Communities Connected for Kids is proud to recognize the Payne Family as the latest recipients of the Topaz GEM – Going the Extra Mile – Award, which honors foster parents who demonstrate extraordinary dedication, compassion, and commitment to the children in their care.
The Payne family has provided a loving and nurturing home to many children over the years, and their impact continues to shine—especially in the lives of two children who were in their care for more than two years.
“Throughout the placement, the Payne family not only advocated fiercely for the girls but also built a strong, respectful partnership with the girls’ biological family,” said Alexis Armstead, a licensing and placement specialist with CCKids’ recruitment provider 4Kids of the Treasure Coast. “They supported the successful transition to the girls’ grandparents’ home, showing unwavering love every step of the way.”
The Payne Family remains actively involved in the girls’ lives—babysitting for the grandparents and offering support whenever needed. Their commitment to long-term connection is a testament to the deep, authentic bonds they form with every child who enters their home.
“We were honored to be a part of our girls’ story and humbled that their family continues to allow us to be a part of that story,” said Ms. Payne. “We hope our experience can inspire others to get involved in this amazing journey called foster care.”
This kind of unwavering dedication to fostering not only meets the basic needs of children—it enriches their lives with dignity, joy, and genuine care.
The Paynes were recognized with a personal phone call from CEO Carol Deloach, a plaque and a gift card.
Communities Connected for Kids is the Lead Community Based Care Agency, overseeing and coordinating foster care, adoptions and protective services in Okeechobee and the Treasure Coast. For more information, visit us at http://www.cckids.net.
