William and Margurite Addison

Angels in Adoption 2005 - Maryland

Selected by Representative Dutch Ruppersberger

William and Margurite Addison are a wonderful couple who have provided a permanent home for five children who were part of the Maryland State foster care system. The Addisons first formally adopted their nephew Ralph from foster care in 1998. However, that was only the first of what ultimately became five adoptions. In 1999, Malik (now age 9) was adopted, Kevin (now age 8) was adopted in 2000, Warren (now age 6) was adopted in 2003, and Bryleigh (now age 3) was adopted in 2004. Except for Ralph, each of the children came to the Addison home via the foster care system. Mr. Addison is an educator and administrator for the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents, as well as a support group coordinator at the House of Ruth (a shelter for victims of domestic violence). Mrs. Addison is a former truant officer for the Baltimore City Public School system. Mrs. Addison has also been active in developing support groups for families that have adopted through the Baltimore City Department of Social Services. The Addisons are clearly committed to helping make a difference in the lives of the children they have adopted, as well as a difference in the world around them.