Foster Dad

Steve Abarta and his wife Mariana have been foster parents for more than 30 years in Simi Valley, California. They have been married for over 50 years!

Steve was a bit reluctant to become a foster parent in the early stages of their journey. But he discovered that, after seeing the life-changing outcomes for the children and their families, he has enthusiastically embraced their atypical lifestyle. They have cared for over 110 infants between birth and age 2.

More than three decades of being a Foster Dad has given Steve a long history of joys, struggles and insights that is a must read for any man who may be considering taking on the challenge of caring for children in the foster care system. (Oh, yeah, it will also be good for some women, too!)

Steve has been a licensed amateur radio operator (K6TLM) since his teenage years and is active in his local Auxiliary (Emergency) Communications Service.

Steve has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resources Management. He served over 40 years in HR Management with some high-profile companies in the Los Angeles area, such as Uniroyal Tire Company, Frito Lay, and Hitachi. Now retired from the corporate world, he is owner of Ovation Media Services, which specializes in the creation of promotional videos for Christian non-profit organizations.

He and Mariana have three biological children and one adopted daughter, along with 8 grandchildren.