Adopting from foster care is one of the most meaningful ways to build a family—but telling that story requires honesty, nuance, and a lot of care. When the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption asked us to create a new awareness campaign, our goal was to highlight the urgent need for adoptive families without disparaging the foster care system or the incredible people working within it.

The campaign acknowledged a simple truth: many children in foster care have been through a lot, and adoption isn’t always easy. But the families who choose this path are extraordinary. By sharing their real stories— inspired by the insight that a child doesn’t truly have a room of their own until they’re adopted, because even a bedroom in foster care can feel temporary —we helped generate awareness through earned media and shine a light on what adoption from foster care really looks like.

Ask me about the high school principal who adopted one of his students. I promise it will renew your trust in humanity. And I can tell you how we made it through a really emotional radio record.