adoption Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of adoption and the need for permanent, loving families for children and youth.
“This annual observance in South Dakota coincides with a national effort to highlight the value of providing stable, nurturing homes to children who might otherwise face uncertainty. We aim to emphasize the positive impact adoption has on children, families, and our community through this special commemoration,” said Matt Althoff, cabinet secretary for the Department of Social Services. “Let’s all work toward the goal of having a loving home for every South Dakota child.”
This year’s theme focuses on engaging communities to support families and children throughout the adoption process. It encourages individuals, families, and organizations to come together to advocate for youth needing permanent homes. Special emphasis is placed on helping older youth in foster care find their forever families.
As part of Adoption Month, DSS will be facilitating two webinars on November 19. These virtual sessions will provide an opportunity to learn more about the adoption processes and the support available for families that adopt.
Navigating Adoption Options: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM (CST)
The SD Department of Social Services is collaborating with several licensed private adoption agencies to provide an overview of their adoption programs, while the Department of Social Services will present information on adopting youth from foster care. The information provided in this webinar will assist families to determine which adoption program can best meet their needs.
Post Adoption Program Overview: 1:00 – 1:45 PM (CST)
Department of Social Services, in partnership with Lutheran Social Services, will provide an overview of post adoption services for families who have adopted through the foster care system. Adoptive families can learn about accessing adoption support and will be provided with resources to assist in meeting the child and family’s needs in areas such as emotional and mental health support, education, training, family activities and events, networking opportunities, resource referral services, crisis support, follow-up services, and advocacy and awareness. By having access to ongoing support, adoptive families can better navigate the complexities of adoption and foster a nurturing environment for their family.
These webinars are free and open to the public. To participate in the Navigating Adoption Options event, visit https://dss.sd.gov/childprotection/adoption/ for the zoom links.
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The South Dakota Department of Social Services is dedicated to strengthening families to foster health, wellbeing, and independence. For more information, please visit dss.sd.gov.
