Embracing the Unexpected: The Senters Family's Extraordinary Journey

Ryan and Sara Senters, a couple from Phoenix, Arizona, have an unorthodox but inspiring family story. At the young age of 40, they found themselves not just parents, but grandparents as well. Their path to creating a family has been anything but conventional, as they have fostered and adopted a total of 11 children, including their two biological kids. This remarkable family's tale is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

Fostering Compassion, Adopting Dreams

Finding Fulfillment in Family

Ryan and Sara Senters have always known that they wanted to make a difference in the lives of children. Even when they were still in college, they made the decision to become foster parents, driven by a desire to help those in need. Their journey began when they welcomed their first foster child, Gavin, into their home. As Gavin's story unfolded, the Senters family grew, both in size and in the depth of their commitment.

Expanding Horizons, Embracing Change

The Senters' family continued to grow, with the addition of their biological children, Brooklyn and Maddox, as well as the adoption of their son, Drew. Just when they thought they had their hands full, they unexpectedly welcomed another foster child, Pima, into their lives. Pima's decision to be officially adopted by the Senters family at the age of 16 further cemented their bond.

A Sibling Sanctuary

The Senters' commitment to fostering and adoption reached new heights when they connected with a sibling group of five children. Recognizing the importance of keeping these siblings together, the Senters made the bold decision to expand their family by five. This decision was not an easy one, as it required significant adjustments to their living situation and daily routines. However, with the unwavering support of their children, the Senters embraced the challenge, sold their home, and welcomed the siblings into their family.

The Ohana Ethos

The Senters family has adopted the concept of 'ohana,' or 'family,' from Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" as one of their core values. This philosophy of family unity and togetherness has been a guiding principle for the Senters, who firmly believe that no child should be left behind or forgotten. This belief extends beyond their own household, as the Senters have even named their social services agency 'Ohana,' further demonstrating their commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Navigating the Challenges

Growing a family of this magnitude is not without its challenges, and the Senters have faced their fair share of ups and downs. From adjusting to new family dynamics to managing the logistical complexities of daily life, the Senters have proven their resilience time and time again. They have developed strategic routines and procedures to streamline their household, and they have also implemented tech-free Sundays to foster connection and reset.

A Legacy of Love

The Senters family's story is a testament to the power of love, compassion, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Their unwavering commitment to providing a loving home for children in need is truly inspiring. As Ryan Senters eloquently states, "Kids don't need a perfect parent. They need a loving adult that shows up consistently and just meets them where they're at and loves them. That's a powerful thing." The Senters' legacy of love and family is one that will continue to touch the lives of generations to come.