WEST OLIVE, Mich. — Tuesday at the Ottawa County Family Justice Center in West Olive families, officials and members of local and state organizations gathered to celebrate Adoption Day.
Judges from the 20th Circuit Court and Ottawa County probate court gave speeches to honor the social workers, children's advocates, court employees and first responders who have all been touched by adoption, along with families and children who have adoption as a chapter in their stories.
Paul Kraus, 20th Circuit Court Judge in the Family Division, delivered his opening remarks, commemorating the county's 48 adoptions so far in 2024.
"In the spirit of Thanksgiving, as we reflect on Adoption Day, I am thankful for all the eyes, ears, hands that go into adoptions and the child welfare system in general," said Kraus. "A system that at times has sadness and tears, and at other times joy and celebration."
Sylvia Rhodea, Vice-Chair for the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners, read the resolution proclaiming Nov. 26 as Michigan Adoption Day in the county and drew attention to the 10,000 children currently in the Michigan foster care system.
"To families that might be considering it, I think you need to be realistic. There are going to be some challenges, but they're worth it," said Joe Kozakiewicz, who was recognized along with his daughter Brittany who he adopted from Thailand in 1996. "It'll be difficult, but in the end, it's a good thing."
The speeches drew attention to the difficulties that families and children face during adoption, but also the joys.
"I think something that was touched today was that it's not always sunshine and rainbows. A lot of the times they did mention that adoption does root from a lot of trauma and a lot of hurt," said Brittany Kozakiewicz. "Being able to see all of the hands that are put into making it work and making sure that the placement works forever is just absolutely amazing, and so thankful for it to this day."
"I think every adoption story is definitely unique, and I honestly am so glad that it's part of my story, and it's something that as a family, we get to celebrate," Brittany added.
Nala Follett was adopted last year and returned this year as a speaker alongside her adoptive mother, Rachael Follett.
She explained it was important to share her experience and paint a picture of adoption that highlights both the joys and the struggles, especially looking back on her own story.
"A lot of memories of, like, the past, but also, like a celebration of 'Yay, I get to be with my new parents,'" said Nala, reflecting on her own adoption day. "From the start, I loved this family. I think the second weekend, I was like, 'I want to stay here forever and ever.'"
The families who were recognized said they hope that their stories can encourage other people to consider fostering or adoption.
"I think a lot of people get scared of the idea of fostering or of adopting, but really, all it takes is a little room in your heart and a little room in your home, and anybody can do it," said Rachael Follett. "It doesn't take anyone special to do it."
