What does it mean to be a waiting child? As international adoption numbers have declined significantly in the last decade, we have been asking ourselves at AGCI the true meaning of what it means to “wait” for a family, as well as examine every avenue of hope for these amazing kids in the process. After taking a closer look at the stories of the children we advocate for at AGCI, we launched a new initiative in 2020 to place more children with families. We recognize the true importance of finding families for kids, NOT kids for families. It’s our greatest joy  to put a child’s needs at the forefront of our efforts in advocating for them, and a true privilege to learn about and honor their stories, their needs, and what they will need to thrive in the long-term. While paying close attention to what these children need to thrive, we recognize that adoption might not always be the answer, nor is everyone in a place to adopt a waiting child. The fact is though, everyone can help a waiting child thrive. AGCI Waiting Child Coordinator, Soojin Manzano, is a beautiful example of exactly that. I am so honored to have her on the show today to tell me more about her role in AGCI’s waiting child program and how she has seen it grow, change, and evolve --- this year’s initiative being a big part of the evolution. We’re here to redefine the stories of waiting children, so that they would no longer be marked by years of trauma, waiting in an institution, but rather marked by a story of healing, love, and hope. I can’t wait for you to hear Soojin’s passion and fire these kiddos. It’s 100% contagious, so be ready.Waiting Child program interest: smanzano@allgodschildren.org https://allgodschildren.org/waiting/