Bella Adoption Foundation

Congrats!

2011-04-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to those who received the call today and were awarded grant funds for their adoption journeys. We are sorry that we were not able to meet everyone's request as I know personally how this feels. The ongoing need for financial assistance with covering adoption costs is one battle that may never be won and it is with a heavy heart that I know that I have done all I can, at least for now...

The next step

2011-02-23T18:15:00.000-08:00

The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind to say the least. As a result, it is with a very heavy heart that I have decided that I will not continue with the Bella Foundation. Over the last 2+ years I have (mostly as a 1-man show) tried to do fundraisers to raise funds to give to those working through the adoption process. I have done what I can with the limited resources I have and personal ability. I have raised what I can and at this point in time I want nothing more to give ALL funds that there to those who can use it. After consulting with those who have helped along the way, a deadline of March 15th has been set for grant application. Please send your applications to Bella ASAP so we can distribute funds and I can put this to rest. The link on the right side works but please note - as a result of not continuing the foundation please disregarding any fees associated with the application as this was set in place to help the next generation of grants and because there will not be a "next," there are no need for fees.

Please help communicate this to those who may benefit from these funds.

Grant

2010-12-15T11:31:00.000-08:00

Do to no one requesting grant funds we will be holding on to all monies raised until spring. Please check back for more dates and info. Please feel free to fill out and submit application in the mean time.

THANK YOU

2010-09-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have big thank you to the Zumbrota Fire Department for allowing us to use there facilities again this year and to the Zumbrota Police Department for assisting with the run.

Also a big thanks to T&T General Store for donating the use of the Bouncy House - it was a huge hit.
T&T General Store is located on Hwy 52 just south of Zumbrota. 10% of their business is donated to Impact Ministries Inc to feed 3,600 children world wide and counting. http://www.tstamman.com/

Thank you to our fiscal sponsors for the run

*Autumn Moon located on Main Street Zumbrota - Home Decor, Scrapbooking and more. Check out their blog at http://autumnmoononline.blogspot.com/

*CR Taping and Texturing - your local Sheetrock taping and general painting source. Call 507-732-5663 for your estimate.

*Meints Chiropractic Health Center, P.A. located at 500 South Main Street in Pine Island. Serving the community for 25 years. Call 507-356-4014 for your appointment

T-Shirts from Chosen One Run

2010-09-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

We still have a number of t-shirts left over from the Chosen One Run. If you are interested in purchasing a t-shirt please email us at BellaAdopt@gmail.com

T-Shirts are $12

Long Sleeve T's are $16

Proceeds from t-shirts go into our grant fund to be awarded to MN families working through the adoption process.

Top Finishers - 5K Chosen One Run

2010-09-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

1. Elijah Parker 18:18

2. Ben Lindberg 19:23

3. Wayne Dickie 19:37

4. Quinn Henckel 20:58

5. Ryan Erpelding 21:00

6. Isaish Faas 21:23

7. Noah Plevak 22:16

8. Jackie Parker 22:19

9. Grant Winfrey 23:37

10. Jake Beauchene 24:32

Congrats to the top 10

The Results!

2010-09-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Elijah Parker 18:18
Ben Lindberg 19:23
Wayne Dickie 19:37
Quinn Henckel 20:58
Ryan Erpelding 21:00
Isaish Faas 21:23
Noah Plevak 22:16
Jackie Parker 22:19
Grant Winfrey 23:37
Jake Beauchene 24:32
Tom Bergquist 24:38
Kari Sunnarberg 25:01
Lori Yokiel 25:18
Steve Faas 25:19
Sherry Sonnenberg (and the twins) 25:37
Allison Volcheck 26:03
Jerry Volcheck 26:05
Erin Erpelding 26:06
Jenny O'Connor 26:22
Kathy Bergquist 27:28
Callum Hubka 27:45
Felicia Marquez 28:10
Christopher 28:12
Connie Wendt 28:16
Ellie Jasper 28:43
Andrea Horsman 28:55
Esther Young 29:03
Laurie Brengman 29:18
Debbie Beauchene 29:27
Mackenzie Elker 29:53
Emily Bergquist 29:53
Julia Marquez 30:14
Rachel Ford 31:05
Colleen Henckel 32:40
Jim Wendt 33:24
Jenna Schomburg 38:41
Elaina Hagstrom 38:59
Katelyn Slater 39:46
Shannon Beauchene 39:46
Emily Hagstrom
Stephanie Dickie
David Lohmann
Brittany Thomforde (Owen & Clare)
Becky Schultz & Eve Simon (Alex & Ellie)
Shawna O'Reilly & Jenn Pittman (and the kids)
Julie Hauschild & Merri Ramboldt
Shelly Speltz, Rozie Born, Robin Meyer,Randi Campbell & Kristi Hammel
Vicky Lohmann & Marie Mack
Nathan & Jennifer Skalsky
Mary & Hannah McNab
Dorinda & David Leise

Thank you to all are participants of the 5K Family Fun Run/Walk and to all of our attendees for our Family Fun day! Hope to see you next year :)

Thank you!

2010-09-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

Well, another run has passed and it will be a whole year before we do it again. The results will be posted later this evening along with next year's date. In the mean time I was just received an email from the National Council for Adoption regarding school assignments being more adoption family friendly and I thought it was interesting enough to share. Click on the link to read about Adoption Advocate No. 27.

https://www.adoptioncouncil.org/images/stories/NCFA_ADOPTION_ADVOCATE_NO27.pdf

Big Day Tomorrow!!!

2010-09-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

Our Family Fun Day has arrived - okay it's tomorrow. Nonetheless we are very excited to get the events underway.

Family Activities from 3pm - 5pm
(activities are free - however donations are greatly appreciated)
* Fire Truck Rides
* Mega Jenga
* Washers
* Cowboy Golf
* Fish Pond
* Coloring Activities
* Bouncy House (courtesy of T&T General Store)

Fun Run/Walk Registration 5pm -5:45 pm
Cost is $15 per participant
Preschool and younger are free

Fun Run/Walk Begins at 6pm

For Sale
* Hot Dogs and Pork Sandwiches
* Chips
* Cookies
* Water
* Gatorade
* Fruit
* String Cheese
* Schwan's Ice Cream Treat (courtesy of Schwan's)

* Bella T-Shirts $12
* Bella Long-Sleeve T's $16

Spread the Word

2010-08-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

Please help us out by spreading the word about the upcoming Chosen One Run on September 11th.

Family Fun begins at 3pm - activities are free but donations are greatly appreciated

* Fire Truck Rides

* Kids games - Fish Pond (guaranteed to catch a prize)

* Kids Activities - Decorate the race bibs for the 5K event

* Food & Drink (additional cost)

All activites will take place at the Zumbrota Fire Hall

5K too much???

2010-08-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

Please be aware that we will have the run marked every 1/4 mile. If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the 5K event in September but think 3.1 miles is a bit much please know that you can turn around at any point and set your own distance. We want to encourage participants of all ages and abilities to participate in this fun family-friendly event :)

Registrations starting to arrive

2010-08-12T08:22:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to say that run registrations are starting to arrive!!! I get nervous when this time of year approaches that we will go through all the promoting and advertising and not have anyone show up to the event. Thankfully I can breath easier today knowing we will have someone participate.

If you have any questions about registering or would like to volunteer please contact me at BellaAdopt@gmail.com

If you have an adoption story you would like to share at the event please let me know. Last year we had about a dozen stories from both parents either working through an adoption or completed as well as (now adults) children who have been adopted and were able to share the experience and the positive impact it has had on their life.

5K Fun Run and Walk: Saturday September 11, 2010

Zumbrota Fire Hall

Family Activities start at 3pm (included games and fire truck rides)

Registration for Run/Walk: 5pm - 5:45 pm

Run/Walk beings promptly at 6pm

Cost $10/person if you register BEFORE August 28th. ($15 after the 28th)

T-Shirts are optional this year!

Short Sleeve $12

Long Sleeve $16

(please add $2 for 2XL and larger)

Kids Sizes are youth small (6-8); youth medium (10-12); and youth large (14).

Registration Form:

https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1xApAJiuAfFWUEkxktOBqds52dMRVzPdug-_1Xa8GyOs&authkey=CJXRp88H&hl=en&pli=1#

Facebook

2010-07-23T10:46:00.001-07:00

Join our group on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=138972732787180

Run Registration

2010-07-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

Download the Run Registration Form here.
(Google Document)

https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1xApAJiuAfFWUEkxktOBqds52dMRVzPdug-_1Xa8GyOs&authkey=CJXRp88H&hl=en#

T-Shirts for the Run

2010-07-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have the info I need to let you all know the price of the shirts for the Chosen One Run this year!

T-Shirts: $12 (kids-adult XL)
$14 (2XL and larger)

Long-Sleeve T-Shirts: $16 (kids-adult XL)
$18 (2XL and larger)

To have the size you would like please indicate on the run registration
1. Size
2. Short or Long

Send payment for t-shirt with run registration to guarantee your size the day of the run!

Questions? BellaAdopt@gmail.com

2nd Annual Chosen One Run

2010-06-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday September 11, 2010
5K Fun Run & Walk

All proceeds go to Bella Adoption Foundation to help raise money for families working through the adoption process.

This year we are getting an early start and making it an afternoon filled with fun and food before the grand finale Chosen One Run: Running for Adoption. Games and food will begin at 3pm and will include rides on the 1930's Diamond T Fire Truck.

The run/walk route will take runners and walkers through the side streets of Zumbrota and through the historic Covered Bridge and Covered Bridge Park.

Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are encourage to participate int he event by either competing in the run or taking a more laid back approach in the walk.

Cost for entries postmarked before August 28th is $10 (preschool and younger are free)
Entries postmarked after August 28th will be $15.

T-Shirts for the event are available for purchase for an additional fee. This is a change from last year in an effort to make the event more affordable for all participants by making the T-Shirts optional. Those registering before the August 28th deadline will be guaranteed a T-Shirt in their size if indicated on the registration form (additional cost should be sent with registration). Race day purchases will be first-come first-serve for sizes.

If you have questions, would like more information, or would like to volunteer to help with the event please contact Kris Luhman at BellaAdopt@gmail.com or call (507) 273-8145.

Business Owners
Show your support of adoption by having someone from your business participate in the event. Wear your business colors/logos and compete for the pride of your business. We will be highlighting the business with the best average race time for the event.

Next Event

2010-05-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Chosen One Run is only months away!!!

The first weekend after Labor Day (Saturday 9/11/2010) mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual Chosen One Run. The run will take place in the evening and we are always looking for volunteers to help organize the event and work the event so please contact us via email if you might be of some assistance.

BellaAdopt@gmail.com

DONE!!!

2010-04-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

The treasure sale is over and all cleaned up - sigh of relief!!!

We did okay for the sale raising nearly $1000 to go toward our grants. We met a lot of great people along the way and will continue to benefit the community through the donations of left over merchandise to the Women's Shelters in the surrounding area; a local church drive for shoes and the remaining items to be split going to Goodwill, Salvation Army and Savers.

THANK YOU to all who donated to this years sale both for the Treasure Sale and the Bake Sale - this is not possible without your support.

THANK YOU to all who made a purchase at the sale - your purchases will directly effect a families quest for a child.

THANK YOU to all who volunteered their time to get the sale up and running, worked the day of the sale, and/or helped clean up on Sunday - your hard work does not go unnoticed and is very much appreciated.

With the completion of the sale means more paperwork for Bella Adoption Foundation as we will be able to file for our Non-Profit status and start looking for grant recipients. The application process will be posted soon and we are hoping to give out a grant by summers end - just in time for our fall CHOSEN ONE RUN - September 11th.

Bake Sale

2010-03-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

Don't forget - if you don't have anything to donate for the treasure sale coming up in April you can always donate baked goods as well. Items need to be dropped off to either the Zumbrota Fire Hall or Autumn Moon the evening before the sale (Friday April 16th). Please have items pre-packaged and ready to sell - we will take care of putting a price on the items.

All donations are greatly appreciated!

? please let us know BellaAdopt@gmail.com

Adoption Tax Credit

2010-03-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Amidst the intense controversy of the health care bill signed into law by President Obama yesterday, there’s at least one provision every orphan advocate can cheer. The adoption tax credit was preserved for another year...and increased in value!

To encourage and support adoption, the adoption tax credit was expanded by President Bush and Congress in 2001. This increased the value of the credit from $5,000 to $10,000, and indexed it for inflation (meaning the credit would increase each year to keep up with inflation.) For 2010, its value had risen to $12,170. However, the 2001 increase was scheduled to “sunset” at the end of 2010.

This would mean that any adoptions finalized after December 31, 2010 would be eligible for—at most—a credit of only $5,000.

This sunset has now been extended one year. That means that it will need to be extended again before the end of 2011.

For the present, however, this extension comes as very welcome news for families considering adoption or in the adoption process.

Specifically, the provisions contained in the health care bill include:

*The current adoption tax credit has been extended until the end of 2011;

*The value of the adoption tax credit has been increased from $12,170 to $13,170.

*The increase is “retroactive,” meaning that any adoption occurring after January 1, 2010 is eligible for this higher credit.

*The credit is now refundable. This means that even families that owe zero taxes can receive the full tax credit in the form of a tax refund to help with their adoption-related expenses.

Need for Adopting Families is High

2010-03-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

The economy is having a curious effect on adoptions. Women seeking info on placing a child for adoption is at an all time high, reports Lifetime Adoption Center, however the number of families able to complete an adoption is shrinking. Why? Sadly the answer lies in the lack of resources and money for both birth parents and adoptive families. http://www.lifetimeadoption.com/index.html

~~~

The need for African American and Bi-Racial families to adopt is great. In fact, African American are 5 times more likely to choose adoption for their children if they are able to choose a family who looks like them!Similarly, families who have previously adopted a child with some African American heritage are also highly valued by these women.Currently, the African American Enrichment Program is offering grants of up to $4,000 to qualifying families. These grants are limited and families who hope to take advantage of them should be prepared to move forward with the other costs of adoption. http://www.africanamericanadoptionsonline.com/enrichment.html

Garage Sale Items Needed

2009-12-30T14:02:00.000-08:00

So another year is fast approaching and I guess it is time to do some cleaning and get the house all child proofed and prepared. So what to do with all the stuff we no longer need/want??? I have a solution for ourselves and others ready to get out with the old and in with the new.

Bella Adoption Foundation is currently accepting donations for its spring 2010 garage sale. All items donated will be sold with proceeds benefiting the foundation. Drop off items at Autumn Moon in Zumbrota http://autumnmoononline.com/ and remember to pick-up your donation card when you do so to claim your donation on your taxes.

Please also pass on the word to friends and family that there are other options to donate their goods to rather than the typical SAs and GWs... knowing the funds will be given to Minnesota families looking to provide a child with a stable and loving home.
Tentative date for the sale is end of March 2010 - more to come as the details are ironed out.

How are you celebrating???

2009-11-10T08:54:00.000-08:00

November is National Adoption Awareness Month so the question is - How are you getting the word out???

History:
The first major effort to promote awareness of the need for adoptive families for children in the foster care system occurred in Massachusetts. In 1976, then-Governor Mike Dukakis proclaimed Adoption Week and the idea grew in popularity and spread throughout the nation. President Gerald Ford made the first National Adoption Week proclamation, and in 1990, the week was expanded to a month due to the number of states participating and the number of events.

Want a month full of ideas: http://www.adopting.org/adoptions/adoption-month-calendar-an-activity-every-day.html

One last shout out!

2009-10-06T12:47:00.000-07:00

Bella Adoption Foundation just wanted to send out one last thank you to our 2009 Chosen One Run Business Sponsors - without your support and contributions the event would have been impossible.

If you would like information regarding any of these sponsors please click on their name to link to their website or contact Bella Adoption Foundation at bellaadopt@gmail.com (not all sponsors have websites).

Autumn Moon
Beak Design Studio
Busby Hardware & Furniture
CR Taping & Texturing
Custom Retaining Walls & Landscaping, Inc.
Lodermeier's Inc
Mary Kay - Jennifer Marquardt
Pampered Chef - Holly Thumann
Schumacher Excavating
State Farm Insurance - Lyle Wendroth
Telemark Tech
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Tristan Publishing
Wedge Lumber
White Rock Bank
Wild Tree - Kimberly Buck

National Adoption Day

2009-10-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

National Adoption Day is November 21, 2009

National Adoption Day started small in the year 2000, with events in nine cities. Over the years, it grew rapidly, until by 2006, more than 300 events were held in all 50 states the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. A total of 26,000 children have been adopted from U.S. foster care at National Adoption Day celebrations, and millions of Americans have been touched through local and national media coverage.

The success of National Adoption Day is a result of the hard work of local event planners, the generosity of national and local supporters, the promotion of collaborating organizations, the participation of government representatives and the attention of the media. Congratulations to each of you for making a difference in the lives of children.

Spring 2010

2009-09-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Bella Adoption Foundation is busy planning our next fundraising event which will be an Adoption Treasure Sale in the spring of 2010. This will be a treasure and bake sale and we are currently accepting treasures! Please hold off on the baking until closer to the event :)

Before going to Salvation Army or Goodwill with your household goods and clothing please consider donating to Bella Adoption Foundation. Funds raised through Bella will be given back to Minnesota families working through the adoption process and with one fundraiser under our belt it is time to move to the next so we can get our grants moving!!! If you have any questions please contact the foundation at bellaadopt@gmail.com

Donation Drop: Autumn Moon 345 S Main St., Zumbrota, MN 55992

(please contact us if additional drop options are needed)

Run Results

2009-09-12T19:50:00.000-07:00

We were HOPING for 100 participants and ended up with closer to 130!!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And now for the results:

1st Place Overall: Shawn Van Sluys: 20:15

Men Top Finishes
1: Shawn Van Sluys
2. Wayne Dickie
3. Russell Kidd
4. Chad Otterness
5. Lance Groth

Women Top Finishes
1. Monica Nigon
2. Summer Groth
3. Trystan Hansen
4. Jenny O'Connor
5. Allie Volcheck

Age Group Winners
0-17
M: Iaasc Kidd
W: Monica Nigon

18-29
M: Lance Groth
W: Summer Groth

30-39
M: Shawn Van Sluys
W: Jenny O'Connor

40-49
M: Wayne Dickie
W: Becky Kidd

50-50
M: Jeff Millen
F: Connie Wendt

Running Order - Great Job Everyone

2009-09-12T19:49:00.001-07:00

5K Results:

1. Shawn Van Sluys 20:15
2. Monica Nigon 21:12
3. Wayne Dickie 21:57
4. Russell Kidd 22:32
5. Chad Otterness 23:41
6. Summer Groth 23:59
7. Lance Groth 24:50
8. Isaac Kidd 25:55
9. Trystan Hansen 25:57
10. Jeff Millen 26:22
11. Michael Horsman 26:54
12. Jenny O'Connor 27:09
13. Andrew Krause 27:30
14. Kyle Haack 27:33
15. Allie Volcheck 27:37
16. Jerry Volcheck 27:40
17. Sherry Sonnenberg 27:51
18. Becky Klier 27:52
19. Becky Kidd 27:53
20. Eric Oppegard 28:02
21. Jill Eggerichs 28:23
22. David Zimmerman 28:30
23. Jeff Smith 28:30
24: Hiromi Walleser 28:42
25: Elizabeth Quast 28:58
26: Connie Wendt 29:22
27: Kris Oppegard 29:30
28: Beth Napton 29:30
29: John Mann 29:35
30: Tom Barrett 29:42
31: Wendy Haack 29:50
32: Yoaish Vwdva 30:40
33: Phil Lermon 31:06
34: Megan Sandman 31:07
35: Jim Wendt 31:12
36: Ravi Delehanty 31:15
37: Laurie Brengman 31:55
38: Emily Frank 32:07
39: Ellie Bungum 34:08
40: Brandon Bungum 34:11
41: Chris Klepper 34:33
42: Alaina Johnson 34:51
43: Heidi Burdick 34:58
44: Sara Mooney 35:16
45: Rebecca Bedhuhn 38:07
46: Dhanya Delehanty 38:48
47: Maggie Eggerichs 40:31
48: Beth Carlson 40:38
49: Cindy Lien 42:05
50: Ethan Hanten 43:06
Diane Mann 43:07
Jennifer Ferguson 43:38
Shyamal Bhat 43:52
Jennifer Pttman 46:28
Shawna O'Reilly 46:28
Heather Hauser 47:40
Cherise Chamberlain 48:14
Shari Chamberlain 48:14
Karla Angrimson 48:55
Emma Hanten 48:58
Mark Delehanty 49:03
Martha Bouman 49:11
Carol Schumacher 49:24
Anita Otterness 49:24
Eve Simon & Tony Simon 53
Anne Winfrey & Jennifer Granloff 54
Dorinda Liese, Jennifer Skalsky, Nicole Brueck, 55
Grant Winfrey & Ed Otterness 57
Anina Richeter, Julie Bauch, Debra Bauch, Linda Smith 58
Bonnie Luhman, Karla Thermos, Lisa Miller, Josslyn Lohmann 59

We also had a large number of 1 mile fun run/walk participants to give a big shout out to and thank you for participating!!!!

Posters for the Run

2009-09-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Stories are being put together for Saturday's event! Want to see them up close? You'll have to stop down then to the Zumbrota Fire Hall between 5pm and 9pm!!!

Directions on the right.

Saturday Event

2009-09-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Reminder - The big event is this Saturday!!!

Please note that you do NOT have to participate in the Run/Walk to join us for the event. We will have food and games for all during/after the event for families/individuals to participate in.

Registration and Check-in will begin at 5pm and wrap up at 5:45pm. If you have not registered that is okay you can do that on Saturday.

Run/Walk will start promptly at 6pm.

Poster Boards for the Run

2009-09-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

We are still looking for more adoption stories to share at our upcoming event if you or someone you know would like to share. We are looking for standard poster board size (roughly 21x27) any color that tells your story/journey.

What to include (does not need to follow exactly - this is to get you started)

For Parents:

* Why did you choose to adopt (does not need to be super specific - "We always wanted a family and adoption was our option"

*When did you begin the process

*When did you finalize

*If you have not finalized - where are you in the process or do you have a target date

*What was great obstacle(s) and how did you overcome it (them)

*What's next

*Advice

*Rewards

For Children (Adults) who were chosen

Setting a guideline for this group is a bit harder because every story is so different and emotions tend to be different for everyone. The goal is to show the beauty of adoption from both the parents and the children touched by adoption.

To quote a good friend "for me, this is something I am willing to share because I am not ashamed of being adopted. I am proud and want people to understand what an awesome thing it is."

If you have made contact with your birth parents you can certainly include this information and any feelings associated with it; "in my situation I have met them and it just made me MORE thankful rather than hurt or disappointed..."

If you are willing to do a poster and share your story please contact the foundation via email at

BellaAdopt@gmail.com

If you have questions/concerns please do not hesitate to contact us via email

Congratulations!!!!

2009-08-31T10:58:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Dirks family on your safe arrival home with your new little boy!

Not to late!

2009-08-31T08:52:00.001-07:00

It is NOT to late to register for the run. Registration will continue up until 5:45pm the day of the event. We ordered a few extra t-shirts for you late comers but we can no longer guarantee one at this point.

Individual cost per participant: $25
Family max: $50
(t-shirts if available)

We will have a food wagon set-up during and after the event so even if you are not participating you can still stop down, check out the stories and grab something to eat. We will have some games for the kids (and adults) so you can make a night of it.

Yeah for Participants!!!

2009-08-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

The registration forms are starting to trickle in!! Remember - if you register by Friday (8/29) we can guarantee you a t-shirt. Registration after the 29th there is no guarantee. We will order a few extra in case a wrong size was written on registration but not to many so get those forms in this week. If it is in the mail but you are worried it will not get here by Friday please email you t-shirt size.

bellaadopt@gmail.com

The run is coming...

2009-08-15T07:55:00.001-07:00

The Chosen One Run in less than a month away and approaching fast! We are starting to get early registration forms in and looking for more. Remember to get them sent in before August 29th to guarantee yourself a t-shirt. You can still register after the 29th and on the day of the race but we cannot guarantee a t-shirt.

Pre-registration deadline August 29th: $20
(Family Max $40 - 2 Shirts)
T-Shirt guaranteed

Late registration (after August 29th): $25
(Family Max $50)
T-shirt (if available)

Registration & Check-in starts at 5pm
Run will begin at 6pm

Food and Fun to follow

Want more info? contact bellaadopt@gmail.com

THANK YOU!!!

2009-08-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

We have our September event sponsors set and I just wanted to send out a huge thank you for your generosity!!!

Autumn Moon - Zumbrota, MN
Beak Design Studio - Rochester, MN
Busby Hardware & Furniture - Zumbrota, MN
CR Taping & Texturing - Zumbrota, MN
Custom Retaining Wall & Landscaping Inc - Rochester, MN
Goodhue Country Station - Goodhue, MN
Lodermeier's Inc - Goodhue, MN
Mary Kay - Jennifer Marquardt
Pampered Chef - Holly Thumann
Schumacher Excavating - Zumbrota, MN
State Farm Insurance - Lyle Wendroth
Telemark Tech - Rochester, MN
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Tristan Publishing - Golden Valley, MN
Wedge Lumber - Zumbrota, MN
White Rock Bank - Goodhue, MN
Wild Tree - Kimberly Buck

Many of our sponsors have links to their websites for contact information listed to the right. Please note that a few are working on websites and if you would like contact information please contact the foundation.

Orphans Deserve Better

2009-07-31T22:18:00.000-07:00

The new Warner Bros. release "Orphan" has caused a stir in the adoption community and rightfully so - please note the following link and site to help these children rather than damage their reputation as Hollywood felt they had the liberty of doing...

http://orphansdeservebetter.org/

Orphans Deserve Better is a grassroots initiative to counter the movie Orphan. Join us in taking the side of those who cannot speak for themselves.

However far-fetched some stories are, they can still subtly shape our values and perceptions. So when a major motion picture leaves a lingering impression that orphans are damaged goods and that adoption can tear apart your life, those who know the deeper truth must speak up.People deserve to know better. They must be told of the great needs orphans face. They should also see the joy found in loving them…and practical steps we can take to do so.

“Defend the cause of the fatherless,” urges the prophet Isaiah. We invite you to join in doing just that:

1) Send a message to Warner Brothers urging them to contribute a portion of proceeds from the movie to help orphans.

2) Share your stories of how loving an orphan can lift a child’s life and those who choose to love them.

3) Consider ways you can act to help orphans today.

Words to make me sad...

2009-07-22T14:41:00.000-07:00

I read some words today that made me sad. I had a hopefully mom email me today to tell me that she and her husband had been trying to get pregnant for 6 years now with no success. She then went on to tell me that although fertility treatments are expensive, this cost does not compare to adoption costs and due to current economic times they do not feel adoption is an option because of the cost. This is exactly the thought process that makes me sad and the exact reason why the Bella Adoption Foundation was started. I never want to hear that adoption is too expensive or that the cost is what stops a family from becoming a family. Although we are just getting started I am determined to help families understand their adoption options and search out cost effective ways to manage adoption expenses. We are not ready to give monies to families yet but someday soon I hope that Bella can give directly to Minnesota families (to start) and make a families dream comes true.

If you or someone you know is considering adoption but has questions about the process or the costs please feel free to contact Bella Adoption Foundation for assistance. We may not have all the answers but our network continues to grow and we can hopefully get you pointed in the right direction.

Literature Arrival

2009-07-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

Our literature is starting to slowly arrive and I have received information from The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and will continue to search out good resources for those interested in adoption but are unsure where to start. Just arrived is "A child is waiting: A step-by-step guide to adoption." If you are in need of information please contact us and we would be glad to help.

Looking for an adoption agency

2009-07-20T09:40:00.001-07:00

Looking for an adoption agency can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack regardless of the type of adoption you are seeking. But knowing what questions to ask can ease the process. Follow the link to find a printable version of the questions to ask so you can keep the agencies separate and compare your findings.

http://www.theadoptionguide.com/files/AgencyQuestions.pdf

Items to questions:

1. Placement

*Stats for the agency regarding placement over the last year

*Length of operation as an agency and length of reputation with placing countries/agencies

2. Timing

*How soon will home study process begin after applying to program

*If Home study is not approved will I be told why? Is there an appeal process?

*What is time frame of home study approval / dossier submission to referral?

3. Finances

*What is the total cost? Can I get this in writing?

*What percentage of funds is spent on administration?

4. International Programs

*Is inter-country adoption stable in my country of choice?

*What are the travel requirements?

*Do you financially support the orphanages from which you place children?

5. Other Questions

*Do you provide a contract with client and agency responsibilities?

*What are post-placement requirements?

*What happens if I find I can't parent the child I adopted?

*Information courtesy of the 2009 Adoption Guide pg 61

Link Fixed

2009-07-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

The link for the Gotcha Day - Lucy Lane video is fixed.
Wednesday July 15 - Understanding the Impact.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duyL9UjLrdM

Understanding the Impact

2009-07-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Today in my search through my adoption blogs I came across a post with a link to a You.Tube video and I just have to share. This is what adoption is about and can do for a child. This story is regarding an Ethiopia adoption but the same sentiments hold true for adoptions around the world and here at home. Love at first sight is not always something we are born into and the power of joining a parent with their child is something that is unforgettable and should be shared with the world. Adoption, in all regards, symbolizes hope and love.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duyL9UjLrdM

A Heartfelt Thank You!!!

2009-07-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

Words can not express my gratitude today. Over the course of starting Bella Adoption Foundation we have had 4 personal sponsorship requests for our event coming up this fall - this was more than I could have ever asked for and honestly it brings me to tears. The power and generosity of the human spirit is a remarkable thing. Even in times of economic uncertainty people want to give and people want to help and this generosity feels my soul with a renewed sense of hope that I never anticipated feeling. There are days when I wish I could do more than I am able but I am slowly reaching out and if I am able to make a positive impact in a child's or family's life because of Bella's efforts then it was more than worth it!

Anne & Grant

2009-07-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

Hello! We are Anne and Grant. Our adoption journey began in the fall of 2006 when we decided to start our family through international adoption, more specifically Vietnam. We were full of hope and optimism, and threw ourselves into learning all that we could about trans-racial adoption and the Vietnamese culture. The short story is that after 15 months in that program the prospect of completing our adoption in Vietnam grew dim due to some major in-country issues. We knew we needed to come up with a new plan. Luckily we have a wonderful friend who had just completed a domestic adoption through Heart to Heart in Utah. Upon her recommendation, and after some research and prayer, we started the domestic process for an African American infant adoption. Within weeks we had our little bundle of joy, Miles, home with us (he was born in March of 2008).

Adoption was a long, winding and bumpy road for us...but we could not imagine starting our family in any other way. The people we have met along the way will be lifelong friends. And we are so blessed to be Miles' parents!

Keep up with Miles and the whole family under Adoption Family Blogs in the right hand column: The Chronicles of Miles

Looking for Family Stories

2009-06-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

A large part of the Bella Adoption Foundation is adoption awareness and advocacy. In order to do this effectively I feel that it is important for those touched by adoption to share their stories. We have posted one story thus far (Sherry & Johann) and we have a few more to go but not nearly as many I would like. If you have an adoption story to share or know someone who might please pass them our name so we may share their story. We are looking for adoptive parents as well as children/adults who were adopted. I think it is important to share both sides of the spectrum and show what a positive journey adoption can be. If you are interested or would like more information please contact me at BellaAdopt@gmail.com

What is special needs adoption?

2009-06-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

When researching adoption you will often find reference to "special needs" children but this can mean a number of things. Categories of special needs include disabilities, race, age, sibling status and children at-risk.
*Disabilities may include mental, physical and emotional disabilities and can range from mild to severe.
*Race special needs can very greatly from one agency to the next. This does not mean that being of a particular race is a disability but rather that there are not enough families waiting to adopt a child of a particular race or gender.
*Age needs vary from state to state and according to the race of the child. In general children ages 5 to 8 years old may be considered an older child.
*"At-risk" children refer to children who currently may currently be healthy but at risk for developing learning, emotional, behavioral or physical disabilities in the future. Babies exposed to drugs, neglect, abuse or other genetic pre-dispositions are called "at-risk."
*Waiting children and older children refers to a waiting children that usually as spent some amount of time in foster care.
*Sibling groups of 2 members are considered small sibling groups. 3 or members are considered large sibling groups. Being a sibling group does not automatically qualify the children as special needs, it often is a combination of the group as well as factors listed above and the degree of difficult to place the children with a family.

For more information on special needs adoption check out Adoption.com

What kind of adoption is right for you?

2009-06-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

The link below is a decision matrix to help you find the type of adoption that best suites you and your families needs. I like this matrix because it compares the 3 most common types of adoption side-by-side and help you find what is right for you. Every families adoption journey is different even within one family. There are no magic crystal balls to show you how the story will end or what bumps you may face along the way and just me there will be bumps.

http://www.theadoptionguide.com/files/DecisionMatrix.pdf

I biggest piece of advice is to 1st: educate yourself before jumping in to it. I researched adoption for nearly 3 years before starting the process. 2nd: Find a local support group related to adoption - these connections will help get you through the difficult days. Adoption support groups also offer a sense of comfort because these are parents that have journeyed down your path and there is a general sense of understanding. If you live in the Rochester, MN area and would like to join the group I belong to you can contact me at bellaadopt@gmail.com and I'll get you connected with the groups coordinator.

Thank You Tristan Publishing!!!

2009-06-23T07:52:00.001-07:00

A huge thank you to Tristan Publishing for your generous donation of Hope-So Too books for our September event. The books will be for sale at the Chosen One Run will ALL proceeds going directly to the Bella Adoption Foundation courtesy of Tristan Publishing!!!

Tristan Publishings is the home to many great books including Warren Hanson's PEEF series as well as Jodi Hill's Hope-So Too. Check out the whole Tristan line-up at http://www.tristanpublishing.com/index.asp

Tristan books can be purchased online and also through another event sponsor Autumn Moon.

Book Club

2009-06-19T13:48:00.001-07:00

Bella Adoption Foundation is currently compiling a list of adoption related books that have been read and approved by those closest to us. If you have a review for an adoption related book please contact us at bellaadopt@gmail.com

My new favorite: Hope-So Too by Jodi Hill

Frosty Anyone? (ice cream)

2009-06-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

Reminder - This Saturday and Sunday Wendy's will donate $0.50 from each frosty product to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.

Johann & Sherry

2009-06-19T09:40:00.001-07:00

Who we are:
We are Johann and Sherry. In December of 2007 we decided adoption was how we were going to grow our family. Spending money on fertility treatments was not an option for us when we knew there were many wonderful children out there waiting for a good home. With adoption, we knew in the end we would be a family. We started researching agencies and signed with our first agency in Minnesota in March 2008. They did our home study and many of our adoption education classes. We each have 64 hours of education related to parenting, car seat training, and adoption specific classes. After a few months of doing classes and paperwork we decided to consider older child adoption and decided race did not matter. We did an amendment to our home study and this also helped us to become licensed for foster care.

On Monday, December 29, 2008 we contacted Heart to Heart Adoptions in Salt Lake City, UT. This was at the suggestion of a friend who used this agency as well. On Wednesday, December 31, 2008 our profile was shown to a birth mom and we were matched with TWINS. At the time we were told a boy and girl, but we now have two healthy beautiful girls who were born February 26, 2009.

To read more about Sherry & Johann's story please check out their blog listed under Adoption Family Blogs to the right.

Quiz

2009-06-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

Do you know how many different types of adoption there are?

If you think there are only 3 you are going to be surprised. The answer is actually 15 - that's right 15 different types of adoption exist. Most people think you have domestic, international or foster adoptions; but these are only the tip of the iceberg. Here they all are.

Foster-Adopt
Infant/Newborn
International
Waiting Child Adoption
Step Child Adoption
Semi-Open Adoption
Older Child Adoption
Closed Adoption
Relative Adoption
Foster Child Adoption
Special Needs
Military & Overseas Adoption
Adopting an Adult
Child Adoptions
Embryo Adoption

To learn about each type please visit http://adopting.adoption.com/child/what-are-the-different-types-of-adoption.html

Thank You

2009-06-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Beak Design Studio http://www.beakds.com/index.html for creating our logo both for the Bella Adoption Foundation and for the Chosen One Run! You have exceeded all my expectations and more!!!

Beak Design Studio specializes in adoption profiles, posters, illustrations and photo retouching. This is one talented cookie and I'm so happy that she has offered her services to Bella Adoption Foundation!

Error on Registration Form

2009-06-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

There was 2 errors on the participant registration form for the 5K/3k Run/Walk coming up in September. I believe I have the problems fixed now and the correct forms are linked on both the blog and the Autumn Moon website. Both errors were with the family max(s) for the event and the correct information is now posted. Sorry for any confusion.

Family Max
Pre-registration (8/29/2009) $40 and 2 shirts (additional can be purchased for $10 each)
Late registration (after 8/29/2009) $50 and 2 shirts (if available) (additional can be purchased if available for $10 each)

Adoption Language

2009-06-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

As with many things in life what is PC (politically correct) changes on a regular basis. Anyone who works with a special population can appreciate this ever changing language. On the left will be the positive language and the on the right will be the negative. We would prefer you to use the left side or the positive!

Positive….Negative

Birth parent…Real Parent

Biological Parent…Natural Parent

Birth Child…Own Child

My child…adopted child; own child

Born to unmarried parents…Illegitimate

Terminate parental rights…Give Up

Make an adoption plan…Give Away

To parent…To keep

Waiting child…Adopted child; available child

Biological or birth father…Real father

Making contact with…Reunion

Parent…Adoptive parent

Search…To track down

Court termination…Child taken away

Was adopted…is adopted

The Cost of Adoption

2009-06-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Range of Adoption Costs [1]
Foster Care Adoptions $0 - $2,500
Licensed Private Agency Adoptions $5,000 - $40,000+
Independent Adoptions $8,000 - $40,000+
Facilitated/Unlicensed Adoptions $5,000 - $40,000+
Intercountry Adoptions $7,000 - $30,000+

Depending on the country, there may be additional fees, such as: [2]
Child foster care (usually in South and Central American adoptions)
Parents' travel and in-country stay(s) to process the adoption abroad
Escorting fees, charged when parents do not travel but instead hire escorts to accompany the child on the flight
Child's medical care and treatment (occasionally in South and Central America)
Translation fees
Foreign attorney fees
Foreign agency fees
Passport fees
Visa processing fees and costs of visa medical examination

Resources:
http://costs.adoption.com/articles/the-costs-of-adopting-a-factsheet-for-families.html [1]
http://costs.adoption.com/articles/the-costs-of-adopting-a-factsheet-for-families,3.html [2]

Adoption Statistics

2009-06-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

World Map Adoption Statistics: To view the number of adoptions to the United States from a specific country: http://adoption.state.gov/news/world_map.html

Adoption statistics for 2008 = Number of adoptions from October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008. [2]

* It is estimated that about 1 million children in the United States live with adoptive parents, and that between 2% to 4% of American families include an adopted child. [3]

* In 1992, the National Center for State Courts gathered adoption totals from a variety of sources, and estimated that 126,951 children were adopted through international, foster care, private agency, independent and step-parent adoptions. NCSC estimated that stepparent adoptions accounted for 42% of all adoptions and foster care adoptions 15%. (The total number of adoptions each year has not been comprehensively compiled since 1992.) [1]

* The Adoption Institute’s 1997 Public Opinion Benchmark survey found that 58% of Americans know someone who has been adopted, has adopted a child or has relinquished a child for adoption. [1]

* DUBLIN, Ohio, June 19, 2002 – Nearly 40% of American adults, or 81.5 million people, have considered adopting a child. If just one in 500 of these adults adopt, all of the 134,000 children in foster care waiting for adoption would have permanent, loving families, according to the new National Adoption Attitudes Survey. [4]

Resources:

http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/FactOverview.html [1]

http://adoption.state.gov/news/total_chart.html [2]

http://statistics.adoption.com/information/adoption-statistics-numbers-trends.html [3]

http://statistics.adoption.com/information/foster-care-statistics.html [4]

Hague Convention? What's that?

2009-06-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

"The Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-Country Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention) is an international agreement to safeguard intercountry adoptions. Concluded on May 29, 1993 in The Hague, the Netherlands, the Convention establishes international standards of practices for intercountry adoptions. The United States signed the Convention in 1994, and the Convention entered into force for the United States in April 2008.

The Hague Adoption Convention applies to all adoptions between the United States and the other counties that have joined it (http://adoption.state.gov/hague/overview/countries.html). Adopting a child from a Convention country is similar in many ways to adopting a child from a country not party to the Convention. However, there are some key differences. In particular, those seeking to adopt receive greater protections if they adopt from a Convention country. (http://adoption.state.gov/pdf/Side_by_side_comparison.pdf comparing the Convention process and the non-Convention process.) "

Resource: http://adoption.state.gov/hague/overview.html

Looking for Event Sponsors

2009-06-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

At this time we are looking for event sponsors for our Chosen One Run: Running for Adoption to be held Saturday, September 12, 2009.

If you are interested in being a sponsor for the event please contact us via email at bellaadopt@gmail.com by calling Autumn Moon at 507-732-7400.

$50 Sponsors
*Eligible to set up vending area at the event to promote/sell your business (you retain profits)
*Website Link posted on blog
*Business name appear on T-shirts
*Name on advertising

If you are unable to contribute $50 but would like to give a monetary donation please contact us at bellaadopt@gmail.com

If you are unable to contribute a monetary donation but would like to provide an item to be used toward our door prizes please contact us at bellaadopt@gmail.com

Sponsors contributing to the event in any value will be recognized at the event and following the event via published sponsor thank you.

Sponsor form also available at http://autumnmoononline.com/

We have our name!

2009-06-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

As of June 2, 2009 the name Bella Adoption Foundation is up and running with a name, courtesy of the Minnesota Secretary of State.

Chosen One Run: Running for Adoption

2009-05-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for September 12th.
The 5K/3K Walk/Run is set.

Entry Fees:
Pre-registration deadline August 29th
$20 guarantee t-Shirt
(Family Max $40 + 2 shirts)
additional t-shirts can be purchased

Late registration (after August 29th)
$25 (t-shirt if available)
(Family Max $50)

Registration & Check-in starts at 5pm
Run will begin at 6pm

Food and Fun to follow

Want more info? contact bellaadopt@gmail.com

Meeting to plan the run

2009-05-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

Our first event planning meeting is scheduled for Thursday May 28th. 6:30pm at Autumn Moon in Zumbrota. We will be planning and discussing the 5K run to be held toward the end of summer.

Who are we?

2009-05-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Bella Adoption Foundation blog. Bella Adoption Foundation was founded as a result of a quest to adopt internationally. After researching and starting the adoption process it was soon realized how expensive an adoption costs, both domestic and international. There are a few grants and programs out there to ease the financial burden but there are not nearly enough to reach all families looking to adopt. Bella Adoption Foundation at this time serves the state of Minnesota and is just getting under way. We are hoping to offer our first monetary award after of first big fundraising event which is currently in the planning process. We hope our blog serves as a resource for those looking for adoption information. Please note that at this time we are not a 501 (c) organization.