The Bond of a Father and Son: Ernesto and Jeff’s Story

Posted on June 2, 2023

Ohio — At 6 years old, Ernesto (“Ernie”) was found wandering the streets, trying to find food. Not receiving the care he needed, he was placed in foster care and waited for a permanent home for eight long years.  “I was a little stressed out because I’ve moved around, I think four or five

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Bringing A Family Back Together: Likisha and Jamya’s Story

Posted on June 1, 2023

Tennessee — Placed in foster care as a young child, Likisha lived a life in and out of care. Pregnant with her first child at age 16, she was also struggling with poverty, homelessness and trying to escape domestic violence. By 19 years old, Likisha was working hard to give her children the best lif

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Wendy’s Wonderful Kids professionals collaborate and celebrate at annual Summit

Posted on May 25, 2023

More than 600 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids® recruiters and supervisors, speakers, supporters and Foundation staff gathered in Columbus, Ohio, for the 2023 Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Summit, May 9–11. Hosted by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, the event offered opportunities for collaborating and shari

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Special Moments with Mom

Posted on May 4, 2023

Having the support of a loving, forever family means everything to youth who once lingered in foster care. Read reflections from children served by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program and their moms. Pictured: Kim and Zach Zach (adopted at 11) and his mom K

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The Bond of Family: Johnathan and Patty’s Story

Posted on April 4, 2023

Arizona — Johnathan and Patty were placed in foster care due to neglect as their biological mother struggled with drug addiction. Scared for their future, Johnathan vividly remembers the night they were removed from their house.  “It was just me and my little sister,” said Johnathan. “I was pre

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If The Walls Could Talk – TV


The teen featured in this TV PSA bravely shared their lived experiences prior to being placed into foster care. If the Walls Could Talk aims to shine a light on the circumstances from which children are removed and placed into foster care. The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption works tirelessly to

Building Fund Donors

Posted on December 5, 2022

(as of June 30, 2022) In 2017, the Foundation launched an ambitious, multi-year business plan to expand the reach of Wendy’s Wonderful Kids in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Since then, the Foundation’s staff more than doubled in size. We knew we needed a new building where we could continue to

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