The recent Adoption Day at the Franklin County Probate Court helped finalize the adoptions of eight children and create six new forever families. It was an opportunity to increase awareness and support for children in the foster care system who are waiting for permanent, loving homes.

“Today shines a light on the many children in foster care — especially older youth and sibling groups — who are still waiting for permanent, loving families,” said Chief Magistrate Kelly Green with the probate court. “Today is a reminder of what our community can accomplish when we work together: bringing stability, belonging, and hope to children who deserve nothing less. Our court is honored to celebrate with children as they find their forever homes.”

The Arnots are one of those new families, officially adopting their son Ricky.

“It means forever. We love him so much,” said Jenny Arnot. “This time we get to tell him it’s forever.”

Ricky’s first grade teacher was there for the hearing, and says now that he’s in third grade, Ricky is having a great year and has come so far thanks to stability and people who love and care about him.

“He’s such a different kid than he was in first grade,” said Jocelyn Reedus. “A social butterfly, better behavior, academically his past struggles now come easily.”

Ricky is one of about 125 children to be officially adopted with the support of Franklin County Children Services over the course of a year.

“He shares everything with us. The good, the bad, the ugly,” said Justin Arnot. “We’ll always be here for him and hope he wants to be here with us.”

Ricky couldn’t agree more. “Today is great, because they’re my family.”