Jan Crossen, B.S., M.S.A.
Jan's interest in the welfare of children began
years ago when she was a high school teacher and coach in the suburbs of
Pittsburgh, PA. Jan was a mentor for many of her student athletes, and
maintains contact with several of them even today.
For years, Jan has sponsored children living in developing countries around the
world. Recently, she was asked to serve as a court appointed surrogate
parent for two young siblings living in foster care in Arizona.
At the conclusion of a court hearing, The Honorable Judge said to Jan, "On
behalf of the State of Arizona and Pima County, I want to thank you, Ms. Crossen,
for your commitment to the welfare of these two children. I wish that all
of our surrogate parents and Court Appointed Child Advocates were as dedicated
and involved with the children as you have been."
Jan has always dreamed of creating her family through adoption. Her vision
became a reality in 1999 when she adopted her son, Joshua. The books in
the 9 Lives trilogy were inspired by their lives together.