The Funds

Often one of the top reasons people do not adopt is the funds. Just thinking of the dollar signs involved in an adoption can make many stop dead in our tracks before they even try to raise them. But what I have found is that if you just take that first little step and say "Yes God"- He will work along side of you in the most amazing ways.

I have shared some of the stories along the way as we have journeyed through raising the money for the Pass It Forward Fund. Each time a donation comes in I can feel God there reminding me He is working, He cares and He is in control. Each dollar is a dollar closer to giving a child a chance. Each dollar shows there is a person who cares.

I have often heard people say "When it's God's will- it's God's bill- He will pay it." I believe that is so true. Not sure if it's God's will? Just pick your bible and read.... He will show you.

Today though I wanted to share a couple of idea's for fundraising. Whether you are raising money for a missions trip, for adoption expenses or something like the Pass It Forward fund- it can be fun when you grab a friend and get creative. :0) I especially love it when the work you put into it serves more than one purpose. I especially love it when it's a win/win situation for all. Kind of like the oldie but goodie fundraiser- a garage sale. Not only are you cleaning out and making some cash- but it also benefits others who are making a purchase at a bargain price. One mans trash is another mans treasure. :0)

One thing we are doing is with Valentines Day right around the corner it is the perfect time to do a Babysitting Night. We are hosting a baby sitting night at our church- a time for the parents to get a night out together and the kids will be provided excellent care, a meal (we are doing hot dogs, chips, etc) games and fun! We are doing this on Feb. 13th (Saturday) from 5-9 for children ages 3- 6th grade. We are charging $15 a child, $20 for 2 children and $25 for 3. I love this idea because it provides a way for couples to have a night out alone (because a good marriage is the best gift you can give your children) and because there is not a lot of cost put into the fundraiser. What a FUN way to bring in the funds you need for your cause.

Another thing we are doing is getting creative with what we have. At our house we had tons of beanie babies laying around still from the beanie baby crazy a few years back. They were still in really good shape and so cute-and I kept wondering what I could do with them. Then God gave me an idea. So, this Saturday we are setting up a table at the youth league basketball tournament at our school and not only raising awareness for orphan care, but we are going to spread a little love. We are doing a "Love for the Least" funding drive. For $5.00 you can send a beanie baby and a hug to an orphan in Africa. This allows those who cannot 'go' to Africa (or wherever it is that God is calling you to) but have a heard for orphans to play a part. We made up little cards that say "Love for the Least" have the shape of the earth on them and at the bottom we put Matthew 25:40 "Whatever you do unto the least of these you do unto me." And oh can you image what a gift it will be to personally hand a child who has never owned a toy in their life a beanie baby and give them a big hug at the same time! If you don't have beanie babies laying around you could use McDonalds toys, make up little goodies bags or whatever you can think of that would be a blessing to orphans.

I know often times all it takes it that first step and getting the word out. Try it- you might just be surprised at what God can do with what He has already given you.

If any of you have any great ideas on raising fund please share them here. (By the way,your crockpot recipes have been such a huge blessing already-thank you so much!)