August 2009
Providing loving homes for children
During these tough economic times, it seems everyone is cutting back, spending less and watching their dollars just a little more closely. Naturally, these are also times when adoption seems less feasible for some families, due to costs associated with the process. While the gap of time between adoption and receiving the adoption tax credit may seem to stretch on, there is hope—hope that, somehow, blessings will be bestowed upon those who choose to provide a loving home for children in need. As we hear so frequently in this field, God often provides for those who open their hearts.
continue reading→Affording Adoption
An annual heritage parade at Heritage Camp is what moved Lisa and Jackson, already parents of two children by birth, to open their hearts to adoption. Each year, this parade of nations visualizes the beauty of an abundance of cultures, marched in by 400 to 500 children who are adopted internationally. It is here that Lisa was moved to consider adoption for her own family.
continue reading→Domestic Adoption
When Kevin and Alison welcomed a son, Braden, into the world by birth a few years ago, they knew their hearts would soon be ready to love another. When the time came to consider expanding their family, though, they thought of adoption.
continue reading→International Adoption
For Jane and Jim of Texas, the idea of adoption had never been a subject of daily conversation; with so many other tasks at hand, the time just never seemed right. When the couple was unable to conceive biologically, though, Jane began researching international and domestic adoption programs. Although Jim appeared less interested in the topic while Jane continued research, the tables turned quickly when Jim encountered friends from high school who had teenaged children themselves.
continue reading→Agency News
AAI’s Hosts of Hope 2009 is successfully underway, and a second group visit from Ukraine is being planned for September. If adopting a child is something you’ve always considered, but weren’t quite sure if it was right for you, consider hosting a child as a first step!
Also, learn about an urgent need for families in several of our programs—the Waiting Children programs in China, Russia, and Ukraine and our African-American domestic infant program.
If you feel drawn to helping our cause, but aren’t sure just how to do it, try hosting a Wear Your Jeans to Work fundraiser, volunteering, or surfing the web and shopping online using GoodSearch and GoodShop.
continue reading→Donation Opportunities
Whether you prefer to keep your car spotless, take a turn at the tee, or enjoy a delicious meal, there is something for everyone at AAI’s upcoming fundraising events! Be sure to mark your calendar for the following dates, and know that as you’re having fun, you’ll be supporting adoption, too. Anyone interested in volunteering at AAI’s fundraising events is welcome and encouraged to call Mike Carroll, chief development officer, at 616.667.0677 or email mcarroll@adoptionassociates.net.
continue reading→Wish List
Despite the troubling national economy, Adoption Associates, Inc. strives to connect as many children as possible with their forever families. Unfortunately, these efforts don’t come without cost, and as a nonprofit agency, AAI is seeking donations for items such as infant formula, airline miles, and gas cards. Please, join our efforts in continuing to place children and families first.
continue reading→Adoption Accents
Seventeen year old Jessica and twenty-five year old Melinda have something in common—an unplanned pregnancy. As Jessica struggles with the fear, pain, and regret of a teenage pregnancy, Melinda searches for answers as she attempts to start a new life for herself. Miles away, Steve and JoLynn and Kris and Tracey wrestle with the disappointment of infertility.
Choosing to place a child for adoption is a difficult and courageous decision, but what follows is the inspiring journey taken by two brave young women, two excited families, and two beautiful baby girls.
continue reading→
