The Story of John, Brian, and Carter

For Carter Pica-Sneeden, life in college is everything he imagined. A journalism major in his third year at the University of Hartford, Carter is thankful for the path that led him here, including his 2022 adoption from foster care by Broad Brook, Connecticut residents John and Brian Pica-Sneeden. 

John and Brian began their foster care journey nearly 30 years ago and worked with Wheeler for a decade. They fostered several youth and later adopted seven of the children in their care, including Carter. Recognizing the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth based on their own experiences, John and Brian have a vested interest in helping children in this community to grow, thrive, and build healthy, productive lives. 

“We believe that LGBTQ youth can grow up to become successful adults, and they can do anything they set their minds to do,” said Brian. “The Wheeler team, whom we met through the Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber, encouraged us to become foster parents. They innately understand what we wanted to do and supported us in our goals of helping LGBTQ+ youth.”

“Being a foster parent requires dedication and commitment, and it is essential to be in it for the long haul. These children are human beings, and they are not disposable,” said John. “There is a huge need for foster parents and absolutely no reason a child should not be in a home.”

For information about becoming a Wheeler foster parent, visit WheelerHealth.org/Foster.