Today in Hawai'i, and across the nation, something magical is happening. Thousands of kids in foster care are seeing their dream of having a "forever family" come true.

Today is National Adoption Day, which for the last eight years has brought together family court judges, attorneys, adoption advocates and child welfare agencies to find permanent, loving homes for children in foster care.

The national effort is sponsored by a coalition that includes The Alliance for Children's Rights, the Casey Family Services and others.

In Hawai'i a special gathering is planned today at the Family Court Building to finalize adoptions for 16 foster children — and to raise awareness of the need to find homes for the dozens of others.

Family Court District Judge Bode Uale is one of six judges volunteering time today to finalize the adoptions. He has the right perspective: "Any opportunity that we, as judges, can have to assist in finalizing adoptions of our foster children to put them into permanent, loving homes is a priceless opportunity."

So if you have a big heart, and a loving home, consider making a difference in the life of child in foster care.