Meet The Plucinski Family!

Corin and Mark Plucinski acted upon their long-held dream to adopt when they started caring for foster children eight years ago. Five of those children have become permanent family members through adoption. The Plucinski youngsters are: Leonte, age 18; Zachary, age 11; Nathan, age 9; Zuri, age 7; and Cora, age 4.

The four youngest, all biological siblings, arrived as babies and a preschooler. Zachary and Nathan were ages 3 and almost 1 when they were placed together with the Plucinskis, after nearly a year in a previous foster home. Zuri arrived at age 9 months and Cora at age 8 days. Due to legal complications, it took several years for three of these children’s adoptions to be finalized.   

“As soon as I walked through the door I knew it was home."

Although he is the oldest, son Leonte was the last to join the Plucinski family. He had entered foster care at age 12, and came to Corin and Mark’s home at age 16.  Leonte recalls, “As soon as I walked through the door I knew it was home. It was so bright and calm and I felt like I was already part of the family.”

Two of the Plucinski youngsters face challenging conditions due to their early life experiences. These include PTSD, a speech disorder, cognitive delays, and sensory processing disorder. Corin and Mark have been pleased with post adoption services. They appreciate that their children’s individual therapists also work with the family as a whole.

One benefit of being in a safe, nurturing home environment is the freedom to explore and develop age-appropriate interests and skills. Leonte, Zachary, and Nathan play many sports such as basketball, track, football, and soccer. Zuri and Cora participate in gymnastics, dance, and an acting troupe. Mom observes, “In spite of some of their special needs they are all pretty friendly, funny, imaginative kids.”

“They fight like crazy, love each other deeply, and are extremely protective of each other.” 

The wide span in their children’s ages has not kept the Plucinskis from finding mutually enjoyable family activities. They like to go to the beach, watch movies, and cook together. As residents of Orlando, they make frequent use of their Disney World passes.

Corin and Mark are especially pleased with the closeness in their children’s relationships. Mom writes, “They fight like crazy, love each other deeply, and are extremely protective of each other.” 

Because their children suffered through many delays on the road to permanency, the Plucinskis implore policymakers to ensure that adoption cases adhere to their original timelines.

Friends and faith are important sources of support for the Plucinskis. Corin maintains regular contact with a small group of adoptive moms who have become close. She and Mark agree, “Without our faith in God we would not have persevered through eight years of fostering and all the issues that arise because of the children’s past trauma.”

Several Plucinski youngsters wish to share what being adopted has meant to them:

Leonte: “I have a family that cares about me and understands what I have been through.”

Zach: “I can have a normal life and be loved.” 

Zuri:  “I finally get a nice house and I get to be with my siblings forever.”