Andrea and Michael Vizcarra will finalize the adoption of their 3-year-old daughter, Alaia, on National Adoption Day. The event will take place at the Durango Juvenile Court Center in Phoenix on November 22. Commissioner David Keys-Nunes is scheduled to oversee the proceedings at 10 a.m. in Courtroom 6. This marks the fifth child adopted by the Vizcarra family.
“Since having Alaia, our bond has grown so deeply,” Andrea Vizcarra said. “Snuggling with her fills me with so much gratitude. I will be thankful this Thanksgiving for the permanency and ability to give her a stable, loving home. The journey has not been easy, but the finalization of her adoption makes it all worth it. We love her so much – she has truly blessed our home and our hearts.”
Alaia’s adoption is one of 50 set to be finalized during Maricopa County’s National Adoption Day event. Twenty-two judicial officers have volunteered to conduct 41 hearings starting at 9 a.m.
Families attending the event can expect activities outside the courthouse, including superhero visits, bouncy houses, face painting, games for children, and refreshments.
“National Adoption Day represents hope, unity, love and the enduring power of lawful permanency,” said Juvenile Department Presiding Judge Lori Bustamante. “We recognize the families who are formally expanding their households through adoption and have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to providing children with stability, security and unconditional love. We are truly honored to play a role in the legal and historical milestone that forever transforms the lives of these children and their families.”
National Adoption Day aims to highlight the needs of about 100,000 children in foster care nationwide who are waiting for permanent homes. In Maricopa County alone, there are currently 4,831 children in foster care. Since its beginning in 1999, more than 4,500 adoptions have been finalized by the Judicial Branch on National Adoption Day.
“National Adoption Day is a beautiful day full of celebration, connection and love,” said Juvenile Department Administrator Carma Umpleby. “All children need and deserve a loving home. We couldn’t make this event happen without the support of the Maricopa County National Adoption Day Foundation, the Department of Child Safety, numerous local adoption providers and attorneys, and the many families who have opened their hearts to adopting a child. We congratulate all the families who are celebrating with us this year.”
