PHOENIX (November 27, 2023) – A soggy Saturday couldn’t compete with the tears of joy that filled the courtrooms at the Juvenile Durango Court Center on National Adoption Day.
On November 18, thunderstorms hit Phoenix, but the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County stayed on course and proceeded with the event. In just a three-hour span, 27 volunteer judicial officers finalized the adoptions of nearly 80 children during 65 adoption hearings.
“National Adoption Day, which is always held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, is an exciting day to celebrate the families who are willing to provide permanent, loving homes for children,” Presiding Judge Lori Bustamante said. “I want to thank all of our amazing volunteers and our judicial officers who took their time out of their Saturday to make this all happen.”
National Adoption Day is a collective national effort to raise awareness for the more than 113,000 children in foster care waiting to find their forever families. The children, who range in age from toddlers to teenagers, have amazing stories.
“To be part of a hearing or a day where all the hearings are about celebrating a love between a child and a family, and to get to legalize the bond that already exists is a gift to me,” Commissioner Nicole Hartley said. “It’s a great day that is full of happiness, and the courtroom is a welcoming, fun and inviting experience.”
Maricopa County has been celebrating National Adoption Day since 2000. Each year, it hosts one of the largest National Adoption Day events in the United States.
Despite the inclement weather this year, the festive atmosphere outside the courthouse was as enjoyable as ever. The event included games, activities for kids, photos of the newly created families, live music, superhero and Star Wars character appearances. National Adoption Day was also heightened by a visit from Scorch, the Phoenix Mercury’s mascot.
“I think we would be out here rain or shine. We are always going to show up and do this for as many kids as we can,” Commissioner Hartley said. “If you are a family or an adult that has room in your heart or your home for a child - come to National Adoption Day next year, watch the adoptions, ask questions and get information. These children need you, and if you are able and willing, there is no greater gift you can give to a child.”