Sometimes a job is a job. Sometimes it’s a calling.

Russ Funk already had a 22-year career in the airline industry. But his passion has always been child welfare and social justice. He and his wife Pam are adoptive parents and former foster parents, so his current role as Director of Community Engagement and HCBS (Home and Community Based Services) for Aid to Adoption of Special Kids (AASK) is a perfect match.

Over the past 18 years Russ has led the effort to recruit new foster parents, adoptive families and volunteer youth mentors for AASK. The organization provides adoptive families with ongoing support from the time of inquiry until the child is settled in their forever home, supporting parents so they’re never left to navigate questions and challenges alone.

AASK foster care programs provide help for a range of circumstances, including families caring for a relative’s child, children with complex medical needs, those with developmental disabilities, children with Hispanic heritage, and the culturally-specific needs of children placed in the care of American Indian tribal authorities.

Click here to learn more about AASK: https://www.aask-az.org/

Original air date: July 25, 2024.