Building Bridges with First Families

Kelly Hughes, Emily Thornton & Heather LeVeck are all foster moms turned adoptive moms. As they have helped their children navigate the challenges of having two families, they have all seen the benefits of maintaining open connections between both families. It often isn't easy or convenient. But they have all seen the positive ways their kids have responded to the freedom to love two families without stipulations. Emily was adopted as an infant from South Korea and has not been able to reconnect with her birth family, so she brings insightful wisdom into how that has affected her life. 

A question that is always important to ask ourselves: 
IS IT UNSAFE OR UNCOMFORTABLE?

Go here to view a beautiful video of the story of the Thornton family's open adoption. 

Kelly, Emily & Heather have been grateful to share what they've learned at a number of different retreats & events. 

• Created For You Retreat for Foster/Adoptive Moms
• Foster Love Project Family Retreat for Foster/Adoptive Families
• PA Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network (SWAN) Conference
• Blueprints Community Services, Social Worker Training Workshop
• The Children's Institute / Project Star Family Event

If you are interested in having these ladies share at your event geared towards foster/adoptive/perspective families, we'd love to connect with you. They speak to building connection during the foster care process as well as maintaining open adoption. Please contact us at fosterlovepittsburgh@gmail.com to learn more.