Support the Christian Alliance for Orphans and recieve a free autographed book

 

 

 

 

From now until Sept. 7, any individual donating $25 or more to CAFO will receive a free copy of the new book,

UPENDED: How Following Jesus Remakes Your Words and World,

signed for you by Alliance President Jedd Medefind.

Donate Here to support the Christian Alliance for Orphans today!

See this month's Patheos feature on UPENDED, titled "How Jesus Upends Everything."

The book is, like following Jesus, both deep and joyful.

Russell D. Moore

Dean, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

If you are in need of a fresh look at Jesus Christ and what He came to do in and through your life, then you’ve found it.

Dr. Dennis Rainey

President, Familylife

Upended… shows how an authentic, reflective, engaged faith -- the revolutionary faith taught by Jesus -- can result in a life of meaning, purpose, compassion and significance.

Michael Gerson

Columnist for Washington Post

Former Chief Speechwriter for President George W. Bush

With grace and realism, UPENDED helps us recognize how small choices can have impact in the midst of ordinary moments.

Kristen Howerton

Rage Against the Minivan

… filled with simple truths that compel us to follow Jesus into the places where the simplicity of the gospel transforms everything around us.

Tom Davis

President, Children's HopeChest and Author of Red Letters

UPENDED will help any leader's message penetrate the noise.

Gabe Lyons

Author of The Next Christians

Founder of Q Ideas

As an apprentice to Jesus, I need this book. So do you.

Gideon Strauss

Executive Director, Max De Pree Center for Leadership

I highly recommend this book to anyone who sincerely desires to become an apprentice of Jesus Christ … better equipped to place their faith into tangible action in a hurting world.

Wess Stafford

President, Compassion International

UPENDED crackles with insight and energy, offering a masterful exploration of the unparalleled ways of the Master—and what it looks like to learn as his apprentice.

Bob Buford

Founder of the Leadership Network and Author of Halftime

GRIP Outreach for Youth Fundraising Gala

 

 

 

ONE Night – GRIP Fundraising Gala

 

October 13, 2012 at 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Chicago Marriott Downtown, 540 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago IL 60611

    

This event requires registration: http://www.gripyouth.com/onenight

 

Whether you are new to GRIP or you have been a longtime partner, you are invited to attend the ONE Night, GRIP's Annual Fundraising Gala, on October 13, 2012. If you can't attend, please consider giving a donation to GRIP at www.gripyouth.com/give. Your partnership is greatly appreciated!

 

Reception - 6:30 p.m.

Dinner and Program - 7:00 p.m.

Entertainment thereafter

 

Come together for ONE Night, for ONE mission and ONE goal: to reach a generation of fatherless youth and see their lives transformed. Experience ONE Night of incredible testimonies, exciting opportunities, live music, dancing, and more.

 

Semiformal attire please.

Labels: chicago, fundraising, nonprofit, youth

Event Organizer: Jessica Bernthal (Communications Manager at GRIP Outreach For Youth)

www.gripyouth.com

 

Waiting Child/Special Needs Adoptions from China

If you are considering adoption, I encourage you to check out the Waiting Child program from China.  We've been blessed to adopt our youngest daughter through this program, and know many others who have done the same.  Also, check out the video below that features the McMillan family, members of our adoption community at Willow Creek.

 

 

 

 

Consider Adoption

Has someone in your life recently considered adoption? If so, you should know more about the "China Waiting Child Adoption Program" at Sunny Ridge Family Center. Sunny Ridge has the privilege of finding families for children with special medical needs. See more in this video.

The Term "Special Needs"

Most people believe that when they adopt a child with "special needs" they will have no control over the types of medical issues a child may have. The truth is, families decide the types of "special needs" they are comfortable in handling. Also, in the case of this program, the term "special needs" is used to define a wide variety of of medical needs, including very minor, correctable medical needs to more involved needs. Some children are available for adoption through the program simply because of their age! Children range in age from one year of age to 13 years old, with healthy children over the age of eight also available. Both boys and girls are in need of a family.

Why Are Children Available?

Children are in need of a family for a variety of reasons. Some are available because of the social stigma of having a physical disability and the lack of affordable health care treatments. Often more boys are available in the China Waiting Child Adoption Program due to China’s belief that more families would want to adopt boys, leading to more boys being made available. However, adoptive families in the United States tend to have a preference for girls. This means that little boys in this program can often wait twice as long for a family.

Want To Learn More?

Just starting out? Or do you need to forward this to a friend who may be considering adoption? Many questions can be answered immediately on the Sunny Ridge website. You can also learn more about our China Waiting Child Adoption Program at one of their free Adoption Information Meetings held at Sunny Ridge Family Center in Bolingbrook. If you have questions or would like more information about this program, contact:

Jessica Augsburger, MSW/LCSW
China Waiting Child Program Coordinator
270 Remington Boulevard, Suite C
Bolingbrook, Illinois USA 60440
Direct: (630) 754-4532

Wild West Shootout Benefit Event

 



You are inivted to a very special and unique event on Thursday, September 20th to be held at the Elm Fork Shooting Park in Dallas, Texas. Sponsored by Targets for Christ, the 2012 Wild West Shoot-Out is an all-day event with 100 sporting clay targets and a variety team shooting competition with prizes given to top performers.

The event also includes an exciting format called GNAT (the target is a specially modified remote controlled model airplane that travels at speeds up to 80mph - a hit sets off a pyrotechnic charge on the airplane!). At the end of the day, there will be an awards presentation, followed by dinner and a private concert by country music legend Larry Gatlin. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Hope for Orphans and to AIM Adoptions. Would you prayerfully consider registering (through your company or on your own) as a sponsor of an eight- or four-person team or as an individual shooter? If you are unable to join us as a shooter or sponsor, you may still attend the dinner and concert at a cost of just $100 per person. All proceeds from this event will benefit Hope for Orphans and AIM Adoptions. More information is available by clicking here.

D.C.F.S. Visitation Room Makeover Update

 It is with a grateful heart that I update you on the makeover that was done at our local D.C.F.S. office in Elgin, IL.   Because of the generosity of the design and construction team and the many people who donated items, a beautiful and fun place has been created for children and their parents to create positive memories while they visit each other.

I'd like to take you on a tour......



 

Outside the visitation room, while still in the hallway, you will be welcomed by a beautiful mural welcoming you into the castle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is another entrance to the room.  This wall also greets you with this beautiful scene.

 

 

 

 

This custom built cabinet is not only beautiful but functional.  It has rolling toy boxes under the bookshelf and desk area.  It also had a table that folds down so that up to four people can play games or work on crafts. 

 

 

 

 

In one section you will find dress up clothing.





Another area stores craft items and folding chairs for extra seating.

 A seating area with a beautiful mural "looking outside".  Notice the custom made chess/checkers table in the corner!

 

The deep purple velvet curtains make the room look royal.

 The Reading Throne is comfy and fun!  Many hours will be spent reading there.

A custom made toy box.

 

 

 

Can you believe this cloth ceiling?

 

 

 

 Our artist, Tracy Grein in action.

 

 

 

 (L-R) Designer: Roberta Kasperson, Painter: Tracey Grein, Support & Planning: Marie Kyllo.  Missing from the picture is Doug Kyllo who built the furniture and led the construction team.  Thank you for your months of work and prayers, volunteering to make this project a reality!

 

 

 

 

D.C.F.S. had a ribbon cutting ceremony to thank the makeover team.    They also want to thank those who donated toys, books, costumes and games to fill the room. 

 

But wait............it's not over!

 

 

We also plan to keep a closet filled with daily needs such as snacks, juice boxes, diapers, toiletry items, mittens and hats.  If you are interested in donating any of these items please e-mail us at vcministry127@gmail.com. 

Christian Alliance for Orphans Webinar: Orphan Sunday

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...

Orphan Sunday: Seize the Opportunity

Whether your church is a house church, mega-church or somewhere in-between, Orphan Sunday is your opportunity to help the community see God’s heart for the fatherless and how individuals can respond. This 30-minute webinar will provide practical ideas to help you to make the most of Orphan Sunday to inspire and engage others. Learn how to create a simple activity, event or themed meal for your church, family or small group. Discover countless ready-to-go resources designed to save you time while strengthening your services, meetings, and events. Find partner organizations ready to assist you in turning passion into action. Join churches around the world participating in Orphan Sunday. Use Orphan Sunday to spark that next step in your family or church that will bear fruit for years to come.

Presenter: Jedd Medefind, Christian Alliance for Orphans

Jodi Jackson Tucker, International Orphan Sunday Coordinator

Lavonne Dideon, National Orphan Sunday Coordinator

Date: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 Time:  1:00 PM Central

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.

The Real Issue with Pat Robertson's Adoption Comments

August 18th, 2012
by Jedd Medefind, President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans:


Electric responses—from sorrow to anger—are lighting up blogosphere in response to comments by Pat Robertson on The 700 Club about the risk that adopted kids could turn out “weird” due to the prior abuse, medical issues and other baggage they might carry.

I can’t help feeling that most all of the reactions I’ve seen, from dismay to indignation, are justified. But it also strikes me that the primary problem with what Robertson said lies deeper. The main issue isn’t just another foot-in-my-mouth statement that reveals ignorance or insensitivity. We all can certainly fall prey to saying dumb and hurtful things. Nor is it that Robertson seems hyper-attuned to potential challenges of adoption. Truth be told, that’s a theme adoption advocates would do well to do a better job emphasizing also.

To read the entire story, click here: http://www.christianalliancefororphans.org/2012/08/18/the-real-issue-with-pat-robertsons-adoption-comments/

Sunnyridge Offers Homeland Tours to China

China Homeland Tour Information Meeting

Dates Announced for 2013 Tour

Attend a special Information Meeting on Saturday, September 8, 2012, at 10:00am at Sunny Ridge - to learn more about our 2013 Tour. This Homeland Tour is for families wishing to visit Jiangxi and/or Guangdong Provinces. Both tours will include visits to Beijing and Xian. If your travel group would like to travel together, let us know.

Tentative departure dates:

July 9, 2013 – group departs for Jiangxi;
July 18, 2013 – group departs for Guangdong.

Learn more about the Tour and register on-line by August 30th for this important meeting.

Fundraiser for Shelter, Inc.

Please consider supporting Shelter, Inc. in this annual fundraiser.  Shelter Inc. is a licensed foster care agency  in Arlington Heights, IL, whose mission is to help and protect children who are abused, neglected, dependent or in need of supervision.  For more information visit www.shelter-inc.org. British Car Festival Supports Shelter again in 2012

Come Experience the British Cars of Yesterday and Today

For many years, the British Car Festival has generously made Shelter the recipient of charitable donations collected in lieu of admission to their annual Festival. Once again, Shelter will be charity of choice at the British Car Festival.   British Car and Motorcycle enthusiasts will be out enjoying the exquisite collection of cars, food, entertainment and more. We invite you come out and enjoy the Festival! Sunday, September 9th  9:00 am - 3:00 pm Harper College, Palatine, IL Fore more information: www.britishcarunion.com

Adoptive Parenting Course Offered in Lake Zurich

 Compassion for Kids, a ministry of The Chapel, is offering a 10-week parenting course. Adoptive parents will explore new ways to break through to their adopted children, despite their past experiences of fear, neglect, and trauma. This parenting course is based on the book, Beyond Consequences, Logic, and Control, Volume 1, by Heather Forbes.  The course is taught by Amy Tanner, LCSW, of the Cherry Hill Center in Lake Zurich. Classes start August 23rd, 2012. For more information and to sign up, please contact Amy at: (847) 438-4222 x17 amy@cherryhillcounseling.com

Family Movie Night at Willow Creek

Adoptive, Foster and Safe Families, and those who support them

are invited to

Movie Night

featuring

Disney's

"Snow Dogs"

Sunday, August 19, 2012

5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Willow Creek Community Church

Room F150 (2 year old's Promiseland Room)

When Miami dentist Ted Brooks learns that his birth mother has passed away and that he was named in her will, he travels to Alaska to claim his inheritance. Rather than the large chunk of change that many people would expect, Ted instead receives his mother's pack of rowdy sled dogs and her property. Although the dogs seemingly have it in for Ted, he decides to keep the dogs and race them in the local race, the Arctic Challenge, spiting a mountain man who wants the dogs. What follows is a comedy detailing Ted's adventures in learning to run the sled dogs, while coming to grips with his adoption story.  Rated PG/99 minutes.

Director: Brian Levant
Stars:Cuba Gooding Jr., James Coburn and Sisqó

Hot Dogs, Popcorn & Beverages will be served.  Please bring a dessert to share.

Bring a blanket for your family to sit on.  Chairs will also be provided.

Please R.S.V.P. to vcministry127@gmail.com to let us know you're coming!

Lifesong for Orphans Church Adoption Fund

Has your church considered starting an adoption fund?  If not, let LifeSong for Orphans help you start one!

"The blessings go way beyond any financial support because the family is just knowing that the church cares."

--Dave Blaske, His Kids-Our Homes Adoption Fund Director

Listen in as His Kids-Our Homes Adoption Fund share about their partnership with Lifesong for Orphans...

It has been exciting for us as a ministry to have a front-row view in what God is doing through our 210 active and intentional Church Fund Partners.  In the past six months alone, we have seen the generosity of these churches provide over $627,650 to 193 adoptive families in the form of grants and loans.

The refreshing joy of serving families, blessing orphans, and ultimately glorifying God is at the core of each church fund that we partner with.  We celebrate the work that God is doing through each of them as He places the lonely into families (Psalm 68:6). 

For more stories about how a church fund can bless adoptive families, we invite you to watch the Quine & Stewart family adoption videos.

To learn more about Lifesong Church Funds, please visit our website or contact Rich Metcalfe (309.747.4528, rich@lifesongfororphans.org)

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." Hebrews 10:24  

Lydia Benefit Gala 2012

Save The Date!

LYDIA's Benefit Gala 2012

Thursday, November 15

Donald E. Stevens Convention Center

Rosemont, Illinois

The evening will include a silent auction, dinner and a special message by popular pastor, speaker, and author Stuart Briscoe! You will also hear inspirational stories from people whose lives have been touched by LYDIA's ministry of compassion.

For information about hosting a table or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Erica Dorantes byemail or call 773-653-2249.

CLICK TO RSVP   

"BLANK" Comes to Chicago

BLANK COMES TO CHICAGO! ONE NIGHT ONLY "A powerful solo show...deeply moving..."- LA WEEKLY "Blank is a moving exploration of identity " - Backstage “Packed to the brim with material, BLANK is a powerful piece.” –Show Business Weekly <- WHAT: Nationally Acclaimed Solo Play BLANK Supports Adoptee Rights Coalition Art & Politics Meet to Tackle Tough Truths of Adoption and Identity.

Brian Stanton, "Blank held this reviewer enthralled, amused, and emotionally touched from start to finish.” –StageSceneLA WHO: BLANK Productions is proud to present Playwright/Actor Brian Stanton’s award-winning, nationally acclaimed, original solo play BLANK, directed by McKerrin Kelly. Stanton plays 12 characters to share his true adoption story, the title referring to the name space on his Original Birth Certificate. Brian embarks on a mythical quest for identity only to learn he’s a product of rape. BLANK had its World Premiere in Los Angeles, CA in April of 2010. Since then, BLANK has visited Off Broadway New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Kansas City, Orlando, San Diego and several other cities in Southern California garnering critical acclaim along the way including a “Best Solo Actor” award at the United Solo Theatre Festival in New York City and 2 StageSceneLA awards.

WHEN: SUNDAY AUGUST 5th 7:30 pm, $20 Prop Theatre, 3502 N. Elston, Chicago, IL. Event precedes the Adoptee Rights Coalition (ARC) demonstration at the National Conference ofState Legislators on Monday, August 6th outside the Convention Center downtown Chicago. ARC supports all legislation that will give all adopted adults unconditional restored access to their own birth certificates. Illinois is one of only six states in the United States that allows this access. TICKETS & INFORMATION: Stanton will donate half of proceeds to the Adoptee Rights Coalition who is hosting its own protest event the following day. PURCHASE TICKETS SUNDAY AUGUST 5th 7:30 pm, $20 For further information on BLANK, please visit http://www.blankbybrianstanton.com

"What (Stanton) does is give us a glimpse of the unique journey the adopted person takes to understand and appreciate their personal history. A play that betters our understanding of that journey is an important one. For fifteen years I have lived and loved someone who was adopted. And I’m grateful to Mr. Stanton for helping me appreciate my partner’s journey even more." –NYTheatre.com