Families and youth came together this past weekend at the Franklin Park Zoo for a joyful, activity-filled day hosted by MARE. The Franklin Park Zoo Meet and Greet offered prospective adoptive families a meaningful opportunity to connect with children, teens, and sibling groups in foster care.
Through shared experiences, like a guided scavenger hunt throughout the zoo, participants were able to get to know one another beyond the formal setting of paperwork and profiles. Thanks to the welcoming and stress free atmosphere, connections formed not only between the families and youth, but also between the youth themselves.
Reflecting on their experience, a family shared, "Through this fun, relaxed event, we were able to interact and form connections with the kids in a more natural way. The scavenger hunt made it fun and helped break the ice."
The youth also received handmade crocheted plushies, lovingly donated by a crafty group of The Neighborhood volunteers which added a special touch of warmth and community.
We’re thrilled to share that the day resulted in four potential matches, a powerful reminder of how meaningful, in-person moments can lay the foundation for lifelong relationships.
"The overall experience at today's event was really informative and it was great talking to the family support and case workers face to face. All of them were brilliant, and being around the kids and learning more about their individual personalities was so enjoyable," another family expressed.
At MARE, our mission is to find a permanent, loving home for every child waiting in foster care, and events like this are a vital part of that work. These moments of connection are made possible through the generosity of supporters like you. When you give, you help create the space for families and youth to meet, learn, and imagine a future together.
