Hosts of Hope
The Hosts of Hope program was developed by Adoption Associates, Inc. to give older orphaned child a chance to grow up in a permanent, loving family. Through the 10-day summer hosting program in the West Michigan area, lasting friendships are developed between host families and the children. The goal of this program is to give every child that participates a chance to find his or her forever family.
The older orphaned children are repeatedly overlooked by families who almost always choose to adopt younger children. With every passing year, it becomes increasingly unlikely that these children will ever be adopted. Hosting programs are their only chance to find a loving family.
LIFE AFTER THE ORPHANAGE
Russia is currently home to about 800,000 orphaned children. Although international adoption is becoming increasingly common, the need for families has continued to be greater than the response. If these children are not adopted by the age of sixteen, it will be too late.
In Russia children “age out” of the orphanage system when they are between sixteen and eighteen years old. They are sent out of the door with little more than the clothing on their back, and as mere teenagers, they enter into society alone. Without sufficient skills to provide for themselves financially, and without anyone to offer them unconditional love, guidance, and support, they become homeless. They run the streets, join ganges, and sometimes even end their lives to eliminate their pain and loneliness.
STATISTICS ON ADULT ORPHANS
Statistically, only one of ten adult Russian orphans becomes a functional member of society. 10% of adult orphans commit suicide within first two years after leaving the orphanages, 40% of them become drug users, 40% commit crimes, and an estimated 80% of female orphans enter into prostitution.
HOST SUCCESS RATE
Through the Host of Hope program, older orphaned children can once again realistically hope for a family of their own. Adoption Associates, Inc. hosting programs in 2007, 2008, and 2009 have resulted in nearly 90% of the participating children being placed into permanent homes.
PROGRAM SPECIFICS
Our next program is being planned for summer of 2010. The visiting children will be welcomed by host families for 10 days. Throughout their stay, the children will be able to bond with their host parents and learn about the local community.
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THIS PROGRAM?
The Hosts of Hope program is in need of financial contributions totaling $30,000 to help to cover the costs of the host children’s travel expenses. Prayer support is also appreciated.
If you would like to make a contribution towards this program, please contact Judie Zylman, Development Associate, at 616.667.0677 or jzylman@adoptionassociates.net. For more information on the Hosts of Hope program, contact Larissa Koedyker, Hosts of Hope Program Coordinator, at 616.667.0921 or coordinator@hostsofhope.com.
