November 29, 2023Contact: 608-422-7800 or dcfmedia@wisconsin.gov Governor’s Outstanding Adoptive Parent Awards presented MADISON ― The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) honored six adoptive families today by presenting them with the 2023 Governor’s Outstanding Adoptive Parent Award. The awards were presented during a celebration at the State Capitol as part of Wisconsin’s proclaimed month-long recognition of Adoption Month. Nominations for the awards were received from adoption professionals, children’s advocates, and citizens from across the state who wanted to recognize the incredible families who have opened their homes to children in need of lifelong care and stability. The recipients were chosen based on their stories of exceptional dedication, compassion, and willingness to support both new and existing relationships for their children. “November is an opportunity to celebrate all adoptive families,” said DCF Secretary Emilie Amundson. “These families provide children with a loving, family environment that fosters healing and growth. We appreciate the dedication and commitment of all adoptive parents, as well as those who work with families in the adoption process. Because of their hard work, these children will have bright futures.” Of the dozens of nominations received, six adoptive families were selected to receive an award: Crystle Bosin of Danbury was recognized for maintaining sibling connections and ensuring her adopted children stay connected to their tribal community, culture, and traditions. She has also gone above and beyond by purchasing a larger vehicle and residence with more land to accommodate more children. The children now have plenty of space for physical, emotional, and cultural growth. Raven Jackson of Milwaukee was honored for her dedication in helping children have a home with space for healing and growth. Ms. Jackson’s trauma-informed background ensures the children remain plugged in to their culture and community. She includes the child’s birth family in events such as birthdays and holidays to maintain connection. Her commitment to these children ensure they will have a thriving future. David Koltermann of Wilton was a like-kin connection that began fostering a sibling set of four children with the goal of providing a safe and loving home. He was working with the biological mother toward reunification. When reunification efforts did not succeed, he adopted all four children during the pandemic. Mr. Koltermann went above and beyond in his efforts to ensure that all four siblings could stay and grow up together while also supporting a connection to their mother. Adrienne and Matthew Randall of Sparta took placement of an infant just as they became licensed foster parents, quickly becoming first time parents as they welcomed the baby girl with open arms and a loving home. They have become her strongest advocates while navigating the adoption process. The Randall’s bring a trauma-informed perspective allowing for a deeper bond and understanding. JoAnn and Alfred Reissmann of Mosinee were honored for adopting four siblings with the goal of providing a harmonious family environment for them to grow up in. The Reissmanns are supportive of their children and their needs and work diligently to ensure every child’s needs are met. In addition, they have helped to build a strong connection with the children’s birth family and celebrate this connection with get-togethers and holidays. Tracy Verbeten of Horicon was honored for her dedication of more than a decade to being both an adoptive and foster parent. She has adopted four children and works tirelessly to ensure each child makes it to their sports, activities, and appointments. In addition to creating a loving home for these children, she works to positively maintain connections with their biological families post adoption. Since 2018, the Department of Children and Families 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 families play an important role in providing children and youth with a stable and loving environment that allows them to thrive. For more information about adoption, please visit our Adoptive Parent page. This press release is also available in a PDF format.
