And excited to get back to posting!!! We developed a facebook fan page and have been doing more updating there than the blog, but that's all about to change. And you wanna know why?!
We're BEYOND EXCITED to announce that our little ministry is growing! JHAAM is partnering with Joy's adoption agency Children's Home Society and Family Services to advocate for their waiting children!!! That's right! We will be featuring waiting children on our blog on a regular basis! Sharing photos, profiles and information on these precious children that are waiting on their forever families to find them. For God to bring them together. And what an honor to be able to serve in such a way that we may be the ones He uses to help these little cuties find their new mommy & daddy!
We are overjoyed to have been asked to advocate for these children with CHSFS and hope you will check back on a regular basis to view the waiting children! Who knows...... your future son/daughter may be just a post away!
Showing posts with label Adoption. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Adoption. Show all posts
Friday, June 24, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Merci Jezi!
That's 'Thank You Jesus!" as I was taught in Haiti. ;) We have some exciting news to share at JHAM! We have educated a family on adoption and after much prayer and discussion (after much, i.e. MONTHS! lol) the family have decided to move forward with an adoption! We are uber excited and can't wait to share with you this family's journey! Stay tuned to see who is stepping out in faith to follow where HE leads them.
Merci Jezi for another family who said YES!
Merci Jezi for setting the lonely in families!
Merci Jezi, for one less orphan tonight!
Just...... Merci Jezi!
Join with us as we pray for and support this family in their journey.
Merci Jezi for another family who said YES!
Merci Jezi for setting the lonely in families!
Merci Jezi, for one less orphan tonight!
Just...... Merci Jezi!
Join with us as we pray for and support this family in their journey.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Advocating for David
Sharing from another blog friend. Could you be David's family? Pray, pray for direction, pray for David's family to come forward for him! We know that God has a good and perfect plan for us all! ~Jeremiah 29:11~
Davids' Story: URGENT NEED!!!
Earlier today I posted "a plea for a boy in Latvia," and later received more information about his story. It is heartbreaking, and he is URGENT need of prayer and adoption!! Please read his story, and PRAY! Below is the message I received:
"Dear Friends and Prayer Warriors:
I have prayed over the last few days about how to share this story, and I have no words to adequately express it. However, it has to be shared and I will do my best. Many who have heard it are so sick over it, our hearts just ache. We know God has a plan; is it you?
In January, 2010, I met an awesome child/young man at an orphanage in Riga , Latvia . His name is Davids. He was one of a few children we were introduced to that day for consideration in our Summer 2010 orphan hosting program. He was really sharp and smart, had a great sense of humor and looked you in the eye when he tried to speak the good amount of English he had already learned. I remember asking his favorite things to do and he didn’t hesitate to explain he loved kite flying in the sky and dreamed to be a pilot some day! He also enjoys soccer, basketball, swimming and all sports. But, the thing that surprised us most was his age! He was already 15 and effectively the size of a 9 or 10 year old child. We asked the orphanage director more about him later, and were told Davids is healthy, just small and has the kindest, gentlest heart. He generally plays with the younger group of kids because the older ones make fun of him and claim to be “too cool” to hang out with a guy his size. As for history, he has been in 4-5 different orphanages, but has managed to keep hope for a brighter future. He is a sincere and especially child towards younger children. Lego building is one of his hobbies! I remember, he made a joke when I asked him if he liked dogs and cats…a traditional question we ask… He said, “of course! But, I am no cannibal.” And gave us the biggest smile of all! Later, when he was among the group and doing art projects, he drew a picture of a jet airplane landing under a sky that resembled the American flag. When I asked him to explain it, he told me, “My dream to fly airplane and live in family in America !” From that point, he had us at “hello” and we were committed to helping him fulfill his dream.
For the summer program, Davids was hosted by a multi-cultural, multi-racial family and he did awesome! He was kind to his younger host brothers and sister and enjoyed just about everything they did. He especially liked to build and make things and play sports outside, with swimming being one of his favorites! He learned a lot more English and wasn’t shy to use it either. While his host family was not his forever family, our team and staff was so thankful when we received a call from a couple who wanted to go and visit with him before his return to Latvia . We knew time was short, and we encouraged anyone who might be interested, to meet him asap. After one meeting, the family who went, let me know they would be adopting him and how encouraged and inspired they were by Davids. After many discussions, we realized that he needed to know the plan, as his birthday was coming up…his 16th birthday, which means several things to an orphan. First, it means they are about to age out and can’t be considered for adoption. Second, it means that they are on their path of graduating the orphanage and will soon be on their own. Third, it means life as they know it now: food, shelter, protection and security is about over. In the first year after a child leaves the orphanage, generally 15% commit suicide. So, it was decided for me to talk to Davids when our interview returned to Latvia this past August and see how he felt regarding this adoption.
When I sat down with him, I had a translator with me, but he didn’t need her. We sat on a sofa in the social worker’s office and I asked him how he liked America and what he thought? He explained he loved it, and it was more than he ever imagined! I asked him if he remembered this particular man who came to meet him and spent time with him the week before he returned to Latvia , and he said “Oh Yes and we had fun!” I went on and said, “Well, this man told his wife about you and they want me to tell you they are so happy, and they want to adopt you.” Davids’ look was utter shock! He said, “Who, me?” and I confirmed it was indeed him. He said, “Oh yes! VERY VERY much YES! And, they want ME?” He was just the most excited kid I think I ever had the pleasure to tell about an adoption. Most kids are shocked, but usually have to think about it and have several questions to ask before they really accept it and consider it as real. Davids’, on the other hand, was just the happiest kid on the planet that day; his dream was coming true.
Last week, I got an email from his adoptive family… now just 10 days before his 16th birthday,it basically said they felt that they would adopt a girl they met (which was planned all along), but they no longer wanted to adopt Davids’. They had changed their mind. The next day, I got an unsolicited email from Davids’ social worker in Latvia . This is what she wrote:
"Hello Le Ann,
I wish to ask you about one of our boys, his name is Davids T. He was hosted Summer 2010 at a host family in IL. Since he was close to 16, we got information and you shared with him that there is family who will adopt him. It was not the family who hosted him, but another one.
Till this day we never received more information about the adopting family, and we confirmed that the Ministry also has no information yet. I must share, we are all worried and concerned. Davids became so nervous in this last month, his attention to everything is gone. Yesterday he was moved to hospital, because of problems with his stomach relating to the stress of not knowing. We know this all is because he is so close to his 16th birthday; it's on 23 January this year.
We don’t know what to say and can't say anything to Davids because we don't know. It will be a shock for him if it's not true, he has so long lived with this thoughts focused on this adoption and a family in America.
We wish to know the truth to share so he can know and be happy again.”
We have tried to contact his family and explain, show them, what their decision has done to this child. So far, there is no response, but more importantly, there is no time with only a few days that remain for someone to file the I800 with USCIS to adopt Davids’. I have explained to his social worker what the full situation is, and as a strong Christian, she has agreed to pray earnestly with us for a new family to come forward for this child! The adoption agency who was working on this case has agreed to do everything they can to expedite the adoption and assist where possible to get them through the system.
If you or someone you know is interested in moving NOW to adopt Davids’, this is what needs to happen:
1)You must already have an approved home study issued by a Hague Accredited adoption agency in the USA . It must be able to be amended to show you are approved for at least one child, a boy, who is age 16 or under.
2)You must be willing to file with the USCIS the form I800, which will specify Davids’ as the child you intend to adopt, and it must be received prior to January 23, 2011. If done, this gives the adopting family 180 more days to complete the adoption.
Here are a few photos of Davids’: (the one on bottom is me telling him he was being adopted).
Please join us in immediate prayer and action to locate and identify Davids’ Forever Family!!! You are out there somewhere and God knows exactly who you are and He doesn’t make mistakes. We just need to get the word to you about him."
Le Ann Dakake, Director of Hosting Programs, New Horizons for Children 678-313-8321 cell
Or
Cathy Sawyer, An Open Door Adoption: 404-667-0694
"Dear Friends and Prayer Warriors:
I have prayed over the last few days about how to share this story, and I have no words to adequately express it. However, it has to be shared and I will do my best. Many who have heard it are so sick over it, our hearts just ache. We know God has a plan; is it you?
In January, 2010, I met an awesome child/young man at an orphanage in Riga , Latvia . His name is Davids. He was one of a few children we were introduced to that day for consideration in our Summer 2010 orphan hosting program. He was really sharp and smart, had a great sense of humor and looked you in the eye when he tried to speak the good amount of English he had already learned. I remember asking his favorite things to do and he didn’t hesitate to explain he loved kite flying in the sky and dreamed to be a pilot some day! He also enjoys soccer, basketball, swimming and all sports. But, the thing that surprised us most was his age! He was already 15 and effectively the size of a 9 or 10 year old child. We asked the orphanage director more about him later, and were told Davids is healthy, just small and has the kindest, gentlest heart. He generally plays with the younger group of kids because the older ones make fun of him and claim to be “too cool” to hang out with a guy his size. As for history, he has been in 4-5 different orphanages, but has managed to keep hope for a brighter future. He is a sincere and especially child towards younger children. Lego building is one of his hobbies! I remember, he made a joke when I asked him if he liked dogs and cats…a traditional question we ask… He said, “of course! But, I am no cannibal.” And gave us the biggest smile of all! Later, when he was among the group and doing art projects, he drew a picture of a jet airplane landing under a sky that resembled the American flag. When I asked him to explain it, he told me, “My dream to fly airplane and live in family in America !” From that point, he had us at “hello” and we were committed to helping him fulfill his dream.
For the summer program, Davids was hosted by a multi-cultural, multi-racial family and he did awesome! He was kind to his younger host brothers and sister and enjoyed just about everything they did. He especially liked to build and make things and play sports outside, with swimming being one of his favorites! He learned a lot more English and wasn’t shy to use it either. While his host family was not his forever family, our team and staff was so thankful when we received a call from a couple who wanted to go and visit with him before his return to Latvia . We knew time was short, and we encouraged anyone who might be interested, to meet him asap. After one meeting, the family who went, let me know they would be adopting him and how encouraged and inspired they were by Davids. After many discussions, we realized that he needed to know the plan, as his birthday was coming up…his 16th birthday, which means several things to an orphan. First, it means they are about to age out and can’t be considered for adoption. Second, it means that they are on their path of graduating the orphanage and will soon be on their own. Third, it means life as they know it now: food, shelter, protection and security is about over. In the first year after a child leaves the orphanage, generally 15% commit suicide. So, it was decided for me to talk to Davids when our interview returned to Latvia this past August and see how he felt regarding this adoption.
When I sat down with him, I had a translator with me, but he didn’t need her. We sat on a sofa in the social worker’s office and I asked him how he liked America and what he thought? He explained he loved it, and it was more than he ever imagined! I asked him if he remembered this particular man who came to meet him and spent time with him the week before he returned to Latvia , and he said “Oh Yes and we had fun!” I went on and said, “Well, this man told his wife about you and they want me to tell you they are so happy, and they want to adopt you.” Davids’ look was utter shock! He said, “Who, me?” and I confirmed it was indeed him. He said, “Oh yes! VERY VERY much YES! And, they want ME?” He was just the most excited kid I think I ever had the pleasure to tell about an adoption. Most kids are shocked, but usually have to think about it and have several questions to ask before they really accept it and consider it as real. Davids’, on the other hand, was just the happiest kid on the planet that day; his dream was coming true.
Last week, I got an email from his adoptive family… now just 10 days before his 16th birthday,it basically said they felt that they would adopt a girl they met (which was planned all along), but they no longer wanted to adopt Davids’. They had changed their mind. The next day, I got an unsolicited email from Davids’ social worker in Latvia . This is what she wrote:
"Hello Le Ann,
I wish to ask you about one of our boys, his name is Davids T. He was hosted Summer 2010 at a host family in IL. Since he was close to 16, we got information and you shared with him that there is family who will adopt him. It was not the family who hosted him, but another one.
Till this day we never received more information about the adopting family, and we confirmed that the Ministry also has no information yet. I must share, we are all worried and concerned. Davids became so nervous in this last month, his attention to everything is gone. Yesterday he was moved to hospital, because of problems with his stomach relating to the stress of not knowing. We know this all is because he is so close to his 16th birthday; it's on 23 January this year.
We don’t know what to say and can't say anything to Davids because we don't know. It will be a shock for him if it's not true, he has so long lived with this thoughts focused on this adoption and a family in America.
We wish to know the truth to share so he can know and be happy again.”
We have tried to contact his family and explain, show them, what their decision has done to this child. So far, there is no response, but more importantly, there is no time with only a few days that remain for someone to file the I800 with USCIS to adopt Davids’. I have explained to his social worker what the full situation is, and as a strong Christian, she has agreed to pray earnestly with us for a new family to come forward for this child! The adoption agency who was working on this case has agreed to do everything they can to expedite the adoption and assist where possible to get them through the system.
If you or someone you know is interested in moving NOW to adopt Davids’, this is what needs to happen:
1)You must already have an approved home study issued by a Hague Accredited adoption agency in the USA . It must be able to be amended to show you are approved for at least one child, a boy, who is age 16 or under.
2)You must be willing to file with the USCIS the form I800, which will specify Davids’ as the child you intend to adopt, and it must be received prior to January 23, 2011. If done, this gives the adopting family 180 more days to complete the adoption.
Here are a few photos of Davids’: (the one on bottom is me telling him he was being adopted).
Please join us in immediate prayer and action to locate and identify Davids’ Forever Family!!! You are out there somewhere and God knows exactly who you are and He doesn’t make mistakes. We just need to get the word to you about him."
Le Ann Dakake, Director of Hosting Programs, New Horizons for Children 678-313-8321 cell
Or
Cathy Sawyer, An Open Door Adoption: 404-667-0694
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
12 Days & Counting
this post was taken from a blog friend and you never know who might see this through another friend of a friend. please pass it along, share it with everyone you know. you can tell from the date that it was posted....this sweet boy has 12 days and counting now. time is running out, but nothing is impossible with god!
december 20, 2010
twenty days is all this handsome young man has left to find his forever family.
just. twenty. days.
and then--he will never have the opportunity to be adopted again.
oh my heart. i cannot stand the thought.
look how sweet he is....
i cannot even imagine being in his situation. seeing countless "little kids" leave the orphanage with their mom and dad and wondering, wondering, wondering, if his turn will ever come.
sadly for this young man, time is about to run out. he has waited for such a long time on waiting child lists--but no one has ever said "yes" to him. can you imagine being passed over so many times?
absolutely heartbreaking for any young person.
according to the agency that has his file, apart from a history of hep b (just like our girls--very easy special need) he is healthy, smart, and a great thirteen year old kid.
goodness, i just know that his family is out there somewhere. i know someone will go. why? because i believe with all my heart that there is a family for every child who waits. they just have not found him yet.
unfortunately, there's a catch...
he absolutely must be adopted before his fourteenth birthday in february. that means that his family must already have a dossier in ch*na. they must be in the process of adopting another child from this country and are willing to add this boy to their adoption. or, their dossier is in country and they are waiting on a referral.
one of my favorite lines from the movie, "faith like potatoes" is when angus buchan says, "the condition for a miracle is difficulty, however the condition for a great miracle is not difficulty, but impossibility."
god loves to show his glory through seemingly impossible situations.
it's time to stand a trust the father for a great miracle for this sweet guy. as time ticks by and things become more and more impossible, i ask myself again, "is anything impossible for the lord god almighty?"
i know the answer all too well. so do many of you.
nothing is impossible! nothing at all. not even this.
please, friends, can you help us to spread the word about this young man? post him everywhere you possibly can in the hope that his mom and dad will find him soon--before it is too late. once he turns fourteen he will be considered unavailable for adoption. he will never know what it feels like to be loved and treasured by parents. he will remain in the orphanage until he is sixteen...and then...well, who knows? it is the sad reality of any orphan who ages out of the system. hopelessness.
twenty days...that's all we have to get the word out there on the internet. will you please help? will you pray with us for the great miracle that he so desperately needs this christmas? will you help to spread the word wherever you can?
i so appreciate your help. you guys totally rock.
let's give him the best christmas present ever...a family!
if anyone wants more details, reply or leave a comment to this post, or e-mail me at renealynch at yahoo.com and i can put you in touch with the ones you need to talk to regarding this sweet boy!
just. twenty. days.
and then--he will never have the opportunity to be adopted again.
oh my heart. i cannot stand the thought.
look how sweet he is....
i cannot even imagine being in his situation. seeing countless "little kids" leave the orphanage with their mom and dad and wondering, wondering, wondering, if his turn will ever come.
sadly for this young man, time is about to run out. he has waited for such a long time on waiting child lists--but no one has ever said "yes" to him. can you imagine being passed over so many times?
absolutely heartbreaking for any young person.
according to the agency that has his file, apart from a history of hep b (just like our girls--very easy special need) he is healthy, smart, and a great thirteen year old kid.
goodness, i just know that his family is out there somewhere. i know someone will go. why? because i believe with all my heart that there is a family for every child who waits. they just have not found him yet.
unfortunately, there's a catch...
he absolutely must be adopted before his fourteenth birthday in february. that means that his family must already have a dossier in ch*na. they must be in the process of adopting another child from this country and are willing to add this boy to their adoption. or, their dossier is in country and they are waiting on a referral.
one of my favorite lines from the movie, "faith like potatoes" is when angus buchan says, "the condition for a miracle is difficulty, however the condition for a great miracle is not difficulty, but impossibility."
god loves to show his glory through seemingly impossible situations.
it's time to stand a trust the father for a great miracle for this sweet guy. as time ticks by and things become more and more impossible, i ask myself again, "is anything impossible for the lord god almighty?"
i know the answer all too well. so do many of you.
nothing is impossible! nothing at all. not even this.
please, friends, can you help us to spread the word about this young man? post him everywhere you possibly can in the hope that his mom and dad will find him soon--before it is too late. once he turns fourteen he will be considered unavailable for adoption. he will never know what it feels like to be loved and treasured by parents. he will remain in the orphanage until he is sixteen...and then...well, who knows? it is the sad reality of any orphan who ages out of the system. hopelessness.
twenty days...that's all we have to get the word out there on the internet. will you please help? will you pray with us for the great miracle that he so desperately needs this christmas? will you help to spread the word wherever you can?
i so appreciate your help. you guys totally rock.
let's give him the best christmas present ever...a family!
if anyone wants more details, reply or leave a comment to this post, or e-mail me at renealynch at yahoo.com and i can put you in touch with the ones you need to talk to regarding this sweet boy!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Choosing to See
If you love to read, and you love adoption....or better yet, if you love to read about how Christ can change our hearts and our lives and how He works through others, then this book is a must read!!!
Most folks in adoption circles (and many more beyond!) know of and love the Chapman Family. Read their story about their lives together, their adoptions of their three girls and their loss and the triumph that came from that loss in Mary Beth's book "Choosing to See".
You can also find more information about their orphan ministry and how you can help support orphans in China and around the world at their website SHOW HOPE. If you are in your adoption journey they also provide grants and funding for families so be sure and check out their site. It may be that the Chapman family is going to help your family adopt!
Most folks in adoption circles (and many more beyond!) know of and love the Chapman Family. Read their story about their lives together, their adoptions of their three girls and their loss and the triumph that came from that loss in Mary Beth's book "Choosing to See".
You can also find more information about their orphan ministry and how you can help support orphans in China and around the world at their website SHOW HOPE. If you are in your adoption journey they also provide grants and funding for families so be sure and check out their site. It may be that the Chapman family is going to help your family adopt!
Say YES!
Have you said yes yet? What, what...... are you waiting for?
How does it feel to have no family? How does it feel to become part of one? See 6 lives change in two-and-a-half minutes....
How does it feel to have no family? How does it feel to become part of one? See 6 lives change in two-and-a-half minutes....
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Won't You Help Us?
The following was shared by the Joint Council on International Children's Services. We believe this needs to be shared, read and others need to stand up and do what they can to ensure international adoptions continue! The children, God's children, need us! Please pass this forward or complete the steps to share about your adoption experience! Thanks and God Bless!
We Are The Truth
A Campaign and Call to Action
The outrageous treatment of Artyem by his adoptive family has rightfully resulted in outrage by the Governments of Russia and the United States and all who care about children. The tragedy has cast a light on intercountry adoption that says it is not safe, the system failed and adopted children cause insurmountable problems. The heartbreak of Artyem Saviliev’s abandonment has once again elevated a singular incident to a level which may result in the suspension of intercountry adoption. Suspending adoption, even temporarily, will only cause thousands of children to suffer the debilitating effects of life in an orphanage.
You, the community of adoptees, adoptive parents, adoptive grandparents, child welfare professionals and child advocates know that the outrageous and indefensible actions of one parent are not indicative of how children are treated by adoptive families. You know that families who encounter difficulties do not simply abandon their child. You know that help is available, that solutions are found and that families can thrive. And you know that suspending adoption does not protect children but only subjects them to the depravity of an institution…and an entire life without a family.
You, the adoption community know the truth. You live the truth. You are the truth.
Join our campaign to bring the truth to light and help children in need find a permanent and safe family.
What You Can Do
1) Sign the letter to President Medvedev and President Obama: The letter asks both Presidents to ensure that intercountry adoption continues uninterrupted and to aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone involved in the abuse of children. You can sign anytime, but doing so before Tuesday night would help us get the letters to both Presidents before President Medvedev leaves the U.S. To sign the letter, click here.
2) We Are The Truth – an adoption blogger day: To ensure the world knows about every successful adoption, on Thursday, April 15, 2010 blog about your adoption or the adoption of someone you know. It doesn’t matter if your adoption is with Russia, domestic or otherwise international. Let the world knowyour truth!
3) Tell Your Truth with Video - make sure the world sees, hears and feels the thousands of successful adoptions from Russia by:
- Send Joint Council your successful Russian adoption video via email to alexa.m@jcics.org.
- Video should be a maximum of 3 minutes.
- A release must be sent to Joint Council or we cannot accept your video. For a copy of the release, click here.
- Joint Council will translate the video into Russian and post it on our YouTube Channel.
4) Tell Your Truth with Words and Photos
- Send Joint Council your successful Russian adoption story via email to alexa.m@jcics.org. Send us your stories through:
- Photos (please do not send more than 10)
- Essays (maximum 500 words)
- A release must be sent to Joint Council or we cannot accept your story and/or pictures. For a copy of the release, click here.
- Joint Council will then compile the stories and pictures, translate them into Russian and post them on our website and/or blog.
5) Share Your Truth
- Joint Council will post, forward and share your stories via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Joint Council will be updating our YouTube Channel and Facebook page as the stories get compiled and translated, please subscribe to us on YouTube, Twitter and Fan us on Facebook.
- You do the same by posting on your Facebook, Twitter, blog and website!
Want to help more?
- Are you willing to speak to the media about your Russian adoption? If so, please email betheanswer@jcics.org with the following:
- Your name(s)
- City, State of residence
- Contact Phone Numbers
- Contact Email
- Short 4 sentence bio about your adoption
- Do you speak Russian?
- We are in need of individual volunteers who can help our staff translate the videos and text quickly. If you are interested in helping, email Joint Council at intern@jcics.org.
- Do you live in the Alexandria, VA area?
- Joint Council is in need of short term volunteers over the next two weeks, email rebeccah@jcics.org if you would like to volunteer.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Adoption Tax Credit
Awesome News!!! Taken from the Rainbow Kids adoption website:
| ||||
With the signing of the new health care bill, adoptive parents received some very welcome news. Not only will the adoption tax credit be extended until December 2011, but it has also been increased from $12,170 to $13,170 for adoptions occurring after January 2010. And for the first time, the credit will now be refundable. Families may receive a refund for documented expenses for the adoption of their child.What this mean to adoptive families:The best news: This new tax law means that adoptive parents may apply up to $13,170 of their adoption expenses toward their taxes owed, thereby decreasing the amount owed overall by this amount. However, the news gets even better. For the first time, families may be getting cash back from the IRS for their adoption expenses. That's right, the credit may now be taken as a refund for the first time. In the event that the couple owes less than the tax credit amount stated, they may receive some or all of the balance as a refund on their Federal taxes. The tax credit is important to both international and domestic adoptive families, but it's greatest beneficiaries are the children who will now have permanent families thanks to adoption being more affordable. Many groups and individuals have successfully lobbied to help extend this tax credit beyond its original expiration date of December 2010, and are still seeking to make the tax credit permanent. As we celebrate the extension of the deadline to December 2011, we must also remain vigilant in seeking to make this legislation a lasting gift to the children who wait. |
Friday, March 26, 2010
Dressed for HOPE
I LOVE wearing adoption shirts. Anything to advocate for the orphan! We're getting ready to make some new ones ourselves, but you MUST check out Kim's new fundraiser for their adoption! You seriously cannot pass this one up! Check out her blog HERE and I'd like to tell you not to enter so I can win, but hey..... it's for the greatest cause I can think of! Creating bigger families through adoption! Bringing orphans home to forever families! So buy as many entries as you can afford!
If you win, you get ALL of this!
AND THIS!!!!
Incredible!!! Even if I don't win this sweet giveaway I can't wait to see who does! Congratulations Kim on the coolest fundraiser I've seen to date! You rock girlfriend!
Monday, March 22, 2010
World Water Day & New Financial Aid!
There are lots of things in the works for JHAM! We have some exciting events coming up this spring and summer to benefit the orphan and advocate for adoption! We're so excited to share those things with you in the VERY NEAR future! We're going to be meeting later this week to get some things in place and start the new season off right!
TODAY..... is World Water Day. You can 'celebrate' with us and get one of these:
When you buy a water bottle, 15 Africans get clean water. That means fewer women in Africa will have to walk six kilometers to collect water. And because of this, they won’t be carrying the 44 pounds of water that they normally carry on their heads that whole way. Think of what they could do with all the time and energy saved.
TODAY..... is World Water Day. You can 'celebrate' with us and get one of these:
That’s not the bottle’s whole impact, though. Now, you can use your “Ripple Effect” water bottle instead of having to buy bottled water. You save money, and fewer plastic bottles end up in landfills, where they can take 1000 years to decompose. By refilling your water bottle from the tap, you save the energy and resources that otherwise would have been used to manufacture, ship, and dispose of plastic water bottles. With over 50 billion bottles of water being consumed yearly, that’s a lot of energy!
Now consider this: the amount of water used in one flush of a toilet is the same amount as an average person in Africa uses all day for washing, cleaning, cooking, and drinking.
In fact, 311 million Africans lack access to clean drinking water. That’s roughly 45% of the population.Some of you might be thinking this is because there is no water in Africa, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Only 4% of the total renewable water available in Africa is used yearly due to a lack of wells, pumps, reservoirs, and other irrigation systems. Shocking statistic, isn’t it?
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NEXT is a new resource we found for Adoption Funding! Awesome site! Awesome folks fighting for the plight of the orphan! Check them out by clicking the logo and 'about us' link below! We hope this will be a valuable resource to someone in search of financing to finalize their adoption!
Friday, January 22, 2010
† Update on Haitian Adoptions
The following link is the latest update by the State Department on Haitian adoption. Please read it carefully!
http://adoption.state.gov/news/children_affected_by_natural_disasters_conflict.html
There has become a lot of interest in adopting from Haiti due to the crisis situation. It has even opened new hearts to adoption and people are stepping up and wanting to be adoptive parents where they never considered it before. That is awesome and definitely the work of an amazing God touching hearts.
While there is interest and people want to help these orphans we must remember that the adoption process is not 'totally' revamped due to a crisis situation. There are still guidelines that need to be followed to ensure children are in fact orphans and that child trafficking does not become an issue. Sad as it may seem, there are people who will try to profit from such a situation. Haiti also has many orphanages that house children who are not eligible for adoption. Haitian parents will bring their child to these special orphanages so their child can receive an education, vocational training and be fed a regular diet that they are unable to provide. These children are raised to be educated citizens with the hope of bringing a brighter tomorrow for their country Haiti.
If you are new to adoption or just considering it and want to apply to adopt be prepared for some disappointments. This will come with any adoption as well as the overwhelming joy that it brings. Please bear in mind until government buildings and such can be restored in Haiti there will probably be a hold on any new Haitian adoptions. People are being led to believe that because of the orphans we've seen on TV that have been flown out of the country it should be so easy for everyone. NOT TRUE! Those children were already matched with families and in the last stages of the adoption process.
Do not attempt to travel to Haiti with the hopes of bringing children back. This is illegal! It can also cause unnecessary problems with relief aid at this time.
Please, research any agency before applying for adoption, as well as country information you can find from the state department. If you are confused and feel overwhelmed that is what we're here for! Don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail or phone if you have questions about the process or what can be done to help your family adopt.
http://adoption.state.gov/news/children_affected_by_natural_disasters_conflict.html
There has become a lot of interest in adopting from Haiti due to the crisis situation. It has even opened new hearts to adoption and people are stepping up and wanting to be adoptive parents where they never considered it before. That is awesome and definitely the work of an amazing God touching hearts.
While there is interest and people want to help these orphans we must remember that the adoption process is not 'totally' revamped due to a crisis situation. There are still guidelines that need to be followed to ensure children are in fact orphans and that child trafficking does not become an issue. Sad as it may seem, there are people who will try to profit from such a situation. Haiti also has many orphanages that house children who are not eligible for adoption. Haitian parents will bring their child to these special orphanages so their child can receive an education, vocational training and be fed a regular diet that they are unable to provide. These children are raised to be educated citizens with the hope of bringing a brighter tomorrow for their country Haiti.
If you are new to adoption or just considering it and want to apply to adopt be prepared for some disappointments. This will come with any adoption as well as the overwhelming joy that it brings. Please bear in mind until government buildings and such can be restored in Haiti there will probably be a hold on any new Haitian adoptions. People are being led to believe that because of the orphans we've seen on TV that have been flown out of the country it should be so easy for everyone. NOT TRUE! Those children were already matched with families and in the last stages of the adoption process.
Do not attempt to travel to Haiti with the hopes of bringing children back. This is illegal! It can also cause unnecessary problems with relief aid at this time.
Please, research any agency before applying for adoption, as well as country information you can find from the state department. If you are confused and feel overwhelmed that is what we're here for! Don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail or phone if you have questions about the process or what can be done to help your family adopt.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
† For His Glory
An Urgent Call to Act on behalf of Haiti's orphans and "For His Glory Adoption Outreach". Click the link or the photo to read more information on what you can do to help more of Haiti's orphans to their forever families. As some of you may know if you are keeping up with the situation in Haiti some of the children from the orphanages are being brought out of the country and united with their adoptive families in the U.S. This of course is being done with humanitarian waiver/parole for children who are already in the adoption process. All I know to say is, "Merci Jezi!" (Thank you Jesus! in Creole)
Those wanting to adopt from Haiti or who have had their heart changed by the disaster and now wish to adopt will of course not be this fortunate in the process. But there is always hope that laws and red tape can be changed for the future of Haiti's orphans.
Continue to pray for the country and it's people. This will be a situation that will not be remedied within a few weeks or even months. They need our continued support for a better future.
* UPDATE: Also just wanted to let everyone know that we have heard from our friends that Celissa (the girl posted below) has been found and is safe and alive! Another Merci Jezi!!!! We don't know all of her story yet, but are just thankful that she has been found.
Monday, December 7, 2009
† Shopping With a Purpose
The Christmas season is upon us! I don't know about you, but I have yet to dive into my shopping! I dread it for so many reasons. We no longer buy gifts for the adults in our family and only buy for children (our own and nieces and nephews). This year I want to do something different, when I shop and buy something (if I don't make it myself) I want it to be something with a deeper meaning and purpose than just something I grabbed at the last minute from the shelf at the department store. Below are some links and photos of items that would make great gifts but also support wonderful charities or families adopting so .... shop without guilt!!!! Know that money you spend not only buys a gift for your loved one, but provides funds for others to bring their loved ones home to forever families. :) Shop till you drop!!! I dare ya! :o) (and just a little heads up.... soon to come, we're making our own little boutique shop with goodies for the same purpose! Future gift giving ideas will be found at Pish Posh Tots too!!!)
It's Poppy Dip
147 Million Orphans 
Need hair bows, look no farther! So cute and so unique and for a great cause!
Beads For Life The beaders and tailors are primarily impoverished women who are hardworking, intelligent, and strong in their desire to improve their lives. They make gorgeous handcrafted paper beads from recycled paper and turn them into necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Because the beaders use recycled, colorful paper, the beads help prevent environmental degradation. What was trash becomes beauty, money, food, and hope.
Last year I gave these SUUBI beads as end of the year teacher gifts and for Christmas! They are very cool and go with so many things and support the women of Uganda! There are also other items for sell here.
This talented mom has the cutest baby slings I have ever seen and they are affordable! Stock up even if you don't need on enow because they make great baby gifts and help fund their adoption!!
This talented adoptive mom and grandma makes beautiful jewelry and You can keep up with her on her blog as well!
These are the cutest shoes ever!!! You buy one pair and then purchase straps is additional patterns! Go and read about the wonderful things they are doing in Uganda and support them by SHOPPING!!
What a WIN-WIN
Hand knit in Alaska and 100% goes towards their domestic adoption fund. If you are aware of a mother looking to place her baby for adoption this family's profile can be seen here!
It's Poppy DipHere you will find some of the cutest and most affordable outfits for your little girls! Sallee is the blessed mom of 5--3 bio and 2 adopted from Ethiopia! She is sewing these beautiful clothes to raise money for their 3rd adoption! SHOP! SHOP! SHOP!!! These are photos of my girls enjoying their Poppy Dip outfits!
Need cute Christmas cards, birth announcements? This creative mama is using her gifts and talents to raise funds for their adoption. All you have to do is pick out what you like, insert your photos and info and them have them printed! SOOOOO Cute!
who doesn't like coffee..... even if you don't buy it knowing that 100% of proceeds are reinvested into the lives of orphaned children!
Here you can find cute hats, shirts sweats, bags, jewelry....and each purchase tells you how many orphans in Uganda will be fed with each purchase! Knowing that makes shopping fun!! Adopting families can also sell their shirts as fundraisers for their individual adoption!
This family is beading their way back to China for a little sister because their son has convinced them that is where she is!
JUSTLOVE If you love coffee you can buy free trade coffee here and part of the proceeds help build a school for older children in Ethiopia. If you are an adopting family you can also sell their coffee as a fundraiser!
This family is selling some really cool shirts, bracelets ,etc to raise funds for their African adoption!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
† Can You Help?
Please visit this sweet family's blog and if you feel led to give, please donate to help this mama get to her sweet baby boy. His name is Keshawn and he is such a cutie. I found their link through another bloggy friend and discovered they will be traveling to pick up Keshawn in just a few short weeks but still need a bit of funding for travel expenses. They need $2,500 to cover their travel to Ethiopia on the 28th. If you are unable to 'chip-in' financially through the fundraiser link on their blog at least take the time to stop and pray for their family. Pray for the funding to come, for travel mercies and for a safe journey home with their beautiful son. Thank you!!!Please visit their blog:
Romans 12: 8
If it is encouraging, let him encourage;
if it is contributing to the needs of others,
let him give generously;
if it is leadership, let him govern diligently;
if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Monday, November 9, 2009
† Orphan Sunday • Day 9
Was an incredible day. Joy, Melinda and I have worked so hard to bring this day together with our open house and sharing with the community what we had planned.
We started our day at First Assembly where we were invited to speak. The message given by Pastor Randy was awesome. I was so impressed that we made such an impact on his heart and his church that he shared a message devoted to God's heart for the orphan and widow. It was a perfect morning spent with family and friends.
We were just a bit nervous to say the least but people told us we did a great job and thanked us for coming. It really means a lot that Pastor Randy invited us to speak at First Assembly.
My son Tyler loved this slide from the overhead presentation during the sermon.
Pastor Randy Cowart at the open house. My son loves taking pics when people least expect it. :)
Once we left the church we headed to the Open House to set up and decorate. There was a LOT to do. We had lots of help (our boys are big boys), the kids helped move tables and chairs, Joy's mother had made cookies for us and helped decorate, my mom was there to help and let us use her 'yearly' employee use of the center for our event. We didn't have to pay for a space this way and really appreciated it more than she knows. My daughter helped set up displays and Cindy (our friend) was kind enough to do some babysitting duty while we worked. Everything could not have been done without the help of these people. :)
When you entered our event the first thing you saw was the guest book and a poster with our pictures and the proclamation from the mayor. Since we've only been working together for about a month this is us... we will be building a scrapbook soon from our times spent together and our advocating activities! :)
We collected information from various agencies and sponsorship advocates over the last month. We had a whole row of tables dedicated to adoption agencies for international adoption and sponsorship through World Vision and Life Connection Mission (our trip to Haiti) and had pictures and items from our trip displayed.
We had a row dedicated to domestic services and foster care/foster adoption where a specialist from Family Services set up. We enjoyed having Becky with us.
We had a 'coffee house' with a lending library where visitors could sit, enjoy coffee and cookies and check out books that we have collected through our own research and reading. My favorite area was the Christmas area where you could shop from the Christmas Tree of Hope, share in our donation jar or make purchases through World Vision for children around the world. Unfortunately my photographer son forgot to get a pic of that side of the room! lol :) I didn't want to worry about pictures yesterday so some of the things I wanted got missed, but we still have great shots from our event.
We worked really hard and enjoyed spending the day together with our families and a few friends. We missed Melinda and are keeping her and her family in our thoughts and prayers. I'm sure she'll be able to join us soon.
Joy & Jia
Being our only 'officially' adopted sweetheart Miss Jia was the star of the show! The kids all enjoyed playing with her and so did a few of us adults!!! She's precious to say the least! My kids even said they discovered their new 'favorite 3 year old'. She just makes you happy! Her momma would tell you how incredible she is and what an impact she has had on their lives. But I can tell you she's made an impact on so many more people that her little heart realizes. We ♥ u Jia!
Tyler & Jia
And look.... my daughter who favors little boys fell in love with Jia yesterday. Maybe a little sister isn't out of the question. ;)
We started our day at First Assembly where we were invited to speak. The message given by Pastor Randy was awesome. I was so impressed that we made such an impact on his heart and his church that he shared a message devoted to God's heart for the orphan and widow. It was a perfect morning spent with family and friends.
We were just a bit nervous to say the least but people told us we did a great job and thanked us for coming. It really means a lot that Pastor Randy invited us to speak at First Assembly.
My son Tyler loved this slide from the overhead presentation during the sermon.
Pastor Randy Cowart at the open house. My son loves taking pics when people least expect it. :)Once we left the church we headed to the Open House to set up and decorate. There was a LOT to do. We had lots of help (our boys are big boys), the kids helped move tables and chairs, Joy's mother had made cookies for us and helped decorate, my mom was there to help and let us use her 'yearly' employee use of the center for our event. We didn't have to pay for a space this way and really appreciated it more than she knows. My daughter helped set up displays and Cindy (our friend) was kind enough to do some babysitting duty while we worked. Everything could not have been done without the help of these people. :)
When you entered our event the first thing you saw was the guest book and a poster with our pictures and the proclamation from the mayor. Since we've only been working together for about a month this is us... we will be building a scrapbook soon from our times spent together and our advocating activities! :)
We collected information from various agencies and sponsorship advocates over the last month. We had a whole row of tables dedicated to adoption agencies for international adoption and sponsorship through World Vision and Life Connection Mission (our trip to Haiti) and had pictures and items from our trip displayed.We had a row dedicated to domestic services and foster care/foster adoption where a specialist from Family Services set up. We enjoyed having Becky with us.
We had a 'coffee house' with a lending library where visitors could sit, enjoy coffee and cookies and check out books that we have collected through our own research and reading. My favorite area was the Christmas area where you could shop from the Christmas Tree of Hope, share in our donation jar or make purchases through World Vision for children around the world. Unfortunately my photographer son forgot to get a pic of that side of the room! lol :) I didn't want to worry about pictures yesterday so some of the things I wanted got missed, but we still have great shots from our event.
We worked really hard and enjoyed spending the day together with our families and a few friends. We missed Melinda and are keeping her and her family in our thoughts and prayers. I'm sure she'll be able to join us soon.
Joy & Jia
Tyler & Jia
And look.... my daughter who favors little boys fell in love with Jia yesterday. Maybe a little sister isn't out of the question. ;)Then, before our day came to an end we had a pleasant surprise. Ron & Beth Tucker showed up with little Lucy Lu!!! We totally forgot she mentioned wanting to come and meet us and see the open house. Her and her husband drove about 2 hours to come to our Open House. Beth and Joy met through the internet while researching the special needs they had in common with Jia and Lucy. It was so nice to meet them and visit for a while. Lucy is totally adorable too and we loved watching all the kids playing together. When God tells us to become like little children it's so true. Something we need to remember as our kids remind us it doesn't matter where you come from, how old or young you are, or what color your skin is.... we're all God's children. He loves us all the same and the least we can do is to love one another.
Joy, Jia, Jory, Beth & Lucy Lu
Beth and Lucy Lu - We ♥ You!
Joy, Jia, Jory, Beth & Lucy Lu
Beth and Lucy Lu - We ♥ You!We had no idea what to expect for our open house but we know God has a plan for us. If only one person was introduced to adoption that will make a difference yesterday and provide hope for God's children then our work was well worth it. We hope everyone else that had an Orphan Sunday event had a terrific day and maybe we all played a part in changing the life of orphans around the world. Thank you to everyone that made our event possible and promoted it for us!
What did you do yesterday? Share your Orphan Sunday event or link in the comments section please!! We'd love to see!
• Day 9 of Prayer •
Today, pray that God would break the heart of your city’s pastors with the plight of orphans. Ask that He would convict them to lead their churches to pray, go, and love in Jesus’ name.
What did you do yesterday? Share your Orphan Sunday event or link in the comments section please!! We'd love to see!
• Day 9 of Prayer •
Today, pray that God would break the heart of your city’s pastors with the plight of orphans. Ask that He would convict them to lead their churches to pray, go, and love in Jesus’ name.
Friday, November 6, 2009
† National Adoption Month • Day 6
• Day 6 • Today, ask the Lord to help your church family to live out Proverbs 31:8. "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."
Thursday, November 5, 2009
† National Adoption Month • Day 5
We will have a live webcast of Steven Curtis Chapman during our Orphan Sunday event. Check out the 'personal invitation' from SCC himself. :)
• Day 5 • Today, pray for the fatherless in your community. Ask the Lord to care for them and to protect them and to defend them and keep them safe.
SCC Invities You to Join in on Orphan Sunday from Show Hope on Vimeo.
• Day 5 • Today, pray for the fatherless in your community. Ask the Lord to care for them and to protect them and to defend them and keep them safe.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
† National Adoption Month • Day 4
The following is a documentary, "I Am Because We Are", that was shared with me from another bloggy friend. It does take some time to watch, but so worth it. Just when I thought I knew what we were up against with our mission my heart was touched even deeper. Please find some time to sit and view this video. Even if you have to set aside 15 to 20 minutes here and there. Look beyond the fact that a celebrity is bringing it to your attention. Don't let the focus be on her, unless you ask yourself why is she the one doing this instead of so many others....including ourselves. The photography and stories are stunning and inspiring, yet they will shock you and tear at your heartstrings. Allow yourself to see the urgency to simply love. Please find time this week to watch "I Am Because We Are".
I know the girls' (Joy and Melinda) have their hearts in China and Guatemala. For good reason, that is where God has called them. Mine is in Haiti and Africa. I'm just wondering what He has in store for me there... I wait for His timing for the answer. Wherever God calls you, please follow. It may be one of these countries, it may be in your own backyard. God's people, needing us, are all around.
• Day 4 •
Today, ask the Lord to help your church congregation to feel His heart for the orphans as seen in Psalm 68:5-6 "A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families..."
I know the girls' (Joy and Melinda) have their hearts in China and Guatemala. For good reason, that is where God has called them. Mine is in Haiti and Africa. I'm just wondering what He has in store for me there... I wait for His timing for the answer. Wherever God calls you, please follow. It may be one of these countries, it may be in your own backyard. God's people, needing us, are all around.
• Day 4 •
Today, ask the Lord to help your church congregation to feel His heart for the orphans as seen in Psalm 68:5-6 "A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families..."
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
† National Adoption Month • Day 3
• Day 3 •
Today, ask God that of the 2 billion Christians in the world, 7% would show hope to a single orphan, looking after the child in their distress. Ask the Lord to convict the church around the world that if we did this, there would effectively be no more orphans. Ask the Lord to show each of His followers that we can each do something.
Today, ask God that of the 2 billion Christians in the world, 7% would show hope to a single orphan, looking after the child in their distress. Ask the Lord to convict the church around the world that if we did this, there would effectively be no more orphans. Ask the Lord to show each of His followers that we can each do something.
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