Challenges in Foster Care and Adoption
Even though there’s been some advancement, experts indicate that there’s still a considerable distance to cover in the adoption arena—especially when it comes to ensuring the well-being of youngsters in foster care who are seeking stable, loving families.
The Selfless Love Foundation recently gathered various influential figures at a national think tank aimed at enhancing the foster care hiring process. This annual conference, taking place in October, sees child welfare leaders, policymakers, and young people with foster care backgrounds from over 30 states coming together.
The initiative is geared towards shaping federal policies and state actions that will effectively reform the foster care adoption process to benefit children.
Integration of Adopted Children
Following the think tank in October 2025, researchers at the University of Chicago’s Chapin Hall will create a plan and actionable steps tailored to each state.
As we prepare for National Adoption Month in November, I had a moment to chat with Ashley Brown, the founder and CEO of Selfless Love. She and her husband kicked off the nonprofit a decade ago in 2015, and Ashley shared how her own adoption experience at a young age “altered the path” of her life. She’s spoken on “America’s Newsroom” numerous times, and her insights are quite compelling.
Q: How does the U.S. approach foster care and promote adoption?
Ashley Brown: Well, we’ve certainly made strides, but there’s still a lot to tackle. Interestingly, many people might not know that most states showcase photos of children available for adoption on the internet. While this might have been acceptable in the pre-digital age, it carries risks for young individuals today.
In Florida, the Selfless Love Foundation has collaborated with youth to enact a law safeguarding children’s images from public access. We ensure that kids aged 12 and older have input on the pictures and info shared on adoption platforms.
A full day at the think tank was dedicated to addressing this specific topic, including discussions on both recruitment and post-adoption support for families. The aim is, after all, not just to place a child but to achieve permanence.
Q: What major obstacles hinder progress?
Ashley Brown: One significant hurdle is the absence of federal regulations that protect children’s privacy and allow them a voice in their representation. Each state essentially operates on its own, leading to a lack of clear rights and protections for youth. They are the experts on their own experiences, so it’s crucial that they’re included in decisions affecting them.
Q: What insights from national think tanks could spur progress?
Ashley Brown: A glaring issue identified was the lack of protection for children throughout the adoption process. There’s no federal mandate even allowing these youths the right to choose how they’re represented in adoption campaigns, and existing state laws are quite limited.
“Rights, adoption, and post-adoption support are interconnected. You can’t fix one without strengthening the others,” she noted, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the challenges we face.
Q: What actionable changes can the Legislature implement in the coming year?
Ashley Brown: The most urgent step is to advocate for laws that grant young people control over their representation in adoption recruitment and safeguard their privacy, dignity, and safety.
Chapin Hall is set to compile a report on the national think tank’s findings to assist state and federal leaders in grasping the critical nature of youth rights in the adoption process.
Q: How can everyday Americans support children in foster care or those transitioning out of the system?
Ashley Brown: A recurring message at the think tank was the vital role of community. It’s essential for children in foster care, or those who have aged out, to recognize they have a network of support. Thanks to our supporters, the Selfless Love Foundation can host events like these at no cost for young attendees, including scholarships for travel and accommodation.
Facilitating youth participation in events is crucial as it allows them to express their voices, value their experiences, and contribute to systemic change. Without national guidelines, these vulnerable children remain without adequate protections.
We already acknowledge a child’s right to opt for adoption, and extending this principle to their representation is a matter of fairness and integrity in policy. Those looking to get involved or gain more information can visit the Selfless Love Foundation’s website.
