“I always wanted to be a Dad and my son is the most important person in my life. He is the one who convinced me to speak before you and tell you the impact that Adoptions Together has made on our lives.” said Marc Blumenstein. He recounted the story of the adoption of his son Zachery — now a college student studying in Europe — as photos were displayed before the sell-out crowd at the “Taste in Potomac” Saturday evening.

The event, held at the Bolger Center in Potomac, featured an assortment of food from more than 30 area restaurants. Samplings included passed appetizers as well as lamb chops from Sugo Cicchetti, Greek Salad from Tally Ho, grilled shrimp from Not Your Average Joe’s Mussels from The Grilled Oyster Company, Key Lime Pie from The Market at River Falls and Ahi tuna and butterscotch pudding from the Summer House.

While the crowd mixed and mingled, they had opportunities to bid on numerous silent auction items that included travel getaways, items for the home, dining certificates, entertainment, sports memorabilia and “Pamper Yourself” gift certificates.

Master of Ceremonies Leon Harris opened the ceremonies with a message of the meaningful work of Adoptions Together. He and B.J Jennings led the live auction, asking people to open their hearts and their wallets. Harris said, “You wouldn’t be where you are if you hadn’t had someone support you and help you along the way. These kids don’t have that — and we are here to do something about it.”

Janice Goldwater, founder of Adoptions Together, announced three “2016 Shining Star” honorees for their contributions to the organization — and shared vignettes about each honoree. There were Judy Sebring, Adoptions Together board member and Taste in Potomac committee member; David Trone, co-founder and president of Total Wine & More; and Robert Collins, founder and managing director of the Collins Investment Group. All have dedicated their time and talents to the Adoptions Together cause.

“I was so fortunate to be adopted by my beloved parents, Seymour and Jane Lichtman,” said Sebring. “I learned first-hand the power of a loving and committed forever family. It’s a safe place, being with a family — and children need this security.”

Another announcement was that Adoptions Together is rolling out the new name of FamilyWorks Together; however, their adoption services will remain as Adoptions Together.

“The deepening of our education, training and counseling services through FamilyWorks Together is an opportunity to serve struggling families who have been touched by adoption, as well as families struggling in the school or community environment or with challenging mental health conditions,” Goldwater said. “This change will give us access to new partners and new approaches, as well as allow us to provide additional services to communities of great need.”

To learn more about Adoptions Together and FamilyWorks Together go to www.adoptionstogether.org.