Sunni grew up in a foster family, so opening her home was never a question of if, but when. Together with her husband Joe, she has built exactly what they always dreamed of: a safe, consistent, and loving place where kids know they belong.

What inspired you to become foster parents, and what has the journey meant to you and your family?

My family was a foster family when I was a child, so it was always something I knew I wanted to do. My husband, Joe, had a difficult childhood and grew up knowing he wanted to create a safe, stable place for kids. When we got married, foster care was part of our five-year plan, but we thought we needed to be more settled, own a home, and advance in our careers.

However, early in our marriage, we learned that there were over 6,000 children in the West Virginia foster care system. We realized kids do not need a perfect home. They need a consistent, caring adult. We knew that was something we could provide.

Just a few weeks after our one-year anniversary, we opened our home and quickly went from one child to four.

Over time, our journey has stretched us, humbled us, and completely reshaped what family means to us. It has not always been easy, but it has brought a level of purpose, connection, and perspective that has impacted every part of our lives. Our home has become a place of healing, learning, and growth, not just for the kids, but for us as well.

Can you share a meaningful or memorable moment from your fostering experience that reminds you why fostering matters?

I made the decision to leave my career when two of our younger children were getting sick so often that they could not attend daycare. Just a few months later, we were told that all three children might be returning home. I remember questioning everything and wondering how I could step away from my career only for them to leave.

The next morning, I was sitting on the couch, waiting for the car to warm up so I could take the kids to school. I looked over and saw my two older kids holding the babies' hands, playing ring around the rosie together.

In that moment, I was reminded of my why. This was never about me or what I might lose. It was about creating a safe, loving environment for kids, even if only for a season. And in that moment, I could clearly see that we were doing exactly that.

What's one piece of advice you'd give someone looking to start their foster parent journey?

One of the most important things I have learned is to understand what you can and cannot control. When you let go of the rest and focus on being present, the journey becomes much more manageable.