Compiling Dossier
.
|  |
|
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down Syndrome... |
 |
PEPE for the Nelms family — VA
Since she was a little girl, Tiffany wanted a large family. At 30, Tiffany decided to adopt as a single mother. With a degree in social work and a love for international travel, she traveled most of Latin America over the last 10 years. International adoption from a region of the world she loved so much seemed a great way to start a family.
A friend shared several waiting children in Latin American and Tiffany immediately fell in love with Pepe. Having traveled to Pepe’s country in the past as a tourist (and loving it), it was an even better fit. Tiffany’s work with immigrant children in the US keeps her well connected to the Latin culture, a part of her life she wants to share with Pepe.
Pepe has some delays, but is a “people person” and makes friends easily. He is an active boy and his momma cant wait to get him home and keep him busy making friends and seeing the world.
1/26/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
FAITH ANNE for the Callahan family — FL
The Callahans are hopeful that Faith Anne will be joining their family in Florida soon. Bob and Jaime married in 2010 and desire to expand their family, which currently consists of four adult children and three teenagers. Bob is a recently retired physician, and Jaime is an accountant. Although they knew instinctively that their family would be enriched by the addition of a special needs child; they were initially somewhat hesitant about adopting a child in a foreign country. However, on the very first day of their search, they found Faith Anne (or Faith Anne found them). The moment they saw her, it was love at first sight. Their hesitation about the adoption process was quickly replaced with an urgency to bring little Faith Anne home. Bob and Jaime are very hopeful that they will have the opportunity to provide a happy, stable, and loving home for Faith Anne so that she can achieve her fullest potential. Although they haven’t met Faith Anne yet in person, they already feel like she is a part of their family and are anxious to bring her home. They wish that they could tell her that they’re on their way!
3/14/2014—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
FULLY FUNDED!!!
ANJIE for the Cain family — KY
The Cain Family story began 20 years ago when Jeff and Laura both knew from the start that they couldn’t wait to be parents. Their dreams centered around family and all the joys that come with having children. God began fulfilling that dream in 1994 with the birth of their first son, a wise beyond his years young man now. Five years later He blessed them again with the birth of their daughter, who has no problem standing up for the underdog in any situation. And finally again in 2005 with the birth of another son who’s contagious laugh and tender heart make him loved by all who meet him. Their lives have been full and busy.
You can imagine their surprise when they realized that God was telling them that a precious baby girl was waiting on them in China. Jeff, the perpetual planner, was given an immediate sense of peace that this was God’s plan and all would be fine. Laura, the more emotional of the pair, was excited, afraid, and ecstatic all at once.
They are taking this journey on blind faith that God will provide the funds when they need them in order to get to their precious “Anjie” or Adalene Faith Cain. Their wish is to help her sweet face learn to smile. Laura and Jeff feel blessed as their family continues to unfold. They have been praying for their sweet “Addie” and know that even with her vision impairment, she is already teaching this family what it means to see true blessings.
8/8/13—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
TWO BOYS for the Johnson family — PA
Jody Johnson is a single mother with three sons. In 2011, she committed to adopt Oksana from Russia. God intervened in miraculous ways to bring her to the other side of the world to meet the little girl for which she would promise to return. Five months later, she was ready to return to court when Russia halted all adoptions to U.S. families. While she has not given up on Oksana and hopes to return for her as soon as she is given the opportunity, she knows there are others whose needs must be met in the meantime. Christians are called by God to minister to orphans and through such ministering bring glory to God. Because they are specially drawn to orphans who are difficult to place due to special needs, the Johnsons hope to touch the lives of those who have little chance to find the love of Christ and a family. Though abandoned and broken in our sin, God, the Father, sent His Son to take the punishment we deserved, that we may become His children. He loves us when we are most unlovable and through our weakness, He shows His strength.
“Adoption is a real-life illustration of the gospel. It shows us how God transforms spiritual orphans into family members. He changes our names, identities, and families by His grace. Orphan care is acts of mercy that flow from the heart of one who has been changed by the gospel.” Tony Merida, “Orphanology”
The Johnsons know from experience that the road to adoption can be long and require great patience, but they are committed to the task and will follow as the Lord leads them. After inquiring with Oksana’s placing agency about other waiting children, Jody received and accepted a referral for a four year-old boy with some significant cognitive delays. About a week later, the agency mentioned an older boy, healthy, but difficult to place due to age. Having much experience with boys, she knew she needed to give this boy a home, too. To that end, now the adventure extends to another corner of Eastern Europe where God will make two special boys a part of their family. The Johnsons appreciate your prayers and would be happy to have you follow along with them as they blog their way through the process. Please pray that throughout this journey, God will open the hearts of those who may not know Him and cause them to want to know more about the Love that drives people to seek out and rescue orphan children the way that Jesus sought out and rescued us.
1/22/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at aservantinhousebeautiful.
ALIA for the Snow family — WI
Michael and Julie Snow were married in 1999. They became foster parents in 2000. They spent the next eight years actively fostering children of all ages with a variety of needs. Their eyes were quickly opened to the many children in need; so they set aside any pursuits to conceive biologically. They became aware of the unplanned pregnancy of a foster child’s birth parent, which led to their first adoption of a domestic infant in 2001. While most of their foster children did not remain in their home permanently, they also adopted four children through foster care from 2005-2008. In 2006, they felt God stir their hears in a new direction and began the process to adopt internationally from Ethiopia. Having eight children in the home closed the door on their foster care ministry; the diversity of their adoptions and family gave them a worldview vision of the need. Julie’s involvement in and connection to the adoption circle provided an opportunity to reach out to other adoptive families. Serving in that role brought three more Ethiopian born children into their family, whose first adoptive families had decided to dissolve their adoptions. The Snows completed two more domestic processes to finalize these adoptions making their own family now a family of thirteen!
The Snows have parented over sixty children in their home. Michael and Julie have found that helping to heal children who have suffered trauma is what they do best. They have dedicated their lives to this purpose. They don’t believe they are special, but that God has called them and equipped them through education and experience.
Michael and Julie previously explored adopting from China, but it wasn’t until a friend traveled to China in late October, 2013, and met this little angel, that they felt compelled to respond. the Snow children are very excited to welcome a new sister! The Snows also hope to adopt a second child. Well aware of the work and sacrifice involved, they know they will be the most blessed by this. They have total trust in God’s provision, but would like to invite others to share in the blessing by having an opportunity to give.
2/26/2014—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
CHARLOTTE and JADEN for the Holt family — TX
Jacob and Sarah had that “love at first sight” moment 10 years ago at Dallas Baptist University and never stopped living the fairytale. Jacob is a risk manager at Alliant Enrisk and Sarah stays home with their 4 children ages 2, 4, 6 and 7. After the birth of number 4, they knew they had room in their hearts and home for one more and started looking at Recce’s Rainbow for the perfect child with “something extra.” They were surprised when the “something extra” turned out not to be a chromosome but a sibling. Their plans changed the moment they laid eyes on them and suddenly their hearts and home found room for 2 more. The whole family is so excited to welcome their new brother and sister.
2/14/14—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at justusholts.blogspot.com
MARIA for the Cox Family — GA
Allen and Kristi have been married for 19 years and have been blessed with four beautiful daughters: Allena, Leilani (who was still born as a result of multiple birth defects), Alivea, and Alea (who sports that extra special chromosome). Without even knowing it, when they lost Leilani, God was beginning to prepare their hearts for a journey of adoption that wouldn’t come to fruition until much later. Having no prior relationships or experiences with Down Syndrome when Alea was born, Allen and Kristi tried to learn all that they could and soon found their lives engulfed with therapy appointments, feeding team appointments and multiple medical appointments. Kristi found Reece’s Rainbow one night while searching for information about DS. Over the next 3 years, the family learned that children born with special needs are considered “broken” and not afforded the therapies and medical attention that Alea has access to. This broke their hearts as they celebrated the accomplishments and successes that Alea made each week and realized that all children with special needs don’t have that support system and love given to them every day. Kristi and the girls spent a lot of time looking at, advocating for, and fundraising for families that were in process. Then, when they saw the smiling face of a little girl on the RR website and they posted her picture on their refrigerator to pray over, their hearts knew that God was calling them to bring her home. They had seen her so many times before but this week was different; God sent confirmation and was opening the door for them to adopt.
The Cox family humbly asks that you pray for them during this time. John 14:18 (NLT) says, “No I will not abandon you as orphans; I will come to you.” Proverbs 24: 12 (NLT) tells us “Don’t try to avoid responsibility by saying you didn’t know about it. For God knows all hearts, and he sees you. He keeps watch over your soul and he knows you knew! And He will judge all people according to what they have done.” Everyone is not called to adopt, but the Cox family knows that they have been called to this little girl. They would love for you to follow along on this exciting journey and pray that God open all doors so that they can bring her home quickly. They appreciate your prayers and support and thank you very much.
4/1/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at thecoxcourse.blogspot.com
PHINEAS for the Lee family — OR
Kelly and Kevin (K.C.) have been married for 10yrs and have 3 children Kendall (8), Kopelan (6) and their newest blessing whom they just finalized on this past month Karis (1). They have been blessed by adoption 2x now and know the love and joy it brings to a family. They were foster parents for over 9 years in the past and worked/volunteered in various fields with children who needed a little extra love. To say their life has not been surrounded by children would be an understatement. Recently moving from the East coast to the West coast to be closer to Kelly’s family, they have just bought their dream house in the country. They now have the house, and the land and have even added some goats and chickens to the mix. After years of advocating, praying and donating to families bringing children home to their families Kelly and K.C. are stepping out in faith as they not only plan on bringing one, but two sweet song birds into their family! They are so excited and the older children are overjoyed at the prospect of a new brother and sister. Especially Kendall, she is enjoying the fact that she may become a little sister!
Committing to “Phineas” is very special to us. Kelly being his Guardian Angel has prayed and advocated for months for him. She has raised funds and talked to families late into the night that were so close to committing, but never did. Now we know why. He was our son. God was preparing their hearts. It was not until they committed to host two children through a hosting program P143.org and the hosting did not work out that they really felt the tug. Why wait? Why should we wait until summer hosting? Why should we make the kids wait? We prayed and struggled with what to do. It was K.C. that said, ” Why don’t we just adopt then”. So here they go…. Please Pray as they step out in Faith in this brand new journey of International Adoption!!
2/28/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at floridaleefamily.blogspot.com
ALEJANDRO for the Greene family — MO
Due to program guidelines from his country we cannot share a photo of little “Alejandro’s” face, but we can tell you that he is an energetic and growing 5-year old who has never had a family of his own! He has special needs due to developmental and cognitive delays, previous surgeries to repair hip dysplacia, as well as being Deaf. He has a family reserved for him and who are working endless hours to bring him home to Missouri! The Greene family has been married almost 7 years and have always considered adoption to grow their family. Charles was adopted as a child and knows firsthand the blessings that come from this sacrifice. Denise has spent over 20 years working within the Deaf community and with individuals with special needs. Both are very prepared to offer this amazing boy a home full of the support and one on one care he needs to thrive and be loved! This is their first child and first adoption and they are anxious to secure funding to allow them to complete the process!! Every single dollar donated is appreciated and needed! The Greene’s are very aware that “It Takes a Village to Create a Family” and they thank you for your support in helping create theirs!
3/2/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at greeneadoption.blogspot.com
FLORA and YORK for the Gerber family — TX
Kevin and Monica Gerber met in college at Liberty University and have been married for over thirteen years. They have 2 biological girls and 1 adopted son from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and have been amazed how God has grafted their son seamlessly into their family. God has used a simple act of obedience to love an orphan for his glory and they have watched with joy as countless others have had their hearts softened toward the plight of the orphans around the world.
They and their children are thrilled to be claiming York (Kennedy) and Flora (Ruthie) as their own from Asia. Kennedy is unable to walk due to post-operative hydrocephalus and Ruthie has Down syndrome. It is their sincerest hope that the gospel and God’s love for the fatherless would be made famous and multiplied. They would be so thankful for your prayers and financial support.
3/18/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at www.facebook.com/gerber.family.adoption
JUDE for the Jupin family — AL
After two years in process to adopt a child from Russia, John and Amy Jupin finally met their little boy in December 2012. They were elated! Davis was sweet and funny and wonderful. Excited and head over heels in love, the Jupins returned home to wait for a court date. One week later, Russia passed a ban prohibiting Americans from adopting children from Russia. The Jupins were devastated.
Almost a year since losing their sweet Davis, the Jupin family has decided to give adoption a try again. This time their hearts have found a young man from Eastern Europe who desperately wants a family. He is 11 and endearing and kind and so very deserving of the love only a family can give. Lord willing, he will finally get his wish and join the Jupins’ three other children, Joshua, Anna and Benjamin.
2/24/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the Jupin family’s adoption journey on their blog at jupinfamily.blogspot.com
JACKSON for the Simmons family — TX
Jody and Julie have been married almost twenty years and have three children: Hannah-17, Joshua-15, and Caleb-7. Over the years, they have seen God’s faithful hand of redemption in their marriage and family, and believe that he is now writing the next chapter of this beautiful story: ADOPTION.
After feeling God’s call to adopt in 2012, Jody and Julie began researching agencies and searching photo-listings for the child that they felt would be a good fit for their family. However, God had greater plans than theirs. Over time, God began opening their hearts to the possibility of adopting an older child, one with special needs. When they saw Jackson’s photo on Reece’s Rainbow on April 26, 2013, he took hold of their hearts and hasn’t let go! They know that Jackson will need lots of patient instruction and unconditional love to overcome the delays he has experienced from spending six years in a crib, but they also know that God has called them to be his family and do whatever it takes to capture his heart and meet his needs. They are trusting God to provide both the financial provision to bring him home and the wisdom to parent him. Jackson’s older brothers and sister are preparing for his arrival by raising money, and even learning Mandarin and sign language to help him learn to communicate. The Simmons family won’t be complete until Jackson is finally home!
3/13/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at simmonsadoptionjourney.blogspot.com
SHAWNA for the Cassel family — VA
Dean and Andi Cassel have been married for eight years, and have three wonderful children, ages 7, 5, and 3. They met while both were serving in the Marine Corps, and married a few years later. Now out of the military, they have settled in Virginia, and truly live dependent on the grace of Christ.
The Cassels have felt the call of adoption on their hearts for several years, but over the years, the call has matured with new light and life. It took seven years for them to act on God’s prompting, but it was through those years that they realized God was preparing them for a specific adoption. He had grown their hearts and turned them toward the child with special needs; and more specifically, to a child with Down syndrome. This seemed out of the blue, and perhaps bigger than they thought they could handle; and yet there was no fear. Only peace, and excitement.
Dean and Andi feel humbled and privileged at the same time, and whole-heartedly anticipate the arrival of their newest little one. The whole family is excited about the prospect of bringing home their daughter/sister, Shawna!
They would appreciate Prayers, and if you feel compelled, financial support as they move forward in faith to bring Shawna home!
2/19/14—AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
ALONZO, MARY ELLEN and SOPHIA for the Vargas family — PA
Adam and Chastity have been married for 15 years. They have six children. There have always been children in their lives – even their first date was surrounded by neighbor children playing in the snow. In 2002, the Vargas family began a Christian adventure camp that is held at their home twice a year. The camp has grown to approximately 34 children from both city and rural communities. Camp IGUANA (In God’s Universe Accepting New Adventures) encourages children through hands-on activies and trips to look at everytyhing in their lives as adentures. This has also become how their family looks at each day as well. Their family has hosted 9 children from orphanages in EE over the last 4 years with the hope to adopt that grew more and more. They eagerly look forward to adding to their family through adoption and are grateful for your prayers and support.
4/2/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at beyondwhatmyeyeshaveseen.blogspot.com
JIMMY for the Duvall family — IN
Jon and Carly Duvall have been married for 9 years, and have three wonderful children ages 7, 6, and 5. They met at the small Christian school they both attended and got married after 4 years of dating. They live in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where they were both born and raised.
The Duvall’s talked about their desire to adopt early on in their marriage, but ended up having three children very close together and were caught up in the busyness of raising a young family. As their children have grown, God has been bringing the call to adopt to the forefront. They did not set out to adopt a child with special needs, but God had a different plan. When they found Asher (Jimmy), they knew he was their son and it began to make perfect sense. Carly had lost a younger sister who had Down syndrome and died from a hole in her heart. God was completing His perfect plan!
Jon, Carly, and family are so excited to bring Asher home and give him the love and family he deserves. They are trusting in God’s provision in the financial aspect of this process and would be so grateful for any support as well as prayers.
12/30/13—HOME STUDY COMPLETE, COMPILING DOSSIER
Follow the Duvall family’s adoption journey on their blog at bringinghomeasher.blogspot.com
RUTHIE for the Hoang family — MD
Ann and Lam met at a prayer meeting and were married shortly after and they have been on a great adventure together ever since! They had always wanted a big family – but who knew it would be first through adoption? Through an amazing series of events in their lives, the Lord led Lam and Ann to a precious treasure named “Ruthie”. Their adventure continues with the adoption story of this beautiful girl from China who happens to have Down Syndrome and congenital heart disease. They are excited to be able to share with you the journey of bringing home their first child and through it to be able to show matchless love of God for every person He has created.
2/12/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE, USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at childlikehope.wordpress.com
ZOLA for the Obenauf family — MI
Stephani has always wanted to be a mother. Since she was a little girl, she knew she would have a big family and at least some of her children would arrive through adoption. She thought her family was going to be starting in 2009, when she found out she was pregnant. Sadly, God had other plans and her daughter Emma was stillborn.
Stephani found Reece’s Rainbow in 2011, through a friend that was adopting, She would spend hours looking at the children, reading their stories, hoping that soon, the time would be right to adopt. When a friend posted about “Zola”, Stephani knew instantly that hits little girl was meant to be her daughter.
Stephani was raised by a single parent and understands the struggles that lie ahead but knows that with God’s blessing and the love and support of her family, she is ready to provide “Zola” with a bright and happy future.
A sincere thank you to everyone for your prayers and financial support.
4/11/14—AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at snowandhotcocoa.blogspot.com
DELLA and KREE for the Feinland family — LA
Adoption first struck Rachelle and Stephen’s hearts in 2012. That year they completed the adoptions of 2 boys from Ukraine, Silas and Andre with the help of Reece’s Rainbow and the wonderful team in Ukraine. The process was quite a whirlwind! After a few minor delays, they came home on November 29, 2012 which was Silas’ 5th birthday! This gave them 5 boys! Upon coming home Silas suffered violent drug withdrawals, weighed only 17 pounds at 5 years old and had many other medical issues, many of which were a result of the care he was under in Ukraine. A year later Silas now weighs 43 pounds and is doing wonderful! Andre has also blossomed into a wonderful, delightful little boy! Their brothers adore them and they are loved, orphans no more!
Rachelle and Stephen thought that their family was complete, God had other plans. Della was put on their hearts. They decided to go for it and will now have their FIRST little girl!!!! They can not wait to get this tiny little girl home to show her the real love of a family.
3/18/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at piecingourpuzzletogether.blogspot.com
LEANDRA for the Averett family — UT
Dean and Tori have been happily married for 25 years and have 6 beautiful biological children, 4 boys and 2 girls. They recently adopted 1 amazing little boy with Down Syndrome that they found here on Reece’s Rainbow (Percy on RR) and are now adding to lifes adventure by adopting Leandra. They always knew they wanted a large family. Dean and Tori talked about adopting several times throughout their marriage because they love children and love sharing their lives with them. They are active and have many passions and hobbies and do everything together. Their youngest son with Down Syndrome has lightened their lives and brings more happiness and laughter to the family everyday. After finding and donating to Leandras Angel Tree Grant they knew that she too belonged in their family.
Please consider helping Leandra and the Averetts unite as a family and contribute with a tax-deductible donation. They are very grateful for everyones help, prayers, support and blessings as they embark on there next adoption journey.
3/29/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at
BENJAMIN and JUNE for the Williams family — PA
Clive and Frances are devout Christians who always wanted children. Married 25 years they have 3 children. It took 16 long years of infertility before the Lord blessed them with children & then 3 came along in 4 years! Benjamin 9 through IVF, Abigail 10, adopted from China when Ben was just 3 months old, & then a total surprise, Daniel, born with Down Syndrome & other health issues. Taking a few years to recover…….Clive & Frances realized they still had room in their hearts & homes, for 1 more…….but quickly the Lord showed that in fact they could take 2.
Clive had gone on a medical mission to Africa, another place blighted with parent less children, & came back wondering what else he could do. A quote that had always stuck in his mind – “I cant change the world………but I can change someones world, somewhere”. Driven by this & other factors Clive & Frances feel they have a responsibility to adopt children into their family, & use the resources God has given them – just the way God has modeled this in their lives with their adoptions into the family of God. They have identified 2 children, and have pre-approval & I800A, & have therefore started the process of “changing their lives forever”, by bringing them into their “forever families”. The financial burden of adopting one, let alone two special needs is pretty immense – would you please consider help in bringing these children home to their “forever families”?
3/12/2014—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE; HAVE I800 APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at felixofmedia.blogspot.com
MAUREEN for the Walter family — TX
Shawn and Lola married later in life. Shawn never having been married before and not having any children and Lola having already raised three children alone after her first husband passed away, were decided they did not want children. God had other plans for this family. In 2008 they were blessed with a beautiful infant girl through adoption and in 2011 they decided to follow God’s lead for them once again and adopted another infant baby girl. Once again they thought their family was complete, then God placed it on their hearts to adopt again, but this time a special needs child. After a lot of praying and asking God to find the right child for them, little Maureen’s profile came into their life and hearts and instantly they new this was their baby girl. This family is relying on God to provide the funding and bring this amazing precious baby girl home to them and her two big sisters so they can provide all the love, nurturing and medical care she needs and deserves.
4/2/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at godshandonus.blogspot.com
DIANA and ANNE for the Michaletz family — WI
Bill and Amy Michaletz have been married twenty years and have five children—Jenny, Jack, Joe, Nate and Ellie. They are adopting Diana and Anne and are thrilled to be on this journey! The whole family is excited to bring the girls home.
Both Bill and Amy have traveled to Ethiopia to serve in orphanages, including a teen orphanage and a HIV+ orphanage. When they met the precious children living there, they saw each one of them as a child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made—each child with potential and uniqueness, each with a name, their own story and each with worth. Not a statistic, but a child.
Amy and Bill see Diana and Anne as just that—not just two of the 147 million orphans, but two precious girls. Two girls that God sees as just as special as their other children. Two girls, who despite their “codes” for their “disabilities” have so much to offer a family—the beauty of seeing a child truly blossom and become the work of art God designed them to be. Two girls whose special needs are not a list of diagnoses and codes, but the special needs God sees them having—-the need for a family.
Bill and Amy are familiar with the types of delays the girls have as one of their sons has some of the same delays. They are anxious to get the girls home and use the things they have learned with their son to help Diana and Anne learn and grow.
They thank you for your support—especially your prayers as they journey to bring their girls home!
1/9/14—AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at ourjourneytothegirls.blogspot.com
SHEPPARD and PIERCE for the Fahringer family — VA
Mary and Alden met on Wednesday, March 7th, 2007 at about 3:15 pm. It was Mary’s second day at her new job and she was looking forward to meeting this “Alden guy” she had heard her new co-workers talking about all the day before. Mary remembers exactly what she and Alden were wearing when they were introduced and how simply wonderful she thought this nice young man was. Alden thought Mary was pretty cute but that she would never go for a guy like him. Boy was he wrong! They quickly developed a friendship which grew into a romance. A little over a year after they had met, in June 2008, they were married and began their exciting new life together! Alden had a background in working with youth groups and summer youth camps and Mary was quickly drawn in to the lifestyle of a youth leader. Mary helped Alden as he led the youth group at their church for 4 years. Through working with these wonderful and crazy kids Mary fell in love with teenagers too! She also went back to school during this time to get a teaching license in secondary English and enjoyed the challenges and joys of teaching her 10th grade and 8th grade students. They recently moved to a new town, bought their first house and plugged in to a new church family, making time to work with hurting kids and at risk youth through various ministry opportunities. It was right after their move, in December of 2011, that God used Reece’s Rainbow and adoption blogs to break Mary’s heart for orphans with special needs, especially the older aging out teens. After praying and searching God’s word about caring for orphans and widows, Alden too had his heart broken. With both of them on board with the idea of growing their family through adoption, they began researching various options and never looked back! Through many twists and turns in this adventure, God has led them to Sheppard on Reece’s Rainbow. Mary and Alden are beyond excited to adopt this wonderful teen and make him their forever son! They know God has brought them this far on their journey and will continue to move mountains until Sheppard is safely home and beyond. They are so thankful for the wonderful support from friends, family and their church family for rallying around them as they fight to get to their son before he ages out of the system. Any and all support and prayers are greatly appreciated!
4/2/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at pouredoutblessings.blogspot.com
TARAN + 1 for the Davenport family —
The Davenport’s are a family of four, soon to be six that live and serve in Central China (since 2012). Eric and Wendy have been married for 13 years and have two sons that are 11 & 12 years old. They have been touched by and passionate about orphan care since 2009. That’s when they spent time in an orphanage in Africa and then later that year welcomed their first foster baby into their home. They fostered 5 children over a two year period. Those years spent as foster parents were treasured times. They continue to reminisce about the little ones that God placed in their home and in their hearts. They didn’t initially feel led to adoption but, after moving to China and working with orphans in 2012, God did a mighty work in them and in their hearts to draw them towards the decision to provide a permanent home to children who need a home. For that they are so thankful! They feel so clearly directed by God to adopt that they want to obey Him. God desires for orphans of all nations to be loved, cared for, and adopted into families.
They are well into the long process of providing a ‘forever home’ to two boys in China. They have been matched with one child and are awaiting a match to the second. They will be traveling to get their first Chinese son in the spring of 2014. He was involved in an accident at the age of two that nearly took his life. He spent 6 months in the hospital and was abandoned during that time. He had multiple surgeries to help repair his injuries. He has recovered and can walk, talk, run and play. He is incontinent and wears a diaper. His incontinence prevents him from attending school.
The biggest challenge is not opening their hearts and home to adopted children (God has already taken care of that!), but it is finding the finances to make this happen. The estimated total cost for the adoptions is $40,000. That’s certainly money they don’t have. Actually it’s laughable from an earthly standpoint. But they know God is faithful and the call to adopt was so strong that He won’t leave them alone in this. He is a God who provides.
They are overwhelmed by the support they have been given through encouragement, funding, and prayers. They would like to ask for continued prayers as the process unfolds. Please also pray that their boys in China will be loved and cared for in their absence and daily feel His presence.
Caring for the fatherless is a mark and responsibility of His people and they believe God is moving through the Kingdom in a profound way to care for these precious ones. Perhaps your role is adoption or fostering. Maybe it’s being a prayer warrior for the least of these. Or maybe you are called to use the resources He has entrusted to you to help welcome children into Christian homes. If so, please consider helping them overcome this financial hurdle.
Please pray this entire process will glorify God and fulfill His purposes. Thank you for investing in the Kingdom through prayer and finances—it will be an investment with an eternal return!
2/4/2014—HOMESTUDY COMPLETE
THEODORE +1 for the Dailey family — AL
If you remember Ben and Kathy after almost 33 years of marriage have two bio children and three of his brothers children they took in when his brother died and 9 grandchildren when they adopted Harrison. Well Ben and Kathy had only been home two months after adopting Harrison from Ukraine. Their adopted son had a best friend they were able to meet and the few times they were able to spend with him and their son they grew to love him. One day as they were leaving from a daily visit with Harrison, he and Theodore ran up and ask if we could adopt him also, they did not know what to say because their home study was only for one child, how to you respond to this? There were a few times that Theodore was able to sneak in and would spend time with Harrison and when the workers would come to get him, he and Harrison would grab hold of each other not wanting to be separated. The day the Dailey’s were able take Harrison from the facility it was with bitter sweet tears because these two young men held to each other knowing they may never see each other again.
Recently as they were praying about whether or not to try and adopt him, it was Harrison that God used to direct their decision, you he came and asked them if they could adopt Theodore so they could be brothers like twins. That was all the answer they needed so they are again two months home with Harrison and ready to go back for Theodore. They ask that you pray for them that they are able to raise the needed funds they will need to go and bring Harrison brother, Theodore, home.
2/24/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at bddailey.blogspot.com
CHANCE for the VanHalle family — NY
It’s only been 9 months since Angie and Jason brought their first daughter, Claudia, home after finding her on Reece’s Rainbow, but once again, they feel God calling them to abandon their plans, and to bring their son Chance home. Neither thought that they would be pursuing adoption again so soon after the first, but after seeking God’s will, and with the counsel of their close friends and family, they are ready to once again step out in faith.
3/12/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at followingourcallingdaily.blogspot.com
NELIA for the Good family — VA
Hello we are the Good family. We are a Christian Air Force family currently living in Virginia with our three little children. We have two biological sons and a daughter from Korea. We are very excited to share God’s journey to our second daughter! Please pray for strength during our journey and for our daughter’s heart as she waits for us in Eastern Europe. God bless!!!
3/13/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at sawgood13.blogspot.com
A CHILD for the Kunkle family — IN
Dale and Buffey have been married over 13 years and have two, handsome boy’s. Aaron is 13 and Andrew is 9. Buffey has always felt the calling to adopt, since the age of 10 years old. She would sit with her grandmother and watch Feed The Children on TV. She told her grandmother , that one day she would have a big house and help all of those children in need.
In 2002, Buffey and Dale were 5 1/2 months pregnant with a daughter, and they sadly miscarried. God had different plans for them and they knew, that one day, they would see their precious daughter again. Buffey and Dale then got pregnant with their youngest son Andrew, at the end of 2003′ and had him in June of 2004′, but with complications during the pregnancy and after. Andrew was a “Blue Baby”, with the cord wrapped twice around his neck, and wasn’t breathing, when the doctor delivered him. The doctor was a wonderful Christian woman (who wasn’t supposed to be there to deliver), who believed in the power of Prayer (as we do) and between her (THE DOCTOR) and GOD, their son’s life was saved. They decided after that pregnancy, that Buffey’s body could not endure another pregnancy, so Dale had a vasectomy done and they could no longer have children.
In 2009, they started thinking about having more children, and that their family wasn’t yet complete. They contemplated adoption many times over, but it just wasn’t coming together financially or spiritually, at that time. A year later, they decided to go and have a reversal done and tried to have more of their own biological children for two years following, but sadly found out, that the reversal didn’t work and they could not have anymore children of their own. They believed God again, had different plans for their lives.
Buffey and Dale believe that God has called them to adoption. On this journey, that they are about to embark on, they need to believe and have Faith with their whole hearts, that God will provide for them, a daughter, that they so long for…one that they can love unconditionally and cherish for the rest of her life. God says in “HIS WORD” to take care of the orphans(his beloved children) and the widows.
They truly believe God has a special plan for their lives and with all of the love, and support from their family, friends and Reece’s Rainbow, that their daughter will be with them, sooner than later. They have two big brothers and many family members that are elated to add a new member to their family.
1/23/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at chosenbygodforus.blogspot.com
BERKELEY +1 for the Williams family — TX
Jared and Crystal have been married for six years and have five awesome kids! Ashlyn who is 10 is Crystal’s from a previous relationship but she calls Jared “daddy”, Grayson who is 4 was adopted from Eastern Europe this spring, Callen who is 3 was also adopted from Eastern Europe out of the same orphanage Grayson was in, Kaeden who is 2 was adopted domestically at birth, and Savannah who is 1 was also adopted domestically at birth.
From the very first date they shared Jared and Crystal knew adoption would be in their future. Crystal’s father was adopted at the age of 2, and Jared has volunteered and ran fundraisers for Child Advocates, which is a domestic organization to help children in foster care and be those children’s advocates to the courts. Crystal is a stay at home mom and Jared works for a non-destructive testing company as a manager, and also does training on the side.
After the adoption of their two youngest domestically Crystal kept being drawn back to the beautiful faces on Reece’s Rainbow. In the summer of 2012 another Reece’s Rainbow family posted on Facebook about a girl from Eastern Europe needing a host family for the summer, they thought this would be a great opportunity and excitedly agreed to host her. They fell in love with this thirteen year old girl and started making plans to make her their daughter; up until this point Jared had not really been on board about going overseas for adoption. God had even bigger plans for them; they both felt someone would still be missing from their family. After much prayer they found Grayson and knew he was meant to be theirs as well. God still was not done in his plans for this family. The 13 year old girl was not able to be adopted by Jared and Crystal due to some extended family that she still had, and even though this devastated them they believed it was in God’s hands even if they could not see the plan yet. Just as God had led them to Eastern Europe he had then led them to Callen who was in the same orphanage as Grayson. They lost a daughter on that trip but gained another son.
They talked about going back for the girl if her circumstances were to change, but as the days went by they realized that the circumstances were not going to change even though they did not share their realizations with each other. God’s plan started to present itself right after court for Grayson and Callen when a little girl that Crystal had been a Guardian Angel for received a donation. This same girl Crystal had shown Jared several times before, but he would not listen at those times since they were already committed to a boy and girl. Jared knew that another year and a half of fundraising and saving would be too difficult with two new children being added and would take away from the bonding time that they needed with their new kids. After Berkeley received this donation Crystal mentioned what her account was, and little did she know that Jared was working behind her back already with Reece’s to check more on her and asking other people what they thought Crystal’s reaction would be after having just been devastated over the girl they had originally came for, and he was informed how Crystal had been inquiring about her non-stop, so Jared approached Crystal about her, and like he had been told she was ecstatic. They both knew that they would need to move fast on this and God had done his part of making that easier to do, and now it was up to them to take yet another leap of faith. The night before Jared was scheduled to return home they talked and decided to commit to Berkeley on one condition. That condition would be if their current kids were on board. When Jared arrived home he spoke with Ashlyn, and right away she began begging Jared to go get her, and bring her sister home. Ashlyn thought she would never have a sister close to her age after the 13 year old could not come, and as Jared discussed Berkeley with her she became very excited.
They thought at the time that God was leading them to Eastern Europe to adopt a 13 year old, but they now believe God was leading them there to find 2 boys and eventually open the door for Berkeley and her Guardian Angel to be united. He used the 13 year old as the vehicle to bring them there and open Jared’s eyes to what Crystal had been seeing all along. They are now ALL very excited, especially Ashlyn to be adding Berkeley to finish out their family.
2/28/14—USCIS APPROVED
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at buildingourfamilythroughlove.blogspot.com
STEPHIE for the Pickett family — VA
Scott and Chandres met in 2000, were married in 2003, and by 2010 were expecting their third child. During an early difficult pregnancy, there were markers for heart defects and chromosomal disorders, so they began researching Down syndrome and met with a cardiology team. After their daughter’s successful heart repair in 2011, the Picketts knew they were ready, once again, to add to their family. They began exploring different adoption routes, discovered Reece’s Rainbow, and brought Viktorya and Denny home from Bulgaria in March 2013.
After a year of adjusting and settling, Scott and Chandres saw a picture of a young lady in the same country so dear to their hearts and began praying about adding her to their family. Scott, Chandres, Viktorya, Ayden, Elijah, Denny, and Sadie are excited to welcome “Stephie” into their family!
4/11/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
Follow the family’s adoption journey on their blog at upcycledpurpose.blogspot.com
Kiril and Dell’s Family
Kiril has waited so long! It’s finally his turn to have a family of his very own! Kiril’s family cannot wait to bring him home where he will be treasured and loved unconditionally. The family greatly appreciates your prayers and financial support as they follow God’s calling to bring him home.
UPDATE: The family will also be bringing home Dell!
4/16/14—DOSSIER COMPLETE, AWAITING USCIS APPROVAL
RAYMOND for the Scheel family — ID
Jeromy and Stacy have been googly-eyed since 1995. They started married life in 1996 in Anchorage, Alaska, college sweet hearts and best friends. After moving back home to Idaho, they decided to begin a family. After falling in love with their first 2 little girls and having very difficult pregnancies, they decided that building their family through adoption would be a wonderful idea.
By the grace of God they brought home their first little boy in 2005 at 16 days old through the foster care system. He was diagnosed with Arthrogryposis, a birth defect the family had never heard of but soon became very familiar with. Two years later, they got a call about another precious little boy with anoxic brain injury. They waited several days to find out he survived and was in need of a family to care for him. After attempts at reunification with his birth family they were able to become his permanent parents through guardianship.
After getting more involved in the adoption community and feeling led by God to be part of reaching out to older orphans, the Scheels found out about a beautiful teenage girl in Eastern Europe. She was 10 days away from aging out and, like their son, had arthrogryposis. This began their first international adoption on the fast track. She has been home almost 2 years and the Scheels are now stepping out in faith to add to their family once again through international adoption. They are excited to add Raymond to their family knowing the very special blessing each child brings.
4/15/14—HOME STUDY COMPLETE
You don’t have to adopt to make a difference!
Join Us!
ABC NEWS: Hidden Angels
Diane Sawyer reports on the adoption of Mia Cox:
