Director’s Corner
A Journey of Family and Resilience: Adopting Our Son
As the Executive Director of Parenting Matters, I often speak about the importance of family, stability, and support. But today, I’d like to share a bit about my own family’s journey—a path filled with love, a lot of patience, and a touch of resilience in the face of an approaching hurricane. (Deja vu anyone?)
Our journey to adopting our son started even before he was born. My wife and I, both listed on his birth certificate, had longed to start our family together. Yet, due to same-sex marriage and custody laws, I lacked full legal rights. To ensure our family’s security, we needed a second-parent adoption, a process that would take about four months from start to finish.
When the big day finally arrived, our son was three months old, and we headed to the Sarasota courthouse. Our lawyer, battling the flu, somehow managed to make it to court, despite the personal chaos. It wasn’t a typical adoption day—Hurricane Irma loomed close, and shortly after our courthouse visit, we packed everything we could into the car and evacuated to Georgia.
Ultimately, that adoption day, wrapped in the blur of courtroom formalities and storm preparation, solidified my role as a parent with all the rights and responsibilities that entails. It’s a reminder of the resilience of families and the importance of finding strength in our communities. Here at Parenting Matters, we’re committed to advocating for families of all kinds, knowing firsthand the profound difference that a little extra support can make.
Reflecting on my adoption journey, I am continually reminded of how beautifully diverse families can be. Each family, like each journey, is distinct, bringing its own stories, strengths, and challenges. The moments that led up to our adoption day may have been chaotic—from navigating legal intricacies to braving Hurricane Irma—but they’ve cemented memories that my family and I hold dear.
The experience taught me that family is about love, resilience, and the willingness to go the extra mile, no matter what the barriers. I can truly say that nothing fills me with more pride than my family and the life we are building together. No matter the shapes our families take, it’s the commitment to each other that makes it all worthwhile.
Katie Becker joined Parenting Matters as the Executive Director in May of 2022 after being a long-time supporter and board member. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College and has spent her career in the nonprofit sector, including the YMCA and United Way Suncoast. She has enjoyed honing her skills in fundraising, marketing, and strategic leadership to advance missions close to her heart. She was born and raised in Pennsylvania and has been a Florida resident for fifteen years. In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time with her family and pets, making art, and being active outdoors.