A Nebraska senator pays special tribute to a local family that's making a difference, one adoption at a time.
Senator Mike Johanns announced his nomination of Dave and Laura Whelchel of Harrisburg as "2012 Angels in Adoption".
Twelve years ago, the couple started as foster parents, and adopted Reuben, who is now a senior at Banner County High School.
The family then adopted more of Reuben's brothers and sisters:13-year-old Arielle,12-year-old Thomas, 11-year-old Josie, and the family is hoping to finalize the adoption of one year old Kayleigh by October.
The Whelchel's say there are so many kids in need of a "forever" home, and the family did whatever they could do to do their part.
"When they were open for adoption- once they are in your house and part of your family for a short amount of time, you can't help but love them and want to keep them," explains Laura Whelchel. "So that's what kind of started it, we didn't get into this to adopt, but you just fall in love."
The Whelchel's also have two biological children both in their twenties.
