Video credit: Shushan Minasian
By Daisy Vazquez
“Having the adoption finalized is an amazing feeling; it’s almost indescribable,” says Frances. Frances and her husband, David, have been a part of Kidsave for years, serving as a host family and mentors for the Los Angeles Weekend Miracles Program. They’ve always loved volunteering and connecting with the kids in the program, but in April of 2022, they made a very special connection.
Massimo was just turning 17 and had been in foster care for two years when he met Frances and David, and the couple knew almost immediately they wanted him to be a part of their family. It was a similar experience for Massimo.
“There was a connection,” said Massimo, “and I needed that signature, that stamp, to confirm there was no looking back and that they would be my parents forever.” Massimo didn’t think he would find a family when he first joined Kidsave, but suddenly, “there was hope,” he said.
“We saw a lot of similarities, especially with me,” said David. The similarities between David and Massimo were undeniable. It was almost like having a mini-David in the house. Massimo was charismatic and genuine, plus he was persistent and looked for David and Frances a lot when attending Kidsave’s Weekend Miracles events.
David and Frances became Massimo’s host parents after getting to know each other at Kidsave events. A year later, just after Massimo’s eighteenth birthday, the family finalized the adoption.
“I’m really going to be a parent now. There is going to be a birth certificate with my name on it, and that is just amazing for me,” said Frances. Massimo is thrilled to be part of a family with parents who will be there for him “In sickness and health.”
“We just want to guide him in the next steps of his life and just be there for him 100%,” said David.
With the support of his family, Massimo’s ready to take on his next big adventure—joining the Army!
About Weekend Miracles
Many wonderful kids in our Weekend Miracles program need a mentor, host, or adoptive family. These older kids in foster care are growing up without the stability and love that all kids need to thrive. If you want to adopt or host an older child, please contact us.
We’re happy to answer any questions and help you get started. Email us at weekendmiracles@kidsave.org to learn more. Kidsave’s Weekend Miracles program is available to Los Angeles, CA, or Houston, TX residents.
