November 24, 2025
By County Spokesperson Eddie VanStine
Bath, NY —Steuben County came together in a touching and joyous celebration to honor Adoption Awareness Month, shining a light on the incredible families who open their hearts and homes to children in need of forever families.
The Conference Center at the Steuben County Annex in Bath was filled with warmth and laughter as adoptive families, children, and staff gathered for a meaningful day of reflection and celebration. Earlier in the morning, Honorable Judge Chauncey Watches officiated formal adoption proceedings, making official some of the most important moments in the lives of these children and families.
A centerpiece of the event was a moving address by Kathryn Muller, Commissioner of the Steuben County Department of Social Services. “Over the past 25 years, together, we have celebrated 381 adoptions,” said Commissioner Muller, “Every adoption is a unique journey and is a testament to the powerful profound bond that brings parents and children together.”
After the ceremony, participants shared in a celebratory luncheon at the Annex, where families, social services staff, and community supporters came together in fellowship, sharing stories, laughter, and the promise of always being there for one another.
Adding to the significance of the event earlier this month, Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick of the Steuben County Legislature presented a proclamation declaring November Adoption Awareness Month in Steuben County — a recognition of the dedication and selflessness of those who choose adoption.
Commissioner Muller added, “Adoptive parents are the unsung heroes who provide not just shelter and sustenance but a foundation of love, support, and understanding. Adoptive parents are creating a haven where children can grow, thrive and blossom into the best versions of themselves.”
Steuben County is proud to stand with these families, celebrating the journey of adoption and reaffirming our commitment to building loving, stable, and nurturing homes for all children.
About Steuben County DSS:
The Steuben County Department of Social Services works to ensure the safety, well-being, and permanency of children and families through a wide range of programs, including foster care and adoption services.
(Pictured below: Honorable Judge Chauncey Watches with the adopting families as he officiates today’s adoption proceedings.)
Bath, NY — (November 21, 2025) Steuben County came together in a touching and joyous celebration to honor Adoption Awareness Month, shining a light on the incredible families who open their hearts and homes to children in need of forever families.
The Conference Center at the Steuben County Annex in Bath was filled with warmth and laughter as adoptive families, children, and staff gathered for a meaningful day of reflection and celebration. Earlier in the morning, Honorable Judge Chauncey Watches officiated formal adoption proceedings, making official some of the most important moments in the lives of these children and families.
A centerpiece of the event was a moving address by Kathryn Muller, Commissioner of the Steuben County Department of Social Services. “Over the past 25 years, together, we have celebrated 381 adoptions,” said Commissioner Muller, “Every adoption is a unique journey and is a testament to the powerful profound bond that brings parents and children together.”
After the ceremony, participants shared in a celebratory luncheon at the Annex, where families, social services staff, and community supporters came together in fellowship, sharing stories, laughter, and the promise of always being there for one another.
Adding to the significance of the event earlier this month, Chair Kelly Fitzpatrick of the Steuben County Legislature presented a proclamation declaring November Adoption Awareness Month in Steuben County — a recognition of the dedication and selflessness of those who choose adoption.
Commissioner Muller added, “Adoptive parents are the unsung heroes who provide not just shelter and sustenance but a foundation of love, support, and understanding. Adoptive parents are creating a haven where children can grow, thrive and blossom into the best versions of themselves.”
Steuben County is proud to stand with these families, celebrating the journey of adoption and reaffirming our commitment to building loving, stable, and nurturing homes for all children.
About Steuben County DSS:
The Steuben County Department of Social Services works to ensure the safety, well-being, and permanency of children and families through a wide range of programs, including foster care and adoption services.
(Pictured below: Honorable Judge Chauncey Watches with the adopting families as he officiates today’s adoption proceedings.
