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The Foundation originally shared Ellie’s adoption story in May 2020. We caught up with her in June 2024 to hear how having the support of a permanent, loving family has changed her journey.

Utah – Born into a family in which she suffered years of abuse, Ellie missed four years of school before being placed in foster care as a teenager.

At age 19, Ellie was adopted through the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® program. Having the support and encouragement of a permanent family made a life-changing difference for Ellie. She became more focused on her classwork, more confident and hopeful about her future.

“When we met her, she didn’t think she would live past 18,” said Ellie’s mom, Shawn. “Now, we have a kid who is planning on college and wanting to go out and conquer the world.”

Even though she has not decided yet what she wants to study in college, Ellie is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. “She’s excited to figure it out,” said Shawn.

An Update to Ellie’s Story

Today, Ellie has started college classes and would like to explore becoming a lawyer or Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for children in foster care.

“Family can change everything,” explained Ellie. “One day you are alone, and the next you are holding the whole world in your hand because someone loves you.”

If you have room in your home or in your heart, you can help a child, like Ellie, waiting for a family right now. Explore ways to get involved and join our caring community that makes stories like these possible.