Jeff Edwards of Moab has been named one of 2010’s “Foster/Adoptive Dads of the Year.” The awards were presented by the Utah Foster Care Foundation (UFCF), a statewide group that works to educate and nurture families to help meet the needs of children who are in foster care. The award recipients were chosen based on nominations from friends, family, and caseworkers, according to a news release.

Edwards and his wife Jamey decided to become foster parents the same day they found out Jamey was pregnant, according to the news release.

“The Utah Division of Child and Family Services contacted the Edwards, saying they had a 5-year-old child in need of a home,” officials with the local office of UFCF said. “Edwards did not hesitate; he was ready and willing to take care of a newborn and welcome their son into their foster home with open arms.

“Because their son had a tough childhood, Edwards makes sure he gives his son plenty of father and son experiences. They go four-wheeling, hunting, and just hang out together. His son looks at him every night and says, ‘I love you dad and I’m glad we found each other.’”

“These foster/adoptive dads believe every child living in Utah needs a safe, permanent, loving family to sustain them,” said Nikki MacKay, director of retention at the Utah Foster Care Foundation. “Like all children, kids in foster care benefit tremendously from the active involvement of a father in their lives.”

For more information about UFCF or becoming a foster or adoptive family, contact Geri Swift, the UFCF representative in Moab, at geri.swift@utahfostercare.org, or call 259-3345.

Kelly Peterson, Utah Foster Care Foundation CEO (left) poses with Jeff Edwards and Brooke Walker of KSL-TV following a recent ceremony honoring Edwards and others statewide who were named foster/adoptive dads of the year. Photo courtesy of UFCF