Hello
Choice Network Family!
I am
excited to introduce myself, Katie Forbes as the new Adoption Advocate for
Choice Network. It has been my dream to work with this organization since
its inception two years ago. I am truly inspired by this
organization’s commitment to empowering women and helping them decide what path
is right for them- whether that be adoption, parenting, or termination.
I grew
up in the Cleveland suburb of Shaker Heights, Ohio. While I was growing
up my family was very active with the foster care community, taking in over 30
special needs children over 20 years, and adopting 3 of them.
Growing up in this community that was filled with different cultures and
backgrounds inspired me to study people from around the world.
I
received my bachelors’ degree in Anthropology and a minor in International
Relations and diplomacy from The Ohio State University. While completing
my degree I worked as an ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) Therapist with
children and teens diagnosed on the autism spectrum. I fell in love with
the work that I was doing with the special needs population, and when I moved
home to Cleveland post graduation I pursued work in the same field.
My
pursuit led me to a position with a foster care agency in Cleveland working
with children in the system that had severe emotional and behavioral
barriers. Although aspects of this job were heartbreaking at times it
showed me how amazingly resilient children can be. Before
joining Choice Network I worked as a benefits specialist with the YWCA of
Columbus. The majority of this job was spent out in the community at
homeless shelters advocating for and assisting the disabled homeless
population. This is also where I had the privilege of meeting Molly Rampe and
Joni Ogle. After two years of working with the homeless population I
realized how much I missed working with foster care and adoption community, and
as luck had it, I was fortunate enough to find work with Choice Network.
I look
forward to assisting woman throughout their journey of giving the most amazing,
brave, and selfless gift for their child and themselves.
Sincerely,
Katie
Adoption
Advocate
Choice
Network
