NEVADA FAMILIES SUPPORTING ADOPTION

Welcome to 2012

2012-01-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

We hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and is ready for 2012! We also hope that on your list of New Year's Resolutions you included "get involved with adoption and FSA"!

We are excited about the new year and looking forward to getting things planned and on the schedule. We are going back to the "old way" and doing a monthly planning meeting, along with a monthly education class as well. This should give everyone a chance to get their required education hours faster and also give everyone a chance to meet other couples who are going through the process as well, and also let everyone get involved with Families Supporting Adoption and get involved with the events and activities that happen through the year. We hope this is a win-win for all parties.

The first meeting and education class of the year will take place on Thursday, January 26th at the LDS Family Services Office. The planning meetings are at 6pm and the education classes are at 7pm. Please come and join us for both (there is no requirement to be at the planning meeting just a desire to help out with events!)

If you have any questions leave us a comment, or email us at nevadafsa@gmail.com

National Adoption Month - Libraries

2011-11-25T10:55:00.000-08:00

Once again this year we have teamed up with the local libraries (Henderson and Las Vegas/Clark County) and we have a display with pamphlets and books and a poster and each library in the Valley.

This is a great community outreach project and a wonderful opportunity to spread the word about adoption and National Adoption Month. We are so thankful to the libraries and for those helping to keep this project running. We know that it touches many. We have also teamed up with Catholic Charities, the Adoption Exchange and Premier Adoption in this effort.

Please take a minute or two to stop by your local library and take a look at the display and also be sure to let the library know how much you appreciate the display so we can be sure to continue this tradition in the years to come.

National Adoption Month - Church News

2011-11-23T22:38:00.000-08:00

The church news has done a great job with an article that was published on Saturday, November 19th discussing National Adoption Month and family. We wanted to bring your attention to the article and the simple truths it is touching upon. We hope you will share the article with family and friends.

Go HERE for the article in whole.

National Adoption Month - Infertility

2011-11-21T22:32:00.000-08:00

There was a great article in LDS Living - July 2011- with an interview with Ardeth Kapp. She answered questions about her service in the church but she also spoke about her infertility... see her answers below... You can also check out the entire article HERE.

Q – Your struggle with infertility has been a defining experience for you and one that you have often discussed. What do you hope people have learned (and will learn) from your experience?

I think that we all live with unfulfilled expectations. Everything in life doesn’t turn out just how we want—at least not on our time frame. This was the scripture that we have always said, but now we know: “Trust in the Lord with all thy heart; lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). You sometimes have to go through quite a journey to be able to look back and say, “Oh, yes. He was directing my path.” What we learned from that was about the things you have no control over, then you have to use your agency to determine alternatives, and use personal revelation to give you direction, which is a thing that we are each entitled to.

If we can learn to trust in the Lord with all our heart, even when it may not make sense, then in years to come we can feel comfortable that we did the Lord’s will and He blessed us all the way.

And I would just like to say this: the Lord’s first commandment was to love one another, and you don’t have to bear children to love them, or to help someone gain eternal life. You may not be able to give life, but you can help others gain eternal life. And no blessing will be denied, if we live worthily. We’ll all have our children. I say after 450,000 prayers I was given 450,000 young women to be responsible for! One for every blessing.

Q – What has infertility taught you about the unique situations of each member of the Church?

We all have challenges—we’re here to be tried and tested. There are those who would withdraw and separate themselves from opportunities that they might otherwise have had. But if we don’t wrap our arms around ourselves to pull away, but open our arms to reach out to others, then there are unlimited opportunities to love and share and give and bless.

The opportunities are all around us. I live not far from an elementary school, and I have children from the elementary school who come by my door—it’s usually when I’m the busiest, but I never turn them away! We have this little routine—they’ll knock on the door, and I’ll say, “How are you?” And they’ll say, “Better than I was, but not as good as I’m going to be!” Then I’ll say, “What are you going to do?” And they’ll say, “Try a little harder to be a little better!” Then I let them in, and they come in and go to the candy basket and put some candy in a bag, then they go into the library and choose a book—I have a whole row of children’s books—then they read to me. And they always sign the guest book before they leave. I don’t have to remind them—they remind me. Sometimes they’ll write, “Sister Kapp, you’re really cool.” One little boy that brought his friend put his around him and said, “She’s just like a grandma!” So there’s no limit to our opportunities.

One Day Project

2011-11-18T13:41:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this great project and website... It is sponsored by National Adoption Month and wants to raise awareness of the ability to adopt from Foster Care!

National Adoption Month - For a Birthmother

2011-11-13T22:28:00.000-08:00

Mark Schultz music video of his song "Everything to Me" dedicated to his birthmother

Waiting Wednesday - Join NCFA

2011-11-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

What is NCFA? NCFA is the National Council for Adoption. Those of you who attended the FSA National Conference in August heard much about this organization and learned about the benefits and what the organization does for adoption. A missionary couple has been assigned to work with NCFA--Wayne & Vicki Allgaier. Wayne and Vicki attended the conference and encouraged members of FSA to also become members of NCFA. There is a new membership category for families and individuals who are interested in adoption.

Some benefits of membership are: NCFA’s working with legislators to make sure they are well informed as they consider legislation concerning adoption, to assure the support of healthy ethical adoption practices; the ability to participate in a members-only listserv, where you can communicate with other members who share similar interests and concerns and receive periodic postings from the NCFA office regarding what’s happening in the world of adoption.

If you attended the conference, your cost is only $25 for the year's membership. Otherwise, membership is $35 per year.

Information and the application form can be found at NCFA.

Thank you, thank you, thank you

2011-11-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to say thank you to all of you who helped plan, those of you who attended and those of you who supported our great events this past weekend.

We had a wonderful Pancake Breakfast to kick-off National Adoption Month and we also held our third Adoption/Foster Care Fireside which was Valley wide. Both were a great success thanks to you.

We are excited about the month and look forward to sharing stories of adoption and foster care with you and also just celebrating adoption with our families and those we come in contact with and hope you will do the same. We want to get the word out about adoption and how it can change lives.

Enjoy the month!

Waiting Wednesday - November: National Adoption Month

2011-11-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

During November: National Adoption Month a great thing to do while you are "waiting" is get involved and attend an adoption related activity. Many communities do adoption/foster care events during the month and this is a great place to network and meet others who are in the "waiting" process as well.

FSA is hosting a great Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, November 5th from 9-11am at the Alexander/Ferrell LDS Chapel. Join us to meet with others involved in Adoption.

FSA is also hosting a fireside on Sunday, November 6th at 7pm at the West Charleston Chapel and the topic will be Adoption and Foster Care. There will be a speaker from the State discussing the option of foster care through the State, you will hear about adoption from a birthmother's perspective, a couple who has adopted and you will also here from a representative from LDS Family Services.

November - National Adoption Month

2011-11-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

November is here which means it is time to celebrate adoption and foster care! Take a look and read about the history of Adoption Month.

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.

During the month, states, communities, public and private organizations, businesses, families, and individuals celebrate adoption as a positive way to build families. Across the nation, activities and observances such as recognition dinners, public awareness and recruitment campaigns, and special events spotlight the needs of children who need permanent families. It also includes National Adoption Day, traditionally a Saturday, which is observed in courthouses across the nation as thousands of adoptions are finalized simultaneously. (http://www.national-adoption-month.adoption.com/)

Be sure to check the blog often this month as we will have information, ideas, tips, and just general adoption information regarding all areas of adoption and foster care.

Monday Morning Meeting: Let others meet YOU!

2011-10-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

Are you an approved couple waiting to be placed? Are you a birthmother? Are you an adoptive couple with a great story about how your family came to be?

We want to get to know you... and so do others!

We are collecting stories and creating a book all about adoption and the lives that it touches. We are in the collection stage right now but hoping to be printing the books soon with the hopes that we will be placing the books in local OBGYN offices soon. This will give potential birthmothers, birth grandparents, and friends and family members of potential birthmothers an indepth look at the lives of those touched by adoption.

If you would like to share your story please email us at nevadafsa@gmail.com and we would LOVE to include it. This is a great outreach tool for those of you who are currently waiting and it also a great way to let the community know how many lives are touched by adoption and share all sides of adoption with them. We hope to hear from many of you. Thanks so much!

Any questions email us at nevadafsa@gmail.com or leave us a comment here on the blog.

Education Class Reminder

2011-10-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Just a final reminder that this month's education class will be held tomorrow night, Thursday, October 27th at 7pm at the LDS FAMILY SERVICES offices at 4455 Allen Lane.

Those of you needing your education hours and those of you wanting some more information on adoption are welcome to attend. The more the merrier. We always encourage you to come back for more education on adoption even if you are not currently in the adoption process.

If you have any questions or need any further information feel free to call your case worker or email us back at www.nevadafsa.gmail.com

Waiting Wednesday - Attend an event!

2011-10-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

November is just around the corner... and so is our annual Pancake Breakfast!!

We are hosting a breakfast for friends, families, kids, adults, those who are hoping to adopt, those who have adopted, birthmothers, and everyone who can support adoption! This event is for EVERYONE! The breakfast will take place on

Saturday, November 5th from 9-11am and will be held at the LDS Chapel on Alexander/Ferrell. 3350 W. Alexander, N. Las Vegas, NV.
Please RSVP # attending or questions to nevadafsa@gmail.com!

FSA will be providing pancakes, eggs, sausage and bacon! YUM!

We would ask that those attending please help us out by bringing some of the following items:

Last names beginning A-L bring drinks (juice or milk)
Last names beginning M-Z bring fruit (already cut if needed; bananas, melons, grapes, etc.)
Thanks so much for helping with this.

As a service project we will be collecting packets of lifesaver candies the day of the event. We are asking that anyone and everyone who can donate as many lifesaver packets as possible to please bring those with you to the breakfast. We will be using these as a service project for our local social workers and would appreciate all that we can collect. Thank you in advance for you service and help!

Waiting Wednesday - The Adoption Process

2011-10-05T10:56:00.001-07:00

We all know that adopting is a process. We have tried to give you a step-by-step plan of "what to expect" when adopting here on our site. We gave you the summarized, shortened version of all the steps you are going to go through during your adoption process.

Take a look under the tab "The Adoption Process" at the top of our posts and hopefully everything you need to know is there. If you have any questions, as always, send an email to FSA (Families Supporting Adoption) at nevadafsa@gmail.com and we can help you out. If that is still not helpful enough be sure to call LDS Family Services and they will get you the answer you are looking for.

We know that adoption and the process, and the waiting is a stressful time and we are hoping this will help ease any confusion and any uneasiness about the process, the steps, or what to do and when to do it.

Waiting Wednesday - Education Classes

2011-09-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Education Classes

After much thought we have changed the way we are going to be hosting the education classes for our waiting couples. We have currently been hosting what we have called the "Adoption Academy" on a quarterly basis but we are going to revert back to our old ways and will now be holding monthly education classes at the LDS Family Services offices.

We feel this give our waiting couples a chance to have a more in depth look at the topics we are studying, get to know one another better, get to know the members of FSA better, ask more questions, and have a better education experience. It also allows those waiting to fill their required hours on a faster basis and repeat classes as desired.

The following will be the ongoing, repeating, required classes:

Class #1 : Transracial adoption / Adoptive couple panel

Class #2: Birthmother panel

Class #3: Finding / Open Adoption / Adoption Myths / Adoption Language

Class #4: Medical Issues and Infertility

These classes will again be held at the LDS Family Services office (4455 Allen Lane, N. LV) and will be on the Fourth Thursday of the month at 7pm. Please email us if you have any questions nevadafsa@gmail.com or contact your caseworker. Thanks for your support!

Waiting Wednesday - Photo Session

2011-09-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

Are you an approved couple? Do you need updated photos of your family? Do you need photos for your profile?

We have two great "up and coming" photographers that LOVE adoption and want to help you build your family and want you to have great photos to help you do just that.

Jenny and Marissa and both willing to work with you for FREE! That's right, FREE! They are giving away a 30 minute session, on location, plus the disc for you to print your own photos and create your own pass-along cards or use them on your profile page, or do what you need to with the photos. They just want to help you build your family through adoption.

Give one of these great ladies a call and book a session now... The holidays are coming so I know they are getting busy. They will be able to sort out the details and make arrangements with you for your session.

Marissa 296-7546 (call or text is fine!)
Her Website

Jenny 219-8430
Her BLOG
More Photos

Just be sure to mention Families Supporting Adoption and they will be giving you this great deal!

Monday Morning Meetings: Meet Josh and Liz - Your New FSA Co-Chairs

2011-09-12T16:22:00.000-07:00

Josh is a dentist & Liz is a part-time stylist. We have 2 beautiful girls, Mara & Ella, and one doting dog, Brody.

Our story begins like this-- a rambunctious boy growing up in Las Vegas with a love of trouble & baseball & a clumsy but polite young girl from Utah who loved to rearrange her room from a young age... fast forward a few years to the first day we met- the day we knew we'd be together forever.

Our first date was a blind date (which included an escape route, just in case)- we went on a hike & during our picnic, it began to rain. A few hours later, we both knew it was love. We knew we were crazy, but crazy in love, so we were married 5 short months later & will be married 12 years on Sept. 11th. Our first few years together were full of work & school, but we spent every spare second having as much fun as possible... whether it was playing here in Vegas or in Disneyland (which we have an admittedly unhealthy addiction to), we became best friends & adopted the "work hard, play hard" philosophy. When it became difficult & frustrating to start our family, we decided that until that happened, we would have as much fun together as we could.

So now with 2 beautiful daughters, we are experienced "fun-makers" and experts at all things Disney. Although we have learned the hard way that indeed, the best things in life do not always come the easiest, when we look back, we wouldn't change a thing. For truly, all those years were molding us into the parents that our girls deserved to have.

We are both so passionate about adoption & so happy to be able to serve with Families Supporting Adoption.

Adoption Academy Reminder

2011-09-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

One last reminder that this Saturday, September 10th from 9-1 will be Adoption Academy for all those interested in information about the adoption process, tax information, those needing adoption education hours, and those who would just like a refresher course too!

Come and interact with other involved in adoption, share your thoughts and stories and also get info on our upcoming events!

The Adoption Academy will be held at the West Charleston LDS Chapel located at 3400 West Charleston. If you have any questions feel free to send us back an email to nevadafsa@gmail.com and we will be happy to help. Can't wait to see you on Saturday for a day full of ADOPTION!

Monday Morning Meeting - Matt and Katie A.

2011-09-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

We started the adoption process a little over a year ago and have been waiting ever since. Looking back now I guess it really didn’t feel like that long ago but the wait its self still felt like forever. There was nothing easy about waiting to find our little one.

Our placement was a little different than most. We got a call on a Monday night and were told that there was a birthmother and a 6 month old little boy who would like to meet us that following day. We were so scared, nervous and excited all night, we worried what it would be like to meet the birthmother, if she would like us, how this little boy would react towards us, all kind of things were just going through our minds. With very little sleep we went to LDS Family Services at 3pm and the moment our birthmother walked in we felt so relieved, it was like this was all just meant to happen. We sat and visited for about 2 hours that day getting to know each other and learning about this wonderful little boy that would soon be ours. The whole time we sat and talked Wyatt would just sit and stare at Matt with this huge smile. We felt like he was saying “I have been waiting for you too” At the end of the meeting we were told we could come back the following Tuesday July 5^th and bring our little boy home. Again we had to wait, at least this time it was only 1 week, but boy did that week go by so slow. Tuesday had finally arrived and we went back to LDS Family Services where we were able to bring Wyatt home for the first time. He is truly the greatest blessing we could ever ask for and we are so lucky to have him.

Waiting Wednesday - Keeping Busy

2011-08-31T10:38:00.001-07:00

You can do some things to distract yourself during this waiting period:

* Maintain a positive mental attitude, which is probably the most important advice I can offer. Sure, we all have doubts and fears. Try not to agonize over every problem that might happen.

Keep a journal of your thoughts and how you feel about the adventure  that lies ahead. You certainly don't have to be a professional writer  to express your feelings and frustrations, your ups and downs. Many  people find that the very act of writing down their thoughts frees them  from considerable anxiety. It might also jog your unconscious into  producing solutions to particular problems.

Read books about parenting and adoption (but don't go overboard). You might also want to review children's books about adoption as well. Keep in mind that most authors have biases, whether they realize it or not. Some see adoption as an idyllic experience; others think adoption is a problematic institution that should be radically changed. The reality is probably somewhere in the middle.

Meet and talk to parents, adoptive and nonadoptive. An effective adoptive parent group can be really helpful, because it allows you to see people with children they've adopted. You can learn the tactics they used to succeed, and the do's and don'ts of adoption.

Take an exercise class or renew an old hobby. Staying involved with our interests makes us happy, and children derive benefit from happy parents. Hopefully you will maintain your hobbies and interests even after your child comes home. After all, don't you want to help your child develop her own interests? She may even share some of yours!

(ideas taken from familyeducation.com)

FHE Reminder

2011-08-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

Don't Forget....

Our next FHE is this Sunday....August 28th at 6:30pm at the Allred's home. 9992 Otterburn St LV NV 89178. Our topic for the month is Medical Concerns (which is one of the required FHE topics for your adoption education hours if you are a new adoptive couple!)

There will be a nurse there to discuss any medical conditions that you might have concerning the birth parents and/or the baby. Come prepared with any questions you might have. Refreshments will be served and you are welcome to bring any children.

View Larger Map

Reminder - FSA Committee Meeting

2011-08-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

Just a quick (and late...sorry!) reminder that tomorrow, August 25th at 6pm is our monthly FSA Committee Meeting. EVERYONE is invited and we hope to see you there. We want everyone to come and share their thoughts and ideas so we can continue planning the rest of the year and have great activities for YOU!

We meet at Layton, Layton, and Tobler and the address is 606 S. 9th Street in Las Vegas.

If you can't find a babysitter...bring your kiddos. We don't want you to have an excuse of why you can't come. Just come!

Waiting Wednesday - Enjoy a Movie

2011-08-17T20:16:00.001-07:00

This Thursday, August 18th, at sundown (8pm???) we are heading down to Town Square to enjoy a night out. We will be enjoying a movie on the lawn.

Bring your kiddos, make it a date night, bring a group of friends... it doesn't matter. Just come and enjoy the movie (old-school Mighty Ducks!) and fellowship with other FSA members. It is sure to be a blast!

Hope to see you there!

Monday Morning Meeting - Chris and Alison

2011-08-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

If you have attended one of our Adoption Education Seminars lately you may recognize Alison...she is our Education Chair on the FSA Committee. We wanted you to get to know her a little better... and meet the rest of her amazing family.

From Alison and Chris:
We are so lucky to have the privilege of adopting two beautiful boys. Mark, our oldest son, was born in 2008. His birthmother picked us out from our profile pictures. She is not a member of the church, but her next door neighbor is the stake president and recommended LDS Family Services. We have an open adoption. Over the years, we have remained close to her and her family. We enjoy spending time with them and having them with us as we celebrate different life events. As our extended family went trick-or-treating in their neighbor last year, we had the opportunity to thank the stake president in person for being such a great example and for recommending LDS Family Services! Mark is a smart, imaginative little boy. He has the ability to make everyone feel special. He has brought joy to our lives that we never could have imagined.

Our youngest son, Nash, came to us in February of this year. Our second adoption definitely took longer than our first. We struggled using the time to tell EVERYONE that we were adopting. We had a couple of hopefuls, but nothing seem to pan out. We held family fasts and did our best to keep positive. Late one Saturday night, we got a phone call from Jeanmarie. She told us that there was a boy that was born a couple of days earlier and the his birthmother wanted to meet with us. We were excited and scared at the same time. Sunday afternoon, we had a chance to meet with the birthmother. She is sweet and cute, and was nervous to meet us. We re-assured her that we were by-far more nervous. We said our good-byes and left the meeting not knowing what her decision was. On Monday afternoon, JeanMarie called and said we could come pick up our new baby boy. Nash is such a delight. He laughs and loves to talk to everyone. Mark is his favorite person in the world. Nash and Mark can talk and laugh for hours. We have an open adoption with his birthmother and his birthfather. We are so blessed to have such fun and loving boys in our family. We are go grateful for the adoption process and the ability to be an eternal family.

~Chris, Alison, Mark and Nash

Waiting Wednesday - Educate Yourself

2011-08-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

The National Council for Adoption and Resolve - The National Infertility Association just held their 2011 National Adoption Conference and we wanted you to be able to gain the information and knowledge they provided at the conference.

Take a look at the information that was provided at the conference at the following HERE. There are great articles and TONS of information regarding different topics.

Also there is a great article from their newsletter of August 2011 dealing with transracial adoption. Take at look at it HERE.

Please take a moment to read through some of these articles.

In addition..... Those who are currently waiting and needing education hours (10 per couple) can take note of the time spent reading the articles, and write up your thoughts on the articles read and log them in your logs and JeanMarie will be giving credit for this effort.

We have RETURNED!!!

2011-08-09T19:53:00.001-07:00

We are back!!!

We left and tried something a little different but we are back here for good!

We will continue with the same stuff everyone is used to:
* The positive stories about adoption
* The updates about what is going on with our local Families Supporting Adoption
* The reoccurring topics such as Monday Morning Meetings (where you will meet those on the board, and we will have placement stories featured there)
* Finding Fridays
* Waiting Wednesdays
* Reminders about upcoming events and meetings

We encourage you to leave your comments and let us know what you like and what you need. Be sure to check in often and see what we have for you.

National Adoption Month

2010-10-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

National Adoption Month is just around the corner and we are busy with lots of events and lots of great community outreach!

November 6th: Our annual Pancake Breakfast
9-11am

This event is fun for the whole family and a great tradition here with Nevada FSA. We love to get together and kick-off National Adoption Month with a fun pancake breakfast and just spend some time together. This year we will be at the Maryland Parkway/Serene LDS Chapel over in Green Valley from 9am-11am. Come and join us as we are also putting together special gifts for our local hospital social workers to reminder them of National Adoption Month as well.

November 7th: Adoption/Foster Care Family Fireside
7pm

This was a great success last year so we are hosting it again! We will be at the Charleston Chapel on Sunday evening, November 7th starting at 7pm with a great lineup of speakers discussing foster care options, adoption, and also personal experiences with both. If you or someone you know is thinking about any of these ideas as a way to build their family this is a night that they won't want to miss.

All month long we will also have great displays out at our local libraries with books, pamphlets, flyers and posters representing and honoring National Adoption Month. If you get a chance be sure to stop by and let the library know how much is means that they are bringing a positive light to adoption and to our community.

Happy National Adoption Month to all and we hope to see you at one or ALL of these events during the month!

Night at the Ball park

2010-06-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

This Friday night please join us for a FSA baseball game outing to see the Las Vegas 51's game at the Cashman Filed downtown.

We'll be gathering on the grass in front of the ticket windows beginning at 6pm for picnic dinner.
We'll be the happy families with the FSA flag

The game starts at 7:00
Adult gen admission tickets are $9.00
We'll be sitting in the second section on the 3rd base side (shade side), again look for the FSA flag.

You can contact Dan Urbancic at 302-8335 if you can't find us there.

Hope to see you all there.

WARM SPRINGS

2010-05-27T19:37:00.000-07:00

Are you getting excited yet? it's almost time for the Annual Families Supporting Adoption Warm Springs Camp Out, May 28-29 at the LDS Warm Springs Recreation Area 4280 Kimball Rd Moapa, NV 89025

Just an hour from Vegas the church owns a property that is a true oasis of warm spring fed pools, lagoons and streams.

FSA will be providing dessert on Friday night and a pancake breakfast on Saturday morning.

The park charges a $2 per person fee.

The fun begins Friday night at 4pm and ends Saturday afternoon at 12. We hope to see you all there!

Vote! You can make a difference!

2010-05-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

A message from fellow FSA member Miki Hone...
As many of you know, Saturday, May 22^nd begins early voting for the primary election. This time around we have 8 family court seats up for election. While I can’t tell you who to vote for I have a recommendation for one of those seats. My good friend, R. Nathan Gibbs, is running for Family Court Judge in Department S. This is a county wide seat so everyone has the opportunity to vote for this department. This is a first for me in endorsing a candidate, but Nathan is a good upstanding member of our faith with strong family values. As a family attorney he has seen first hand some of the terrible things that happen in family court. I feel strongly that he would make a terrific family court judge. As all of us will at some time need to go before a family court judge to finalize our adoptions it would be great to know a good and honest man is on the bench.

Regardless of who you vote for please don’t forget to vote. Primaries determine who will be in general elections so please vote in this year’s primary election.

Temple Trip Reminder

2010-05-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

Once again it is time for our quarterly temple trip as an adoption group! Join us on Saturday May 15, 5:00 session. We hope to see everyone there!

Birth Mothers Day

2010-05-05T10:55:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is birth mothers day. Lets not forget the amazing birth mothers in our life. Check out this etsy shop for some great gifts. If you are looking for something more simple, photos, footprints/handprints and letters are always a good idea too!

Thanks for coming

2010-04-18T20:05:00.000-07:00

We are grateful for the great attendance and participation at our recently completed Adoption Academy.

We pray that all left with questions answered and that you are motivated to petition the Lord about what adoption could mean for your family.

We filmed each segment of the conference, and will have all of the video posted in a few days for you to review, and share with your family.

Thanks again for a great day filled with love, hope and the Spirit of Adoption!

Meeting Change!!!

2010-04-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

FYI....

The FSA Committee Meeting will NOT be held tomorrow due to taxes and our venue being a "little busy"! We will postpone the meeting one week and hold the meeting on Thursday April 22nd at 6pm at our new location of Layton, Layton and Tobler at 606 S. 9th St.

Thanks!

Basket Project

2010-04-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

We wanted to give you an update on the outcome of the "basket project" for this year. We had great success thanks to you and your support.

We were able to put together overflowing baskets that Brad and RoseMay were able to deliver to the social workers at each hospital throughout the valley and say a big thank-you during Social Worker's Month in March. We could not have done this without your help, support, donations and time. We appreciate all that you did to help make this annual service project successful. It is a great time for us to get out into the community and say thank-you to the social workers that work so hard and usually go unnoticed.

Thanks again for all your support!

The countdown is on.....

2010-03-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone... We are getting close... We have only about two weeks before our
Adoption Academy on April 10th!!!
This is being held at the West Charleston LDS Chapel which is located at 3400 West Charleston.....

Make sure you have cleared your calendars as this is a day you won't want to miss. We have classes, speakers, and panels scheduled from 9am to 6pm with lunch provided as well.

Some of the items we want to highlight are:
* We will have Eagle Quest coming to speak to us about Foster Care and the options regarding that situation.
* We are having a birth parent panel, an adoptee panel, and also an adoptive couple panel.... great stories and inspiration shared!
* We will have classes on transracial adoption and growing up in a multiracial home
* Classes on self-promotion, creating a great collage, and using the internet.
* Plus LOTS more.....

We hope you are planning on coming and that you will bring your family and friends as well....anyone that is considering the idea of adoption or foster care.

**** Please bring your favorite bag of chips to share during our lunch break and maybe even some sweets if you can too... We will provide the lunch!!!

Thanks for supporting us in the effort of adoption and education.
Nevada FSA

ADOPTION ACADEMY UPDATE

2010-03-22T12:21:00.001-07:00

April 10th... 9am to 6pm... West Charleston Chapel... ADOPTION ACADEMY!!!

Hopefully you have marked your calendars, gotten a babysitter, called your friends and invited them and are ready to enjoy a day full of information about adoption and foster care.

We have classes lined up about:
* Online profiles/presenting yourself well
* Adoption laws/tax credits/funding your adoption
* FOSTER CARE (a great company Eagle Quest will be speaking!)
* Finding versus waiting ...what to do!

We also have some great panels planned:
* Birthmothers
* Adoptee
* Adoptive couples

This will truly be a day not to be missed and we hope to see you there... Please email us back (nevadafsa@gmail.com) or leave a comment if you plan on attending so we can get a head count!!!!

Adoption Academy

2010-03-11T14:26:00.000-08:00

Join us for a full day of ADOPTION at our Adoption Academy!

We will have everything you need to know about the adoption process, pre and post placement, legal issues, discussion of foster care, spreading the word about your adoption, working with the agency, etc.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in adoption. We hope you will join us and learn all that you can as you embark on a wonderful adventure in building your family.

Adoption Academy will take place on April 10^th from 9-6pm (potluck lunch being served), at the West Charleston LDS Chapel. This is a great time to invite your family, friends, Bishops, anyone you would like to take a closer look at the adoption process.

Mark your calendars now and look for more information coming soon! We hope to see you there and expect a great turnout.

Change of plans

2010-03-04T19:49:00.000-08:00

We are still putting together baskets for the social workers but the date and location has changed!! It will now be after the FSA meeting on the 18th of March at 6:45 at the office 4455 Allen Lane, Suite 3 North Las Vegas, NV 89031. We hope to see everyone there! Don't forget to send pictures of your adopted children to meka.duane@gmail.com for the collages to go with the baskets!

We Need You're Help!

2010-02-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

March is national social workers month! To show our appreciation we are putting together gift baskets and picture collage's for the social workers at each local hospital. We would love all couples who have adopted to send us your info asap so you can be a part of this. We need to show our gratitude and support to our social workers who do so much in helping us build our families!

Please send us a picture of your adopted child, the name of the hospital he/she was born at, and their birth month and year. We hope to have several families per hospital!! Please email your picture and info by March 10th to meka.duane@gmail.com!

We will be doing an activity on March 14 to put these baskets together! Please see the invite below for more info. We hope to see everyone there!!

Lets also remember this month and always to thank Brad, who puts so much effort in helping us build our eternal families!

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY: Throughts from NCFA for 2010

2010-02-18T15:32:00.001-08:00

Since 1980, the National Council for Adoption (NCFA) has served as a strong voice for children, birthparents, and adoptive families. Though NCFA rarely endorses a specific piece of legislation, it often advocates for policies that ensure adoption remains a positive option, and that support and encourage permanency for children. The current issue of the Adoption Advocate includes an overview of current and pending adoption-related legislation, as well as NCFA’s specific policy recommendations on behalf of children and families.

Click HERE and see what they had to say regarding topics such as tax-credit, foster care, birthparents, and intercountry adoption.

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Supportive Family

2010-02-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

Many times, well-meaning relatives, friends and co-workers do things or make comments that unintentionally cause pre-adoptive and/or adoptive parents unnecessary emotional stress. The following is a quick guide that may be copied and distributed to those people in an effort to educate them on how they can support you during the adoption process.

DO...

1. DO accept our decision to adopt without question.
2. DO accept our choice of a child regardless of his/her race, heritage, age, 'social background, etc.
3. Do remain positive and enthusiastic during waiting periods.
4. DO offer to give practical help if you don't mind giving us your time.
5. DO respect our choice not to disclose details about our personal life and our decisions.

DON'T...

1. DON'T tell us that if we adopt a child we will get pregnant and have a child of "our own." Adoption does not cure infertility, and our adopted child will be "our child!"

2. DON'T react as if adoption is a "second best" or "noble" choice.

3. DON'T question our capability or readiness to parent a child.

4. DON'T incessantly ask for news while we are waiting to adopt.

5. DON'T probe for details about the birth parents or the child. We'll tell you whatever we are comfortable sharing.

Some Tips on How You Can Help us During the Post Adoption Period

DO...

1. DO be happy for our new child and us.
2. DO respect that we may want and need quiet time with our new child to bond and adjust.
3. DO understand that we might not be able to fulfill you needs as quickly as we did before we became parents.
4. DO respect our style of child rearing.

DON'T...

1. DON'T feel sorry for our adopted child.

2. DON'T make demands for our attention or our time during our adjustment phase.

3. DON'T criticize the desire to have and maintain a relationship with our child's birthfamily.

(tips taken from adoption.com)

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Profile Pictures

2010-01-27T08:04:00.001-08:00

Are you one of those couples is is struggling with putting your collage together? Do you not have many good pictures of "just the two of you"? Well, we have the answer for you. We have a wonderful adoptive mother and FSA member (who also happens to be a professional photographer) who is wanting to serve and help you with your profiles.

Hey all you awesome couples and families out there!!!

I'm starting a SERVICE program for Adoptive Couples. As a adoptive parent and being married to a man that was adopted, this has always held a special place in my heart. So, i figured this would be my small way to help out other couples!

We all know adoption can get really pricey, though it's worth every penny! So to alleviate some of the financial burden, I'm offering my time and talents as a service to help the wonderful couples of the world have some nice, fresh images on your profiles.

You must:

* Show documentation that your papers are in an agency

* Be willing to work around my schedule, since this is a service and takes up a bit of time

* Have an optimistic outlook!

* Cost: FREE for a 20 min session, 5-10 quality images emailed to you.
You can print them out or add them to your online profile or whatever!

I'm taking bookings all January/ February
give me a call to set up an appointment
702-373-8193

Also, i do travel to Reno, Fallon, San Diego, UT and AZ occasionally just ask me when I'll be there!
~Corrine

Take a look at her site HERE

Adoption Situation

2010-01-19T20:49:00.000-08:00

SITUATION ANNOUNCEMENT

January 19, 2010

For Immediate Release

Information c/ Dee Waltz, Administrative Assistant/Domestic Adoption Parent Coordinator

770-965-3744

One World Adoption Services

Congratulations...

It's Twins!

NEVADA- IMMEDIATELY- If you live on or near the west coast this situation might be for you or someone you know. We're passing it on for another agency due to the need..

Hello everyone,

We have just received some information regarding a set of twins in Nevada that an agency is having a difficult time finding parents for. We are just passing along the information to help them out. If you , or someone you know, lives near Nevada, do not already have children and would like to be shown
to this birth mother having a boy and girl set of twins let me know.

The birth mother is 24 and the father 26 and agreeable to the adoption. No drugs, alcohol or smoking and she has medical insurance. The babies are due in two months but may come early since they are twins.

The babies will be 1/4th Hispanic and 3/4ths Caucasian. The cost will be about $43.000 which is a lot but it's because they're twins. However, the agency said they would only need $9000 now and the rest when the babies come but you will need to discuss the particulars of the money with the agency and Karen.

Here's the criteria and what you'll need:

- You need to have a homestudy and a profile to show the birthmom that needs to be overnighted immediately.

- You need to be located on the western part of the United states, preferrably around Nevada or California

- You will need to make arrangments to fly to Nevada for the adoption. Nevada adoption laws state that consent can be given for adoption 72 hours after birth and consent is irrevocable after signing so you won't have to worry for any length of time about the birth mother changing her mind (which worries a lot of people).

- The birth mother prefers a family with no other children who would agree to let her see the twins maybe once a year for a brief meeting (the agency said this usually tapers off as the birth mother gets busy with her own life).

If you are interested in being presented for this situation please contact Karen Armstrong as soon as possible at 801-766-5200 or karen@theadoptioncenter.com.

Dee

MESSAGE JUST IN FROM THE AGENCY.....

We still need families. Quickly. If I know they are coming in I will have her wait to pick. Must be on West coast, Willing to let her see twins once a year. Birth Father signing, no drugs or alcohol Has an 8 month old and a 2 year old, Has had prenatal care. Due 3-10. Must have a current Home study and Profile and have no children.

Call if you find somebody we can show her. We have only received two to show her.

Karen

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Dan, Aranne and BLAKE

2010-01-18T10:03:00.000-08:00

Dan, Aranne and Blake U.

After what seemed like forever... We were placed with our little guy in November 2009. We could not believe it.

We actually have a little bit of a traditional type story with not knowing much about the birthmother, knowing nothing about the birthfather, never meeting either of them and it being a closed adoption; yet we have a different story because we knew that Blake had been born even before our caseworker!

We have a NICU nurse in our ward and she is always trying to help us out whenever she can (thanks!). She has called us a few times in the past asking for our caseworker's number, but really just trying to help birthmother's get connected with LDS Family Services. This was the case on Saturday, November 7th. She called us saying there was a baby that had been born and they were trying to go through the process of adoption and she wanted to contact LDS Family Services. So, we knew OF a baby.. but had no idea that come Tuesday afternoon that baby would be ours!

So...after a series of events...our caseworker ended up working with that birthmother and things progressed. Well...Monday morning we got a call and were told of this baby that had been born (which secretly we already knew about) and that we were to be the parents. We of course discussed it, very quickly, and returned the call with an excited "YES"! That was Monday at 11:00am and we picked up a baby boy on Tuesday at 1:30pm.

Our lives have completely turned upside down and we love it. We had a long journey and while some people say that you forget the waiting once you are placed I will disagree. We have not forgotten the waiting time or process but we have an appreciation for it and we have realized even stronger that the wait is worth it in the end and that you are definitely waiting for YOUR child to come. We are thankful for all that have helped in this process including those in FSA who have encouraged us and given us hope and support and we are loving every minute of this great adventure.

WaAITING WEDNESDAY: Happy New Year

2010-01-13T15:32:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone got the current email about the upcoming events/activities for January and February... We are excited about the New Year and are busy planning and preparing for it.

If you don't get the emails and would like to... please let us know. Send us an email (nevadafsa@gmail.com)... or leave us a comment so that you can get on the list.

Here is what is coming up:

January.... 1/20 will be our first Adoption Education class of the new year and it is going to be a good one. It is our birthmother panel and will be held at the Alexander/Ferrell building at 7pm.

February .... Temple trip! We have changed our temple trips to quarterly this year and are going to be making them a bigger event. The date is still to be announced but we are going to be following the temple session with a meal out and trying to get everyone involved! Stay tuned for more info on this event.

Again... we are excited about this new year and we hope to see you all at many events throughout the year... If you have any questions or want to help out with any activity or just be more involved with FSA please let us know. We are always looking for people to help plan our events and help make things happen... there is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes on and we would love your help... Contact us at nevadafsa@gmail.com

Thanks again for your support.

Nevada FSA committee!

ADOPTION EDUCATION

2010-01-09T15:31:00.000-08:00

This month we are holding our adoption education class at the Alexander/Ferrell building at 3350 W. Alexander Rd. N. Las Vegas 89031 (which is right near the LDS Family Services building) on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 7pm. The topic for the class is our birthmother panel and we are expecting a big turnout so we want to have a larger space...

We want to invite everyone. This is always a great learning experience and a great Spirit always abounds. Please invite your family, friends, Bishops, anyone you feel would benefit from hearing the birthmother's point of view on the topic of adoption.

Again we hope to see everyone out for the first class of the new year.

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Let us meet YOU

2010-01-04T19:47:00.001-08:00

With this New Year upon us we want to get to know more of YOU out there... We know there are many of you that were placed during the past year, we know that there are a lot of you who are new to the adoption process and FSA and we definitely want to get to know you...

All you need to do is contact us at nevadafsa@gmail.com and tell us about yourself! Tell us about your placement (those are always fun and we love to hear those stories), tell us about you as a waiting couple, tell us about your current family... Whatever your situation is we want to know and we want to be able to get to know you better.

This helps us all connect with one another and put names and faces together. This way at the next event we can all feel like we know each other a little better... plus it is fun to read these stories! So get typing and send those stories and a picture (or two, or three) our way and you could be up next on our Monday Morning Meeting segment.

ACTIVITY REMINDER: Temple Trip

2009-12-02T09:00:00.001-08:00

We hope everyone had a great November... and a fabulous Thanksgiving... but we want to end the year off right with a final trip to the temple.

Join us for our last temple session of the year this Saturday, Dec. 5th at 5:00pm.

We will be changing the rotation of the temple trips next year and making them quarterly so that we hopefully end up with a larger turn out and can make them a bigger event.. We know we are all busy with other things in our lives but we want to make time for the temple and we hope that we will be able to do this together.

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY: Thankful

2009-11-26T20:08:00.000-08:00

We all need to take a moment and really think about the things in our lives that we are thankful for. We need to remember that no matter where we are in the "adoption process" we have many things to be thankful for. This time of real can be hard on many of us as we may be wishing for little ones to be in our homes but we need to sit back and remember the many things that our Father in Heaven has blessed us with and know that one day we will be able to enjoy these things with a child of our own and for that we will be especially thankful for.

May we all be a little more thankful during this time of year and look for ways to help each other and also express our thankfulness to our Heavenly Father for the gifts he gives us each day.

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Act Now for the Adoption Tax Credit

2009-11-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

There is definitely something you can do while you are "waiting" for you adoption to take place....something really important and necessary!

Private and independent domestic adoptions can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $40,000, and expenses for intercountry adoptions generally total between $7,000 and $40,000. Domestic adoptions out of foster care are typically much less expensive, usually costing the adoptive parent $2,500 or less.

Congress introduced the Adoption Promotion and Stability Act in 1996 to “help families defray adoption costs.”

Unfortunately, while the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act (EGTRRA) made the adoption tax credit permanent, the provisions which raised the amount that adoptive families can claim and increased the income eligibility phase-out range will sunset on December 31, 2010. Thus, beginning in 2011, the amount adoptive parents will be able to claim under the adoption tax credit will revert to the pre-EGTRRA levels of $6,000 per special needs child and $5,000 per non-special needs child. Additionally, adoptive families reporting $75,000-$115,000 in annual adjusted gross income will again be restricted in the amount they can claim, and those reporting more than $115,000 in annual adjusted gross income will again be prohibited from claiming the tax credit at all. Several bills have been introduced in Congress to repeal the sunset and make the EGTRRA reforms of the adoption tax credit permanent.

At the center of this debate is a recent Treasury Report which found that parents who adopted children internationally account for a disproportionately large number of adoption tax credit recipients, while parents who adopted children from foster care represent a disproportionately small number. More specifically, international adoptions accounted for 34 percent of all adoptions supported by the tax credit despite making up only 15 percent of all adoptions in the United States, while domestic adoptions out of foster care made up 18 percent of adoptions supported by the tax credit despite making up nearly 40 percent of all adoptions in the United States. This finding has led some to claim that the adoption tax credit is not fulfilling a primary goal of promoting domestic adoptions out of foster care. Some advocates have suggested that the federal government should therefore eliminate the adoption tax credit and redistribute the funds saved to other pro-adoption programs.

The Adoption Promotion and Stability Act of 1996 had two purposes, first among which was “to defray adoption costs for families seeking to adopt” by establishing the adoption tax credit. The bill made no distinction between adoptions out of foster care and any other type of adoption.

Increasing subsidies to adoptive parents has been one of the most effective ways of boosting the adoption rate.

Most importantly, the EGTRRA provisions to the adoption tax credit due to expire in 2011 should be made permanent.

For 2009, the maximum adoption credit has increased to $12,150. This amount is phased out if your modified adjusted gross income is between $182,180 and $222,180. You cannot claim the credit or exclusion if your modified AGI is $222,180 or more.

For information on Special Needs Adoption Tax Credit for 2009 go to North American Council on Adoptable Children.

To take the credit or exclusion, complete Form 8839 (PDF), Qualified Adoption Expenses, and attach the form to your Form 1040 (PDF) or Form 1040A (PDF).

See irs.gov (topic 607 adoption credit)

“The Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act of 2009, H.R. 213.” Written to repeal the sunset of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 with respect to the expansion of the adoption credit and adoption assistance programs. This legislation will make the tax credit permanent. Unless legislation is passed, the Federal adoption tax credit that allows many adopting families to take a credit of up to $12,150 (2009) is scheduled to expire in December 2010. (For information on other legislation involving adoption go to adoptioncouncil.org/policy/fed_leg.html.)

Help Make the Current Federal Adoption Credit Permanent by Writing to your Representative

Here is how:

Find the name and Washington, D.C. mailing address of your Representative and Senators at www.congress.org. To find e-mail addresses, click through to the Senator’s or Congressperson’s Web site.

Next, log on to THOMAS (Lib rary of Congress) to find out whether your Congresspersons are already co-sponsors of the legislation. Here is how:

On the THOMAS opening page, under “Search Bill Summary and Status,” search by bill number for H.R. 213. Then click on “Bill summary and Status.”

(Click to enlarge.)

On the page that comes up, click on “Cosponsors,” “Text of Legislation,” or “All Congressional Actions” to follow the progress of the bill.

If your representatives have not signed on as co-sponsors of the bill, send them your request that they do so. Tell them how important the tax credit was to you when you adopted your children, or how much you and other families you know are counting on it to be available in the future.

Act today, your efforts make a difference.

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: National Adoption Month

2009-11-16T08:49:00.001-08:00

In honor of National Adoption Month we wanted to share some ideas to celebrate that included either ways to meet new people, meet those involved with the adoption itself, meet someone new to adoption, etc. Here is what we came up with:

* Take a social worker out to lunch to thank them for their work with finding children homes.

* Attend a local support group. Adoptive parent, waiting to adopt, adoptee, infertility...

* Volunteer at a local pregnancy shelter or maternity home

Hope some of these ideas help spark your imagination and you are able to meet someone new and talk about the wonderful world of adoption!

Expectant Parent / Birthparent Support Group

2009-11-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

LDS Family Services will begin facilitating a support group for expectant parents and birth parents to be held monthly on the second Tuesday of each month at our office on Craig and Allen in North Las Vegas. We will begin on Tuesday, November 10th at 6:30 pm. The group will run for up to 90 minutes and will include a variety of discussion topics regarding marriage, single-parenting, and adoption. As the group progresses, there will be guest panels, occasional potluck treats, and other enlightening activities.

Most of all, this is a support group for expectant parents considering adoption and those who have made adoptive placements. This group is free and open to all who would like to participate including friends, parents, siblings and all spouses or significant others. The group will be facilitated by Jean Marie Hughes, LCSW, a 14-year veteran birth parent worker with LDS Family Services.

Several women have committed to attending the group: some who are currently expecting and others who placed a child just a few weeks ago or many years ago. I am confident this will prove to be a significant source of support for all who attend. Participants do not need to be LDS but should be aware that gospel themes will likely be discussed.

Please refer those who may benefit from this group. Feel free to contact me , Brad Singletary, if you have any questions.

Adoption and Foster Care - A Fireside

2009-11-07T20:17:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Nov. 8th at 7pm, at the West Charleston Chapel at 3400 West Charleston we are hosting an exciting fireside. We are combining with the Clark County Department of Family Services and will be exploring the options of adoption through LDS Family Services and also through Clark County via foster care. We hope that you will come out and learn more about these services and invite family and friends who may be interested in the topic as well.

This fireside is presented under the direction of President Gary Webb of the Las Vegas Stake, and Elder Jim Gibson of the Seventy, in conjunction with Families Supporting Adoption.

Speakers will be:

Andre Wade

Andre works for the Clark County Department of Family Services and will be speaking about the counties’ adoption and foster care program.

Brad Singletary

From the LDS Family services office. He will be speaking about the adoption program offered by his office and the church.

Sterling and Kristi Peterson

The Petersons have adopted children through both LDS Family Services and the Clark County Department of Family Services in addition to fostering children thorough the County. They will speak of their experiences and share their story of their family.

Dominique

Dominique is a birthmother who has graciously agreed to speak to us and share her story.

National Adoption Month: Adoption Fair and 5k

2009-11-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is a big day... Tomorrow, Saturday Nov. 7th from 8-12 at Mountain Crest Park 4701 N. Durango will be the 2nd Annual Walk Me Home 5k walk for Foster Care... it will also be a family friendly picnic/activity.

This is a great place to be and should be tons of fun. The weather is gorgeous and who wouldn't want to spend some time out at the park enjoying it?

Take a minute and check out this organization and their site... They are doing great things and be sure to listen to the official theme song too... You might need some tissue first though!

Thoughts for Thursday: National Adoption Month Ideas

2009-11-05T11:24:00.001-08:00

During the next few days or weeks we wanted to share with you a few ideas that you can do within your own family to honor and celebrate National Adoption Month....

* Write a letter of thanks and appreciation to all those that helped you or are currently helping you adopt your child.

* Rent a movie with an adoption theme and watch it as a family.

* Take a social worker out to lunch to thank them for their work with finding children homes.

* List any adoption events on your favorite forums, blogs, or chat rooms.

There are more ideas here on our site... search under National Adoption Month and see what things we came up with last year!

National Adoption Month: News from the President

2009-11-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

The president released his statement regarding National Adoption Month...

NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH, 2009
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

"All children deserve a safe, loving family to protect and care for them. In America, thousands of young people are waiting for that opportunity. During National Adoption Month, we honor those families that have strengthened America through adoption, and we recommit to reducing the number of children awaiting adoption into loving families.

America is a country rich in resources and filled with countless caring men and women who hope to adopt. These individuals come from all walks of life, united in their commitment to love a child who is in need of the protective arms of a parent. We must do more to ensure that adoption is a viable option for them. By continually opening up the doors to adoption, and supporting full equality in adoption laws for all American families, we allow more children to find the permanent homes they yearn for and deserve.

This month, we also focus on children in foster care. These children are not in the system by their own choosing, but are forced into it by unfortunate or tragic circumstances. These young people have specific needs and require unique support. Federal, State, and local governments, communities, and individuals all have a role to play in ensuring that foster children have the resources and encouragement they need to realize their hopes and dreams.

The course of our future will depend on what we do to help the next generation of Americans succeed. This month, we celebrate those families brought together by adoption and renew our commitments to children in the foster care system.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as National Adoption Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month by reaching out to support and honor adoptive families, as well as to participate actively in efforts to find permanent homes for waiting children.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth."

BARACK OBAMA

National Adoption Month - Answering the Call

2009-11-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

National Adoption Month is here....

The 2009 National Adoption Month Theme is "Answering the Call - You don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent. There are thousands of teens in foster care who would love to put up with you."

I think this is a great theme and something that ties in wonderfully to the activity that we have coming up next weekend. We are wanting to expose couple to the option of foster care and the idea of adopting older children/teens. Hopefully you will attend the fireside on Sunday, November 8th at the West Charleston Chapel at 7pm and see what we are talking about.

Be sure to check back often this month as we discuss many things throughout the month and discuss different topics and ideas throughout National Adoption Month!!!

Temple Trip

2009-10-27T09:12:00.001-07:00

Before you put on your costumes and head out for some trick or treating join us at the TEMPLE. This Friday night , October 30th we will be there for the monthly temple session and we will be attending the 7:30pm session. If you have any questions give Dan U. a call at 702/302-8335.

We hope to see a big group there as we only have one more scheduled temple trip before the end of the year!

Class Reminder....

2009-10-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

Hopefully you got your E-vite and know that tomorrow is our monthly adoption education class and this month is a good one... (okay, they are all good)! This month is an the Adoption Overview and basically everything you need to know about adoption... Adoption 101!

Come out and learn about adoption, see if adoption is what you and your family have been looking for, bring your family and friends and educate them on adoption, refresh yourself on all things adoption, just come out and mingle with others in the adoption-world...whatever your need is we hope to be able to fill it and this Wednesday at 7pm at the LDS Family Services office should be a great place to get started!

Again... tomorrow WEDNESDAY, October 21st at 7pm at the LDS Family Services office is where the class is going to be and we hope to see you there... everyone is welcome!

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Meet Doug and Joyce L.

2009-10-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

Doug and Joyce L and their newest addition!

"I was on my way home from work, and got a phone call from Brad, our caseworker. He asked me if I was ready to quit my job. Then he told me that I needed to talk to my husband, a baby had been born that morning and she needed a home and we had been chosen by the agency. I was so excited that I had to pull over! After getting some more details about the baby I hung up with Brad and called my husband. Once I got home, we didn't have to talk about it very long before we knew that she was our daughter, and we'd walk through fire to get her. She spent a week in the NICU, and then some time in a temporary care home. We got to bring her home 10 days after she was born. It's been such a wonderful experience, and we wouldn't trade our miracle baby for anything in the world. "

WAITING WEDNESDAY - Enjoy a treat this month!

2009-10-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

Be the favorite house on the block for trick-or-treaters while you support a great cause.

Stop by any participating Wendy's restaurant now through October 31 to purchase a booklet of Jr. Frosty coupons for only $1. Proceeds benefit the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in its mission to find a loving, adoptive family for every waiting child. Give a cool treat. Help a cool cause.

MONDAY MORNING MEETINGS: Come meet the Birthmothers!

2009-09-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

DON"T FORGET.....

You're Invited to this month's Adoption Education Class on September 16th and it is going to be a BIG ONE!

This is a special class with a special topic. This month we have birthmothers coming to share their thoughts with us and answer our questions. We will be meeting in the chapel at the Alexander/Ferrell building at 3350 W. Alexander Rd. N. Las Vegas, NV 89031 by the LDS Family Services office. The event will start at 7pm so be sure to join us.

Invite your family, your friends, your Bishop, anyone who you feel would be touched by this great adoption experience. This is a great teaching tool and a great conversation starter.

09-09-09: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Day

2009-09-09T16:18:00.001-07:00

Did you know that an FAS Day even existed? Well today is the day.... Here is a great site that you can visit and get more information about the topic, the observance of the day, and pretty much anything else you could want to know.

This affects a large number of us in the adoption community and it is something that we need to be educated about and prepared for.

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Adoption Voices

2009-09-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Meet some new friends. Meet someone going through what you are going through. Meet someone you can ask questions of. Meet someone you can get advice from. Meet someone who may have ideas you can use.

Meet people who are using ADOPTION VOICES.COM. This is a relatively new site of nothing but adoption related issues for those hoping to adopt, those who have adopted, those who are adopted, those who are affected by adoption.

This is a great network and a great place to feel connected with other on the topic of adoption. If you have not already joined, this is something you should think about!

ADOPTION VOICES.COM

Come One Come ALL

2009-09-03T14:09:00.001-07:00

You're Invited to this month's Adoption Education Class on September 16th and it is going to be a BIG ONE!

This is a special class with a special topic. This month we have birthmoms coming to share their thoughts with us and we will be meeting in the chapel at the Alexander/Ferrell building at 3350 W. Alexander Rd. N. Las Vegas, NV 89031 by the LDS Family Services office. The event will start at 7pm so be sure to join us.

Invite your family, your friends, your Bishop, anyone who you feel would be touched by this great adoption experience. This is a great teaching tool and a great conversation starter.

WAITING WEDNESDAY - No Waiting at American Heritage Academy!

2009-08-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

One of our FSA members called and asked that we extend the invitation to all of those who read our blog to come and see what American Heritage Academy is all about. If you have children of school age this might be something for you!

"Dear FSA Friends,

For those whom I haven’t met at previous FSA activities, my name is Miki Hone. I am the Kinder-school facilitator and teacher at American Heritage Academy. I would like to extend an invitation to each of you to take a look at American Heritage Academy (AHA). I first heard about AHA several years ago through a friend, but never looked into it. It remained a distant thought in the back of my mind. It wasn’t until we ran into major problems with the public school we were zoned for that I really started to look into alternative education options. When I finally decided to tour AHA for myself I was impressed with the spirit I felt. To be honest, at the time the school looked very shabby. It wasn’t the building or the aesthetics that caught my attention. It was the fact that I felt the spirit so strong in a school. Today, I am a teacher at AHA and I love what we’re doing. My children are not only allowed to pray to and speak of God, but Christ and His gospel are at the base of our curriculum. I understand now why parents carpool from all over the valley to bring their children here for their education.

In years past, AHA had a kinder-school program, but it had to be discontinued due a lack of space. Thanks to generous donors of both time and money we’ve expanded the building and once again have space for our Kinder-school. This fall we’re reopening the Kinder-school. Since it’s our first year back, we’re spreading the word and we still have some openings. Our first day is September 1^st. If you or someone you know is looking for a kinder-school program for 4 year old children please contact the school at (702) 949-5614. Enrollment for all grades is on-going. Please feel free to drop by the school and meet my class."

Lastest News

2009-08-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

Just wanting to make sure that everyone is up to date and has the most current info... This email went out this morning and we want to make sure that everyone has had a chance to see it... Please if you are not getting these emails from FSA leave a comment on here and let us know... or contact your caseworker... or send an email to us at nevadafsa@gmail.com so that we can make sure you get put on the list!

"Hey there folks... We wanted to give you a little update on things that are happening in with FSA. We have some things coming up that we want you to get ready for and mark on your calendars now so you can sure to attend!

The first item is this coming Saturday afternoon.... Yep this Saturday August 29th, from 1-3 at Las Vegas Ice Center... We are going to head out and try our luck at some ice skating. So whether you are a pro or a beginner... want to come to skate or just get to know other members of FSA we hope to see you this Saturday.

The next BIG activity is scheduled on Saturday, October 10th. Get this date saved now because this is going to be an activity you won't want to miss. We are having a Fall Festival with treats, pumpkins, games, and more.... More info will be coming to you via an E-vite and of course on the blog!

We also want to let you know of the dates of the temple trips that we have planned for the rest of the year.... WHAT? Yes....we go to the temple as an FSA group once a month and want to make sure you know about it and try to make it there with us if you can....

August.... Thursday, 8/27 6:30 session dessert to follow
September..... Friday, 9/25 7:30 session
October....Friday, 10/30 7:30 session (not on Saturday due to Halloween)
November/December.....Combined.....Saturday, 12/5 5:00 session dinner to follow

We will be sending out e-vites about the temple trips to help remind you about these as well... We want to see a bigger turnout!

Always be sure to check out the blog at www.nevadafsa.blogspot.com that is where you will find detailed info about upcoming events and any changes with FSA plus lots of adoption links and information in general... It is a great resource and we hope you take full advantage of it.

Remember these activities are for everyone... You, family, friends, anyone who is touched by adoption and wants to be involved. We want to try to include everyone and are trying to do different types of activities within the chapter and things that appeal to all ages! Hope you find something that is working for you.

Thanks for your support with FSA!"

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Out with the old...In with the new

2009-08-24T08:05:00.001-07:00

We are leaving behind the "old" logo of Families Supporting Adoption and want to introduce you to the new one....

You might have seen this on a few things already but this will be the new look of all things Families Supporting Adoption! The new colors, the new logo, the new idea!

Hopefully you check in with the National Board on their blog, and if you do you would have seen it for SURE... It is all over their site.

Adoption Book Special....

2009-08-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

The author of this new book, Laura Christianson, is offering a great giveaway....

Here is how it works:

You buy The Adoption Decision: 15 Things You Want to Know Before Adopting on Amazon.com.
Then you send her your amazon proof-of-purchase, dated August 21, 2009, along with your mailing address.
Then she will mail you an autographed copy of another great book The Adoption Network: Your Guide to Starting a Support System, completely free. Sounds great right?!

The only catch is that you have to buy the book on AUGUST 21, 2009 from Amazon.com and she must receive your proof of purchase by August 31, 2009. Really... that is the only catch.

So get on-line today and buy your copy... then mail away to

Laura Christianson, PO Box 1254, Snohomish, WA 98291-1254

AUGUST ACTIVITY: Beat the Heat and Skate!

2009-08-16T10:11:00.000-07:00

JOIN US AS WE BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT!!!

We are getting together for an afternoon of ice skating at the Las Vegas Ice Center on Saturday, August 29th from 1-3pm. Come and try out your skating legs, or just come socialize.

Las Vegas Ice Center is located at 9295 W. Flamingo Rd. #130, Las Vegas, NV 89147 (702) 320-7777

All prices including skates:
Adults: $9; Youth (5-18) $8; Child (Under 5) $7

Call Aranne with any questions 702/302-8336. Hope to see you there.

Conference Wrap-Up

2009-08-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

What can be said about the National Conference....? It was fabulous. The National Board... along with the people "higher up" have been hard at work on our behalf and we are excited to come back home and share the information with you.

They have been working in all areas of adoption... media efforts (huge news to share!), great ideas for the outreach committee, news to watch out for on the legislative front, and lots of "housekeeping" business too.

The conference itself was great this year as well. We had a wonderful turn out from our Nevada chapter with about 4 couples (plus Jarom and Candise who we can still count as one of our own) and Brad was there too. It was great to attend classes together, eat together and just get to know each other even more.

One of the highlights of the conference is always the keynote speaker on Saturday morning and this year was no exception. This year we were privileged to hear from Troy Dunn, star of The Locator, on television. He was a great speaker and told us personal and professional stories of adoption. One of the most touching stories was of how he and his family waiting for a girl that they would be able to "swap prayers" with as they waited to adopt his younger brother. It was a sweet story and made it so understandable for both sides.

This session along with others from Saturday will be available soon for those who were not able to make it to the conference!!! We can't wait to share more of what we learned and were told from those were there.

One week until the National Conference!!!

2009-07-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

CONFERENCE BASICS

July 31, 2009 to August 1, 2009

The conference will be held for a second time at the Davis Conference Center.

SCHEDULE

Below is the schedule overview at-a-glance. For a more detailed description of the classes including the class descriptions, times and locations as well as bios on the presenters, click HERE.

Friday, July 31st

Registration	9:00-9:30
Breakout session 1	9:30-10:30
Breakout session 2	10:40-11:40
Lunch on your own	11:40-1:10
Breakout session 3	1:15-2:15
Breakout session 4	2:25-3:25
Breakout session 5	3:35-4:35

Awards Banquet	5:30-7:00
(Semi-formal dress)

Saturday, August 1st	8:00-9:00

Registration	9:00-9:30
Keynote address by Troy Dunn	9:30-10:30
Birth Parent Panel	10:45-12:00
Lunch	12:00-1:00
Breakout session 1	1:00-2:00
Breakout session 2	2:10-3:10
Breakout session 3	3:20-4:20
Closing session and raffle	4:30-4:45

REGISTRATION

To register, CLICK HERE.

This is for registration and payment purposes only. Please disregard any information related to Temple Square events.

Some clarification for registration:

Couples are $60 each, so they only need to register for ONE ticket. This is located toward the bottom of the registration, and is not part of the special code. Once they select one ticket and click continue, it will ask if they will be coming both day, ($60), one of them both days/both of them one day ($30) or one of them on day ($15). Sorry for any confusion. Please email us at the email address below if you have any problems.

Adoptive parents and hopeful adoptive parents are invited.

We also are inviting expectant parents, birth parents, and their families again this year. A great amount of effort has gone into planning breakout sessions for them. Expectant parents and birth families may register for free by typing in “itsaboutlove” in the special code field on the registration form. Regular fees apply to their guests.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

A few hotel rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn (762 West Heritage Park Blvd, Layton, Utah, 84041) are blocked out for a discounted event rate. You may reserve a room by phone or through the hotel’s Web site. Call 801-416-8899 and make sure to mention the group code, which is “LDS” and the group name, which is “LDS Family Services.” You may also register online here. In the group code field, enter “LDS.” In order to get the discounted rate of $89, you must be registering for the blocked date (July 31^st). We will be posting other hotel options when the hotel is full.

CHILDREN'S ROOM

A children’s room will be available again during the conference and banquet. Please email Narda Emmett (imaemett@yahoo.com) to register your children. The cost will be $10 per day, per child. She will provide you with the details.

AIRPORT SHUTTLE

From the airport Express Shuttle - 801-596-1600.

QUESTIONS?

If you have general questions, please email contactus@ldsfamilyservices.org with “National Conference” as the subject.

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Come out and enjoy a good movie

2009-07-08T14:22:00.001-07:00

Don't forget this Saturday night is our FSA Movie Night! We are meeting at 6pm at the Maryland/Serene chapel and the show will start promptly at 7pm!

We will be "making" our own cars for the drive-in and then the feature film will be "CARS"... It is sure to be a fun night.

Have dinner before you come but save room for popcorn!

FINDING FRIDAY: National Conference "Finding" Classes

2009-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

This year there are a bunch of great classes being offered that are geared especially towards the "finding" aspect of the adoption process. This is a great place to find info on what you can do to help promote your own adoption and how to get your name out there.... Take a look at these great classes that will be offered.

* Be an advocate for adoption
* Marketing 101 for adoptive couples
* What are you waiting for?
* Adoption in the digital age
* Promoting adoption through the media

Be sure to sign up and join us in Utah, July 31 - August 1 for this awesome weekend full of great classes just like these...

Click here for registration details.

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Attend the National FSA Conference

2009-07-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

That's right..... Mark your calendars, Clear the dates with your boss, Find a hotel room, Do whatever you need to make sure you are at this great event!

The National Conference is just around the corner and it is sure to be a great weekend filled with informative classes, great speakers and just a feeling of love and support all about adoption.

The conference is July 31, 2009 to August 1, 2009 and will be held at the Davis Conference Center in Layton, Utah.

Click here for the official flier details!!!

Upcoming Activity: "Drive-In" Movie Night

2009-06-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 11th! We are putting together a great activity at the Maryland Parkway and Serene building starting at 6pm and you won't want to miss it.....

We are going to have an old fashioned drive-in movie night, complete with popcorn, "cars" and a great show. The movie will start promptly at 7pm so you won't want to be late.

Check your emails as the E-vite is going out!!!

A Father Indeed

2009-06-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Mormon Messages again shares with us a touching story about what it means to be a FATHER!

Happy Father's Day.

FSA FAMILY BASEBALL GAME NIGHT

2009-06-20T23:12:00.000-07:00

Make it a FROSTY weekend

2009-06-19T13:48:00.000-07:00

Grab your family and friends and head out to Wendy's for a Frosty this weekend... In honor of adoption Wendy's is donating 50 cents for every Frosty they sell this weekend. Celebrate the start of summer, Father's Day and this HOT weather we are having by enjoying a FROSTY!

Play Ball

2009-06-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

There is only ONE WEEK LEFT to get your tickets for the Las Vegas 51 game on Saturday, June 20th! You should have received the E-vite by now and hopefully you have RSVP'd to let us know if you are coming.... Be sure to get your tickets (they might sell out and we wouldn't want that to happen!) You can get your tickets at the ballpark, or online at www.lv51.com or through ticketmaster.com. The game starts at 7:05pm but we will be there at 5:30pm to enjoy some food "tailgate" style before the game. Bring your own snacks, dinner, dessert, whatever you and your family would like and join us before we head inside. We will show up wearing our FSA T-shirts, or brown if you don't have one, and meet at the bottom of the hill in front of ticketing. If you have any questions or problems, can't find us... whatever.... give either Aranne 302-8336, Dan 302-8335 or Mike 355-4081 a call so we are sure to meet up. We will get general admission seats ($9/ticket) and sit on the 3rd base side in the shade.

Invite your family, especially your dad for Father's Day, and come out and join us for a great night at the ball game.

FINDING FRIDAY: 5th Sunday Presentations

2009-06-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

"We recently completed two back to back 5th Sunday presentations in two Wards, in the same building on May 30th.

This came about when we asked the Bishop of our Ward if he would allow us to do a presentation in our own Ward. Since Lisa and I are working as coordinators in this outreach program, we felt that we should personally have the full experience that the stake reps go through of meeting with the Bishop, enlightening him to the mission / purpose of the program, setting up the appointment, and then making the actual presentation to the Ward. In our first contact with our Bishop, I think I had caught him at a busy moment on Sunday and I don't think it registered to him fully what we were requesting. A few days later I followed up contact with him in an email. I again requested his availability to consider us making the presentation on the upcoming 5th Sunday. He replied to this email very quickly and very enthusiastically with a YES! He called us the next day and told me that at the moment he had received the email, he had been struggling in thought over two unwed pregnancies he is dealing with in the Ward. He told me he was feeling like he was not getting anywhere with the people involved, and he felt strongly that to have our presentation might be touching to them. He was unfamiliar with some of the offerings of LDS Family Services in regards to unwed mother counseling services, etc. so we directed him to itsaboutlove.org to research the topic, which he dutifully looked at and made reference to in our presentation.

The second presentation came about when another Ward in our building heard out our upcoming presentation appointment and asked if we would be willing to also make one in their Ward. We were eager at the chance because that Ward is also dealing with an unwed pregnancy situation. Our Stake is currently without a called rep, so Lisa T. - the 5th Sunday presentation coordinator for FSA - agreed to act in that capacity for us.

Our Ward was first and we were all quite nervous and excited. The Relief Society room was completely full, and extra chairs were brought in. Our Bishop had wisely invited the priests and laurels to sit in. He opened our meeting with a heartfelt testimony urging them to listen carefully to the message. He then bore a short testimony of the importance and joy that comes through adoption, as his brother has two adopted children. Lisa T. then spoke, using the narrative outline as a guide and shared with the group her own personal experiences and testimony of adoption. She had an added excitement in that just the day before her adopted child had been sealed to her and her husband Dave. She shared three important statistics that raised an audible response with many in the room:

- 40% of all pregnancies currently in this country (2007 statistic) are to unwed mothers
- On average there is one pregnancy per Ward in the church
- 100% of all placements with LDS Family Services result in that child being sealed to a mother and a father

These are powerful numbers and should always be shared in a presentation. Lisa T. did a touching job in her part, and then it was time for Lisa S. and me to share our experiences and testimony. The Bishop then closed with some sensitive urgings to consider ways that this presentation might be useful, and his testimony. It was a really amazing meeting, and as a bonus, we had a Stake rep present to get ideas for her own presentations.

After a short break, it was time to do the second presentation. This one was attended by another Stake rep, and in this one, we had the benefit of having a member of their bishopric - who was placed with earlier in the year - also share a testimony and experiences. This meeting was also well attended and moving for all involved.

It's so exciting to be involved in work as worthwhile as this and we are thrilled to be able to assist in the bringing of this message to all the Wards in this Valley."

...Story and thoughts shared by Mike S. - 5th Sunday and Outreach Committee Member

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY: Trusting In the Lord

2009-06-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

FINDING FRIDAY: New Website

2009-06-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

The new itsaboutlove.org site has FINALLY arrived and it is beautiful! Hopefully everyone has worked with their caseworker and either re-done their profiles so they are up on the new site, or they have just published their info once and gotten it on this new site the first time... either way we want to make sure that everyone who is eligible has their info up on this great resource and is able to be viewed by potential birth parents....

If you have any questions be sure to contact your caseworker and find out what you need to do to get your profile up and online now!

This site also has lots of info for us as potential adoptive partents... Be sure to check it out and look through the great information that is on there.

UPCOMING EVENT: 51's B-Ball Game

2009-05-31T15:21:00.000-07:00

Coming up on Saturday, June 20th we are heading out to the ballpark and going to enjoy an evening of baseball....

This takes place on Father's Day weekend so we of course want to make sure that you invite all of the special men in your lives (and anyone else that might enjoy a great game)!

The games starts at 7:05pm so mark your calendars now and make plans to be sure to head out to the game and enjoy a night of great food and fun with your fathers!!!

More info to come soon.... along with an E-vite!

FINDING FRIDAY: Pass Along Card Photos

2009-05-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

Need an updated photo for your pass along cards? How about for your web profiles? How about an new family picture because your were just placed???

We are blessed to have a very talented, and very generous lady in the valley who also happens to be an adoptive parent who wants to help out those of us who are in the adoptive community by providing her photography services, and doing it all for FREE!

Marissa M. wants to help by offering a mini-session (30 minutes up to 4 people) and will give out a disk of 10-20 images. This will be a great way to starting building your actual pages or any online profile you are creating.

If this is something you are interested in please contact Marissa at marissajcg@hotmail.com.

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY: We Are Famous

2009-05-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Make sure that you guys check out the National FSA blog as we are FAMOUS!!! Our very own Warm Springs Campout made it on the blog.

Thanks to Mike S. we have been featured on the blog and we wanted to let everyone know so that you could read the great article and share in the excitement.

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Meet the local Social Workers

2009-05-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

We need a few volunteers!!! We are looking for a few couples (or some ladies) who want to get our and be involved in the community.

We had done this in the past and actually had some great feedback and we want to continue the program but need some new help with the program.

We are looking for people who would be willing to visit one hospital and speak with the social worker in that hospital each month (or every other month) and let them know about LDS Family Services and the wonderful programs, services and opportunities that we offer to birthmothers. We want them to be familiar with us and our agency.

Don't worry... we won't send you out unprepared... We have a great couple that is heading up this program and they will be helping you and giving you information that you can take to your social worker and also help give you ideas of treats that you might be able to bring along with you (everyone loves sweets!) and also send you a reminder every once in a while to make sure you are still going and making your visits...

If this is something that you think you might be able to do we would love to have you contact us and let us know. Again you personally would only have to visit one hospital, one social worker and it would only be every month or maybe even every other month. This is not a big committment and we hope that you will think about this and see if it is something you might be able to fit into your schedule.... Please email me at Durban51@yahoo.com or leave a comment on here so we can get back to you and get you contacted with Natalie W. who is running the show!!!

Thanks for thinking about it.

National Foster Care Month

2009-05-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

May is National Foster Care Month and before the month is over we wanted to take a minute and recognize all of those children in foster care who need a home and also all of our families here in Nevada that have been built through foster care!

During the month we want to:

* recognize foster parents and child welfare workers

* build awareness of the pressing need for foster families, the importance of keeping siblings together and keeping kids in their communities

* bring to the forefront of policy dialog the need for programs to help foster youth transition to independent living

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY: Imagine...

2009-05-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

IMAGINE... Imagine if these adoptions hadn't taken place? Imagine what could happen for future adoptions? IMAGINE!

Happy Day!!!

2009-05-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

Wishing all of the ladies a Happy Mother's Day....

For those that are Mothers and for all those that Mother!

CELEBRATING BIRTHMOTHERS

2009-05-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

Today is the day that we want to recognize, honor, thank and remember all of the special women that have made so many families come to be. Thank you for your most precious gifts and for being who you are!

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Baby Kenna

2009-05-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

We want to congratulate the Waldron Family on their new placement. Baby Kenna was placed with them on March 1. She joined brother Levi and sisters Rhyan, Katie and Isabelle.

To read about the rest of the Waldron family and how they came to be.... take a look HERE at their previous Monday Morning Meeting post.

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Monthly Temple Trip

2009-04-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Once again it is time for our monthly temple trip as an adoption group!

This Thursday night 4/30/09 we are heading to the temple to participate in the 6:30pm session. Following the session we will go for some yummy dessert. We would love to have everyone come out and join us. This is a great way to make sure to get to the temple (at least once a month) and also get to know other couples involved with FSA.

We hope to see you there!

Under the stars.. and the wind, and the rain!!!

2009-04-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

FSA Warm Springs Campout!!!

Setting up camp and enjoying some dinner

Smores around a great campfire, what could be better than that?

Cuddling together trying to stay warm in the early morning

Holding onto our plates, napkins, and food while we ate some breakfast and the rain started!!

CLICK HERE TO SEE A SLIDESHOW OF THE ENTIRE WEEKEND

We had a great time up at Warm Springs this past Friday and Saturday. Friday night as we all began to arrive some brave ones.. mostly under the age of about 10...took a dip in the river that was just behind our campsite. We then sat around the great campfire talking and munching on smores!!!

Our night was a little rough for those of us who stayed. The wind never did let up but that is why they call it "roughin' it" I guess. We woke up early to some dark clouds and the wind getting stronger! We tried to hold on to our plates while we quickly made some pancakes. The weather got worse and soon enough it was raining on us and a little chilly for sure. We decided that swimming was not going to happen in weather like this so we packed up and headed out...

Despite the change in the weather everyone had a great time and we definitely have memories to last a lifetime. Who would have thought that we would have had to worry about rain in Vegas in April!!!! Thanks to all that came and we hope to do this again next year!

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Campout Reminder

2009-04-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

WARM SPRINGS CAMPOUT IS THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY!!!!

Hopefully by now you have seen the E-mails, E-vites and heard the buzz going around about the great event that is happening this weekend up at Warm Springs. We have gotten a great response so far (biggest RSVP to any event yet... yeah!) and we hope to have even more.

If you haven't responded yet, please do! Let us know if you plan to join us on Friday night only (enjoying some smores in the evening), Saturday morning only (having some pancakes of course), or want to rough it and camp with us to enjoy the entire weekend.

Here are some of the details:

* There is a cost for this event - $2/person per day.

* Don't forget your tent, chairs, blankets, snacks (nothing available to purchase), sunscreen, anything you think you will need!!!

* We will be swimming only on Saturday from 9-12 (this is when we have a lifeguard available to us)... other than that we can use the playground and the rivers on the property!

* We are in campsite #3

Again... come out and enjoy the wonderful weather with us. RSVP to the E-vite if you have not yet done so and let us know when you plan on attending.

FINDING FRIDAY: Positive numbers

2009-04-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

I know that the FINDING part of the process is sometimes frustrating and can sometimes leave you with an empty feeling. After reading some uplifting numbers and statistics over on The R House I wanted to share them with you and let you know that whatever it is we are doing, and whatever it is our great social workers are doing here at LDS Family Services... IT IS WORKING.

"LDSFS did approximately 600 placements last year. They say this is a pretty average number for them--although some years are a bit higher (640 in 2007), but it's usually about 600.The busiest LDSFS local agency (or office) in the country did 35 placements last year. The second busiest did 31."

WAITING WEDNESDAY: Adoptive Couples Education Classes

2009-04-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

Reminder... Tonight at 7pm at the LDS Family Services Offices is the Adoptive Couple Education class for this month. Tonights class will be a birthmother panel. This is a great class and we have some new panel members so you will not want to miss this inspiring and touching class.

Remember you don't have to be in the "waiting" stage to come out and attend these classes. These are for anyone involved with adoption.

ALSO... At 6pm tonight we are having our FSA Committee meeting so all of those involved with FSA we hope to see you at the meeting to plan our fun-filled summer!

Purpose of Temples

2009-04-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

This was sent over from Brad and I wanted to share it with everyone... We really need to remember the purpose of our beautiful temples and share this message with all of our friends and family. Just think... one day we will be able to attend the temple and be sealed to our precious little ones for time and all eternity. What a beautiful thought!!!

Take a look here and watch this great video from the church....

MONDAY MORNING MEETING: Meet your potential little one?!

2009-04-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

Todays Monday Morning Meeting is a little different. We have a few adoption opportunities for you that we want to share. We want to make sure that you have the chance to take a look at these cuties and see if these might be something that would fit into your family. Be sure to click on the names for more info and see if one of these situations is the one that you have been looking for. Also... remember if these don't feel right to you share this info with friends as you might be the link to their forever family!!! Today I have many sibling groups to consider.They are all so cute I couldn't leave one out.And then there is this little cutie with his big brown eyes!I hope he is just what you have been waiting for!

Saul age 15 months
Angel, Christopher and Rogelio ages 6, 5 and 2
Malaysia and Diamond DOB: 12/04 and 10/05
Deisha & Darnell ages 8 & 4
Edward, Keytante & Karei ages 1,7 & 4