Athens, GA (October 8, 2020) – Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10) today announced that Dustan and Holly Barker, of Athens, have been selected as 2020 Angels in Adoption® Honorees. Each year, the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) recognizes individuals, families, and organizations across the nation who have demonstrated commitments to improving the lives of children in need of permanent, loving homes. Congressman Hice was pleased to recommend the Barkers for their work with Acceptance Recovery Center (ARC) in Athens and their choice to enter a kinship adoption.
“The Barker’s lives forever changed when, tragically, Holly’s brother died from an overdose,” explained Congressman Hice. “In the wake of their loss, the Barkers received support from Acceptance Recovery Center, and they soon became mentors, consultants, and donors to this growing organization. They also became relative adoptive parents to their 11-year-old nephew and godparents to yet another adopted child. The Barkers are champions of ARC’s goal to reunite and strengthen families. On behalf of Georgia’s 10th Congressional District, I proudly welcome them to the small group of distinguished leaders who CCAI has honored with the title Angels in Adoption®.”
“The Angels in Adoption® program gives a platform to the families, advocates, and experts who so often serve quietly behind the scenes yet make a huge impact on behalf of children and families,” said CCAI’s Executive Director, Nancy Kay Blackwell. “Together with the Adoption Caucus, we are thrilled to shine a light on the extraordinary work of our Angels.”
The Angels in Adoption® Program celebrated the extraordinary efforts of more than 95 Angels from 42 states with a virtual gala on the evening of September 30. The gala is one of Washington, D.C.’s most inspiring events that seeks to bring awareness to the millions of children around the globe living without a loving family to call their own. Click here to view the celebration.
