The Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed November 2025 National Adoption Month at its Nov. 12 meeting and unanimously approved the proclamation recognizing the need for safe, permanent homes for foster children.

Chairman Ryan Beatty read the proclamation noting that 47 foster youth in the county do not yet have an adoptive resource. Amber Hope Connections representatives accepted the proclamation; Rita Strecker, adoption resource coordinator, described supports available to adoptive families, including free home assessments and adoption subsidies to cover legal expenses and other needs. "We could not do this without you," Strecker said, thanking the commission for its support.

The proclamation notes an adoption celebration hosted by Amber Hope Connections on Saturday, Nov. 22, where 37 children will be adopted by 21 families and judges will sign documents on site. Commissioners and organization representatives discussed barriers to adoption for older children and supports to prepare families.

The board voted to approve the proclamation by roll call; the county paused briefly after the proclamation to take photos and to recognize the sheriff's deputy of the year.