CONAWAY: Honoring Local Angels in Adoption

U.S. Congressman Mike Conaway Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. November is National Adoption Awareness Month which is fitting because this is the season of family and thanksgiving. As a Member of Congress I regularly meet with constituents who are going through the trying process of adopting a child. Theyve shared their experiences in hopes of helping influence public policy. Many have issues with foreign visas and other paperwork for international adoptions. A family I met last year came to Washington D.C. to advocate for streamlining the adoption process for foster children. Others yet have made their voices heard in favor of preserving the adoption tax credit to help offset adoption costs. Im also a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption a caucus chaired by Congressman Trent Franks of Arizona. This caucus is dedicated to supporting legislation and policies on adoption with the goal of improving the lives of children and families in the United States and around the world. The members of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption frequently exchange stories similar to those Ive shared here and we look for opportunities for solutions to support these families as they give children in need the gift of a loving home. I recently had the opportunity to honor one exceptional local family as the 2017 Angels in Adoption for the 11th District of Texas. The Young family from Odessa is a shining example of how a loving family can change the course of a childs life. It was an honor to get to know Tara Rodger and their three beautiful children and be able to share their story with you as they were honored as our 2017 Angels in Adoption. They are a true testament to the power of love patience and miracles and District 11 is fortunate to call this family one of our own.

• You can hear more about the Young familys journey in their words at this link.