Ryan and Amara Kyes

Angels in Adoption 2005 - Michigan

Selected by Representative Vernon Ehlers

Although married only 4 years and both just in their 20s, Ryan and Amara Kyes have recently adopted four teenage sisters, Rachelle, age 16, Phalesha, 14, Noelle, 12, and Vonda, 10, and given these girls the opportunity for a creative and fulfilling life in a nurturing, stable environment. Ryan, 28, and Amara, 25, both were adoptees themselves. The couple met in high school and they were married in 2001. They characterize their relationship as being each other's "bests friend" and this is visible to anyone that comes into contact with them. They Kyes met Phalesha through the Big Brother/Big Sister program and participated with her in the program for 3 years. She was in their wedding; and unbeknownst to them, she would become their adoptive daughter a few years later! When the young girl and her siblings needed to be placed in a foster home, the Kyes welcomed the four girls with open arms. The girls come from histories of abuse. Ryan and Amara have worked well with the YWCA, schools, private counselors, and all agency employees to advocate and support all four of their now adopted children. They have supported the girls in sports and extracurricular activities. Ryan is the coach for the girls' basketball teams and has coached at school and the YMCA for 10 years. Amara also was involved with the Drug Education for Youth program for 3 years. The Kyes have demonstrated and taught self-responsibility and independence to their children. They have shown unconditional love and attention to children who had fear of trust and help. The Kyes are a young, fun family that uses a lot of humor and laughter in their parenting and family life. A recent family vacation to Colorado in their motor home "was a lot of of fun," said one of their daughters. "We got to spend time with new family members," Family members are new to these girls who are just learning what family life is all about. When asked how she felt about her parents receiving this award, Phalesha said, "It is really cool because they never got anything for taking my sisters and me in. They are finally getting the recognition they deserve." In December 2004, another daughter was born into Amara and Ryan's family. They are a special coupl and dedicated parents to their daughters.
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