National Adoption Day is being celebrated across Colorado, with various Judicial Districts finalizing adoptions for foster children seeking permanent families. This initiative is part of a national effort to highlight the need for adoption among the more than 100,000 children in foster care nationwide.
The events are coordinated by courts and human services departments at both state and local levels, along with child services agencies and advocacy groups. The aim is to facilitate adoptions and provide stable homes for children in foster care.
Several Judicial Districts have scheduled events in November:
- The 1st Judicial District will host its event on November 23 at the Jefferson County Combined Court in Golden. Judge Lindsey VanGilder will oversee seven adoptions. Public attendance is allowed, but media must request expanded coverage. For details, contact Randa Richards at randa.richards@judicial.state.co.us or call 720.772.2703.
- The 10th Judicial District will celebrate its 16th annual Adoption Day on November 22 at the Pueblo County Courthouse. Judge William Alexander will preside over three adoptions followed by a celebration with refreshments. Expanded media coverage has been approved; contact Sabrina Miller at 719.583.6865 for more information.
- On November 22, the 11th Judicial District's event will take place at Fremont County Combined Courts in Cañon City under Magistrate Lauren Swan's supervision. Media interested in attending should request expanded coverage through Cristy Christensen at cristy.christensen@judicial.state.co.us.
- In Alamosa, the 12th Judicial District will recognize 24 families who completed adoptions this year during their event on November 22, led by Chief Judge Amanda Hopkins. Attendance is limited to post-event celebrations; contact Kyle Gustafson at kyle.gustafson@judicial.state.co.us for details.
- The Adams County Justice Center will host the 17th Judicial District's event on November 22 from morning until noon, featuring a welcome address and adoption hearings presided over by Judges Caryn Datz and Emily Lieberman, and Magistrate Ashley Ratliff. Photography is permitted with family consent; contact Simone Jones at 303.654.3230 for more information.
- The Weld County Combined Courts will see Judge W. Troy Hause preside over multiple adoption hearings on November 22 as part of the 19th Judicial District's celebrations starting early morning with an opening ceremony followed by festivities open to public viewing but requiring media clearance through Marla Bohling or Tiffany Perez Garcia at the Clerk’s Office via phone number:970.475.2400.
- Finally, Boulder County Justice Center hosts the event for the 20th Judicial District on November 22 under Magistrate Carolyn McLean’s oversight from afternoon into early evening hours featuring speakers and activities though closed off generally except authorized media attendees needing prior EMC approval; inquiries can be directed towards Deborah Fox either via phone (720)6641613 or email deborah.foxtt@judicial.state.co.us
These events underscore Colorado's commitment to providing permanent homes for children awaiting adoption while raising awareness about their needs nationwide.