Networking group for adopting families welcomes new members

The Buddy Family Network helps families with adopted children cope by providing resources and a monthly meeting for discussion. The group formed in June, and coordinator Kathy Savell said it is inviting families in Tomball and Magnolia to join.

Sponsored by the DePelchin Children's Center, the support and networking group meets at the Champion's Christian Counseling Center, 333 North Cherry St., Tomball, the last Thursday of every month.

"We give each other support, listen to each other and help one another find resources," Savell said.

Adopted children are more likely to encounter emotional and behavioral disorders because of early parental detachment, she said, as well as switching from multiple foster homes before adoption. As a mother of a 10-year-old adopted daughter, Savell said her daughter lives with ADD and other developmental delays.

Talking about what her family was going through in a group atmosphere provides a different type of therapy than given by a professional, she said.

"There is no right or wrong answer for every child," Savell said. "[Some therapists] just don't understand, and you can't, unless you have been in the situation yourself."

Along with discussion, she said the group also occasionally brings medical professionals and other relevant speakers to participate in the meetings and provide additional information and support.

The Buddy Family Network meets from 6:30–8 p.m. Contact Kathy Savell for more information at

[email protected] or call 832-493-3404.