Genesee County, MI — Four families in Genesee County were made whole on Tuesday, in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Jennie Barkey, one of this community’s strongest advocates for children.

The Genesee County Probate Court and the Family Division of the 7th Judicial Circuit Court hosted its annual Adoption Day celebration at the historic Genesee County Circuit Courthouse in downtown Flint. Community members gathered for the public event, which featured open adoption hearings that marked the final time retiring Judge Barkey would preside over Adoption Day in Genesee County.

Following the celebration, there was an outpouring of gratitude online, as county residents posted their thoughts and photos affirming the role that Judge Barkey played in their adoption story, going back decades.

“Judge Barkey made my family complete with the adoption process of my son,” one commenter wrote. “She puts her whole heart and soul into these families on the biggest days of their lives. Thank you for still being amazing nine years later.” 

“I can’t wait to sign my baby girl’s papers. She makes our family complete,” another wrote.

The program featured a keynote address from Cole Williams, an adoptive parent and Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Delta Project, whose inspiring and very personal remarks added a meaningful dimension to the celebration. Representatives from the Department of Health and Human Services and several local adoption agencies were also present, emphasizing the partnership and dedication required to support children and families throughout the adoption process.

Numerous elected officials were in attendance for the celebration including Commissioner Dr. Beverly Brown, Chief Judge David Newblatt, Sheriff Chris Swanson and several judges.

The celebration, part of a nationwide effort to highlight the needs of children in foster care, brought needed attention to the 396 Genesee County children currently placed in foster care — 89 of whom are awaiting adoption and a permanent, loving home.

Adoption Day served not only as a time of joy for families finalizing their adoptions but also as a reminder of the ongoing need for adoptive parents in the community. Judge Barkey reflected on the significance of the day, emphasizing that adoption marks the beginning of a new journey and urging families and individuals to consider opening their homes to children who need stability and care.

For further information in the Genesee County area, contact the adoptions department by telephone at 810-424-4470 or by email at adoptionsdepartment@geneseecountymi.gov . There is a variety of materials and resources for anyone interested.