Wednesday, December 17, 2008

The Perfect Gift For Those Who Are Adopting.

Isaac - at the orphanage - just days old.

When Halis and I first started our adoption process (4 years ago), we were so overwhelmed at the financial cost of it all. At first, we were angry that it should cost so much to unite a child with their forever home. But upon further inspection, we began to understand the costs involved and conceded to make every effort to come up with all the money we needed as fast as possible. Then, when we got our first photo of Isaac (shown above), we went into overdrive to fund his homecoming. Believe me, it wasn't easy --- and truth be told, we went into alot of debt. But he is home! And all is well.

Yet, I never stop thinking about those who are financially struggling to adopt children. It is such a unique and painstaking undertaking. Often, parents need to come up with an extra $20,000 - $30,000 within a year or two after making their decision to adopt. And it is my contention that the beauty of adoption should not be exclusive to the wealthy. Since bringing Isaac home, I have wanted to create a fundraising non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to give grants to adoptive families to help defray their costs. Though I have yet to even initiate work on that project, I have been consistently looking for ways to get involved in the adoption fundraising community. And I just found a GREAT opportunity for both adoptive parents and for those who wish to help bring their children home...


A Gift Registry with a Purpose!

GotchaGiftRegistry.com is the only online adoption gift registry service where you can detail your expenses on a customized wish list and receive cash gifts for your adoption. Invite your family and friends to share in your journey and contribute to your wish list.

Join us for the holidays--sign up for our newsletter and be entered to win a free Gift Registry Package. Drawing will be held on December 30th.

This holiday season, share the gift of adoption with your family and friends.

What a great idea! Wish I had thought of that :) I made a "Secret Santa" contribution to a family this morning, and hope some of you might consider doing the same. For those of you adopting ... what are you waiting for? Sign-up and share the link with family and friends. Many will be thankful for the opportunity to assist you in such a beautiful endeavor.

Enjoy the journey.

Love,
Jodi

4 comments:

Dr. Russ said...

Jodi,
I just received my Bambi journal and He-man magnets. The are absolutely fantastic. The magnets are going on my frig as soon as I get home. Thanks for your work and the quick shipping. Best wishes--dr russ

Perla said...

when i saw that pic i suddenly had a heat behind my eyes like i was going to cry before i even realized who it was or where i'd seen it before. strange how that works sometimes.

great idea on the adoption thing!

Anonymous said...

I love the adoption registry. Wish it was around when we brought our son home from China 6 years ago. I will let my friend know about it. She and her husband are expecting a referral from China in the next month. I know they could use some financial help.
Karen

Jodi Renshaw said...

Perla --- this was the first picture (in a series of pictures) that you sent me to show me who my son was. I will never forget that day. My whole world changed ... and my sole purpose in life (at that moment) was to bring that baby home. I am so happy to say that he is not only home --- but he is so very happy, healthy, gorgeous, inspiring, smart, joyful and funny! And we - as always - are so thankful for your role in his homecoming.

Love,
Jodi