For the past 13 years, Laura and John Preble have opened their hearts and home to children in need—welcoming 35 placements through their foster care journey. What began as a desire to give back has grown into a calling defined by compassion, resilience, and deep belief in the power of family

“Our foster journey was motivated by a desire to give back,” Laura shared. “We’ve been so blessed in life, and fostering felt like a way to share those blessings with others.

The Prebles were first inspired by close friends who had fostered and adopted children for many years. Watching their friends’ journey planted a seed in their hearts—one that has since flourished through years of selfless care and life-changing connections.

While every placement is unique, one thing has remained constant in the Prebles’ home: a commitment to doing what’s best for each child, even when it means saying goodbye.

“Ultimately, families belong together,” John said. “If parents are willing to put their child’s needs first, reunification should happen. The natural bond of a biological family—shared heritage, beliefs, and support—is something that can’t always be replicated in other settings.”

Among their many stories, one reunification stands out—a sibling group of three that captured their hearts.

The Prebles first welcomed the youngest sibling, a one-year-old, while his older siblings were in a different placement. Over time, as visits continued, the siblings were reunited in the Prebles’ home—and so began a new chapter for the entire family

“Their mother worked so hard,” Laura recalled. “She went above and beyond to get her kids back. We developed a relationship with her and stayed in touch throughout the process.”

When the children were finally reunited with their mother, it was a moment of joy for everyone involved. Five years later, that bond still remains.

“We still keep in touch—attend birthday parties, follow each other on social media. The family is thriving, and we’re so proud of them.”

Laura and John have always approached fostering with the mindset of temporary care with permanent impact. They committed early on not to adopt—no matter how hard it might be—so that their personal hopes would never conflict with a child’s opportunity to return home

“Supporting reunification has always come naturally to us. We chose fostering, not adopting, because we wanted to help families heal.”

Attend the visits. Get to know the parents. Encourage visits outside the CPS office—in restaurants, parks, play spaces—where everyone can connect in a real way.”

Through 13 years, 35 children, and countless emotional moments, Laura and John Preble have shown what it truly means to walk alongside families—with open hearts, open arms, and a deep belief that every child deserves the freedom to thrive.