MADISON ― Governor Tony Evers and Department of Children and Families (DCF) Secretary-designee Jeff Pertl honored 10 adoptive, guardianship, foster and relative caregiver families Nov. 21 by presenting them with the 2024 Governor’s Outstanding Foster and Adoptive Family Award.
“There is a shared thread that runs through each of your stories, and it’s why you are here today. You care deeply for kids and their families. You stepped up and built connections with birth parents, fostered shared parenting, provided a welcoming space for kids with additional needs, and kept sibling connections intact. You also care about our kids’ sense of belonging and connection — to you and the folks in their lives, their communities, and their cultures,” said Gov. Evers. “The work you do is irreplaceable. So, I want to again offer my sincere thanks on behalf of our state for the work you do to support kids and their families.”
Nominations for the awards were received from child welfare professionals, representatives from community organizations, and others from across the state who wanted to recognize those who have been incredible partners to Wisconsin’s children and families. The recipients were chosen based on their experiences supporting shared parenting, cultural and community connections and the well-being of the children in their care.
“Each year, these awards are a wonderful opportunity to for families to share their stories and for us to recognize their journey,” said DCF Secretary-designee Jeff Pertl. “As a former foster parent and dad to two boys who were adopted, I know firsthand many of the joys and challenges these families experience, and I am immensely grateful for all they do for children.”
Of the dozens of nominations received, 10 families were selected to receive an award:
James and Elizabeth Anderson of Blanchardville were recognized for their exceptional care for children diagnosed with health issues prior to birth. Their healthcare background, combined with their compassionate and knowledgeable approach has helped create a loving and supportive family environment to help their child navigate their road to recovery.
Other families included Natasha Becker and Shiquille Ward of Appleton, Kara and Joseph Bennier of Milwaukee, Chelsie and Jon Heesch of Sparta, Michelle and Mike Klintworth of New Richmond, Kim and Brian LaLuzerne of Hobart, Brody and Jamie Larson of New Richmond, Lily Lincoln of Tomah, Melissa and Keith Mortan of Sparta, and Stephanie and Dustin Witzigmann of Watertown.
Since 2018, DCF has been working to transition the child welfare system to serve more children and families in-home with supportive services. When this is not possible, adoptive, guardianship, foster and relative caregivers are critical partners to these children, youth, and families across Wisconsin.
