Defining Permanency in Foster Care: The Promise of a Stable Future through Adoption in Illinois

Permanency is more than just a legal outcome in the foster care system—it is the promise of long-term stability, security, and a nurturing environment where children can heal and thrive. In Illinois, when a child is not able to return to his or her family or origin, permanency is most often achieved through adoption, which transforms the lives of vulnerable children by providing them with a forever home and the continuity of care that is essential for healthy development.

According to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) 2021 Annual Report, timely and successful adoption placements have been linked to significant improvements in emotional well-being and educational outcomes for foster youth. (cite_dcfs_2021) These statistics underscore the critical nature of permanency, as research consistently shows that children who secure a permanent family tend to have higher academic performance and better mental health compared to those who remain in prolonged foster care. Additionally, the National Foster Care Adoption Statistics (2020) indicate that streamlined adoption processes are instrumental in reducing placement disruptions and building strong family bonds. (cite_NFCA_2020)

The human element of permanency is powerfully captured in the words of leaders in the field. As highlighted by The Chicago Tribune, permanency is “the ultimate goal in foster care, providing children with a sense of belonging and the stability they need to thrive.” (cite_ChicagoTribune2023)  In a similar sentiment, Time magazine noted that “adoption from foster care not only gives children a permanent family but also a renewed sense of hope for the future.” (cite_Time2022)  These reflections from respected news sources emphasize that permanency is about building a foundation of trust and continuity that can counterbalance the trauma of past instability.

In Illinois, every effort to expedite and enhance the adoption process contributes to this vision of permanency. By matching children with adoptive families that are committed to providing a stable, loving environment, the state is investing in the future of its most vulnerable citizens. The combination of data-driven policies, rigorous support systems, and the heartfelt advocacy of community leaders is shaping a foster care system where permanency is not an elusive ideal but a tangible reality for many children.

Dr. Susan A. McConnell
Executive Director, Let It Be Us
susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org

Dr. Susan A. McConnell, DSW, MBA

Dr. Susan A. McConnell is the Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us, an Illinois licensed child welfare agency with the mission of providing collaborative, innovative solutions of effective recruitment and placement within Illinois foster care and adoption. Susan has an MBA from DePaul University and a Doctorate Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, where her work focused on permanency within child welfare.  She is the Chair of the Permanency Committee of the Illinois Statewide Foster Care Advisory Council, appointed by the Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in 2017. She is also an adoptive parent with over 30 years of open adoption experience. She can be reached at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org.

Sources and References: 

cite_dcfs_2021 Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, 2021 Annual Report.
cite_NFCA_2020 National Foster Care Adoption Statistics, 2020 Report.
cite_ChicagoTribune2023 The Chicago Tribune, 2023 Feature on Foster Care Permanency.
cite_Time2022 Time Magazine, 2022 Article on Adoption and Hope.