Saturday, April 30, 2011

Resources4Adoption



If you are in the midst of the adoption process or are considering adoption here is a great resource. Resources4Adoption provides answers to numerous question and updated information on many different resources. Here's a word from the founder, Cherri Walrod:

Resources4Adoption.com has been a vision of mine for more than nine years.

My husband and I knew we wanted to adopt, but when I began searching for financial resources, I became frustrated by the lack of information. But we were committed and determined to make our adoption dream a reality. After literally hundreds of hours of research, countless emails, dozens of phone calls, stacks upon stacks of paperwork and an out-pour of support from friends and family, we were blessed with three wonderful adopted children.

Adoption is such a beautiful experience, and I wanted to make it more feasible and eliminate some of the stress involved, so more moms and dad could bring their children home. My goal was to create one comprehensive site so parents would not have to repeat my experience, trying to navigate through broken links and outdated information to find resources to help them (yes, there are resources that can help you!)

It took nine years of information-gathering and careful planning, but alas, Resources4Adoption.com is here! It offers a wealth of knowledge that can only be obtained through hundreds of dedicated hours, first-hand experience and a passion for adoption.

As you venture on your adoption journey, I hope you find Resources4Adoption.com to be beneficial. If it helps you—if even in the slightest—bring home your son or daughter, I have succeeded. Use the information on Resources4Adoption, and never, ever lose sight of your dream. With hope, determination and the right knowledge, your adoption dreams CAN and WILL become a reality!

~Cherri Walrod, founder

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Free Pre-Release Movie Screening of "58"



Could We End Poverty in Our Lifetime?

Entrapped in Slavery—for Life
Sanjiv, his wife, and their children are slave workers in a quarry in India—all because of a $680 loan.

Sanjiv borrowed the money from a private lender in order to provide the needed dowry so his 17-year-old daughter Amuda could marry. When Sanjiv was unable to repay this loan, he borrowed money from the owner of a quarry. This unscrupulous owner paid off Sanjiv’s first loan with a high-interest second loan—and put him to work in the quarry until he could pay off his new debt.

That was a few years ago. Today, Sanjiv and his family still work in that quarry, cutting stone with heavy sledgehammers and sleeping in a rickety hut. His loan is not paid off—and there seems to be no hope in sight.

“I have to carry on with this work,” he says. “There is no way out.” Sanjiv and his family are slaves, entrapped in extreme poverty.

Capturing God's Heart
In 2008, a small group of Christians in Oxford, England prayed, asking God for guidance for the next generation of Christ followers. God’s answer was short and clear: 58—as in Isaiah 58, a passage of Scripture that captures God’s heart around issues of poverty and oppression.

This small group of Christians took action and formed 58. And they are on a mission to engage the global church to end extreme poverty by 2035.

Free Pre-Release Movie Screening of 58
On May 4, 7:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Willow Creek South Barrington airs a free pre-release screening of 58,a film that dares to envision a world where people have sufficiency. A world where the local church becomes the transformative agent that can wipe out extreme poverty. You are that agent.




Willow Creek Community Church

67 E. Algonquin Road

So. Barrington, IL 60010

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

CYCLING for SAFE FAMILIES

For the sake of children and families who are experiencing a life crisis, join with us as we cycle in the north central countryside of McHenry Co., Illinois; to help raise awareness and services for families in need.


CYCLING for SAFE FAMILIES

DATE: Sat. June 11th, 2011
LOCATION:
St. John’s Lutheran Church
6821 Main Street
Union, Illinois, 60180


REGISTRATION: 8-9 a.m.
Waiver & Safety Pledge signed.

START/FINISH TIMES: 9am—3pm

REGISTRATION (online):
https://lydia.myetap.org/CyclingforSafeFamilies2011/

ENTRY FEES :

$20/Adult (18 & up)
$15/Youth (8-17)
$60/Family Rate (4 or more adults/youth)

POST-RIDE PASTA MEAL: 11am-3pm
$5/Adult or Youth (pay on day of ride)

THE RIDE…
(14 miles west of Crystal Lake)
(22 miles east of Rockford)
(23 miles northwest of Elgin)
(30 miles northeast of DeKalb)
(42 miles west of Chicago/O’Hare)


REGISTRATION INCLUDES…
 Cue sheet, map & route markings
 Centrally located rest stops with food & beverages
 Clean toilet facilities
 Roving support vehicles (SAG)
 Give-away bag


SAFETY 1st, RESPONSIBILITY 2nd...
 Helmets are mandatory for all riders;
 Follow the rules of the road (no more than two abreast; obeying all traffic laws; respecting other riders, etc.);
 No headphones or headset radios;
 Bike essentials recommended (water bottle, sun screen, spare tube, etc.);
 Under 16 yr. old riders must be supervised by an adult;

All donations will go directly to the ministry of LYDIA/Safe Families. CYCLING for FAMILIESfor SAFE FAMILIES


Ways to Participate:
 Sponsoring a cyclist;
 Participating as a cyclist to raise donations, riding between 5 km (3.2 mi) to 100 km (64 mi);
 Assisting with the Cycling for Safe Families planning & preparation;
 Volunteering during the ride (rest stops, first aid, post-ride meal, childcare, etc.);
 Praying & supporting Safe Families.

For registration information about CYCLING for SAFE FAMILIES Visit our Registration site:
https://lydia.myetap.org/CyclingforSafeFamilies2011/ to register to ride (and/or donate).

Monday, April 25, 2011

Foster Care Prayer Vigil


Many kids in foster care feel like they don't have a prayer......Let's change that!



Sunday, May 15 from 05:00 PM to 7:00 PM


Willow Creek Community Church

Room F150A (west wing/Promiseland room)

67 E. Algonquin Road So. Barrington, IL 60103



The National Foster Care Prayer Vigil is calling followers of Christ together across the country during the month of May (which is National Foster Care Month) to cry out to God on behalf of children and youth in our nation's foster care system, their families, their workers, and the church as it responds to the needs of those involved in the foster care system.

Please join us for a guided time of prayer as we lift our requests to God.

The Heart Gallery of Illinois (adoptable children in our foster care system) will be displayed, and we will have the opportunity to pray for their future.

5:00 Catered buffet dinner
5:45 Prayer Vigil

In order to insure enough food is ordered, please R.S.V.P. by May 11th to avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com or call 630-213-3558.

Child care is available after dinner if you R.S.V.P. with the number of children and their ages.


To find a prayer vigil location closer to where you live, and to download your own copy of the prayer guide, please visit www.fostercareprayervigil.org.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Golf Outing Benefit



Support Sunny Ridge Family Center adoption agency by participating in their annual Golf Outing event. Get your foursome together or sign up as an individual and they will place you with a group. Attend their dinner and live auction, or make a donation! There are many ways to support our Benefit.

Event Sponsorship

Sponsorships Available
Consider sponsoring our Benefit in some way. Many of the sponsorships available include foursomes, with signage and program booklet listing.

Hole Sponsors, $ 500 (Several available)
Bag Tag Sponsor $ 1,000, SOLD
Contest Sponsor $ 2,000
Break the Glass Sponsor $ 2,500
Carts Sponsor $ 2,500
Hole-In-One Sponsor $ 4,000, SOLD
Lunch Sponsor $ 4,000
On-course Beverage Sponsor $ 5,000
Dinner Sponsor $ 5,000
Title Sponsor $6,000


Dinner & Live Auction

Not A Golfer? Attend the Dinner and Auction
The fun doesn't end with golf. For those of you who don't golf or cannot join us for the afternoon festivities, join us for the dinner and live auction, beginning at 6:00pm. The evening includes a cocktail reception, a delicious barbecue buffet, and an exciting live auction featuring Greg "G Man" Dellinger as our auctioneer. Reservations are just $100 each.

Auction Donations

Donations Needed for Live Auction
Make our Benefit a success by donating live auction items such as sporting event tickets, sporting goods, apparel, electronics, restaurant certificates, weekend getaways, etc. Mail or drop off your item to Sunny Ridge no later than May 26, 2011. For more information call Tom Jackson at (630) 754-4504 or e-mail tjackson@sunnyridge.org.

Golf Prizes & Contests

Prizes and Contests at this year's Benefit
This year's Benefit Golf Outing includes many opportunities for you to win valuable prizes, including a new “Break The Glass” Contest on our Driving Range, beginning at 11:30am. And this year our Putting Contest will conclude during the cocktail reception, with one lucky player putting for the chance to win $10,000. Our Benefit will again feature the Hole In One Contest, where golfers can win a new car, Closest to the Pin, Low Score Mens/Ladies, and more!

Bolingbrook Golf Club

Excellent Golf, Meals and Facilities at BGC
Sunny Ridge is excited to return to the Bolingbrook Golf Club. Located just forty minutes southwest of Chicago, Bolingbrook Golf Club combines the elements of a world-class facility and championship golf. Bolingbrook Golf Club features an Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest designed championship golf course, an exceptional practice facility with a learning academy, state-of-the art GPS-equipped golf carts, and a 76,000 square foot clubhouse with men’s and women’s locker rooms, lounges, two full-service restaurants, and full banquet facilities.

Matching Gifts
Employers May Give A Matching Gift to Sunny Ridge
This past year thousands of extra dollars have contributed toward our mission by donors participating in their employer's Matching Gift program! Sunny Ridge greatly benefits when donors provide "matching gifts" by completing a form from their human resource department. When they do, their gift is doubled (or more) by their employer. See a list of companies we know of that match gifts, or check with your employer to see if they offer a matching gift program. Take this easy step to help Sunny Ridge and double the impact of your next donation!

For more information go to www.sunnyridge.org

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Are You Sleeping? Webinar


Are You Sleeping?
Expert advice for adoptive families struggling to get a good night's sleep.

Thursday, May 19, 2011
7:00 - 8:00 PM Central
Q & A: 8:00 - 8:30PM Central
Cost: $15


REGISTER for this webinar at http://www.adoptionlearningpartners.org/webinars/are-you-sleeping-webinar.cfm?utm_source=blast1&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=emailblast1



Join Dr. Julian Davies for a practical, humorous, and balanced exploration of why adopted children (and their parents!) often sleep so poorly, and what to do about it!

This webinar will help adoptive families:
Explore the reasons behind sleep problems in adopted children
Formulate short-term and long-term sleep strategies for adoptive families
Trouble-shoot specific sleep problems
Add many practical sleep tips to your toolbox

Speaker:Dr. Julian Davies
Julian Davies, MD, is a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington, where he co-directs the Center for Adoption Medicine, and works at the longest-running FAS clinic in the country. His interest in foster care and adoption started in Russia, where he started a summer arts and clown camp for Russian orphans. He now has a pediatric practice where 2/3 of his patients were fostered or adopted. Dr. Davies also created an award-winning online resource for pediatrics and adoption: www.adoptmed.org


Please Note: Registrants will be contacted and asked to submit questions prior to the event

Sponsored by: Adoption Learning Partners & Joint Council on International Children Services.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Top Ten Reasons to attend the Christian Alliance for Orphans Summit



1. INSPIRING SPEAKERS. From an NFL star to authors of the most loved books on the Gospel and orphans—they’re not only powerful speakers, but are personally invested in caring for orphans.

2. UNFORGETTABLE MUSICIANS. Two amazing concerts with Sara Groves and the Desperation Band…and much more great music besides.

3. NUTS & BOLTS WORKSHOPS. From starting a global orphan care partnership to connecting with an adopted child at home, Summit has over 80 SESSIONS to help you take next steps! Woah.

4. LIVE DRAMA & ART. Every great movement needs great art, and this year Summit will be full of it. From live painting on site to original theater, to a Sara Groves workshop on “Art and Justice.”

5. FREE STUFF! As you explore the resources offered by Alliance organizations, win prizes ranging from books and Kindles to an iPad. (That’s right!) Is there one for you?

6. LIKE-MINDED FRIENDS & ADVOCATES. This road isn’t supposed to be walked alone. Find friends and allies who will go the distance with you!

7. AFFORDABLE! Two days of rich instruction, inspiration, and interactions for far less than most any national conference. (When you or your church joins the Alliance, the price is even lower!)

8. CHANGE THE WORLD…AND YOUR HEART. Leave Summit not only equipped for action, but also recharged in vision, energy and a Christ-loving heart.

9. SPECIALIZED PRE-SUMMIT SEMINARS. For those wanting to go even deeper, from theology to refreshment for adoptive moms…come a day early and get even more!

10. ROOTING ADOPTION, FOSTER CARE & GLOBAL ORPHAN CARE IN THE GOSPEL. Keeping the main thing the main thing, Summit always returns focus to how it is God’s heart for the fatherless—and for each of us!—that is the true wellspring of all orphan ministry.

You don’t want to miss this Summit!

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Elgin Fox Trot Fundraiser for Orphans

Open Hearts for Orphans is looking for a group of runners and walkers to join them for the 34th annual Elgin Fox Trot at 8:00 am on May 30th, Memorial Day.


Open Hearts is striving to have a good group out to show their support for the orphan cause and raise money for more adoption grants. Participants have a choice of running a 10K or 5K or walking two miles. We ask that runners / walkers donate or obtain sponsorships for the event. Proceeds will go towards adoption grants for adoptive Christian families in the Chicagoland area.


In addition to donations/sponsorships there is a $35 running fee or $10 walking fee to be paid to the City of Elgin. In the two years that they have been operating, Open Hearts has provided 7 grants to Christian couples adopting orphaned children. These children have come from a varied group of countries around the world and include sibling groups, as well as older and special needs kids. Some of these grants have gone to families linked with churches and organizations involved in the Chicagoland alliance.


Anyone interested in joining them for this event can get more information at http://www.openheartsfororphans.org/fundraising/2011-fox-trot-info. Also, they can feel free to email Bob Schmidt at info@openheartsfororphans.org if they have any questions about Open Hearts or want some sponsorship ideas.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Take one night. Make some music. Send 40 kids to camp.

Experience an eclectic and energizing evening, including a special private performance by Grammy Award-Winning and legendary artist Sugar Blue to benefit LYDIA.


May 7, 2011 7 - 10 pm


The Catalyst Ranch 656 West Randolph Chicago, IL


To join us for this event or make a contribution to help, please click here. http://www.lydiahome.org/Donate.aspx?site_id=10086


100% of your contribution will help fund a child from LYDIA attend camp this summer



THE STORY...

Every month, Dan and Kim Michelson volunteer with their two children at LYDIA. Over the last few years, they decided to do a little more and, with the help of a bunch of amazing people, have now raised over $75,000 to send all 40 children of LYDIA away to overnight camp for the last three years. And every time they volunteer the kids ask them if they are "going to camp again this year?" The answer, of course, has to be...yes!



CAN YOU IMAGINE STARTING LIFE LIKE THIS?

The stories of the 40 children who live at LYDIA are consistently shocking and upsetting. These kids have been handed one of the most difficult challenges the world can offer - being taken from their parents due to abuse and/or neglect. The question anyone who spends time with these kids is a simple one - "how can I really help?" Well, it turns out that you are part of the answer!



WELCOME TO projectMUSIC!

We launch projectMUSIC 2011, using the power and passion of music to send the 40 children of LYDIA to overnight camp. Together we can help them escape the noise to experience the music in life. And in one night we will do just that, raising enough money to send them to a camp that delivers a life-changing experience where the kids are stretched; mentally, physically and spiritually. The bottom line...they absolutely love it!!!


READ MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN HELP



For additional information, please contact Erica Dorantes by email or call (773) 653-2249.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

LifeSong Orphan Event

Join 1st United Church in Gridley & Lifesong for Orphans on May 7th

as we seek to understand how the Church can respond to the global orphan crisis.



Learn about God's heart for the orphan, how Christians are responding to the need, and how you can get involved.


We will have several special guests, including Daniel Bennett from Bethany Community Church and Guy Henry, 16yr missionary & director of Lifesong Honduras.




The event, including dinner is from 3-6pm followed by a time of worship with Jeromy and Jennifer Diebler of FFH.


Join pastors, church leadership, missions committees, adoptive families, and those with a heart to serve the orphan!



Make your reservations today by emailing info@lifesongfororphans.org or by calling 309-747-3556. Space is limited.



Please consider including the flyer in your church bulletin, if you are able to do so. Download the Event Flyer at http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1101903516833-328/1stUflyer.pdf

Monday, April 11, 2011

TRAC Camp in Need of Donations

FOSTER CHILDREN are the most AT-RISK group of children in the United States. Every year over 3 million American children are reported as abused. This is defined as being physically attacked, emotionally damaged, sexually molested, or severely neglected; often by people children have loved and trusted most. Many of these children end up in DCFS foster care. Foster children are proven to be at a higher risk for future homelessness, prison terms, and unwanted pregnancies. By the age of 18, 40% of foster children will be incarcerated. These staggering statistics show how necessary it is that the forgotten children from our own local neighborhoods be offered some positive alternatives to the abuse and neglect that they have suffered. Last summer, a group of volunteers had a vision to start the Teen Reach Adventure Camp (TRAC). TRAC is a volunteer ministry that provides a Christian-based summer camp for children between the ages of 12 and 15 who reside in foster or group homes in Lake, Cook, and McHenry Counties. Their goal is to hold their first TRAC program this July for roughly 50 teens. They will be taking graduates from Royal Family Kids Camp, an affiliated program which serves 7-11 year old foster children. The hope is that if they can get kids to camp a few years from 7-11 at RFKC and a few more years from 12-15 at TRAC, than a powerful, positive impact can be made on the lives of children who have very little hope for a bright future. The cost to run the camp this first year will be approximately $20,000. The per capita annual cost to the state to incarcerate a juvenile offender in a correctional institution is $70,827. Nearly half of all teens discharged from juvenile prisons will return within three years. If we can keep just one child a year out of the juvenile justice system, this money will have been well spent. Please consider making a donation to support the TRAC program. Any support that you can offer will help to reach the goal of making a difference by providing hope. Further information about TRAC can be found at www.teenreachadventurecamp.org. To make a donation, go to http://trac-chicago.bbnow.org/

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Monthly Pot-Luck Gathering


Please join us for our monthly Pot-Luck Gathering!


Sunday, April 17th 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. Willow Creek Community Church, So. Barrington Room F150A (West Wing, Lower Level, Promiseland Room)


Whether you are considering, just starting out or an experienced foster or adoptive parent, you are welcome to come and connect with others on the same journey. Our goal is to provide a place to learn and experience community together as we answer God's call to care for vulnerable children. Our guest speaker is Joyce Moffit who will talk about attachment issues in children. Learn about the different types of attachments and practical parenting solutions for promoting attachment with your adopted or foster child.



Joyce Moffitt is a Licensed Child Welfare Worker who has more than 25 years experience working with children and their families. She is a licensing/recruitment representative for Evangelical Child and Family Agency. She is also a Master Trainer for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. In this capacity, she teaches a variety of adoption and foster care courses. Joyce received her degrees in psychology and sociology, and she has received training specific to working with children and families on issues related to the effects of childhood trauma, and attachment. Joyce has a passion for educating families of the needs of vulnerable children and helping them find the role God has for them in His greater plan.


Pot-luck dinner 5:00 - 5:45


Speaker 5:45 - 6:45


Connection Time 6:45 - 7:00


Child care is available after dinner if you r.s.v.p. to avoiceforhischildren@gmail.com with the number of children and their ages.


Please bring a dish to pass. Beverages will be provided.

We hope to see you there!

Friday, April 8, 2011

Safe Families Mom's Coffee

SFNW Monthly Coffee Safe Families Northwest Suburbs

Wednesday April 13th 9:30-11:30

At Beth Drost’s Home 44 N Vail Arlington Heights IL (7th Floor) (Across from the Metropolis above Peggy Kinnane’s) 847-253-2252



This Month our topic is: Expectations of Safe families, Case Coaches, and Safe Families Administration We will discuss the role/responsibilities of a safe family during a placement and how case coaches and staff can support you in this ministry.


Children are always welcome at our coffees!!

Please be sure to RSVP this month because Easter Baskets have been donated for safe family placements and we want to make sure there is one for everyone. Please RSVP to Sheila at sheila@applegates.com.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Adoption Summer Camp

Sunny Ridge Family Center presents: Adoption Summer Camp An eight-week C Camp for Adopted Children ages 10 to 13 Tuesdays, June 21, August 9, 2011, 6:30pm to 8:00pm REGISTER NOW at http://adoptioncamp.eventbrite.com/ or www.sunnyridge.org.

Welcome to Adoption Summer Camp, an eight-week camp designed for adopted children, (domestic or international) ages 10 to 13. Adoption Summer Camp provides adopted children with a fun and creative way to spend their summer nights, while meeting other adopted children and discussing adoption related topics.


Adoption Summer Camp takes place on eight consecutive Tuesday evenings, June 21 to August 9, 2011, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm, at Sunny Ridge Family Center in Bolingbrook, Illinois. A pre-camp assessment is required for each participant. Adoption Summer Camp will focus on common adoption issues, such as identity, loss, feelings, adoption stories, and birth parents while providing a safe, confidential, and fun environment for participants. Snacks and beverages will be served at each night of camp.


SOMETHING FOR PARENTS Two Parent Workshops will be offered concurrently, on Weeks 4 and 6 (Tuesday, July 12 & 26). Then on the final night of Camp (Tuesday, August 9), parents are invited to attend and enjoy Camp with their children.


WHAT TO WEAR/WHAT TO BRING Children attending the Adoption Summer Camp should dress comfortably—shorts, jeans, t-shirts, etc., are all acceptable. Please do not bring any valuable personal items, such as jewelry, iPods, cameras, video game players, etc., as these are not allowed at Camp. Please do not bring food or beverages, as refreshments will be provided.


WHAT IS THE PRE-CAMP ASSESSMENT? A pre-camp assessment is a scheduled 15-minute meeting with a counselor and at least one parent (preferably both if applicable) and then with the child individually. The pre-camp assessment takes place prior to the camp and helps to assess the child’s readiness and willingness to participate in an adoption support group. Pre-camp assessment is required and should be scheduled after registration and no later than June 1, 2011. To schedule your pre-camp assessment, please contact Pam Shepard, LCSW, at Sunny Ridge Family Center, (630) 754-4522.


ATTENDANCE Participants are required to attend a minimum of six of the eight sessions. Regular attendance will provide your child with a quality camp experience and group cohesion among the children. The first session on June 21, 2011 is mandatory. Parents should plan on attending BOTH parent workshops, which occur during weeks 4 and 6, to better understand the complex issues that their children will discuss these weeks. During the pre-assessment, a camp agenda, including topics and activities, will be discussed. CAMP FEE Adoption Summer Camp fee is $350 per child, and includes the eight-week Camp, and two Parent Workshop sessions held during weeks 4 & 6.


REGISTRATION INFORMATION Registration takes place online and begins on Friday, April 1, 2011. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis and should be completed as soon as possible. Camp size is a minimum of 5 participants, maximum of 15. You may choose to pay entire Camp fee of $350 when you register, or $175 at registration with the balance due by June 1, 2011. No child will be admitted to participate without payment of entire Camp fee. For more information please call Pam Shepard, LCSW at (630) 754-4522.


REFUND POLICY To receive a full refund, cancellations must be made by 5:00pm on Tuesday, June 14, 2011. No refunds will be made for later cancellations. Cancellations may be made in person, by phone or e-mail.


ADOPTION CAMP SESSIONS Eight Tuesday evening sessions: Tuesday, June 21 - Child Camp (mandatory) Tuesday, June 28 - Child Camp Tuesday, July 5 - Child Camp Tuesday, July 12 - Child Camp & Parent Workshop Tuesday, July 19 - Child Camp Tuesday, July 26 - Child Camp & Parent Workshop Tuesday, August 2 - Child Camp Tuesday, August 9 - Child Camp (Parents attend) NOTE: All Camp Sessions begin promptly at 6:30pm and conclude at 8:00pm. Please be sure your Camp participant arrives on time. Parents should plan to pick up their child no later than 15 minutes after the conclusion of each Session.


A TYPICAL EVENING AT CAMP* 6:30PM Welcome & Ice Breakers 6:45PM Adoption-related activities 7:15PM Adoption-related discussion 7:40PM Games 7:55PM Wrap Up 8:00PM Close


*Order of activities subject to change SUNNY RIDGE POST ADOPTION SERVICES The Post Adoption Services at Sunny Ridge Family Center provide adopted children and families continued support through parent education workshops and seminars, guided discussion groups for both adoptive parents and adoptees, summer camps and groups for adoptees, and adoption-competent individual and family counseling services. Sunny Ridge is an Illinois Licensed Child Welfare Agency, License #019976.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

More US families adopting HIV-positive kids


By David Crary


TheAssociated Press


updated 4/3/2011 12:07:29 PM ET


http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42381247/ns/health-aids/




The immediate task might be coaxing a toddler into one more swallow of nasty-tasting medication. Longer term, there are tough choices to be made about telling that child — and the surrounding community — why those daily doses may be needed for the rest of his or her life. While most adoptions present challenges, there's a distinctive set of them facing parents who decide to adopt children living with HIV. A twice-daily medication regimen, lingering prejudice and fear, uncertainty about the child's longevity and marriage prospects. Yet the number of U.S. parents undertaking HIV adoptions, or seriously considering them, is surging — from a trickle five years ago to at least several hundred. Most involve orphans from foreign countries where they faced stigma, neglect and the risk of early death. "I can't think of a more significant way to make an impact than to do this," said Margaret Fleming, a 74-year-old Chicagoan whose nine adopted children include three HIV-positive first graders. "These kids were, in many ways, the modern-day lepers," she said. Ignorance and bias related to HIV haven't vanished in the United States. But the stigma is steadily lessening, especially compared to many of the other countries that are home to an estimated 2.5 million children with the disease. At forums and over the Internet, parents who have adopted HIV-positive kids are offering advice and encouragement to those who might follow suit. In February, Bethany Christian Services — the largest U.S. adoption agency — unveiled a detailed educational package about HIV adoptions to help the growing number of interested parents make informed decisions. "We didn't feel we could ethically place these kids without some really solid education for these families," said Sara Ruiter, Bethany's international services coordinator. "There are some very unique, chronic challenges that we want to be on the parents' mind." One of the most difficult challenges, for many families, is deciding whom they will tell about the adoptive child's HIV status. Health care providers must be informed — otherwise, under federal and state confidentiality laws, it's entirely optional whether parents notify school officials, neighbors, or anyone else. As a result, families' approaches vary widely — some are totally open while others, fearful of stigma, guard the information so tightly that even the child may be kept in the dark for many years. TODAY Moms: How one family adopted 6 children from Africa "Once your child's status is disclosed, you cannot 'take it back,' so careful consideration and thought should be given to this important issue," Bethany advises. For Tim and Annette Franklin, of Bridport, Vt., the decision to be open about their adopted daughter Gedeleine's HIV status was intended to make clear it's nothing to be ashamed of. "We were concerned that by being overly secretive, we would be contributing to the stigma," said Tim Franklin, a Congregational minister. "Inevitably, in families where there are secrets, the secrets end up being destructive," he said. "We felt it's going to come out, and we want to control the way it happens, rather than it coming out in a bad way." Gedeleine, who will turn 4 in May, was living in a Haitian orphanage when the catastrophic earthquake struck there on Jan. 12, 2010. Already in the adoption pipeline, she was airlifted to Florida 11 days later with dozens of other children, then taken to her new home in rural Vermont. There have been moments where Gedeleine balked at taking the twice-daily dose of three HIV medicines. But her parents, who have four biological children ranging in age from 8 to 19, say the adoption has been a heartwarming success overall, to the extent that they are now completing arrangements to adopt an HIV-positive boy from Ethiopia. The arrival of 13-year-old Epherem will speed up the timetable for the Franklins to tackle one of the other distinct challenges of HIV adoptions — having frank discussions with the child about the impact of their status on any future sexual relationships, and the need to be honest with any partner. "We'll have to find out what he knows about sexuality, what he knows about his disease, what values he's been exposed to," Tim Franklin said. "One of the things we'll try to help him understand is that he has a responsibility to other people." Like the Franklins, Ryan and Stacy Vander Zwaag of Mears, Mich., have decided to be open about the HIV status of their newly adopted 2-year-old daughter, Luisa, who just arrived from Colombia on March 19. They even have a detailed section about HIV on the family blog. "We did not have to tell anyone," the Vander Zwaags write. "But we believe God has given us this opportunity to educate others about the precious children like Luisa (and adults too) that are living with HIV and AIDS and help raise awareness and truth instead of ignorance and fear." Luisa joins a household bustling with the Vander Zwaags' four biological sons, aged 5 to 13, and daughter Anaya, almost 4, who was adopted from Guatemala in 2008. The boys were briefed in stages about their new baby sister -- first being told she had a blood disorder, then getting the full story that she had HIV. There were specific instructions about precautions to take if Luisa bled from an open cut, but the overall message was one of reassurance that the disease can't be spread through casual contact. Ryan Vander Zwaag, the youth pastor at a Baptist church, said he and his wife had talked about adoption ever since they married right out of high school. The more they learned about the vast numbers of HIV-positive orphans, the more interested they became in bringing one into their family. Fears about exposing their own family to health risks and prejudice gradually faded as they read articles, attended a conference, and spoke with other parents who had undertaken HIV adoptions. "It's not that hard," said Stacy Vander Zwaag. "And there are so many kids who would die without it." Luisa was in that category, her parents said. A doctor told them she would almost certainly have died soon had she stayed in the Colombian foster home where she was placed as an infant. "She was removed from her parents because of medical neglect," Ryan Vander Zwaag said. "It was nothing she did. It was choices her mother and father made that got her infected with HIV." The Vander Zwaags have been homeschooling their four sons, but they hope to place Anaya and Luisa in a nearby Spanish immersion school so the girls can be fluent in the language of their homelands. So far, they say, friends, neighbors and church members have been overwhelmingly supportive of the news about Luisa, but they know complications might await in the future. "As she goes through her teens and her dating years, there are going to be questions, and a lot of tears over it," her father said. "She'll have to find that right guy to walk with her through life. That will be challenging. She can live a full life, she can have kids, by being careful, taking the medicine." There are no firm figures on the number of HIV-positive adoptions in the U.S., though adoption experts say most involve children from abroad because American mothers with HIV are usually able to avoid transmitting the disease to their babies by taking medication during pregnancy. Throughout most of the AIDS epidemic, only a relative handful of HIV-positive foreign children came to the U.S. because of strict U.S. immigration policies that limited entry for anyone with the disease. In January 2010, that restriction ended — enabling children with HIV to enter as easily as other adoptive children. "That change helped drastically," said Erin Henderson of Afton, Wyo., who is HIV coordinator for Adoption Advocates. The agency handled 37 adoptions of HIV-positive Ethiopian children in 2010, up from four in 2006, and is also working on HIV adoptions from India, Ghana, Thailand, China and Eastern Europe. Henderson's current job grew out of personal experience — she and her husband have three biological children and eight adopted children, including an HIV-positive daughter and son from Ethiopia. "Our plan initially was to keep that private — just share it with family members," Henderson said. "But we decided we would have to be open ... I hated the way it felt to tell our other kids to lie." When they first heard they were getting HIV-positive siblings, the other children were all 11 or younger — and Henderson said they all took the news cheerfully in stride. "If they'd been older, it might have been more of an issue," she said. "They didn't know much about it, and we were very matter-of-fact." There's no consensus that early and full disclosure is best. Dr. Jane Aronson, a New York city pediatrician who specializes in the care of children adopted from abroad, argues that HIV-positive children have a right to keep their status private until they're old enough to have a say regarding who is informed. "Some parents have made a decision to define their children's identity now — it's more about them than about the kids," Aronson said. "That could be very challenging when the children grow up. They didn't have a choice." Margaret Fleming, the Chicago woman with three adopted, HIV-positive children, runs a support service called Chances by Choice that recruits and advises parents interested in HIV adoptions. While the group's official advice is that disclosure "is totally at the discretion of the parents," Fleming personally opted for openness. Her three first-graders "already know they're HIV-positive," she said. "I am completely open with them, our neighbors, their schools." At the local elementary school, teachers and staff responded supportively, Fleming said, with the principal easing the concerns of one parent who called to complain. At a summer camp, however, the director was angry when he learned after-the-fact that one of the HIV-positive children was attending, even though Fleming had mentioned that on the application form. From a very early age, Fleming's three children with HIV learned they had a chronic health problem that required taking unpleasant-tasting medicine. Initially, she told them their blood "is not strong" — now they, as well as their siblings, know the problem is HIV, and the older ones help administer the medicine when Fleming isn't home. "They are great ambassadors," Fleming said of her three HIV-positive children. "They've dispelled a lot of myths." Chief among the myths, she said, are misconceptions on how HIV is transmitted and fears that HIV-positive children risk not reaching adulthood. "My own children look terrific," Fleming said. "They can live long, happy lives."

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Orphan Summit Contest






Each year, people from around the United States converge to discuss how to change the lives of orphans through adoption, foster care and global orphan ministry.


This year the Summit will be May 12–13 in Louisville, Ky. Moody Radio has partnered with Christian Alliance for Orphans to give you the opportunity to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Orphan Summit.


If you have a heart for the fatherless, let them know why you want to change the world of an orphan by filling out the form at the following link. http://www.moodyradio.org/orphan/

The winner of the paid trip will be announced Monday, April 11. For more information about the Christian Alliance for orphans or the Summit VII, visit www.christianalliancefororphans.org.


There are four of us from the Vulnerable Children ministry at Willow Creek that will be attending. We hope to see you there!

Monday, April 4, 2011

3rd Day's New Adoption Video

If you care deeply about adoption—both the adoption of children in need of families, and God’s adoption of us—3rd Day’s new music video is unforgettable. (Please remember to mute the blog music at the bottom of the page before starting the video.) http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=V6jO7xhU_Pw