(Posted 2025 November)
Adame entered foster care in November 2013 when he was just 4 years old. Efforts to find a permanent home for Adame took time and dedication. During this period, he spent much of his time in care in group homes and residential facilities. In spite of these challenges, Adame showed resilience and continued to hope for a permanent family to call his own.
A Concerted Effort to Find Family
In March 2019, a permanency coordinator joined the efforts and began exploring ways to reconnect Adame with his biological family on his mother’s and father’s side. By November 2020, Adame’s father became actively engaged, attending fatherhood classes and one-on-one sessions with a specialist. During this time, his maternal uncle also participated in fatherhood classes, prompting further exploration of both men as potential caregivers for Adame.
While the permanency coordinator worked to reunify Adame with family, she also conducted widespread recruitment efforts to identify nonrelatives who could provide a stable home. No stone was left unturned. Hundreds of outreach efforts were made through networks such as One Church One Child, Virginia Kids Belong, Adopt US Kids, and many foster care and adoption agencies across Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina. The broader community was committed to helping find the right path for Adame.
Never Underestimate a Grandmother’s Love
In November 2021, Faith Spencer, Adame’s paternal grandmother, came forward as a potential caregiver. Though procedural delays with paperwork and background checks stretched the timeline, she remained committed to building a relationship with her grandson. In February 2022, Ms. Spencer visited Adame in person for the first time at his residential placement. That spring, she visited again, deepening their bond. Despite behavioral challenges and frequent transitions in his placements, Ms. Spencer continued working diligently to provide the love and stability Adame needed.
Deeper Family Connections
By July 2022, the department conducted its first of several home visits to the Spencer residence, and it became clear that she was able to provide a nurturing, stable environment for Adame. The permanency coordinator worked to connect both sides of Adame’s family. Ultimately over time, they began to support each other and prioritize Adame’s well-being. While complex family dynamics required careful navigation, everyone involved recognized the importance of working together to prevent further loss and provide Adame with a sense of safety and connection.
Coming Home
In March 2024, Adame moved in with his grandmother, who welcomed him into her home with open arms. With her guidance and support, Adame began to experience the stability, consistency, and unconditional love that only family can provide. It’s wonderful to see how Adame continues to thrive and gain confidence under Ms. Spencer’s care and finding comfort in the security of her home.
In July 2025, Adame’s journey to permanency was joyfully completed when his grandmother officially adopted him. Their bond is built on love, trust, and lifelong commitment. Through adoption, Adame now has the certainty of a forever home, and Ms. Spencer has the joy of raising her grandson, ensuring he grows into adulthood surrounded by a supportive family.
Adame’s story is a testament to the power of kinship and the strength of family stepping forward. Thanks to Ms. Spencer’s devotion, Adame has not only a permanent home, but also the enduring love and sense of belonging that every child deserves.
This article posting is part of the Foster Family News monthly newsletter designed to keep foster parents informed about all the new and notable happenings in Fairfax County.
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