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WHEN TOMORROW ARRIVES

From Adoptee to Donor

Susan Carney Lynch is a mom, Senior Counsel at the
U.S. Department of Justice, an Adjunct Professor of law at
George Washington University Law School, and an adoptee of
Children’s Friend. Susan always knew she was adopted. It’s
something her parents were open with her about.

“My parents wanted me to know I was loved and supported; I was
chosen,” said Susan. “That gave me the foundation to accomplish all
that I have today. I am so grateful to them.”

Susan reconnected with the organization in 2022 after deciding to learn more about her adoption and her birth
mother. Children’s Friend case managers spent time with Susan, answering questions about her adoption and
sharing information that was recorded in her file. Susan’s birth mother was 17 years old when she gave birth to
Susan in 1966.

“ The staff at Children’s Friend who prepared and presented my file were

amazing. They really made a difference in my life as I know it.”

In December 2022, Children’s Friend was able to select a limited number of friends and supporters to carry a torch
at the special holiday WaterFire lighting, sponsored by Mutual of America. Pam Verklan, Chief of Philanthropy,
knew this was a special opportunity to highlight a very special person.

“Children’s Friend has thrived since 1834 because of donors like Susan. Her enthusiasm and passion for our work
and organization can be felt immediately when you are in her presence,” said Pam.
As a donor, Susan’s support for Children’s Friend is personal, but the joy and beauty that draws her in is universal.
Susan supports the organization through annual contributions at its luncheon, as a member of the Harriet Ware
Society and the luncheon committee, and she ran the 2022 Newport Marathon and 2023 Boston Marathon,
selecting Children’s Friend as her charity of choice.

Donors like Susan find unique and inspiring ways to help Children’s Friend meet the ongoing and growing needs
of the children we serve. Children’s Friend can continue to deliver support and intervention when a young child or
family most needs it because of donor investment. Together, we can break cycles of neglect and abuse by ensuring
all Rhode Island’s children have strong, caring foundations like the one that made Susan’s potential possible.

19 TOGETHER FOR TOMORROW