Kinzler Close-Up is our way of shining a spotlight on the amazing things our employee-owners are doing outside of work. This month we’re featuring Mark Eichinger, Sales Manager at the Kinzler Construction Services in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Mark and his wife always had a heart for fostering, but their family story took a beautiful turn when they adopted three siblings. “We had always considered adding to our family if the right opportunity presented itself,” Mark shared. That opportunity came when the siblings they fostered were set for adoption. “It just felt right,” he said.
As a proud father of seven, Mark’s household is a lively blend of biological and adopted children, ranging from elementary school to adulthood. While their three oldest biological children are navigating life as young adults, their youngest biological child is finishing high school, and their three adopted children are in 3rd, 6th, and 8thgrade. Life in their busy home is a balancing act of school runs and youth activities, but Mark wouldn’t have it any other way. “Seeing them let go of their fears and completely embrace their new family is pretty special,” he reflected.
For Mark and his wife, the adoption process was straightforward because of their role as foster parents which helped make the adoption process somewhat easier. Soon they were able to embrace the children as their own. The journey through adoption has also taught Mark invaluable lessons about patience and understanding. “It has taught me to be more patient with others dealing with things in their life that I can’t relate to,” he explained.
When asked what advice he would give to someone considering adoption his response was clear: “Years ago, I was asked if I could love an adoptive child like my own and it was an easy answer. YES!!! If it’s not an easy answer, then you should wait until it is. In most cases, these kids have been through a lot of things that even some adults would have a hard time coping with. They need a lot of structure, discipline, and most of all LOVE.”
November is National Adoption Month, and Mark’s story is a heartfelt reminder of the transformative power of love and family, proving that the relationships we choose to build can be just as meaningful as those we’re born into.
