As seen on KTLA’s “CARES” segment, Dawn Holiski and Celeste Bazan captured our hearts. At the center of it all? A family who turned an uncertain journey into an extraordinary bond built on trust, laughter, and unconditional love.
“We’re a two-mom family living in Los Angeles, and we’re proud parents to a bright, creative, and resilient teen daughter,” they shared. “Our family is deeply rooted in love, laughter, and a shared commitment to showing up for each other—every single day.”
Whether they’re throwing kitchen dance parties, watching classic movies, or mastering their seemingly endless Skip-Bo rivalry, this family’s strength comes from the way they navigate life—together. Continue reading to learn more about their journey in their interview with All For Kids.
How did you find All For Kids and why did you choose to foster or foster-adopt through this agency?
From day one, we felt genuinely supported—not just as people hoping to become parents, but as a family with our own unique path. Their structure gave us something to hold onto, but they never lost sight of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with fostering and adopting. We never felt like just another case file. We were treated as partners, not passengers, in something that mattered deeply to all of us—giving a child a safe, loving home. What really stuck with us was the team’s honesty, kindness, and deep respect. They didn’t just help us become parents on paper. They helped us grow into that role in every way that counts.
All For Kids works with many families in the LGBTQ+ community, so we never felt alone. From parent panels to support groups to the mentoring program, we were surrounded by people who understood our experience and made us feel seen. Hearing other LGBTQ+ parents share their journeys gave us both reassurance and inspiration. It reminded us that while our path might look different, it’s no less valid or meaningful.
Having that kind of representation wasn’t just comforting—it was empowering. It created a sense of belonging and community that carried us through the tough moments. We didn’t have to explain ourselves or our family; we were simply accepted. That kind of unconditional support made all the difference.
If you could describe your experience with All For Kids in one word – what would that word be?
Community.
What was the process of becoming a resource parent and how long did it take?
The process was far from simple. It’s a deeply personal journey shaped by a system that’s anything but predictable. So much of it is out of your hands, and that can be overwhelming. But All For Kids walked with us every step of the way, helping us find steady ground in the middle of all that uncertainty.
How has being a resource parent changed your life?
Going through this experience changed everything for our family. It even led to Dawn shifting careers—after over 20 years in live theatre, she became a therapist to support other families like hers. Today, she works with foster and adoptive parents, helping them build strong, loving connections with their kids. She focuses on things like strengthening attachment, supporting kids as they figure out who they are, and giving parents real tools to help their children feel safe, calm, and connected—even during tough moments.
How do you celebrate your family’s unique story with your child?
The way we celebrate our family’s unique story has evolved over the years. In the beginning, it was about building a shared language—making sure our daughter understood her own story and felt empowered to share as much or as little of it as she wanted. We created our own traditions, like celebrating Adoption Day around Thanksgiving by baking an apple pie together. Since she arrived on Halloween, that holiday became extra special—we went all out every year.
Now that she’s a teenager, she’s less interested in those traditions, and honestly, that’s just part of growing up. We respect her independence and her agency. Celebrating our family now looks more like giving her space to define what matters to her, while still holding space for our shared history in quieter, more personal ways.
What advice would you offer to other LGBTQ+ individuals or couples considering fostering or foster-to-adopt?
Parenting through foster care and adoption can look really different from what most people expect. Kids often come into our lives with complicated stories, and they need care that’s gentle, flexible, and deeply understanding. That’s why it’s so important to build a community of support—from other adoptive and foster families to therapists who truly get what this journey is about. Families like ours may also face unique challenges, whether it’s being part of the LGBTQ+ community or raising children across racial and cultural lines. Having people who understand those layers can make a world of difference.
Every child deserves to feel seen and valued, not just within their family but out in the world. And every parent deserves support in making that happen. Whether you’re just starting this path or have been on it for a while, you’re not alone. There’s a whole community out there that understands—and having that kind of support can be life-changing.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for your family’s future and the broader LGBTQ+ adoption community?
Looking ahead, we hope our family continues to grow in love, trust, and connection—and that our child always feels secure in who she is and where she belongs. We also hope that the broader LGBTQ+ adoption community gains more visibility, understanding, and protection.
It’s not just about being accepted—it’s about being actively supported. We need allies, extended families, professionals, and community members who are willing to speak up, stand with us, and help ensure that LGBTQ+ families are treated with the dignity and respect we all deserve. That includes advocating for policies that protect our rights, challenging stereotypes, and creating spaces where all kinds of families feel safe and welcome.
The more we normalize and celebrate diverse families, the more our kids will grow up knowing that love—not labels—defines what makes a family.
Watch the Holiski/Bazan family and Ron Brown, Ph.D., President & CEO at All For Kids segment on KTLA news HERE KTLA Cares Segment- April 2025