Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids?

Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids? is a heartwarming and thought-provoking documentary film directed by John Korty that delves into the extraordinary lives of Dorothy and Bob DeBolt, an amazing couple who created a diverse and loving family by adopting children with various disabilities and from different backgrounds. Released in 1977, the film is a touching and inspirational exploration of love, commitment, and the challenges and triumphs that come with raising a large family.

The film begins by introducing viewers to the DeBolt family, where they quickly learn that this is no ordinary household. Dorothy and Bob, who have a biological daughter, decide to expand their family through adoption. However, their remarkable journey takes an unconventional path as they choose to open their hearts and home to children who have been deemed less likely to be adopted due to their physical or mental disabilities, including blindness, polio, and amputations.

Through the course of the documentary, audiences get a personal glimpse into the daily lives of the DeBolts and their nineteen children, observing their interactions with one another, the parenting style of Dorothy and Bob, and the dynamics that hold this sizable unit together. The film captures the ordinary and extraordinary moments alike – from the mundane tasks of household management to the unique challenges that arise from catering to the diverse needs of each child.

The central figures in the documentary, Kim, Marty, and Mike Atwood, are just three of the many adoptive children featured. Their stories, along with those of their siblings, provide an intimate account of what it means for each of them to be part of the DeBolt family. The narrative showcases their personal growth, the sibling bonds they forge, and the ways in which they overcome their individual challenges with the support of their parents and each other.

The DeBolt's approach to parenting is particularly striking as it eschews pity and traditional societal notions of disability. Dorothy and Bob encourage independence and self-reliance among their children, instilling in them a belief that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to, despite any physical limitations. The joy and warmth that radiate from the family are a testament to the couple's unwavering dedication and love for their children. The DeBolts serve as a powerful example of how patience, understanding, and nurturing can help children flourish regardless of their circumstances.

Director John Korty presents the DeBolt family's story with sensitivity and respect, avoiding melodrama or voyeurism. The insightful footage captures candid moments that illustrate the highs and lows of such a complex family structure. Interviews with various family members, including Dorothy and Bob, offer additional layers of depth to the portrait of the family, as they each share their experiences and perspectives on what family and belonging mean to them.

One of the most touching aspects of the film is its ability to showcase the individual personalities and talents of the children. Despite coming from different corners of the world – including Vietnam, Korea, and the United States – the children share a common bond through their collective experience as part of the DeBolt family. The film highlights how they support and encourage one another in their endeavors, whether it be in sports, music, or education.

The title itself, Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids?, is reflective of the curiosity and fascination that the family generates in those who meet them or learn of their story. The film answers these questions by revealing the day-to-day adventures, the emotional support system, and the vital life lessons imparted within the DeBolt household.

The film’s impact did not go unnoticed. It won the Academy Award for Best Feature-Length Documentary, a recognition of its powerful message and the significance of its subject matter. Audiences and critics praised the film for its honest and uplifting portrayal of a family that defies convention.

By the time the credits roll, viewers are likely to feel a profound sense of admiration for Dorothy and Bob DeBolt. Their unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing, loving, and inclusive family environment for children in need of a home is both commendable and deeply moving. Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids? serves not only as a documentary but as an enduring reminder of the potent influence of unconditional love and the strength of the human spirit in shaping lives.