::Adopting one child won’t change the world, but for that child, the world will change::

The first time we looked at the scary, ridiculous amounts of $15,000- $40,000 for adoption, our jaws dropped…. but hey, the cost of adoption should never stand in the way of giving a child a forever home with a loving family, right?

Read Huffington’s post about the cost of adopting:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/babblecom/how-much-does-adoption-really-cost_b_1669424.html

"Don’t be discouraged. It’s often the last key in the bunch that opens the lock."

After doing research on fundraising for adoption, there was a glimmer of hope.  Brian and I became inspired by a Michigan couple who reached their adoption goal of $35k in 4½ months and adopted a boy from Russia! They reached out to their community to make it happen. The couple emphasized that the donations were solely for the orphan, not for their “personal” causes.  We told ourselves, if they could pull it off, then we would try to do the same!

It takes a village to provide a home for a child.

Their successful story included a lot of creative fundraisers such as an online silent auction, pancake breakfasts, garage sales, 5k fun run/walk, movie night, T-shirt drive (we are already doing that!) and restaurant fundraisers. We definitely need to think outside of the box to reach our adoption goal like the Michigan couple did.  Of course, we will make our own contributions throughout the adoption process.  We are currently reading "Adopt Without Debt" by Julie Gumm to give us even more ideas through our journey.

Once we are home study-approved ($1,400!), we would then be eligible to apply for adoption grants to cover some of the remaining expenses.  With those fundraising ideas, we are definitely feeling very hopeful to bring a child(ren) home! 

One last thing, several of you asked me about direct (tax-deductible) donations- we are currently working on setting up an account with Heartsent (our adoption agency) where you can donate directly.  Once it's all set up, we will share the information with you! :)  

We are truly humbled by your support and generosity for those who purchased tees from our adoption T-shirt drive.  Keep shining on! :)

With much love..

Brooke & Brian