Stahlke Adoption

Stahlke Adoption Fundraiser

When we traveled to Ukraine in 2005, we planned to do only one adoption. One of our many reasons for adopting a sibling group was that we couldn't afford the expense of several international adoptions. But when we found out that Kola couldn't come home with us, it was clear that we needed to make a second trip.

We paid for the first adoption by refinancing our house, taking out a line of credit, and receiving several generous cash gifts from family and friends. At this point, refinancing again is not possible, and putting it all on the credit card is not wise from a financial angle. Two important churches in our lives, Trinity and St. John's, have come forth to help us afford Kola's adoption.

Trinity set up an adoption fund for us, so that private donations can go directly to the church and are tax deductible. They sent out a lot of letters both to congregational members and also to the community to make our story known. Many people have already given, and we are humbled by the response which has been so generous. In addition, both Trinity and St. John's are putting on fundraising events for us. The one at St. John's, our former congregation, is still in the planning stages, and I will write more about that event in a later post.

Our current congregation, Trinity, is holding a dinner/dance/silent auction on Saturday, March 31, from 7:00 until midnight. It will take place at the Elks Lodge in Elmhurst, which is located very close to Trinity in Villa Park. The hall rental, live music, food, and auction items have all been donated--the fellowship committee at Trinity has been working very hard and has received a tremendous response from the people and businesses they have approached. The evening will include activities for children, too, and sounds like it will be a really fun time. If you would like more information, feel free to contact us or Trinity (630-834-3440).

We are so blessed to have such supportive friends and family. Kola is very much wanted not only by our family, but by many, many people here.

posted by Stahlkes @ 2:22 PM