From left: Luis (dad), sister, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Annabelle G. Cortez, Christopher (adopted at 10), Gabriella (adopted at 5), Ivan (adopted at 8) and Laura (mom)

For Christopher, Ivan and Gabriella, family was something they could only dream of. After being placed in foster care, the siblings faced years of uncertainty as they moved from home to home. But everything changed when they met Laura and Luis.

Laura and Luis had been certified foster parents for years, providing a safe place for many children but never adopting — until Christopher, Ivan and Gabriella entered their lives. From the start, it was clear they were a perfect match.

“Christopher especially had a 360 [change in his life],” shared their social worker. “He found his family.”

Christopher, Ivan and Gabriella were among more than 200 children adopted during Los Angeles County’s National Adoption Day celebration in 2024, with support from the Alliance for Children’s Rights.

After years in foster homes where connection was scarce, the siblings are thriving with the love and support of Laura and Luis. They celebrated birthdays, went on family outings, and even traveled to Guatemala, where they met Laura’s extended family.

Thank you, Alliance for Children’s Rights, for sharing this story.

Did you adopt a child as part of a National Adoption Day event or help organize a National Adoption Day celebration in your community? Share your story.