By Development Intern | Kidsave Staff
The impact of our work with older foster youth in Los Angeles is through one of our success stories, where youth and caring adults make connections that last a lifetime.
Kidsave adoptive parents, Frances and David, have been a part of Kidsave for years, serving as a host family and mentors for our Los Angeles Weekend Miracles program. They always loved volunteering and connecting with the kids in our program, but in April of 2022, they made a very special connection.
Massimo was just turning 17 and had been in foster care for two years when he met Frances and David. The couple knew almost immediately they wanted him to be a part of their family, and Massimo felt the same.
“There was a connection,” said Massimo, “and I needed that signature, that stamp, to confirm there was no looking back and that they would be my parents forever.” Massimo didn’t think he would find a family when he first joined Kidsave, but suddenly, “there was hope,” he said.
“We saw a lot of similarities, especially with me,” said David. The similarities between David and Massimo were undeniable. It was almost like having a mini-David in the house. Massimo was charismatic and genuine, plus he was persistent and always looked for David and Frances when attending monthly Kidsave’s Weekend Miracles events.
David and Frances became Massimo’s host parents after getting to know each other at Kidsave’s events. A year later, just after Massimo’s eighteenth birthday, the family finalized the adoption. “Having the adoption finalized is an amazing feeling; it’s almost indescribable,” says Frances.
“I’m really going to be a parent now. There is going to be a birth certificate with my name on it, and that is just amazing for me,” said Frances. Massimo is thrilled to be part of a family with parents who will be there for him “in sickness and health.”
“We just want to guide him in the next steps of his life and just be there for him 100%,” said David. With the support of his family, Massimo’s ready to take on his next big adventure—joining the Army!
It’s gifts like yours that change the lives of older foster youth like Massimo every day, ensuring they have a forever family and hopes for a successful future filled with love and promise.
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