At 2INgage, we’re honored to share stories from our community that inspire and shed light on the beauty of adoption. For National Adoption Month, we’re highlighting Kimberly Copeland, a Community Engagement Specialist whose personal journey into adoption showcases love, resilience, and the profound joy of building a family through fostering.
How It Started:
For years, Kim and her husband, Kevin, dreamed of having a family. They often imagined holding their child, watching them grow and sharing the moments of joy and challenges that come with raising a little one. However, despite their best efforts, year after year passed without their dream coming to fruition. Moments of disappointment and heartache crept in, and they began to wonder if their vision would ever become a reality.
Just as they were about to give up, Kim and Kevin realized that their family might look different from what they originally imagined. After many long discussions and some soul-searching, they pursued fostering to adopt. This path, while unanticipated, felt right in their hearts
Their journey began in May 2023. They took classes, went through training and completed all the necessary paperwork while keeping their hearts open and expectations grounded. Little did they know that this new chapter would bring the joy they longed for in unimaginable ways.
In August 2023, they received a call about a little boy named Jayson who needed love, stability and a place to call home. From the moment Jayson arrived, everything changed. Though a bit shy initially, he quickly settled into their arms and hearts, forming an instant and unexpected bond. The couple found themselves deeply in love with him, realizing they had been waiting for him all along.
Jayson brought a magical energy into their home, filling it with laughter and joy. Whether playing in the sprinkler or enjoying simple pleasures like bubbles or park visits, his presence transformed their lives. He wasn’t just a foster child; he was their son.
Over the months, it became clear that this was meant to be. Jayson fit perfectly into their family, his smile lighting up every room. His bond with Kim and Kevin deepened, and he became more attached to his forever home.
Making it Official:
The adoption was finalized on May 17, 2024. The overwhelming joy of knowing that Jayson was theirs forever marked the end of one chapter and the beautiful beginning of another. They were no longer a family by circumstance but a family by choice, love and destiny.
Reflecting on their journey—from years of longing to the joy of holding Jayson for the first time—Kim and Kevin feel immense gratitude. Jayson was always meant to be their son, bringing them everything they were searching for and more. Their family is now complete.
Advice for Prospective Foster and Adoptive Parents:
“Fostering is more than providing temporary care; it’s a profound calling requiring emotional resilience, dedication and a deep sense of responsibility. While the journey may be challenging—filled with paperwork, legal complexities and emotional ups and downs—it can also bring immense rewards. Witnessing a child thrive in a loving environment is unparalleled,” Copeland said.
Copeland emphasized the importance of building a solid support network through friends, family or foster care communities!
Her 2INgage family showed up in a really cool way! Pictured are her coworkers showing up for the big day!
