Hermans Family – Then / Now Adoption Story

A Story of Hope & Perseverance – Natalie Hermans

LICENSED – 03/15/2015 – CURRENT

ADOPTION DATE: 9/8/2021

What inspired you to consider Foster Care & Adoption?

The desire to adopt is something I’ve had in my heart since I was a little girl. My husband also had the same hopes of one day having a big family. Over time, that desire only grew stronger. While scrolling on social media one day, I came across a story a woman had shared about her Foster Care journey. Faith is very important to us, and after reading her story I felt the nudge to explore this more. I spent the next several hours researching and came across a list of agencies that were licensing foster parents. Within a week, we started our first class and that was the turning point for us. Beech Acres gave us that feeling of community and belonging, and we’ve never looked back.

When we first were licensed in 2015, Beech Acres only had the capability to license families for Foster Care. With a great desire to adopt, we quickly shifted our mindset while also holding onto the hope that one day we would adopt.  A couple of months after we were licensed, Beech Acres added the Adoption Licensing option.  With a 2- & 4-year-old at the time, we went all in and never once hesitated or looked back.

What was your biggest Fear?

Prior to fostering, all I knew were the stereotypes and stories of parents who “willfully” neglected or abused their children. These stories made me fearful of connecting with biological parents and feeling protective over their children, even before having a foster child placed with us. The children that entered our home taught us to think differently. Despite the things these children have experienced, one thing that doesn’t change is their love for their family. Their family is so important to them, and that makes it important for us. We shifted our mindset and decided it was time to let go of that fear. It’s amazing what that type of relationship between a foster family and a biological family can do for a child’s well-being.

What’s something you’d like to share with someone considering becoming a Foster Parent?

Our story is one of hope and perseverance. How could we not open our home to a child in need, when we have so much love to give? Fears aside, every child deserves the opportunity to feel love and security. We are not stronger than you, and likely experienced many of the same fears. When we started this journey, we had 2 biological children. We now have 7 children, and many other children that are forever a part of our family. We’re still not done… because it’s who we are. We love knowing that even if temporarily, we can make a difference for a child and their biological family. We are driven by Faith and the Beech Acres mission, and our journey is far from over.

How did Beech Acres support you?

Beech Acres has been there every step of the way. I’m not good at asking for help, but they recognize that and are there even when we don’t ask. The Foster Care Team gets to know their families and is in tune with their needs. They’ve shown up for us since day one in our first class, and they continue to do so in every part of our journey. Beech Acres offers community and makes you feel a part of their family. We’re grateful to have them by our side every step of the way.