Despite initial hesitations or fears expressed by these young individuals in foster care regarding adoption, professionals are encouraged not to halt adoption recruitment efforts. Instead, through programs like the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® (WWK), child welfare professionals build trusting relationships with the youth. They address common fears such as leaving familiar communities, rejecting their family of origin, changing their last name, feeling unwanted, fear of the unknown, adapting to new rules, and ensuring safety and wellbeing. The goal is to support these youth in overcoming their fears and finding permanent families in a respectful and dignified manner.
