I’ve learned that fundraising is hard work. Sometimes I think that people just assume we are begging for a free handout. That’s so far from the truth. We are brainstorming every possible way that we can save more money, we are up to our elbows in cookie dough, we are packaging and shipping t-shirts, etc. We pray everyday that each person who donates to our adoption would see God’s hand in our journey. Fundraising has given us a chance to share our story, which means people are hearing about God. Fundraising has a bigger purpose than just paying for our adoption.
I’ve also learned that it’s the people you least expect who donate to your adoption fund. I’ve learned that a lot of people don’t agree that we are fundraising to bring our baby home. I’ve learned that I always want to have an open hand; willing to help anyone who needs it even if all I can afford is $10. I have learned that as Christians we are CALLED to help the poor, the orphan and the widow. It’s not a choice. It’s what we are supposed to do.
The adoption community that we’re a part of ROCKS! What’s so great about this group is that we are all in this together – the massive stack of paperwork, the waiting and even the fundraising. Even though we are each trying to raise a large amount of money to bring home our babies, it is not uncommon for us to buy each other’s shirts and participate in each other’s fundraising events.
This morning I was reading a blog and came across this verse from Luke 6. Verse 38 tells us
The Shubin’s are trying to raise the last bit of money that they need to take their first trip to Ethiopia to meet their little girl. They are having a t-shirt fundraiser and only need to sale a few more shirts. Check out their blog here and order a t-shirt. I have one and I LOVE it!
Kathleen and Clint are another couple that we just love. Kathleen is super creative and crafty and has all kinds of fun things that she is selling to raise money for their adoption. You can read about their journey here and check out some of her crafts. I just ordered this clutch for myself and one for my sister for her birthday (Sshh…don’t tell her).
Jason and Joely are currently selling puzzle pieces and doing a give-a-way to raise money for their adoption. With each $5 puzzle piece you buy, you will be entered to win a ton of cool prizes. Check out their story here. Joely also makes awesome canvas art prints. Proceeds from her art sales also benefit the adoption.
John and I just met Lindsey and her husband about a week ago. They are in the early stages of their adoption and are selling t-shirts. Lindsey is also creative and crafty and is selling some handmade items. Check out their blog here and order something to support their adoption. Here is a picture of what their shirts look like.
Lindsay says
What a great post! Thanks so much for including us.
Amy Bottomly says
It looks to me that you have has some serious success fundraising! Yes? Almost 18g’s? Wow.
Kathleen says
THanks sweet friend for giving us some love! xoxo
Krista H says
It always looked like a lot of work to me too. That was why we focused more on extra jobs and such and just straight donations from people. But you have had great success! I am amazed at all the creative ideas you have had at raising money. I know someone currently writing a book about adoption fundraising (they adopted 2 kids from Ethiopa same time we got Eli). Check out her blog at juliegumm.com