May is National Foster Care Awareness Month. On May 31, 2008, Arizona Heart Gallery, the Foster and Adoptive Council of Tucson and other agencies city-wide participated in the largest collaborative, community outreach event. The purpose of this event was to show appreciation for children in foster care and the families who care for them, and to reach adoptive and prospective adoptive families for the children awaiting adoption in Arizona.

Foster & adoptive families gathered to enjoy the food, games, jumping castles, a raffle and much more. Prospective adoptive families joined with public to view over 50 life-size photos of children awaiting adoption in the state of Arizona.

Speakers at this event included: Mayor Bob Walkup, Congressman Raul Grijalva (U.S. Representative), Honorable Judge Joan Wagener (Juvenile Courts), John & Rachel Lohrman (Adoptive Parents) and Lupe Tovar & Serina (In My Shoes).

A Balloon Tribute of 2500 yellow balloons with blue ribbons were released into the sky. Each balloon represented a child from Pima County in out-of-home care (foster care, shelters or group homes).

Special thanks to Soledad Zuzuárregui for representing Governor Napolitano's office, everyone at Thoroughbred Nissan for hosting this event, and to everyone who gave of their time and efforts to make this event possible and successful. Funding was provided through recruitment efforts paid for by the Department of Economic Security.

Looking forward to the 2009 Blue Ribbon-Heart Gallery Celebration?

You can help! This event would not have been possible without the dedicated volunteers that gave of their time, resources and creativity.

Consider helping to the 2009 Blue Ribbon-Heart Gallery reach more families. There are many ways you can contribute. Planning for next year's event has already begun.

Please contact us if you would like to participate/contribute in any way!