Carter had approximately $28,000 saved from years of carpentry. Instead of keeping it for emergencies, he purchased five car seats, installed additional smoke detectors, improved his home’s…

Inside the courtroom, the state’s attorney explained why Carter’s application concerned officials. He had no spouse, no co-guardian, and no previous experience raising children. Three foster homes…

The judge wanted more than promises. He asked Carter why a young, single carpenter would sacrifice his savings and independence for five unrelated children. Carter looked toward…

The courtroom became completely silent. Carter explained that he understood the children’s fear because he had experienced the same separation. He had spent adulthood searching for his…

The senior caseworker, Beverly, had initially questioned Carter’s ability to manage five children. However, she had observed their interactions during the previous weeks. She had seen them…