When Jeff and Wendy became licensed foster parents in 2020, they thought they had a plan for this next season of life.
After raising five children and becoming empty nesters, they imagined quieter days ahead—maybe even some travel. But God had something different in mind.
“We thought things were going to go differently,” Wendy shared. “But you know how they say—man plans, and God laughs.”
A New Chapter Begins
Like many foster families, Jeff and Wendy didn’t take this journey lightly. The licensing process required time, vulnerability, and commitment.
“There are a lot of steps,” Wendy explained. “You have to share a lot of your life with your licensing agent.”
Still, they wanted to partner with the right organization.
“We picked Catholic Charities because you guys are Christian, and we wanted to go with somebody that had God in their lives—and that turned out to be a really wise choice.”
Supported Every Step of the Way
Jeff and Wendy found more than just a licensing agency—they found support, guidance, and relationships they could rely on.
“I love the ladies that I work with. Donna and Jody are amazing… we’ve just always had really good experiences with them,” Wendy said. “I feel like I could call Donna and Jody my friends.”
That support made a difference in both everyday moments and challenging seasons.
“You need a licensing agent that is willing to go the extra mile when you really need it,” she shared. “They help you out when you need something, or they give you answers to help you get what you need.”
When “No” Turns Into “Yes”
At first, Jeff and Wendy set clear boundaries. They planned to foster teenage boys and didn’t intend to adopt. But love has a way of rewriting expectations.
When one of their teenage placements asked if his younger brothers could come live with them too, Jeff and Wendy faced a choice: stick to the plan or let it grow into something new. Their decision to say yes led to adoption—and to a growing family they never could have imagined.
Growing Through Challenges and Joy
Over time, Jeff and Wendy adopted four children through foster care. Today, their home is full again—busy, loud, and lively.
“The oldest is 15 and the youngest turns three,” Wendy shared.
Their story didn’t stop there. When a family crisis arose, they opened their home again—this time to care for their grandchildren.
A Different Kind of Parenting
Parenting the second time around has brought a new perspective shaped by faith, experience, and grace.
“You don’t sweat the small stuff as much,” Wendy said. “You let them wear the dress, you let them eat the cake… things you wouldn’t have done before.”
Fostering, she explains, is both challenging and deeply rewarding. “It’s exceedingly challenging at times, but also a huge blessing at other times,” she said. “You learn so many things from the kids.”
Faith at the Center
Through every season, their reliance on faith has helped guide them through uncertainty, growth, and the unexpected turns of foster care.
“We are praying as a family a lot more,” Wendy shared. “So many things are out of your control—you have to lean into prayer.”
A Life Full of Yes
What started as a quiet season of life has become something beautifully full.
Full of children.
Full of purpose.
Full of faith.
And full of “yes” moments that changed everything.
Jeff and Wendy’s story is a reminder that foster care isn’t about having a perfect plan—it’s about being willing to take the next step, even when it leads somewhere unexpected.
