Families Rising: Championing Children and Families for 50 Years
In the summer of 1969, as the world watched humans take their first steps on the moon, a different kind of giant leap was happening back on Earth. A group of adoptive parents, driven by love and a vision of a better future for children, planted the seeds of what would become a transformative force in child welfare.
These pioneers recognized a pressing need: families across North America lacked a unified voice and a means to share their experiences in adoption. Their solution was both simple and revolutionary – the formation of a council that would bring these families together, fostering a network of support and shared wisdom.
Five years later, in 1974, this grassroots movement blossomed into a formal organization: the North American Council on Adoptable Children. Little did they know that this modest beginning would set in motion a legacy spanning over half a century, touching countless lives along the way.
As the 1970s drew to a close, the organization found a fierce advocate in Laurie Flynn. Under her guidance, the council ventured into the complex world of legislative advocacy. Their efforts bore fruit, playing a crucial role in shaping adoption laws that would impact generations to come.
The dawn of a new decade brought fresh leadership. In 1980, Joe Kroll took the helm, steering the organization to new horizons – quite literally. The move to Minnesota marked not just a change in location, but a renaissance of purpose. Kroll’s tenure saw the organization refocus on its roots: supporting families through the creation of local support groups.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the council’s influence continued to grow. They reached across borders, helping establish the Adoption Council of Canada in 1989. They became a voice of authority, publishing research briefs that shed light on the complexities of child welfare. As the millennium approached, their mission expanded. No longer content with merely advocating for children who needed families, they set their sights on reforming entire foster care systems across the United States.
The turn of the century brought new challenges and opportunities. The organization deepened its roots in Minnesota while simultaneously broadening its reach. They ventured into post-adoption services, tackled policy issues head-on, and recognized the vital importance of nurturing the child welfare workforce across North America.
In 2015, Mary Boo stepped into the role of Executive Director. During her tenure, she ensured the organization was resourceful, particularly during the height of the pandemic. Through it all, one tradition remained constant: their conferences.
These gatherings became more than just meetings; they were the heartbeat of the organization’s mission, bringing together families, professionals, and advocates in a shared purpose.
In 2023, the organization embarked on its most profound transformation yet. Under the visionary leadership of Ligia Cushman, they embraced a new identity: Families Rising. This name change was more than a rebranding; it was a recommitment to their core values and a recognition of the evolving landscape of child welfare.
Today, Families Rising is celebrating its 50th anniversary of dedicated service to children and families touched by the foster care system. This organization has a far-reaching mission that includes:
- Amplifying voices with lived experience
- Supporting adoptive, foster, and kinship parents
- Educating child welfare professionals
- Advocating for the well-being of children and families
Across North America, Families Rising provides comprehensive resources and training on adoption, foster care, kinship care, and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). They also operate the Adoption Subsidy Resource Center, helping families navigate the financial aspects of care. As national advocates for legal reform, Families Rising works tirelessly to create positive changes in child welfare. They guide aspiring advocates, build effective networks, and champion crucial reforms.
Families Rising operates Families Rising Minnesota, a statewide support network for active and prospective adoptive, foster, and kinship caregivers. Families Rising Minnesota’s ongoing support includes in-person and virtual parent support groups, peer-to-peer mentoring, youth connections, and training. Staff have lived experience with adoption, foster care, and or kinship care, which allows for a unique shared perspective when supporting families. Families Rising Minnesota also collaborates with and provides training to child welfare professionals working within the state.