Courts across Colorado are marking National Adoption Day this November by finalizing the adoptions of foster children into permanent families. Judges and magistrates in several judicial districts will oversee these proceedings, which aim to provide stable homes for children in foster care.
According to the Colorado Department of Human Services, 658 children and youth in the state’s foster care system were adopted in 2024. The upcoming Adoption Day events are coordinated by the courts along with state and local human services departments, child services agencies, and advocacy groups.
In the 1st Judicial District, an event is scheduled for November 22 at the Jefferson County Combined Court in Golden. Judge Lindsay VanGilder, Magistrate Marianne Tims, and Magistrate Cara Sweet will preside over six adoptions. The public is invited to attend the opening presentation and activities.
The 10th Judicial District will hold its 17th annual Adoption Day on November 21 at the Pueblo County Courthouse. District Court Judge Amiel Markenson will finalize two adoptions, one for each family involved. Afterward, a celebration with refreshments will take place.
On November 21, the 11th Judicial District’s event at Fremont County Combined Courts in Cañon City will be led by Magistrate Stephen Talbot.
The 12th Judicial District plans its celebration on November 24 at Alamosa Combined Courts. Chief Judge Amanda Hopkins will recognize 26 families from counties in the San Luis Valley who completed adoptions this year.
In Adams County’s Justice Center, part of the 17th Judicial District, Adoption Day will be observed on November 21 with a welcome address and proclamation reading by county officials. Judges Kelley Southerland and Emily Lieberman as well as Magistrate Ashley Ratliff will oversee hearings for seven children joining five families.
The Arapahoe County Justice Center in Centennial (18th Judicial District) hosts its event on November 14. Seven children are expected to be adopted under the supervision of Judge Bonnie McLean and Magistrate Valerie Harper.
Boulder County’s Justice Center (20th Judicial District) holds its event on November 21 for families who have adopted throughout the year; it is not open to the public but media may request access.
National Adoption Day is intended to raise awareness about more than 100,000 children nationwide waiting for adoptive families. Since it began, collaborative efforts among courts, attorneys, adoption professionals, welfare agencies and advocates have helped many foster children find permanent homes.
