VIERA, Fla. — November is National Adoption Awareness Month and there were smiles and tears of joy Monday as children officially became members of new families.

Ten families made 12 children their own during the Brevard Family Partnership’s Celebration of Adoption event at the Space Coast Stadium in Viera.

For one new mother, the wait is finally over. Chekinaa Turner's family is about to grow by one with the addition of 2-year-old Josiah.

“It means a new birth, a new day for me and my son," said Turner. "I’m excited. I’ve been working in this field for forever and a day.”

Turner is a long-time case manager who has helped countless families adopt, but now she will be called mom.

She said it's a new beginning for Josiah, as well as all the other children set to be loved in a family of their own.

"It's love that's all it is. An amazing day," said Turner.

She made the adoption official in front of a judge at the event, swearing to take care of Josiah until he is 18.

"It's official," said Turner. "It is indeed. I love it, I'm happy."

Of the nearly 4,000 adoptions in Florida in the 2021-2022 year, 157 were coordinated through the Brevard Family Partnership.

"It's wonderful to celebrate something with the community for the community," said the adoption agency's CEO Phil Scarpelli.

Brevard Family Partnership not only assists in adoption, but also foster care.

The organization also continually looks for donations and volunteers to further its mission.