Congressman Latham Nominates Iowa Couple for the 2008 Angels in Adoption Award
Washington,
Sep 16 -
Washington, D.C.—Iowa Congressman Tom Latham met with David and Christine Skinner, of Zearing, Iowa, today. The Skinners are Congressman Latham's nominees for the 2008 Angels in Adoption Award for their tireless efforts on behalf of 35 Guatemalan orphans. Even though many of the orphans had already been adopted by American parents they were caught up in red tape resulting from a raid of the Casa Quivera orphanage in Guatemala. In August of 2007, the Guatemalan government took the children into government custody, and, because of poor record-keeping, many of these already-adopted orphans became lost within the Guatemalan bureaucracy.
"Adoptive parents are dedicated to helping children in need," said Congressman Latham. "But the Skinners have gone much farther than most. Due to their efforts, many of these orphans are being found and placed in loving homes."
Lilian, the Skinner's adopted daughter, was one of the 35 orphans taken in the raid. When the orphanage was raided, the Skinners went to work on behalf of all the orphans and, in so doing, were able to help Lilian come to the United States. Their efforts also helped 11 other orphans become paired up with other adoptive parents. When the Skinners decided that the remaining orphans needed a voice, they began communicating with Congressman Latham and looking for ways he might help the situation. Congressman Latham personally took interest in the Skinner's request for assistance and spoke with Guatemalan President Alvaro Caballeros about the remaining orphans. President Caballeros heard the call, and his direct involvement led to the location of the other orphans. Lilian has been living with the Skinners since April 2008.
Without the dedication of David and Christine Skinner, it is likely that these orphans would never have been united with their adoptive parents. For that, Congressman Latham has nominated them for the 2008 Angels in Adoption Award.
The Angels in Adoption Program provides an opportunity to all members of the U.S. Congress to honor the good work of their constituents who have enriched the lives of foster children and orphans. The program includes an annual event in Washington, D.C., the Angels in Adoption gala, which is geared toward highlighting ordinary people doing extraordinary things. These “unsung heroes” are selected by members of the U.S. Congress.
In addition to these “unsung heroes” chosen from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, “National Angels” are recognized for their adoption and foster care advocacy on a broader, nationwide scale. Former “National Angels” include notables such as First Lady Laura Bush, Victoria Rowell, Muhammad Ali, Dave Thomas, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Bruce Willis. Last year, more than 190 Members of Congress participated, making it the year’s single most significant Congressional event pertaining to child welfare in the United States.
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