Pottawattamie County Recognizes National Adoption Day, Celebrates 20 Years of Local Adoption Ceremonies
Posted November 10, 2026
Posted by Public Relations and Board of Supervisors
The Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors proclaimed November 21, 2026, as National Adoption Day during its November 3 meeting, recognizing the importance of providing children with permanent, safe, and loving families through adoption.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of National Adoption Day celebrations at the Pottawattamie County Courthouse, where Iowa's Fourth Judicial District will once again bring families together to finalize adoptions and celebrate the children and families whose lives are forever changed through adoption.
"Thank you for 20 years of supporting our celebration of National Adoption Day," said Judge Kathleen Kilnoski, who addressed the Board during the meeting. "You just can't help but feel the love when you are a part of that celebration."
The 2026 celebration will take place Saturday, November 21, at the Pottawattamie County Courthouse and is expected to include approximately four families and several children ranging in age from toddlers to teenagers. Judge Kilnoski extended an invitation to the public to attend and share in the occasion.
National Adoption Day is a celebration of families coming together, and it also serves as a reminder of the continued need for foster and adoptive families. More than 100,000 children in the United States foster care system are waiting to be adopted, including more than 880 in Iowa and approximately 50 within Iowa's Fourth Judicial District, which encompasses nine counties in southwest Iowa.
"There's always a need. Kids always need a stable, permanent home," Judge Kilnoski told the Board, encouraging those interested in becoming foster parents to connect with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
The National Adoption Day proclamation recognizes the contributions of foster and adoptive families, judges, social workers, community partners, and volunteers who help children find safe, supportive, and permanent homes.