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EVENTGrowing Families Through Adoption

There's nothing more amazing than finding a forever family.

Join us on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 1-3:30 p.m. for Growing Families Through Adoption, our 19th annual matching event presented by The Older Child Matching Initiative (OCMI) and SWAN Services division of the Family Support Services at The Children's Institute.

Growing Families Through Adoption

This annual event celebrates adoption awareness with on finding loving families and safe homes for amazing kids, particularly older youth. This year’s event will also include opportunities to meet some of the incredible youth who are waiting to be adopted. Our featured speakers this year are Darien and Maranda Karenbauer. Read about them below.

Light food and refreshments will be provided. Please note that childcare will not be provided.

Who Should Attend

Join Us

Growing Families Through Adoption is a free event by invitation only. Whether you're a certified adoptive family or a permanency professional we hope you'll join us for this special event.

Where

The Children's Institute
6301 Northumberland Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15217

Featured Speakers

Darien Karenbauer

Darien Karenbauer

Darien Karenbauer is a former foster youth and adoptee who now advocates nationally for trauma-informed care, using his lived experience to inspire change for youth in the foster care system. He is also an EMT and devoted father, dedicated to helping others with both compassion and purpose.
 

Maranda Karenbauer

Maranda Karenbauer

Maranda Karenbauer is a foster and adoptive mom, recruiter, and trainer who empowers families through trauma-informed parenting and practical support for caring for teens in foster care. Featured in the film Take a Chance on Me alongside her son, Darien, she draws on years of experience parenting teens to help caregivers stay connected, resilient, and rooted in understanding.

Registration

Registration Required

Click to register

Questions?

We're here to help

If you should have any questions about the event, please contact Mandy Somerville at 412.418.7149 or [email protected]

Here to support amazing families.

Learn more about our Family Support Services at The Children's Institute today.

Learn More

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Not sure what the next step is? You can always call our Information Center to speak to a team member who can direct you to the support and answers you need.

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