Little Ephrem in Ethiopia

Ephrem from Lifesong for Orphans on Vimeo.

“What first drew me to this little boy was his sweet round face. Obviously, he has suffered a great deal from malnutrition. When we visited the school he and the rest of the children were so focused on their meal. It’s amazing to see how Lifesong was changing their lives. After lunch, I found myself surrounded by children playing a name game. He reached out and kissed my hand. My heart melted... I think of him daily.”

Jenny Anderson, Orphan Advocate

Sometimes it can be hard to imagine the hardships that go on around the world. We sit in our comfortable homes, with pantries full of necessities, and it seems strange that most of the world doesn’t have a pantry, let alone food to fill it. But for millions of children in Africa this is their reality. Hunger is a part of their daily lives. Then add the fact that many of these children are also orphaned, either by death or abandonment… it’s almost more than we can bear. It’s hard to go there mentally and we protect our hearts by pretending it doesn’t exist. But it does. Children are suffering.

Little Ephrem is one of those children. Born in Ethiopia, his father is now dead and his mother disappeared years ago. He was taken into his grandmother’s care, but she has struggled to provide for him. At 4 years old, Ephrem is extremely small for his age, and most likely suffers from a type of growth disorder, though the lack of specialized medical care keeps us from knowing for sure. And since he has been malnourished most of his life, it is no wonder his health is affected.

Praise the Lord, Ephrem is now enrolled in Lifesong’s Adami Tulu Nursery School, where he is getting two meals a day and seems to be flourishing under the care of his teachers. His sweet demeanor and precious smile easily capture your heart.

*Want to use your blog to advocate for the fatherless? Click here to learn more.

You Can Help Stop Human Trafficking

State of Illinois Department of Human Services

Monday, January 17th, 2011
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
1130 W. Adams, Chicago, IL

Enjoy a free wine and chocolate tasting while bidding on pieces of art from local artists who have created work about human trafficking. The silent art auction will be followed by a presentation featuring: Author Julian Sher, an award-winning investigative journalist, TV writer and director, and the author of six books, who will present his book entitled: “Somebody’s Daughter: The Hidden Story of America’s Prostituted Children” (For more information, please visit http://www.juliansher.com/)

Q & A with our panel of speakers: Rachel Durchslag from the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE), Frank Massolini from the Salvation Army PROMISE program, Lisa Fedina from Rescue and Restore, National Runaway Switchboard, and a survivor of sexual exploitation. All proceeds will benefit work to help victims of sexual exploitation in Chicago.

Sponsored by: CAASE, PROMISE, Dreamcatcher Foundation, Traffick Free, Chicago NOW, Illinois Rescue and Restore Human Trafficking Silent Art Auction (N-12-10) Printed by the Authority of the State of Illinois.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said that, “we all have to decide whether we will walk in the light of creative altruism or the darkness of destructive selfishness. Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'" Dr. King believed in the power of an altruistic society, one where social problems are resolved through nonviolent action and the selfless concern for the well-being of others. Together, we can take action to help those who need it most. We can speak out on behalf of those who have no voice. His teachings empowered citizens to take a stand against injustice, to have their voices heard, and to enact change through community action and service.

January 17th, 2011 marks the 25th year anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday. In honor of Martin Luther King’s commitment to equal rights, social justice, and nonviolence, we ask that you join us to help fight sex trafficking and sexual exploitation here in Chicago. You can help in the effort to have Dr. King’s vision realized by taking action to end the sexual exploitation, violence, and enslavement of millions of women and girls across the globe. YOU can help stop human trafficking.

Sasha's Story

The following story is from a ministry called "Doorways to Hope". Doorways to Hope works to enable local Christian families to bring orphans into their homes through foster care and adoption by providing material resources and ongoing support. I am moved by the fact that a family would adopt a dying child. I can't think of a greater act of compassion. Imagine a child being ushered into the arms of Jesus, not as an orphan in isolation, but surrounded with love, care, dignity and her forever family. I'm struck by the fact that adoption is no longer just a way to build a family, but for many, it's a response to God's mandate to care for the orphan. Let's pray together not only for this family, but all the families that God is calling to bring hope to orphans.

December 10, 2010

When Sasha was six years old, her mother, a sex worker, left her not only as an orphan, but also with HIV. Sasha was taken to a sanatorium where children normally stay for a month or so doing therapy. Sasha was there for four years, and she contracted tuberculosis of the bone and her HIV progressed in 4th stage AIDS. The doctors gave her a diagnosis of 2-3 years to live.

Sasha’s fate changed in 2009 when a case work accidentally found some of Sasha’s old paperwork that had been misplaced years before. Suddenly, the forgotten girl was no longer forgotten. Sasha’s sad story tugged at the heart of the case worker and the woman determined to do whatever it would take to find a family for Sasha. The first family she turned to was the Isaev family, famous across Ukraine for being the first family to adopt an HIV positive child. Sveta and Evgeny Isaev now have 7 HIV positive children living in their home. In September, 2009, the Isaevs went to meet Sasha in the sanatorium. They knew as soon as they met her that she would be the newest addition to their family.

The Isaevs brought Sasha home on a very special day—December 25th. Aside from being Christmas day, December 25th was also Sasha’s 10th birthday. The Isaevs took Sasha to a market and got her a Barbie with four dresses, and Sveta says Sasha was delirious with joy. She has fit in very well with their family, adapting to all of her new brothers and sisters.

Unfortunately, Sasha’s health continues to deteriorate. The doctors say that she likely only has a very short time left to live. Sveta and Evgeny are doing everything they can to brighten Sasha’s time in their family, while still holding on to hope for a miracle. They believe that God miraculously brought her into their family, and are praying that He will miraculously heal her physically so that she can stay with them. They ask for you to join them in prayers for their little girl, who has the right to life and a future.

For more information on Doorways to Hope and how you can help Sasha, visit www.doorwaystohope.org.

Last chance to order Radko ornaments

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption has partnered with internationally acclaimed artist Christopher Radko to offer our annual Celebrate Adoption ornament. This limited edition, hand-painted, blown-glass ornament retails for $52. Ten percent of the retail price of every ornament sold is donated to the Foundation while supplies last. Order online at www.macys.com.

Alliance Webinar Series

The Christian Alliance for Orphans Webinar Series is designed to help individuals like you create and grow effective adoption, foster care and global orphan ministry in local churches.


You're Invited...

Help Wanted: Protecting Orphans from Human Trafficking


As part National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, gain an overview of the global human trafficking problem, its impact on orphans, and what orphan care ministries, churches, and motivated individuals can do to make a difference.


Host Church: Woodmen Valley Chapel


Presenters: Dave Wayman, Woodmen Valley Chapel
Tom Davis, Children's HopeChest


Date: Wednesday, January 19, 2011 Time: 1:00 PM Central Time

To register, click here:https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/563821696


Each 60-minute webinar in this series will give local advocates access to the knowledge and experience of top Alliance member churches and organizations nationwide, covering key topics on adoption, foster care and/or global orphan care. Every webinar will be hosted by a local church orphan ministry and co-presented by one or more national experts on the subject matter. This pairing will deliver a combination of specialist information and resources alongside a “here’s how it works in a real church” perspective.

New Movie Coming: "Change of Plans"

The following movie review is taken from Jedd Medfield, President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

A new made-for-TV movie slated for showing on January 8 explores adoption, sacrifice and life priorities in a way very few films today do. “Change of Plans” tells the story of a young, jet-set couple whose all-too-perfect lives may be irreparably altered by four orphaned children. I had the chance to preview the director’s cut this week and came away inspired and thoughtfully challenged.


When Sally Danville’s (Brooke White of American Idol) best friend from college dies in tragic accident in Africa, she leaves behind four children—three of them adopted from countries around the world. Sally and husband Jason must now grapple with choices that will shape the rest of their lives. Step by step, the couple realizes that for every inch they open their hearts and home to the children, the plans they’ve mapped out for themselves will likely be lost forever.



The film gets its strength from the underlying story and real-world decisions it represents for each of us. The acting, music and script are not Oscar quality, but still solid. Many adoptive families and others involved with kids in the foster system will likely see parallels with their own stories as well. The widows the story offers into the potential challenges of adoption and foster care are perhaps understated, but not absent: it’s clear that to welcome a child into our home is not a cost-free choice.



Refreshingly, this movie earns its “family friendly” identity not merely by cutting out sex and violence, but by delivering a thoughtful challenge to some of the great lies of our era. Most narratives today, from commercials to movies, implicitly argue that fulfillment is found in getting what we want. “Change of Plans” points in the opposite direction, helping us see that real life is only found by embracing the inspiring-but-costly invitations God puts before us.



If your evening January 8 is not already booked, I’d encourage you to spend it enjoying “Change of Plans” with your kids or a few friends. Doing so sends a message to TV producers and advertisers that there is, after all, a market for quality programs. More importantly, the story just may provoke a change in your plans as well.

To see the trailer for the movie, go to the web site at http://www.changeofplansthemovie.com/change-of-plans/

New Ways to Participate in Safe Families

Below is a message from Rebecca Cynamon-Murphy, Safe Families for Children Network Manager.


Most research on social entrepreneurship shows that the seventh year of any venture to change the world is a crucial year. Most movements like Safe Families "make it or break it" in their seventh year. We're determined to make it. Part of our strategy for growth involves opening the door to volunteers who want to participate in the movement in a variety of ways. Although Host Families are crucial to our ability to help children, other roles will become equally crucial to our ongoing success as we grow.

We have nearly 800 active volunteers now and another 2,000 people have expressed an interest in getting more involved. Maybe now is the time for you to step forward and be a new part of this movement of compassion.

Below, we describe a variety of ways to get more involved in the Safe Families movement. Please consider if your skills will contribute to the effort that all of us are making to improve the opportunities for success for kids.



Volunteer Role #1 - Team Captain

Over the past seven years, we have found that Safe Families can be an amazing spiritually transformative experience for the people who care for the children of parents who are facing a crisis. However, like all spiritual transformations, these experiences are easier when the volunteers feel part of a community and fully supported.


To make sure that all of our Host Families feel supported and part of a community, we are creating "Teams" of 15-25 Host Families and asking a "Team Captain" to be responsible for calling each family once a month. We feel like this minimal time commitment will be hugely beneficial to our volunteers since we have heard from some of them that they sometimes feel isolated and uncertain about their continued participation in Safe Families. Having a personal connection will help so many of our volunteers as they do the challenging work of Safe Families. Many of our churches already help out like this and we are excited to be able to expand to folks who are not already involved in a support community.


Team Captains do not need to be a certified Host Family so this is the perfect position for someone who wants to get more involved but who is not able to care for children at this time. If you would like to apply to be a Team Captain, please express your interest to Rebecca Cynamon-Murphy at rcynamon-murphy@lydiahome.org.

Volunteer Role #2 - Office Superstar


We have need in the office for a regular volunteer (or two or three) to help with filing and other administrative tasks. If you have 4-5 hours during the day once or twice a week, we would really appreciate your skills as we work on a large project. Please contact Rebecca Cynamon-Murphy at rcynamon-murphy@lydiahome.org.



Volunteer Role #3 - Transportation Specialist

The great news is that things are hopping in our offices. Last week we found caring homes for 11 children and in the past several weeks it has not been unusual for us to serve more than 20 children in a week.

The challenging news is that the hours logged on the road as we transport these kids from their parents to their Safe Families and then home again are starting to wear on our staff.

We're looking for a few good folks to be on call to pick up and drop off children as the needs arise. This will require a flexible schedule since so many of our placements are done to assist in a crisis, which makes it difficult for us to give much advanced notice.

If you are interested in this role, please contact Tom Maluga at 773.865.8540 or tmaluga@lydiahome.org.


Volunteer Role #4- youshare.org Neighbor

We are so excited to announce the launch of youshare.org, which is an exciting new way for folks to be alerted to the critical needs of people in your community. Everyone has something to share so please click through to site to learn more and to register as a Neighbor. www.youshare.org


Thank you for your time and consideration. We're excited to engage folks in new ways as we "make it" and serve children and their families.


Sincerely,

Rebecca Cynamon-Murphy
Safe Families for Children Network Manager

Giving to the "Cause of the Fatherless" Up

Written By: Jedd Medefind, President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans
11/7/2010

The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) this week released its annual “State of Giving Report,” which explores giving trends for Evangelical ministries. The report finds that, despite the major economic downturn, giving from 2007 to 2009 decreased only 0.1 percent.

Perhaps even more notable for Christians committed to the plight of orphans, the report found that giving rose substantively in categories related to adoption and orphan care. Total donated income for the “Adoption” category rose 9.1 percent, and was up 11.6 percent for “Orphan Care.”

Of 29 categories, only “Child Sponsorships” (which very often is directed toward care for orphans) and the broad “Media” categories saw higher rates of growth.

Certainly, we all can pray (and sacrifice!) that all areas of vital Christian ministry will receive funds they need over the years ahead. As we do, we can also celebrate another signal that God is stirring His people to be known once again as those who “defend the cause of the fatherless” (Is. 1:17) in both word deed.

“THE 12TH ANNUAL A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS,”.....

....AN ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL CELEBRATING THE JOYS OF ADOPTION, TO BE BROADCAST WEDNESDAY, DEC. 22 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

December 1, 2010 by J!-ENT

Melissa Etheridge, Maroon 5, Ricky Martin, Nelly and Katy Perry will Perform
On this Moving Holiday Special, Which Tells Inspirational Stories About Foster Care Adoption

The Hosts of “The Talk,” Including Julie Chen, Sara Gilbert, Sharon Osbourne, Holly Robinson Peete, Leah Remini and Marissa Jaret Winokur, and Actress Mira Sorvino, Among Talent Set to Present THE 12TH ANNUAL A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, a new entertainment special to be broadcast Wednesday, Dec. 22 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, will include moving performances by Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge, Grammy Award-winning group Maroon 5, Grammy Award-winning superstar Ricky Martin and Grammy Award-winning hip hop artist Nelly. The show will open with a performance by pop sensation Katy Perry. The hosts of “The Talk,” Julie Chen, Sara Gilbert, Sharon Osbourne, Holly Robinson Peete, Leah Remini and Marissa Jaret Winokur, as well as Academy Award and Golden Globe Award winning actress Mira Sorvino (“Mighty Aphrodite”) will be among the talent set to present.

Following the success of the past 11 annual shows, the special continues to tell touching stories about foster care adoption to raise awareness for this important social issue. The inspirational stories of these American families are enhanced by performances by some of today’s most popular artists.

The musical performances frame several pre-taped story segments which are presented by celebrities who either have their own adoption experiences or are involved with children’s issues. The stories highlight many exceptional American children and families involved in this rewarding process.

•• Jimmy Wayne (Nashville, TN)
Country music artist Jimmy Wayne knows first hand about living in foster care. Wayne was abandoned at a bus station when he was 13 years old and shuffled through 12 schools and more than eight foster placements before he met Russell and Bea Costner, a couple in their 70s who opened their home and hearts to him. “I was 16 years old and that family changed my whole life, every cell in my body. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it weren’t for them.” Wayne graduated from college and soon signed his first recording contract. Today, giving back is a key part of Wayne’s life. Earlier this year, he launched his MEET ME HALFWAY project with his seven-month walk halfway across America to raise awareness.

•• Anderson Family (Los Angeles)
Marsha and Corey Anderson were married 11 years and had three children when they began talking about adding to their family through adoption. Initially, Corey was hesitant, but had a change of heart after watching “A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.” “The show took away my fears, and I was fully committed from that moment forward,” says Corey. Featured on the show last December were foster children 6-year-old Ashley and her 4-year-old brother Jacob, who were waiting to be adopted. “We thought we would adopt one child, but when we saw Ashley and Jacob, we knew they would fit perfectly into our family,” says Marsha.

•• Cates Family (Los Angeles)
In 2001, Arthur and Mary Cates met 7-year-old Darnell at an adoption fair. In foster care since birth, Darnell had less than a 30 percent chance of ever being adopted. “When I saw Darnell in the play area all by himself, I saw in his eyes a sad little boy that needed to be loved,” says Mary. Now 16, Darnell is a confident young man who is gifted in the arts. “I’ve experienced a new world full of hope and have overcome that sadness. It feels like I’ve been with my parents my whole life,” says Darnell. The Cates decided to adopt again in 2007 when they met foster children Sierra and Phillip at an adoption event.

•• Carter Family (Missouri)
SWAT team paramedic Kasha Carter knew the plight of children living with neglect and abuse. “After we made entry into a home I often watched the children until Social Services came to place them in foster care. It really tugged on my heartstrings and I wanted to raise one of those children as my own,” says Kasha. In 2001, single at the time, Kasha adopted a young foster child named Austin. “When I was first taken from my home I was just devastated. But then I met my mom and I was so happy because I knew I really mattered to her,” says Austin. Five years later, Kasha met fellow paramedic Aaron Carter and they soon married. “I knew right away that Kasha was special. She had a big enough heart to take in a child,” says Aaron. Today, Austin has made the honor roll and is the proud big brother to their 4-year-old son, Hunter.

•• Children Waiting
There are over one half million children currently in foster care in the United States, 114,000 waiting to be adopted. This segment gives voice to these children by creating an intimate portrait of youth who need permanent loving homes.

The special is presented in association with the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Children’s Action Network. Wendy’s International founder Dave Thomas, who was adopted, established the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in 1992. It is dedicated to dramatically increasing the adoptions of the more than 114,000 waiting children in the United States foster care system. Wendy’s is a program sponsor.

The Children’s Action Network was founded in 1990 by leaders in the entertainment industry to harness the power of the entertainment media on behalf of children. The special is a part of CAN’s National Adoption Campaign to raise awareness of the joys of adopting and to find homes for the children who are waiting.

THE 12TH ANNUAL A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS is produced by Triage Entertainment and Goldsmith Entertainment, in association with the Children’s Action Network and the Dave Thomas Foundation. Karen Mack, Stu Schreiberg, Stephen Kroopnick and Marilyn Seabury are the executive producers. Kelly Brock is the producer, Kimberly Steer is the supervising producer and Mary Donaldson is the coordinating producer. Michael Simon is directing the special.

New Resource Library

I am excited to tell you about a brand new resource library created by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. You can find it on their web site or click on the following link to go directly to the Resource Library page: http://christianalliancefororphans.org/resources/resource-library.

There you will find a wide range of quality resources to help you grow effective, Christ-honoring adoption, foster care, and global orphan ministry. Categories of books include Global Orphan Care, Foster Care, Adoption, and Getting Started.

For more information about the Christian Alliance for Orphans, visit www.christianalliancefororphans.org.

Adoption Works Well: a Synthesis of the Literature

The following, is an interesting report published by the Marriage & Religion Research Institute (www.marrifrc.org).



by Dr. Patrick F. Fagan

Adopted children benefit significantly from adoption. Many experience a dramatic improvement in socioeconomic status and move into materially advantaged homes and to the care of supportive, educated, adoptive parents who are very interested in all aspects of their child's development. The majority of adopted children live in small families in early childhood, which is to their advantage. Compared to even long-term fostering, adoption provides a greater sense of permanence and familial belonging, more emotional security, and a more lasting psychosocial foundation for life.

A number of major research projects, literature overviews, and meta-analyses attest to the overall benefit of adoption.......

To read to complete report, click http://www.frc.org/researchsynthesis/adoption-works-well-a-synthesis-of-the-literature.

The Children's Closet is In the News!

The following article from the Huntley Patch, is about our own Teri Altpeter and the wonderful work she and Lisa have done to establish The Children's Closet.


Huntley Patch
by Gloria Antonelli
11/26/2010
http://huntley.patch.com/articles/thankful-for-a-closet-of-clothes-for-kids-in-need#c

Teri Altpeter packing clothes in a new donated duffle bag. Credit Gloria Antonelli

Thankful for a Closet of Clothes for Kids in Need! Teri Altpeter has co-started The Children's Closet to benefit families who are struggling.

I am thankful for living in Huntley with many amazing people who are very passionate and giving to our community. One of these people is self proclaimed give-aholic Teri Altpeter. She is involved with an organization called Safe Families for Children. Teri lives in Huntley with her husband and young daughter. As a Safe Family, the number of children at the Altpeter's home varies. Teri is currently caring for two young brothers under the age of three.

Safe Families for Children
Safe Families for Children helps kids who are in crisis and need temporary care. This organization offers support until the family in need can get back on their feet. The goal is to keep children out of the welfare system, give families in crisis an option for temporary care without losing custody and offer support for struggling parent. Children ranging from newborns to age seventeen are house an average of 6 weeks with some stays from two days to a year with host parents.

The Children's Closet
Teri's involvement with Safe Families for Children sprouted another project that was inspired by the needs of the host parents in the Chicago northwest suburbs. The children placed in a Safe Family usually come with very little. Calls to friends for clothing donations developed into The Children's Closet. Teri Altpeter and Lisa Phalen started collecting and distributing clothing and lending small child equipment to aid the families who volunteer at their own expense to feed, house and care for these children in crisis. Teri explains "The age of the children depends on what the host family can financially handle. Personally last year we could not afford the added expense of diapers so we could not take any children who still needed them."

Teri and Lisa met when they were caring for siblings placed in both of their homes. Their friendship lead to taking the first 10 bins of gently worn clothes this past March, finding a location to house the bins and equipment and now it just keeps growing. The Children's Closet is currently located at the Calvary Community Church in Schaumburg. Teri is working on an additional storage location near Huntley after receiving a large donation from an out of business children's store.

Spread the Word
The Children's Closet is not just for the Safe Families for Children, it has branched out to fulfill the clothing needs of children in our area. I asked Teri how people find out about the closet. "There is a need to get this known to people who need it. The only reason we had a call from the Grafton Food Pantry was by talking to Mary Hardy (manager) and a women was there and heard me. Lisa was thrilled to pieces that the woman just called with a request for girls clothing. 'I am so happy we are helping other people. You just dropped off those cards 5 minutes ago.' This gives Lisa gas for the day; it has energized her to move forward." Teri continues "Someone in need just doesn't realize that by letting people help, you are blessing that giver. If someone asks for help and someone is willing to give, you are giving a gift to the people who want to give."

Sterilite 66-qt. Latching Box and Shelving
The most pressing request for The Children's Closet is acquiring 100 more Sterilite 66-qt. Latching Boxes (clear plastic bins) from Target and metal heavy duty shelving units from Menards that will get the new location started. Teri was very specific about the brand of bins used for the children's closet. They currently have over 100 clear Sterilte bins at Calvary Community Church and that size and brand stack the best.

Ways to Help
The Children Closet is self funding and relies on contributions and donations from the community. I asked if they have any sponsors to help fund the closet. Teri reports "We do not have sponsorship at this time but we would love to have some." Cash donations are always welcome. Another important request is for new underwear and socks for both boys and girls of all ages. Also fundraising and soliciting donations, donating gently worn clothing, laundering and sorting donations are greatly appreciated.

Contact The Children's Closet
You can find more information on The Children's Closets Facebook group page. Teri announces requests for clothes and volunteers on this group page. You may also contact Teri Altpeter at 630-205-6013.

Can you organize a fundraiser for bins, shelves, underwear or socks to clothed children who need help in our area? How can you spread the word to families who may need help clothing their children?

World AIDS Day and Adoption

Today is World AIDS Day and I would like to introduce you to an organization called Project Hopeful. I encourage you to visit their web site to discover the amazing work they are doing to encourage, educate and enable families adopting children with HIV/AIDS. http://www.projecthopeful.org/. If you are considering adopting a child with HIV/AIDS, visit their extensive listing of "waiting kids" waiting for a forever family.

Kiel & Carolyn Twietmeyer and family, Founders of Project Hopeful

Show the love of Christ to a child in need this Christmas!

What are you doing this year for Christmas?

Decorating the house?  Making Christmas cookies?  Celebrating with family and loved ones?  Exchanging gifts?

What if this year you gave gifts that not only celebrated your loved ones but brought the love of Christ to a child in need?  An orphan in Africa, India, Ukraine, or Honduras?

This year Lifesong for Orphans has gifts that will do just that.  Give the new Lifesong cookbook...

  

 

or give a child in Africa food, a child in Honduras job skills training, a child in India a home... in honor of those you love... and really, what could be better at Christmas than to know your gift was given to a child who needed it more.

Check it out here.

May God bless your holiday season!  


10-11 Gifts of Purpose from Lifesong for Orphans on Vimeo.

Empty Nesters Refill Home with Love by Adopting Kids

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
11/28/2010
Written by Jim Stingl



With their three children raised and out of the house, Jesse Lewis and Nancy Brooks-Lewis were enjoying a quiet and empty nest.

Well, maybe a little too quiet.

Until some friends mentioned foster parenting to them, they hadn't given it any thought. They had no idea so many children out there needed a home and loving parents.

The idea began to burrow its way into their hearts. "I don't know if I've ever told my wife this," Jesse said when I sat down with the couple recently at their Brown Deer apartment, "but I always wanted a second chance at raising children again to see if I could do a better job. When I heard about foster care, that door opened."

"We just decided to try it and see what happens," Nancy said.

I'll tell you what happened. Jess, Justin, Sarah and Jessica happened. A houseful of adopted kids is what happened. A big, noisy, challenging, rewarding family is what happened.

To read the rest of the article, click below.

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/110920389.html

Donated Adoption Songs CD to Help Orphaned Children Worldwide Through World Vision

CHICAGO, Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago-area singer/songwriter Chuck Kent announced today he will be partnering with World Vision in the months of November and December through the sales of his CD of adoption songs titled "Same/Same: Songs for Adoptive Families," to help renew awareness that support of orphans continues to be a critical need, not only through adoption, but also via in-country programs such as those from World Vision.

November is National Adoption Month in the U.S. and November 20 is National Adoption Day. Kent said that during November and December he will be donating to World Vision for their global humanitarian work with all kinds of children and families.

Angela Appleton, Corporate Relations Director, World Vision, calls the CD of adoption songs "another creative way to give. We're always touched when our supporters reach out in new ways to help us help children." Kent said, "My hope is that, particularly, adoptive families will see this as a fun, easy way to help children everywhere."

"This seems the right time to do this not only because of National Adoption Month but also as a chance for meaningful holiday gifts to adoptive families," Kent said.

###

ABOUT THE "SAME/SAME" ALBUM

According to Adoptive Families magazine "... the catchy tunes and clever lyrics put to music how children think and feel about adoption ... songs perceptively tap into common issues, such as invasive questions, worrying about permanence, and testing parental limits." The CD of 11 adoption songs can be purchased through links on the website http://www.samesamecd.com.

Volunteer Appreciation Christmas Dinner

The Willow Creek North Shore Safe Families community invites all Safe Families volunteers in the Chicagoland area to a Volunteer Appreciation Christmas Dinner. If you have hosted children in your home, if you have supported those who do, or if you are eager for your first placement, we invite you to join us for an evening of celebration and appreciation.

In addition to dinner, part of the festivities will be a keynote address from Arloa Sutter, the Executive Director of Breakthrough Urban Ministries in Chicago. Arloa is an amazing woman who founded a homeless shelter almost 20 years ago that has blossomed into a center that serves all members of its neighborhood. To give you a taste of what you she will share, here is something Arloa recently posted to her blog:

"I had entered ministry recognizing my need for a Savior, but then had begun to attempt to rescue and save others in my own strength on behalf of the Savior. The burnout I experienced as a result would forever change me as I learned the importance of waiting on God in contemplation before rushing in with my own agenda. I learned to be led by the Spirit instead of being driven by need.

Today I start each day in prayer. I ask God to orchestrate my day, to guide and direct me. . . .
I also listen to my body. I have learned to recognize the difference between good stress that pushes me to my best, and bad stress that means I'm attempting to do something that is not mine to do. When my shoulders tense and my stomach knots, I do a 'gut check' and ask myself if this really is my responsibility.

To be led by the Spirit rather than driven by need. That's my goal. When the chaos mounts, I take a break."

Her personal experience in doing a ministry that is very similar to Safe Families will offer useful spiritual and practical guidance for us as we look forward to another year of doing the hard work of caring for families in crisis.

The dinner will take place on Sunday, December 12 at 6:00. The location is 315 Waukegan Rd. in Northfield, IL.

R.S.V.P. are a must. R.S.V.P. to Rebecca Cynamon-Murphy at rcynamon-murphy@lydiahome.org. Please tell her the number of people who will be attending, as well as if you need child care. If child care is requested, provide the number of children and their ages.

There is no charge for the event (we want to thank you properly) but space is somewhat limited.

We really hope you can join us for this fun evening of celebration and appreciation!

National Adoption Day

National Adoption Day is a collective national effort to raise awareness of the 114,000 children in foster care waiting to find permanent, loving families. This one day has made the dreams of thousands of children come true by working with policymakers, practitioners and advocates to finalize adoptions and find permanent, loving homes for children in foster care. In total, more than 30,000 children have been adopted from foster care on National Adoption Day.

A coalition of national partners - The Alliance for Children's Rights, Annie E. Casey Foundation/Casey Family Services, Children's Action Network, Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, and Freddie Mac Foundation - sponsor National Adoption Day to draw special attention to foster children waiting for permanent families and to celebrate all loving families that adopt. This year the National Adoption Day Coalition expects 4,500 foster care children to be adopted on National Adoption Day on November 20, 2010.

Goals:
Finalize adoptions from foster care in all 50 states.
Celebrate and honor families who adopt.
Raise awareness about the 114,000 children in foster care waiting for adoption.
Encourage others to adopt children from foster care.
Build collaboration among local adoption agencies, courts and advocacy organizations.

To learn more about National Adoption day, visit their web site at www.nationaladoptionday.org.

Orphan Sunday Video

The following incredible video was created by Matthew Wilson for his church in Huntsville, AL to play for Orphan Sunday. Remember to mute the blog music at the bottom of the page before starting the video.

Orphan Sunday 2010 from Matthew Wilson on Vimeo.

Alliance Webinar Series

The Christian Alliance for Orphans Webinar Series is designed to help individuals like you create and grow effective adoption, foster care and global orphan ministry in local churches.

You're Invited...


Starting and Growing a Church-Based Orphan Ministry


Explore the significant decisions, challenges, and solutions involved in starting an adoption, foster and/or global orphan care ministry as part of your church.


Host Church: Oakwood Church

Presenters: Marci Burkhart, Oakwood Church

Jason Weber, Hope for Orphans


Date: Thursday, November 18, 2010 Time: 1:00 PM (Central Time)



Each 60-minute webinar in this series will give local advocates access to the knowledge and experience of top Alliance member churches and organizations nationwide, covering key topics on adoption, foster care and/or global orphan care. Every webinar will be hosted by a local church orphan ministry and co-presented by one or more national experts on the subject matter. This pairing will deliver a combination of specialist information and resources alongside a “here’s how it works in a real church” perspective.

National Adoption Awareness Month: New Berlin Library

My mom designed an Adoption Awareness Month display at the New Berlin Library in Wisconsin. Over 30 years ago my mom and dad adopted two of my siblings, one domestically, and one from Vietnam. Their pictures, along with pictures of my girls are in the display. One of the library staff members saw my mom creating the display and asked if her son, who was adopted from Korea, could be included. Great job Mom!

Rescuing Trafficked Girls in India

Trafficking into forced prostitution victimizes more children in India than anywhere else in the world. Learn from the Mumbai director of International Justice Mission (IJM) how girls are being rescued.


Date: Sunday, November 21
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Location: Baumgartner home, 1703 E. Prairie Ave., Wheaton (located on a street that backs to World Relief/Church of the Resurrection Ministry Center).

Please RSVP to Dawn Jewell at dawn_herzog@yahoo.com.

Hosted by Church of the Resurrection

For day-of directions, call Marcia Baumgartner at (630) 653-4777

For more information about the work of IJM, visit www.ijm.org.

You Are Invited

to a
Safe Families, Foster Families & Adoptive Families

Thanksgiving Gathering

Please join us as we spend an evening enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and spend time in worship and reflection on God’s goodness and provision.

Children and adults are welcome around the table as we share
scriptures, songs and stories.

Dinner will be provided. Please bring a dessert to share.

R.S.V.P.’s are required by Nov. 19th so that we can provide adequate food. Please R.S.V.P. to Dina at avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com

Sunday, November 21, 2010
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Willow Creek Community Church
Rooms b105-109 (near the Chapel)

Hosted by A Voice 4 His Children; the adoption, foster care & Safe Families Community at Willow Creek Community Church, So. Barrington

National Adoption Month: Presidential Proclamation

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release November 01, 2010 Presidential Proclamation--National Adoption Month

Giving a child a strong foundation -- a home, a family to love, and a safe place to grow -- is one of life's greatest and most generous gifts. Through adoption, both domestic and international, Americans from across our country have provided secure environments for children who need them, and these families have benefited from the joy an adopted child can bring. Thanks to their nurturing and care, more young people have been able to realize their potential and lead full, happy lives. This year, we celebrate National Adoption Month to recognize adoption as a positive and powerful force in countless American lives, and to encourage the adoption of children from foster care.

Currently, thousands of children await adoption or are in foster care, looking forward to permanent homes. These children can thrive, reach their full potential, and spread their wings when given the loving and firm foundation of family. Adoptive families come in many forms, and choose to adopt for different reasons: a desire to grow their family when conceiving a child is not possible, an expression of compassion for a child who would otherwise not have a permanent family, or simply because adoption has personally touched their lives. For many Americans, adoption has brought boundless purpose and joy to their lives. We must do all we can to break down barriers to ensure that all qualified caregivers have the ability to serve as adoptive families.

This year, on November 20, families, adoption advocates, policymakers, judges, and volunteers will celebrate the 11th annual National Adoption Day in communities large and small. National Adoption Day is a day of hope and happiness when courthouses finalize the adoptions of children out of foster care. Last year, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius was honored to preside over a ceremony celebrating two foster care adoptions as part of my Administration's support for this important day.

Adoptive families are shining examples of the care and concern that define our great Nation. To support adoption in our communities, my Administration is working with States to support families eager to provide for children in need of a place to call home. The landmark Affordable Care Act increases and improves the Adoption Tax Credit, enabling adoption to be more affordable and accessible. As part of the Adoption

Incentives program, States can also receive awards for increasing adoptions and the number of children adopted from foster care. AdoptUsKids, a project of the Department of Health and Human Services, offers technical support to States, territories, and tribes to recruit and retain foster and adoptive families; provides information and assistance to families considering adoption; and supports parents already on that journey. I encourage all Americans to visit AdoptUsKids.org or ChildWelfare.gov/Adoption for information and resources on adoption, including adoption from foster care.

As we observe National Adoption Month, we honor the loving embrace of adoptive families and the affirming role of adoption in the lives of American families and our country. Let us all commit to supporting our children in any way that we are able -- whether opening our hearts and homes through adoption, becoming foster parents to provide quality temporary care to children in crisis, supporting foster and adoptive families in our communities and places of worship, mentoring young people in need of guidance, or donating time to helping children in need. Working together, we can shape a future of hope and promise for all of our Nation's children.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2010 as National Adoption Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by answering the call to find homes for every child in America in need of a permanent and caring family, as well as to support the families who care for them.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

Library Display

Today, the Bartlett Public Library allowed me to set up a display for National Adoption Awareness Month. Stop by and visit the display if you're in the area.

I got the Heart Gallery kids in there! I used the little cards with their pictures on, and gave a phone number if someone wanted to follow up.

Have you ever considered asking your local library to do a display? They are very open to outside groups using their display cases. Be aware that in many cases, you have to ask several months in advance. National Foster Care Awareness Month is in May. Let's see how many displays we can get!

Please share your ideas, plans, or events for National Adoption Awareness Month!

It's Orphan Sunday!

Today is Orphans Sunday, the day that thousands of people around our country have been preparing for. Nearly 400 events are taking place this weekend around the U.S. and several other countries. Why? Because God has been stirring in people's hearts to respond to His mandate in James 1:27, to care for the orphan and the widow.

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. " That's all God really asks of us.

Earlier in the chapter, James says, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

I implore you, on behalf of the 143 million orphans of this world, to find an Orphan Sunday event in your community where you can:

1. join with other believers to pray for orphans and the thousands of churches & organizations that serve them.

2. get educated about the plight of the orphan.

3. be affirmed and re-ignited about your own ministry to orphans.

4. find out how God is calling YOU to be a part of serving orphans.

You can find an event in your community by going to http://www.orphansunday.org/. If you live in the Chicagoland area, we invite you to attend the Willow Creek Orphan Sunday Event, taking place this evening.

Sunday, November 7, 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Willow Creek Community Church
67 E. Algonquin Road, So. Barrington, IL
Room 100b (under the chapel)

The evening event will include the premier of “Answer the Cry”, created by Focus on the Family for Orphan Sunday 2010. This hour-long video features Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Schultz, Francis Chan and more.

You will be moved and inspired by representatives from Safe Families, Royal Family Kids Camp, The Heart Gallery, and Willow Creek Global Connections, that will speak about their roles in serving orphans & vulnerable children.

Attendees will view and pray for children in the Heart Gallery of Illinois, which showcases children in foster care who are waiting for adoption.

This free event also includes light refreshments.

Childcare if available if you r.s.v.p. with the number of children and their ages to avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com. For more information contact Dina at 630-213-3558.

Creating an Adoption Culture in Your Church

(Before playing the video, please mute the blog music at the bottom of the page.)

Creating an Adoption Culture in Your Church - OS from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

Serving Opportunity

The Children's Closet, which supplies clothing and baby items to Foster and Safe Families, is in need of volunteers to help sort clothing. If you are interested in helping or for more information, please contact Teri at terialtpeter@att.net or Lisa at phalen245@comcast.net.

Date: Saturday, Nov. 20th
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Calvary Community Church, 1000 S. Springingsguth Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173

Thank you for your consideration in serving this vital support ministry to foster parents!

We Love Because

We Love Because from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

(Be sure to mute the blog music at the bottom of this page before starting the video.)

Orphan Sunday at Willow Creek

Please Join Us!
For Orphan Sunday at Willow Creek

Sunday, November 7, 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Willow Creek Community Church
67 E. Algonquin Road, So. Barrington, IL
Room 100b (under the chapel)

The evening event will include the premier of “Answer the Cry”, created by Focus on the Family for Orphan Sunday 2010. This hour-long video features Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Schultz, Francis Chan and more.

You will be moved and inspired by representatives from Safe Families, The Heart Gallery of Illinois, The Compassion & Justice Ministry at Willow Creek, and Royal Family Kids Camp.

This free event also includes light refreshments.

Childcare if available if you r.s.v.p. with the number of children and their ages to avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com.

For more information contact Dina at 630-213-3558.

http://avoiceforhischildren.blogspot.com
www.orphansunday.org

Safe Families/Foster Mom's Coffee Gathering

Please join Safe Families & DCFS Foster Care Moms

for a Coffee Gathering

Tuesday, November 9th, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Susan Vrenios’ home
11 Kathy Lane, Hawthorn Woods Il 60047
773-329-5294

We will be discussing Safe Families’ vision for the organization

and the new form of communication—youshare.org

Hope you can join us! Children are always welcome.

Please RSVP to Sheila at Sheila@applegates.com or 847-323-0150

Hope Is Fading

Hope is Fading – Orphan Sunday from Allan Rosenow on Vimeo.

(Before starting video, be sure to mute the blog music located at the end of this page.)

Tony Dungy on Adoption

Always Room for One More from Family First on Vimeo.

(Before playing the video, be sure to mute the blog music at the bottom of this page.)

Artists and Ministries Unite for Orphan Sunday

(To hear the audio for this video, first mute the blog music at the bottom of the blog.)

In one month, on Thanksgiving Day, Americans will gather with their families and friends and celebrate God's goodness to us as a nation with a traditional meal full of great food, laughter, joy and offers of thanks to our heavenly Father. On November 7th, there will be gatherings of a different kind across the globe, as Christians will come together as part of the second annual Orphan Sunday in gatherings not marked by laughter and joy, but rather prayers and sober reminders of the more than 140 million children who have lost their parents.

Hope for Orphans Executive Director and Co-Founders Paul and Robin Pennington (with Noah, Ethan and Hope), Stephen Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, and Lisa and Francis Chan


If you want to find out more about the orphan crisis, and more about God's heart and plan for the orphan, there is a great opportunity for you. We at Hope for Orphans, a ministry of FamilyLife, have teamed up with our good friends at Focus on the Family and Show Hope to produce a special one-hour program called Answer the Cry, hosted by Francis Chan, and featuring the music of Steven Curtis Chapman and Mark Schultz.

If you're a part of a small group or Bible Study, consider sharing this program in your meetings during the week of November 7th. Or, invite friends from your church or others to watch and discuss it together. Or, use Answer the Cry as a teaching opportunity with your children, sharing with them what God's word says about the orphan and His expectations of us as His followers in loving and caring for them.

To find out more about how you can utilize Answer the Cry in your church, small group, or family, and to see a short preview of the program, click here,or you can pick up your free copy at your local Family Christian bookstore.

Note: "Answer the Cry" will be shown at Willow Creek Community Church (67 E. Algonquin Rd, So. Barrington, IL) at their Orphan Sunday event. 5:30-7:30pm in room b100 under the chapel. Childcare is available for those who r.s.v.p. with the number of kids and their ages. Contact Dina at avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com.

Exciting Pre-buy offers from the James Fund and Family Christian Bookstores

Here are a few great ways to support The James Fund, the Family Christian Store's Foundation to support orphans and adoption. It's a great way to shop for Christmas, and to share your love for God with a hurting child.

Every CD you buy helps to rescue another victim. In fact, 27 million men, women and children are held as slaves. That is why artists Natalie Grant, Sara Groves, Third Day and many others are uniting for the Freedom project, a music initiative to help the victims of slavery and violent oppression. International Justice Mission® is an agency dedicated to defending individual human rights. In response to Isaiah 1:17, IJM’s professional work tirelessly to rescue, protect and secure justice for victims across three continents.

For every Gaither Gospel Series DVD or CD sold in stores or online between now and December 24, 2010, Family Christian Stores will donate $.50 to The James Fund.

For every copy of Outlive Your Life sold from now through 11/11/2010, Family Christian Stores willl donate $1 to World Vision to help build a spiritual retreat center to help children orphaned due to AIDS-related causes in Malawi, Africa.

For each copy of the And If Our God Is For Us... CD sold between now and 11/15/2010, The James Fund will donate $.75 to Pray America to help care for widows and children in need in Guatemala.

Barnabas Bear

Donate a Barnabas Bear to a child in need this year. Purchase one bear at any Family Christian Store, and a matching bear will be donated to an orphened child.


Family Christian Stores' Foundation, The James Fund, is a non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the needs of orphans and widows around the world. God's direction and purpose for this mission is defined in scripture: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." James 1:27 (NIV)

To make a monetary donation using safe and secure Google Checkout, visit www.thejamesfund.org. Google charges a small fee for this service!
Donate Today

The James Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and your donation is tax deductible.

Winter Coats Needed for The Children's Closet

With winter right around the corner, The Children's Closet is in need of replenishing their stock of winter coats. Sizes 6 months - 5T for both genders are especially needed. Please donate new or gently used coats.

The Children's Closet provides support to families by supplying clothes and basic supplies for Safe Families or foster families with new placements. They also lend small child equipment like pack-n-plays, baby gates, exersaucers and other necessities.

The closet is located at Calvary Community Church, 1000 S. Springingsguth Road, in Schaumburg, IL.

To donate items, please contact Teri 630-205-6013 or Lisa 847-466-2660 to schedule a drop-off or a pick-up. All donations are tax deductible.

A Night With the Chapmans

Don't miss this night of music and inspiration. EDAN Concerts presents Steven Curtis Chapman, Mary Beth Chapman, the their sons band "Caleb".

Harvest Bible Chapel

1000 N. Randell Road, Elgin, IL



Saturday, August 23, 2010
7:00 pm (doors open at 6:00 pm)



For tickets, call 1-800-965-9324 or click here: http://www.itickets.com/events/246331/Elgin_IL/A_Night_with_the_Chapmans.html

Dan Kulp

If you're looking for a creative event for fundraising or to raise awareness about adoption, check out Dan Kulp, musician, speaker, comedian, and adoptive dad. You can reach Dan at dan@thedigproject.com or 855-317-7335.

Food for Thought.....

The following post is taken from a blog called "Once Upon A Mooncake". I believe Patty, the blogger, has many good points to consider.


Yesterday I was poking around the web and made a few discoveries. One of them being that Washington State, where I've lived most my life, is ranked number 7 in the most international adoptions to take place last year. There are only six states that brought home more children last year.

Do you want to know how many children were adopted internationally last year in WA?

502

Yup. That is a 5-0-2.

Our neighboring states don't even come close. Oregon had 242 adoptions. That's roughly the size of my church. Idaho--came in with 74.

Do you want to know what else interesting? My state is the most unchurched state in the entire nation. WA boasts of having the highest percentage on non-religious people living here. Church membership is the lowest of all the other states in the nation. Yet we are number 7 in adoption last year. Strange, considering adoption is such a "trendy" thing to do among christian circles right?

Or not.

Here's some more numbers for you. The top 16 churches in the US have well over 13,000 members. The number one church has over 40,000 members, followed by two mega-churches with over 20,000 members each.

Total international adoptions last year?

12,753

Do these numbers bother you?

Now before you get defensive..........let me just say, I know that adoption is not for everyone. I know that, I really really do. I know it is hard. It is messy. It is cluttered and draining. I know that not everyone is in the position to do such a thing and that many churches are filled with elderly, young, sick, hurt and so on.........people who could not or should not be adopting.

But let me ask you this..........if you are one of those who is able...........why aren't you?

What are you investing your life in? What does your heart value? What does God's heart value?

I believe wholeheartedly that if every able christian would adopt just one child, we could wipe out the entire orphan crisis in this world. (both here in the US and internationally.....I'm only speaking of international because that is what our family is involved in and where I can find good statistics because of the amount of visa's issued. I would hope that all children would be valued and christians would consider adoption regardless of where a child is born.)

When I was looking at these numbers it reminded me of when we were in China in 2006 getting our son. We were in Beijing and I'd sat on a bench next to a guy that turned out to be a police officer that worked at the airport. I asked him what he thought of all these americans coming over there adopting kids. (you may have heard this story already......)

His response?

He said he didn't get it. He said nobody cared. He repeatedly said "no one cares, they are just orphans. We don't want them, no one cares."

And then his girlfriend leaned over and asked me if I knew "christian". I asked her if she was talking about Jesus and she got very excited and said "yes yes, Jesus. I know Jesus too" and then told her boyfriend "that is why they come, they know Jesus and they love orphan".

That conversation has never left me.

Yet when I look at these statistics........12,753 adoptions---and who knows how many of those were actually by christian families---I have to wonder. Do we care? Or are they just orphans.

Christian friends, we have alot of work to do.