Renee and Jonathan Omoyeni knew in their hearts that they wanted to make a difference in a foster youth's life, but they did not know where to start. After hours of online research, they discovered Kidsave and felt strongly that welcoming an older child into their lives was the best path forward. With eager hearts and a sense of excitement, they attended their first Kidsave event in January 2023. These events allow adults to meet and interact with older youth in foster care in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. It was there, among the crowd, that they met Veronica. From that moment on, the Omoyenis sensed something special about her and felt drawn to get to know her better.
While Veronica was clear from the beginning that she was not interested in being adopted, this did not deter the Omoyenis. They remained committed to forming a relationship and becoming a support system for her. At Kidsave, a child’s voice is always the priority, and her wishes were fully respected. Not wanting to be adopted does not mean not wanting a connection. Veronica still wanted a connection – for her, the Omoyenis represent something just as important as family: a trusted support system rooted in care and commitment.
Quiet and reserved, Veronica needed time to feel comfortable and open up to the Omoyenis, but they were patient. As Renee shared, “This felt like the perfect time for us to make an impact where she could truly see and know that she would always have a safe space with us.”
Over time, the Omoyenis built a deep and meaningful relationship with Veronica, supporting her both academically and spiritually. With their encouragement, Veronica attended a summer engineering camp at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she experienced college dorm life, met new people, and explored new possibilities. During that experience, she called them often for guidance, encouragement, and help navigating challenges. Whenever she needed support, they were a steady presence she could rely on. Through that experience, she discovered a passion for science and is now planning to become a meteorologist.
The Omoyenis often found themselves wondering how Veronica truly felt. She isn’t someone who often openly displays her emotions, so when they supported her or helped her through life, her reactions were subtle and not easily visible. Renee shared, “I may think in my mind that it wasn’t meaningful to her but then hearing something afterwards, we’ll find out that it was meaningful, she just expresses emotions differently.”
Today, the impact the Omoyenis have had on Veronica’s life is undeniable. She has more confidence in herself and is chasing her dreams with the Omoyenis cheering her on. As for Renee and Jonathan, they have opened their hearts and have grown a whole new appreciation for parents and foster parents alike. Renee and Jonathan’s relationship with Veronica have been truly life-changing, grounded in love, support, and commitment, making them a family in every sense of the word.
