We are proud of all of the foster adoptive parents we work with through Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services, but today we want to spotlight one special couple who was recognized nationally for their efforts.

Betsy and Gene DuKatz recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to receive the Adoption Excellence Award presented by the Department of Health and Human Services. The pair won under the category of Family Contributions, which focuses on the personal contribution of parents who have significantly impacted the life of children adopted from foster care.

The DuKatzes are committed foster adoptive parents who advocate for children and their families. They have heavily involved with the Foster Parent Advisory Council and have devoted their time and efforts to developing a mentor program, assisting in training other foster parents, and are always available to offer guidance and advice to other foster parents or prospective families. They are terrific foster/adoptive parent ambassadors and have been kind enough to share much of their experience and wisdom right here on our Kid Hero blog.

With 402,000 U.S. children currently in foster care — 102,000 of those awaiting adoption — the need for people like Betsy and Gene DuKatz could not be greater. We are truly blessed to have them as part of our dedicated team.

From all of us here at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services, congratulations and best wishes on a well-deserved award!

– Laura Goba, out-of-home program manager, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services

Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Community Services recruits, trains and provides support services for foster families. The need for foster parents in Wisconsin is great. Contact us to receive information about becoming a foster or adoptive parent, or visit our website to learn more.