A teenage adoptee wanted a place where adoptees his age could gather, have fun, and build community. After talking to Post Adoption Director at Amara, Angela Tucker, they began the S.T.A.R. (Strong, tough, and resilient) mentorship group in 2016. This group is available in the Greater Seattle area as well as Pierce county. All adoptees are encouraged to participate in this program for a year with the hope that during the year the relationships built will be lifelong.  

The unique aspect of the S.T.A.R. program is that it not only provides a sense of community and belonging for younger adoptees, but it also has this value for the adults who participate as mentors. Also, this program provides adoptees of all ages come together to normalize them being adopted. Instead of feeling like the only adoptee in the room, all the participants are adoptees which is an experience adoptees rarely feel.