JJ clutched his backpack tightly. Maddie stood half-hidden behind him, her eyes wide with uncertainty. It was a quiet Saturday morning when they arrived at Kelly’s doorstep—two children carrying more than just belongings. They carried histories of trauma, instability and unmet needs. JJ, a quiet and curious teenager, longed for stability and the chance to learn the basics—like how to ride a bike or fold laundry. Maddie, bright-eyed and imaginative, struggled to be understood due to speech delays. Both had experienced more than any child should.
Standing in the doorway was Kelly, their new foster mom. She welcomed them with open arms and a heart full of hope. Once a foster child herself, Kelly understood the emotional journey they were about to begin—together. Though she was a single parent and a first-time foster mom, she embraced the challenge with courage and compassion.
“I honestly knew once I saw them at my door—they were going to be here forever,” Kelly shared. “They were my kids from that point forward.”
What began as a temporary placement quickly blossomed into something permanent. JJ and Maddie had found their forever home.
Over the next two and a half years, their transformation was nothing short of remarkable. JJ learned to ride a bike, made friends at school and grew in independence by mastering basic life skills. He thrived in his new home, learning to regulate his emotions and navigate life’s daily challenges. Maddie’s speech improved dramatically, unlocking her confidence and allowing her vibrant personality to shine. She began to speak more clearly, laugh freely and show the world who she truly is.
“JJ and Maddie didn’t just find a home—they found healing.”
Together, they built routines, shared laughter and created memories—from playing board games to vacationing in Branson, where they fished and rode in a boat for the first time. It was a trip filled with firsts, joy and the kind of happiness that only comes from feeling safe and loved.
On May 16, 2025—more than two years after that quiet Saturday morning—their adoption was finalized. It was a day filled with tears, joy and the quiet certainty that this family was meant to be.
Kelly fought for her kids every step of the way. As a special education teacher, she had the tools and knowledge to advocate for JJ and Maddie’s unique needs. With the guidance and support of Child Saving Institute, she navigated the complexities of foster care, ensuring her children had access to therapeutic services, educational resources, and a nurturing environment where they could truly thrive.
“Since the day they walked through my door, they’ve been in my heart,” Kelly said. “Now it’s official. CSI was there from the beginning—helping us find our way.”
JJ and Maddie received the support they needed to heal, grow, and belong—because someone believed in them. Because Kelly never gave up. And because donors like you make it possible for families to form, for children to flourish, and for love to take root.
Your generosity doesn’t just change lives—it creates families.
