Growing up in a community where people took care of one another, Leslie Santiago watched her mother embody the belief that “it takes a village.” This instilled in her a deep sense of shared responsibility, which became the foundation of her life. Years later, that same spirit of community would surround her with support and compassion as she embarked on the journey to adopt 8-year-old Josiah.
Leslie’s connection to Josiah formed when her biological son, Luis, noticed him struggling in third grade. Both boys shared the experience of having an incarcerated parent, a difficult reality that created an instant understanding between them. One day, Luis came home with news that Josiah was placed in foster care and immediately asked his mom, “How can I help?” Leslie began supporting Josiah by providing lunches and advocating for him at school, creating a safe and caring environment. The boys’ teachers took notice and informed Leslie about school events and award ceremonies, knowing that she would “come with gifts and love for the both of them.”
At the end of the following school year, with the guidance of Josiah’s fourth grade teacher and a social worker, Leslie filled out paperwork to become a visiting connection. This allowed her to visit and host Josiah in her home more often. Her unwavering commitment led her to organize playdates, sleepovers, and rides to and from summer camp. Despite being a single mother, she leaned on her “village” for support, a concept deeply rooted in her upbringing. “My village stepped up, I stepped up, ... We couldn’t be more grateful,” she said.
Even though she was unfamiliar with the adoption process and its terminology at first, Leslie fully embraced the journey, driven by the belief, “You don’t leave kids behind. When it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be." With the support of a dedicated team of social workers who guided her through each step, Josiah joined her home as an adoptive placement in November 2023. Leslie also honors Josiah’s biological family, through an open adoption, teaching him that love, and second chances can coexist. This journey embodies the transformative power of fostering and adopting children in need.
The Santiago home is a vibrant space where laughter is the soundtrack, and the calendar is always full, whether it’s from Josiah’s theater rehearsals or Luis’s sporting events. Each day reflects their unique passions, yet together, they enjoy video games, jokes, and all the mischief of typical 11-year-olds, filling their home with silliness and joy. “Josiah is the smartest and funniest kid. Luis and Josiah are polar opposites, but together, we’ve created a beautiful, blended family full of laughter and love,” Leslie said, reflecting on Josiah’s transition into the family.
Sometimes, creating change begins with a simple question, “How can I help?”
That’s exactly what Luis asked his mom three years ago. That small, earnest question led the Santiago family to embark on a path filled with love and connection, ultimately shaping the family they are today. Their story is a testament to the power of showing up, however and whenever you can. It’s about being an extension of family or friends and embracing the unexpected, but beautiful, bonds that grow from it.
At our core, MARE’s mission is about seeing the needs of children and teens in foster care and responding, “How can I help?” Whether you respond by becoming an adoptive parent, joining The Neighborhood, or becoming a Visiting Connection, you can make a difference. Not only will you change the lives of kids in foster care, but much like Leslie and Luis, you will be surprised by how your life is changed too.
Photos courtesy of Kristin Palkoner
When asked what she would tell those who might be thinking about the adoption process or who are just now hearing about adoption from foster care, Leslie responded, “The process is healing, and the love you get back from the children is a reward itself. Take that first step, and you’ll know why you did it."
Watch even more of the Santiago Family's adoption story below:
