A gloriously sunny spring day, scented with the unmistakable fragrance of cotton candy, set the stage for nearly 200 parents and children to enjoy a day of fun and companionship at Sierra Forever Families’ Family Appreciation Picnic on May 4 at Johnson-Springview Park in Rocklin.

The annual picnic helps SFF thank the people who are crucial to fulfilling the agency’s mission of transforming the lives of children in foster care by building and nurturing permanent families. It’s a precious opportunity for SFF families and staff members to mingle in a party atmosphere. And, every May, it is one way we celebrate National Foster Care Month together.

The enthusiastic crowd was a living illustration of the wide diversity of humans that SFF serves. Families in all phases of the foster-adoption process attended. Some were newly certified resource parents excitedly awaiting placement. Others were hopeful that finalization of their adoptions were on the horizon. A number had completed adoptions years ago but still consider themselves firmly part of the SFF community. One family had finalized adoption of three children and not long after returned to be a concurrent planning family for twin infants.

One family of four was unmistakably linked by their matching Hawaiian-print outfits. A recently adopted 6-year-old proudly wore a T-shirt with her new family name. Others brought along extended family and friends—the natural supports who are so important to the success of resource families–to enjoy the day.

SFF owes the Kiwanis Clubs of Auburn and Lincoln Foothills a deep debt of gratitude for serving up delicious hot dogs—meat and vegan—with all the trimmings along with an endless supply of such treats as snow cones, cotton candy and popcorn. Not one but two bounce houses from Bouncey House Rentals were constantly in business, and Flix in Motion operated a photo booth. Lucky raffle winners went home with gift baskets stuffed with board games, Legos and other intriguing prizes.

We can’t wait for next year!