Hawkeye Reporter

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) has presented Four Oaks Foster & Adoptive Family Connections with the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute’s “Angels in Adoption” award. Four Oaks, a program contracted by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, is responsible for recruiting, training, licensing, and supporting foster and adoptive families throughout Iowa.

“Every child deserves a permanent, loving home with stable and nurturing parents in their lives. For decades, Four Oaks’ comprehensive approach has helped empower kids and families to succeed across Iowa. I’m proud to have nominated Four Oaks for this award and appreciate the great work they do to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children and families every year,” Grassley said.

President & CEO Mary Beth O'Neill and Vice President of Operations Jen Royer accepted the Angels in Adoption award from Senator Grassley.

Four Oaks’ mission focuses on ensuring that children experience safety and stability by connecting them with supportive families. The organization provides comprehensive training, ongoing support, and advocacy for children in need. With over fifty years of service in Iowa, Four Oaks aims to help children find safe and permanent homes.

The Angels in Adoption Program recognizes those who contribute significantly to adoption, foster care, and child welfare. Honorees are invited to Washington to celebrate their achievements, participate in advocacy training sessions, and share their experiences with members of Congress. Senator Grassley has been part of the Advisory Council of CCAI since 2015 and has consistently advocated for adoptive parents and children.

Grassley’s legislative efforts include supporting laws such as the Adoption and Safe Families Act (1997), which aimed at reducing barriers to adoption; the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoption Act (2008), which made all special-needs children eligible for federal adoption assistance; and the Family First Prevention Services Act (2018), which provides states access to federal resources for prevention services targeted at families at risk within the child welfare system. He also backs legislation like the Recruiting Families Using Data Act intended to improve state recruitment efforts for foster care.

In addition, Grassley has worked on behalf of families affected by China’s termination of its intercountry adoption program by leading bipartisan letters urging both American and Chinese officials toward resolution.