#128: Autism and Adoption- A Discussion with Rita Soronen

Rita Soronen is a National Child Welfare Advocate working with the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption (DTFA). She advocates for the abused, neglected, and vulnerable children in the foster care and juvenile justice system. There are 117,000 children in North America freed for adoption and 77% of those children have some sort of medically identified need, including autism. These children belong to a special division of DTFA, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids. This division is an initiative to advocate for and support children most at risk of aging out of the foster care system—teenagers, sibling groups, and those with special needs.During this conversation, Rita not only explains the wonderful work done for these children but also shares a story of hope. CJ is a child with autism who was adopted at age 9 by a loving and caring adoptive mom, D. Now 20 years old, CJ, who was nonverbal at the time of adoption, is thriving as a college student and productive adult. 1 in 36 children has autism, and there are many children in the child welfare system with an autism diagnosis or other special needs that need support and care. You can learn more by visiting the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption website or calling their information hotline. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside:The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.An initiative for children most at risk in the child welfare systems.CJ’s Story: A story of hope for children with autism awaiting adoption.Advocating for special needs children in the foster care system.Mentioned In This Episode:Dave Thomas FoundationDave Thomas Foundation for Adoption on FacebookCall: 1-800-ASK-DTFA