Sioux Falls, SD —
Senator John Thune today announced his nomination of Donna and Bob Burke of Brookings for the 2009 Angels in Adoption Award, which is presented by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption. Since 1984, the Burkes have cared for over 30 children as foster parents in addition to raising two biological and two adopted children.
"Bob and Donna have given many young people the gift of a safe, stable home," said Thune. "They have helped children overcome great difficulties and are true examples of what it means to serve others. Their story is an inspiration to me, as I hope it can be to people across South Dakota."
Donna Burke has served as a Foster/Adoption Parent Trainer in partnership with the Brookings Department of Social Services. Bob Burke is a retired professor of psychology at South Dakota State University. He has lectured about child abuse at other institutions, and he has served on the Brookings Area Child Protection team.
In 15 years as foster parents, the Burkes cared for over 30 children, including babies waiting for adoption placement and children in need of a safe environment and family healing. Their two adopted children, Brandi and Darrin, were originally cared for as foster children.
Senator Thune is a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption. The Burkes, along with Angels in Adoption nominees from around the country, will be invited to an awards banquet in Washington, DC later this year.
"Bob and Donna have given many young people the gift of a safe, stable home," said Thune. "They have helped children overcome great difficulties and are true examples of what it means to serve others. Their story is an inspiration to me, as I hope it can be to people across South Dakota."
Donna Burke has served as a Foster/Adoption Parent Trainer in partnership with the Brookings Department of Social Services. Bob Burke is a retired professor of psychology at South Dakota State University. He has lectured about child abuse at other institutions, and he has served on the Brookings Area Child Protection team.
In 15 years as foster parents, the Burkes cared for over 30 children, including babies waiting for adoption placement and children in need of a safe environment and family healing. Their two adopted children, Brandi and Darrin, were originally cared for as foster children.
Senator Thune is a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption. The Burkes, along with Angels in Adoption nominees from around the country, will be invited to an awards banquet in Washington, DC later this year.
