Michael Braman’s life has always been dedicated to service. Whether that be in his service as an Army Platoon Sergeant, elementary school PTO president, state of Iowa Veterans of Foreign Wars commander, local Little League vice president, or as a husband and father, Michael’s day-to-day life revolves around helping others.
The Braman family’s journey entering foster care began exactly in that way: to help. When a family member of the Bramans’ entered foster care at six months old, Michael and his wife, Kelley, never hesitated to step up and care for a relative in need.
What began as kinship care of family member Noah quickly turned into an understanding of the foster care system and the desperate need for additional foster families — something often hard to turn a blind eye to once discovered.
“That experience opened our eyes to the larger foster care system and the number of children who need a safe, loving home,” Michael said. “From that point on, we felt called to continue saying ‘yes’ when children needed a place to land.”
Now, since welcoming Noah into their home and officially adopting him into their family, Michael, Kelley, and their six biological children have provided a home to over 20 children within the last five years in addition to respite and emergency care.
With children ranging from ages 29 to 1 and seven grandchildren, Michael and Kelley’s lives are full of love and fun.
“Our home isn’t perfect or quiet, but it’s stable, and sometimes, that’s the best gift you can give a child,” Michael said.
In addition to Noah, the Bramans celebrated National Adoption Day in November 2025 by adopting one-year-old Kaden into their family. Kaden, who was a once expected to be a short-term placement, ultimately never left the Bramans’ home.
“There was so much joy and gratitude [at Noah and Kaden’s adoptions], but also deep sadness,” Michael said. “A chapter of their life closed, knowing their biological parents would not be a part of their future. That loss matters, and it deserves to be acknowledged. At the same time, the overwhelming feeling was love. Knowing they are my sons, knowing they will always have a father who will protect them, support them, and put their needs before his own — that is everything. I would do anything for them. I would die protecting them. They are my sons, fully and forever.”
Since diving into the foster care world head on, the Bramans have also leaned into advocacy. Michael serves on the board of The Foster Squad and helps to support foster and kinship families across Iowa. Through his work with The Foster Squad, Michael is helping to launch an online marketplace for foster and kinship families to obtain free beds, clothing, car seats, or other necessary items.
“This way, parents can focus on their children rather than worry about obstacles,” Michael said.
Meanwhile, Kelley cares for the Bramans’ kids at home, creating an environment for biological, adopted, and foster children alike to thrive and feel safe.
“[Kelley] truly is the hero in our family,” Michael said. “I’m simply her support. She is the foundation of our home. Without her heart, dedication, and constant commitment to our kids, I wouldn’t be able to do the work I do in our community and across our state.”
Beyond just Michael and Kelley, fostering makes an impact on the entire family. With six biological children, their home experiences constant change. Despite that, their children learn to love in action through listening and extending empathy.
“Our daughter, Tessa, who is 10, has learned firsthand that not every child grows up with the same opportunities,” Michael said. “She has seen children come into our home who never had their own bed, their own room, or even new clothes. That has taught her compassion, gratitude, and empathy beyond her years.”
The Bramans’ story is a reminder that the greatest impact often begins by just saying “yes.” It’s the everyday moments where lives are truly changed.
“We share our story to show that foster care doesn’t need extraordinary people — just ordinary families willing to say yes, be present, and put a child first,” Michael said. “One phone call, one hospital room, or one decision can change a life.”
This true story is brought to you by The Braman Family. If you or someone you know is a foster family and are interested in sharing your story with us, please visit Tell Your Story.
Created by Keeley Lamm, Bananas Foster