The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed November as National Adoption Month as a time to honor adoptive and foster parents. In Minnesota there are more than 700 children waiting for an adoptive family. Otter Tail County Human Services will complete 10 transfers of custody and 13 finalized adoptions this year.

Adopting a child is a great joy and a great responsibility. The family can help children learn character and values, the importance of giving back to their community, and the courage to realize their potential. 

Adoption gives children who have been orphaned, abandoned, or abused a second chance at happiness; a chance to love and be loved and to reach their full potential in a secure, supportive environment.

“As permanency workers, we recognize the weight of the decision to become permanent caregivers,” said Liza Ulschmid, Otter Tail County Permanency Social Worker. “We strive to support this decision by making the permanency process as smooth as possible for the families in which we work.”

Families who adopt and accept custody through foster care are meeting a direct, urgent need in local communities by providing a safe, loving, permanent home for children. Otter Tail County permanency social workers support the families at every step of the process and are available to answer questions, provide support, and make referrals for supportive services for the children and/or family unit.

According to Otter Tail County Human Services Director Deb Sjostrom there is a continued need for an increased number of families in Otter Tail County who will adopt older children with special needs. 

“We encourage community members to open their hearts and homes to young people throughout Otter Tail County who are still waiting for their forever families,” the proclamation stated. 

For more information on adoption in Otter Tail County visit www.ottertailcountymn.us/foster-care-adoption/adoption or call (218) 998-8150.