Meet Joyesa, Wally, and Veronica. A family who found each other through One Hope United.

“Five days after she was born, we brought her home,” Wally shared. “We stepped in out of family loyalty and protection. We wanted her to have immediate safety and stability.”

Because the case was overseen by DCFS, One Hope United became the agency assigned to support the family, provide oversight, and walk with them through what would soon become a life-changing journey.

At first, Wally and Veronica took in Joyesa as her legal guardians after being asked by Wally’s brother. Determined to keep her within the family, they needed to become licensed foster parents through One Hope United.

“This formal step showed our commitment to doing everything necessary to ensure she could stay with us permanently,” Wally said. Training, licensing, home visits, they embraced it all with one goal: building a safe, permanent home for Joyesa.

For Wally, adoption was a certainty from day one. Knowing the circumstances his brother was facing, he never questioned what his role would be.

Their commitment only grew stronger as they learned more about Joyesa’s needs, especially following her autism diagnosis. Their days became filled with routines, therapy sessions, and creating a structure that helped her thrive.

Today, Joyesa is an energetic, bright, and deeply curious little girl. She loves ABCs, counting, flashcards, and learning videos: Bob the Train, Miss Rachel, Sesame Street, and anything educational.

“She’s incredibly focused and motivated by praise,” Wally said. “When we celebrate her progress, she lights up. It pushes her to keep learning.”

Routines are sacred in the Ortiz home. Every morning begins with Wally performing all the Sesame Street character voices before getting Joyesa ready for her ABA therapy.

After therapy, it’s time for movement. The swings, the playground slide, climbing, running, and her beloved McDonald’s play area are daily staples.

Family is at the heart of everything for Wally and Veronica. They celebrate birthdays surrounded by extended family, make the rounds on Christmas day, and recently enjoyed Joyesa’s first real Halloween outing. They’re also preparing for her upcoming baptism and have already chosen her godparents.

“We want her to be happy, independent, and secure,” Wally said. “We’ll always advocate for her—making sure she has the best therapies, education, and support. More than anything, we want her to know she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.”

Wally and Veronica offer wisdom for those thinking about fostering or adopting:

Be flexible.
Every journey is different, and things don’t always go as expected.

Be patient and resilient.
Especially if the child has special needs—routine, advocacy, and commitment matter deeply.

Lean on your agency.
“One Hope United was incredible,” Wally said. “Ashley, Kimdra, Karrah, Cordelle—they supported us every step of the way. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That’s what they’re there for.”