By Sara Bunch
On the path toward becoming domestic foster parents, a California couple form a family with a spirited preteen living in Latin America
Dan and Marla Kennedy knew they wanted to grow their family through adoption, but initially, international adoption wasn't their intention. In fact, they were exploring domestic foster care when they were unexpectedly introduced to Kidsave through Nightlight Christian Adoptions. “When we heard about Kidsave, we knew instantly that we wanted to pursue it,” the married couple recalls. “We appreciated the idea that they focused on finding families for older children and that the kids could stay with a host family for five weeks through the Summer Miracles Program.”
In July 2017, three days before the program was scheduled to begin, Dan and Marla matched with Aura, a then-12-year-old Colombian native known for her outgoing personality, energetic spirit, and academic excellence. After an introductory conversation via Skype, the hopeful couple from Southern California couldn't wait to meet the girl who would eventually become their beloved daughter.
Filled with anticipation at Los Angeles International Airport, the Kennedys were overcome with joy as they watched Aura walk through customs and embrace them with warmth and love. “From the moment we met Aura, our connection was easy and natural. It just felt right,” they proudly share. “She was all smiles as she saw us holding a large sign welcoming her. We were greeted with a homemade letter that is now framed on our wall, reminding us of the first day we met. This began the most exciting and memorable five weeks of our lives.”
Knowing that their time together during the hosting period was limited, Dan and Marla proactively made the most of the summer by arranging as many family-friendly activities as possible. Each day featured carefully planned outings like afternoons at the beach, going to movie theaters, and hosting cookouts. “There were so many ‘firsts’ that summer and many experiences that Aura still talks about today,” the Kennedys say. “We still laugh about the mispronounced words and we remember the special moments that bonded us as a family.”
Upon the conclusion of the program, Dan and Marla immediately felt Aura’s absence in their lives—making their decision to formally adopt her even easier than they had imagined. “For five weeks, our house was filled with tremendous laughter and energy. But when Aura left for Colombia, our house felt so empty that we couldn’t wait until she was back home with us,” they explain.
To help ease the pain of separation, the couple regularly mailed Aura homemade cards that expressed how much they loved and missed her, along with any updates on the yearlong adoption proceedings.
On July 11, 2018, the Kennedys arrived in Colombia to bring their teenage daughter home. Back in California, the parents were relieved to witness a smooth transition. In fact, Aura had become fluent in English within six months, allowing her to reclaim her academic standing as a markedly accomplished student.
As an honors graduate of Orange County’s Tesoro High School class of 2024, Aura plans to continue her education in the fall at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo. “She is driven, smart, and dedicated to pushing herself to reach her goals,” her parents say, adding that after completing her general education courses, Aura will transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree. “Today Aura is very happy, has made numerous great friends, and is excited about her college career.”
Aura’s initial transition was also made more comfortable through the intentional incorporation of Colombian culture in the family’s day-to-day lives. Most notably, the family regularly prepared Colombian dishes and patronized local Colombian restaurants.
During this phase, the parents also highlight the impact and importance of maintaining connections with other Kidsave families experiencing similar circumstances. “We contacted families who hosted and adopted, so Aura felt a sense of belonging,” they note. “We encourage any family that is adopting to plan activities with other kids and adoptive families so they can develop the connections that promote a sense of belonging.”
Over the last several years, the Kennedys have continued cultivating friendships with other adoptive families, which have resulted in unexpected yet undeniable bonds. As they put it, “The support of Kidsave and alumni families has been imperative for us. There has been support all around us from families who are willing to help and offer advice when needed. The connections are unlike anything we had anticipated and we are sincerely grateful for them.”In fact, the Kennedys urge other adoptive families to engage in such communities for comfort, encouragement, and support.
“Connect with the other host and adoptive families during this exciting and chaotic time. Create a support network with the families and learn as much as you can about your child’s culture and ways to support them,” they advise. “The families can also serve as a solid resource since they’ve already gone through the adoption process. We would also encourage starting the adoption process early if you have already made the decision to move forward with it.”
Based on their own experiences, including the unexpected nature of the realities of adoption, the Kennedys have a message for older children who are waiting to meet their new parents: “Don’t lose faith. The right family is out there just for you.”
