As Kidsave celebrates its 25th anniversary, we are speaking with Kidsave alumni—many who have families of their own now—retired staff, friends, dedicated volunteers, and families formed through Kidsave across the years as we celebrate 25 years of love and family.
Amidst the shimmering lights and joyful chatter at Kidsave's 25th gala in the heart of Los Angeles, Sebastian Barkey took to the stage with a radiant smile and a heart full of gratitude. In a room teeming with supporters of the organization's mission to unite children with forever families, Sebastian's presence carried a unique warmth, a testament to the transformative power of adoption. As he began to share his personal journey, the room fell silent, captivated by the sincerity and passion in his voice. This is the story of how Sebastian found his forever family through Kidsave:
Sebastian’s story begins in the captivating city of Manizales, Colombia, a place of natural beauty and rich culture. However, within this beautiful landscape lay a childhood marked by hardship and struggle. To survive, Sebastian had to pick coffee beans and gather firewood, all while relying on the kindness of neighbors for temporary shelter when his own home couldn’t provide. Despite enduring a childhood marred by abuse and neglect within his own family, Sebastian's unwavering dream of finding a loving and supportive family never faltered. His resilience shone through the darkest of days spent in government care, where he held onto hope with a determination that refused to be extinguished. Through the turmoil and challenges he faced, Sebastian clung onto the belief that somewhere out there, a family existed who would embrace him with open arms and unconditional love.
Then came a turning point in Sebastian’s life—a chance offered by Kidsave through our Summer Miracles program. The promise of a summer in America, brimming with adventures and new experiences, beckoned to Sebastian’s hopeful heart. Little did he know that this journey would be life-altering.
Arriving in America was like Sebastian stepping into a parallel universe. He was hosted by the Barkey family, a boisterous family with four children of their own. Conversations flowed in a language he didn’t understand. But despite the language barrier, the youngest brother of his host family, James, just five years old at the time, became his constant companion. James’ enthusiasm and chatter bridged the gap and created a bond that transcended words.
“He’d talk to me all day in English, just talking, talking, talking,” says Sebastian. “Without a care that I didn’t understand a word he was saying.”
The adventure continued with delicious American cuisine, fun outings, and shared laughter with his host family. They explored Denver together, marveled at the Grand Canyon, and wove a tapestry of cherished memories. For Sebastian, these experiences weren’t just moments in time but glimpses into a future filled with love and belonging.
Upon returning to Colombia, Sebastian carried with him not just memories but a newfound sense of belonging. It was only a matter of time before the Barkey family, touched by Sebastian’s presence and spirit, offered to make their bond permanent through adoption.
Once the adoption was final and he journeyed back to America – and his new family – Sebastian found himself immersed in a whirlwind of experiences and opportunities. His transition into his forever family brought a fresh start, where he could explore his passions and talents.
One of the first challenges he tackled was learning English, a language that opened doors to communication and connection in his new environment. Within just eight months, Sebastian’s dedication and hard work saw him speaking and writing at a 4th-grade level, a remarkable achievement that showcased his adaptability and determination.
Sebastian also fell in love with a variety of hobbies! American Football soon became his favorite sport. Discovering his love for the game, he took on the role of a wide receiver for his high school junior varsity team. The rush of adrenaline on the field, the camaraderie with teammates, and the strategic gameplay all fueled his passion for the game, shaping him into a formidable player.
Outside of the football field, Sebastian embraced another aspect of American culture—surfing. With his brothers by his side, he delved into the exhilarating world of riding waves. The ocean became a playground where he could challenge himself, learn new skills, and bond with his family in unforgettable ways. Through surfing, Sebastian connected with his surroundings and discovered a deeper connection with himself, embracing the freedom and thrill that the waves offered.
As Sebastian navigated this new chapter in his life, filled with language learning milestones, athletic achievements, and adventurous hobbies, he embraced each experience with enthusiasm and a hunger for growth. His journey was not just about adapting to a new country but about carving out a place where his passions could flourish, and his dreams could take flight.
Sebastian’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of love to transcend borders and languages. From Colombia to America, from hardship to a loving family, his story reminds us that every child deserves a chance to dream and find their place in the world. Today, Sebastian thrives in the embrace of his forever family, a testament to the transformative impact of love and compassion.
About Summer Miracles
Our Summer Miracles program gives older orphans who are overseas a chance at a family. The Summer Miracles program provides older kids with no possibility of reunification – and little likelihood of adoption in their home country because of their age – the opportunity to stay in the U.S. for five weeks in the summer (three weeks in the winter). While here, the kids stay with host families, learn about American culture, create lifelong memories, and connect with potential forever families. Book a call with our team to learn more.
Kidsave’s 25th Anniversary
Join us as we celebrate our 25th anniversary! Are you a Kidsave family who wants to share your story? Learn how here.
