 CCAI was deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Dave Thomas, in January of 2002. An adoptee himself, Dave was a tremendous advocate for adoption, and a hero to the thousands of waiting children of the United States foster care system. In Dave’s words, “Every child deserves a permanent home and loving family.” In 1992, Dave established the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, which support programs that make adoption easier and more affordable for families. Dave sought to promote adoption benefits for corporate and government employees, ways to simplify the adoption process, and to make adoption tax credits a reality for all adoptive parents. He took his message to every corner of the country, meeting with Members of Congress, corporate American and the media. Dave and the foundation were instrumental in the creation of the U.S. postage stamp promoting adoption, and an annual television special on CBS called “A Home for the Holidays.” Both of these efforts have taken the issue of adoption into homes across America and prompted thousand of people to inquire about waiting children. Dave had a true passion for waiting children. His family, dear friends, members of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Wendy’s Corporation will continue to work with the United States government and the private sector to fulfill his dream that every child find their forever family. We are pleased that prior to his passing, Dave was aware that he was chosen as a 2001 National Angel in Adoption. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy in adoption continues to make this world a better place for children and now he truly is their Angel in Adoption.
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