Ogden FSA

Annual Boondocks Activity!

2011-10-17T13:16:00.000-06:00

It's that time again! See flyer below for details (click to enlarge). Read the entire flyer as there are some changes.

Thanks all!

FSA Lagoon Day!

2011-08-16T21:01:00.001-06:00

This Friday, August 19th is

FSA Lagoon Day!

Tickets are $25.00. They need to be picked up at the Harrisville Office but you pay at Lagoon. Dinner will be provided by FSA and served at 5:30.

Can't wait to see you there!

National Conference News: Registration and Check-in Details

2011-08-04T10:24:00.001-06:00

*This post was was original written and published on the National FSA blog HERE

Anyone who has attended the FSA National Conference in the past knows that standing in line is part of "checking in" at the conference. Well, this year the National Board has made a plan that should help the check-in line move quickly and efficiently. How can you make your check-in quick and pain-free??

First, register online before the conference begins. This ensures you will have a printed name-tag and your information will be saved on the conference registration site.

Second, follow the signs at the conference center entrance to make sure you are in the correct line. There will be a line for those who have PRE-REGISTERED and another for those REGISTERING AT THE DOOR. (These lines will be designated with ropes.) Keep your head up, follow the signs, and ask a National Board member in a red shirt if you have any questions.

Third, pre-pay online!! This speeds up the registration process and helps the line keep moving. If you haven't paid online, you may pay with cash, check, or credit card.

Win Conference Tickets!

2011-07-09T08:04:00.000-06:00

Go HERE to enter to win TWO FSA National Conference tickets!

*Just a reminder the conference is fast approaching (August 12-13). For more info on registering see info in older posts and under upcoming events on the left sidebar.

Registration Reminder

2011-06-25T19:05:00.007-06:00

Remember to register for conference before July 15th to get a discounted rate.

Join us for these great workshops for adoptive couples and families, birth parents and families, and everyone else interested in learning more about adoption:

What Adoptive Children need from their birth parents

How to plan a post-placement life

Step by Step: Pregnancy to Placement

Openness in Adoption, Nurturing Marriage

Adoption Law, Infertility, Life Books,

Attuning to your child, Grief and Healing

Foster to Adopt, Infant bonding, Why FSA?

and many more!!!

CLICK HERE to register

All workshop topics and session times are subject to change.

Join us!

2011-06-22T19:04:00.001-06:00

Adoptive Mother/Birth Mother craft night!

Thursday, June 23rd @ 6:30 pm

@ Barker Park

2900 N 1000 W, Pleasant View

(Just around the corner from the Pepsi Plant. There is a church on the West side of the road and Barker Park in on the East side of the road but down a little lane. If you get lost here are a few phone numbers Sherri Barker801-674-8891 or Natalie Wadsworth 801-898-9580 or Tamra 801-389-0227)

Pizza & refreshments provided.

"I'm bored!"

2011-06-17T18:00:00.001-06:00

School is out! Anyone hear "I'm bored" yet?

Here are some fun and inexpensive activity ideas for kids this summer. Please note the registration deadlines on these, some have passed (sorry, my fault!)

There are limited slots so sign up soon!
*Youth do NOT need to be members of the 4-H to participate

(click on image to enlarge)

Rooted In Love

2011-05-16T14:46:00.001-06:00

Below is the info for this year's 2011 National Conference

Registration Link : Click HERE

Lodging Link : Click HERE

(Remember to use code: LDSFAMILY)

Also, check out our "Date Night Ideas" page by clicking on the button in the left sidebar. We have added some new ideas being offered in our community!

Introducing 2011 FSA International Conference

2011-05-11T11:20:00.000-06:00

Registration is up and running for the

2011 FSA International Conference.

Click here to go to the registration page.

The conference will be held at the Davis Conference Center in Layton, Utah on Friday, August 12, 2011, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

The cost of conference is $40 per person for early registration.

After July 15, 2011, registration will be $45 per person.

**Conference registration for birth parents is free**

Lodging information is located on the registration site.

Watch for more details about workshop topics...coming soon.

Friday Keynote Speaker: Sister Julie B. Beck, Relief Society General President

Special Guest Speaker: Chuck Johnson, National Council For Adoption

Saturday Keynote Speaker: Dr. Karyn Purvis, Texas Christian University

Update: Flyer for Walk

2011-05-05T12:02:00.001-06:00

FSA's Annual Celebrate Adoption Walk

2011-04-26T19:52:00.000-06:00

We are so excited to announce the next Families Supporting Adoption activity which is just around the corner:

The Celebrate Adoption Walk
May 14th 2011
10:00 am
Provo High School Track

This has been such a great event in the past and we encourage everyone to come out and have some fun! It's a fantastic way to meet new people in the adoption community or to reconnect with those you haven't seen in a while.

This years event will feature Cosmo the Cougar, lots of fun games, the fire department and their fire engine, mini races, a candy toss, and yummy refreshments. The main event is the adoption walk where we invite everyone to get out on the track and celebrate birth mother's and the amazing miracle of adoption!!

Adoptive couples, birth parents, soon to be adoptive couples, case workers, extended family members basically anyone who supports adoption can come and celebrate with us. We can't wait to see all of you there!

Remember to wear your FSA t-shirts or to wear white!

*Note- this event is usually held on the Saturday BEFORE Mother's Day, however due to a scheduling conflict it will be the Saturday AFTER Mother's Day this year.

Birthmother's Day Gift Ideas

2011-04-18T12:02:00.005-06:00

Birthmother's day is right around the corner, next Saturday, May 7th. I'm always looking for something fun and special to send our little guy's birthmom. Here are some pointers and a few fun gift ideas I came across.
(Click on picture title for link to see full info)

Custom Puzzles

Basket of "Child's Favorite Things"

Quilts and Blankets

Scrapbook of "All the Things I am Grateful For"

Adoption/Inspirational Music

A Day in the Life Book

(info and pics for above ideas taken from National FSA Blog found HERE)

Other ideas:

*Any gift made by the child. Crafts or drawings, or hand prints. Your child can help make a picture frame with their own picture in it, a magnet for the fridge, a special key chain, a plaster mold of a hand print or foot print, or a card with drawings, writing, or "scribbles" in it can be very meaningful. Local crafts stores will have lots of "kits" to help you get started if you can't think of an idea that works for you.

*Give her a ring, locket, or other piece of jewelry which holds a photo of the child, the child’s birth stone, or other significant symbol. There are countless websites that sell such items. One I recently came across that I found to be very affordable and have good shipping rates is found HERE. They have a great variety of jewelry and birthstones. THIS article also shows a lot of unique adoption jewelry available from a variety of companies.

Regardless of what gift you choose (big or small, home-made or store bought) the point of Birthmother's Day is to honor and remember birthmoms, reminding them that they are never forgotten, how special they are, and how much we love them.

Do you have any fun ideas you have used to celebrate Birthmother's Day? Leave a comment, send me an email, or find me on facebook.

We need YOU!

2011-04-11T16:14:00.001-06:00

What topics would you like to see discussed on this FSA blog? What information would be helpful? What kinds of resources would you like to see? This blog has the potential to be an excellent resource for adoptive couples, those waiting to adopt and birthparents alike. It can be a place to get new ideas, find great articles, learn how to cope with difficulties, find resources, etc.

Leave a comment or email me at Karlee_Marie@hotmail.com.

I can't wait to hear your ideas!

FSA Shirt Design Contest!

2011-03-16T19:35:00.003-06:00

Get those creative juices flowing!

Families Supporting Adoption is looking for a new original design to print on shirts.
The new design should promote a positive view of adoption. You can use the "Adoption: It's About Love" slogan, or make up a new one. Shirts with the new design will be available for purchase at the annual conference and through the website.

If you have an idea you'd like to submit, send it to fsashirtdesign@gmail.com by April 30, 2011.

The person with the winning submission will be given a $30 gift certificate to the FSA store and one free registration to the FSA Conference in Utah on August 12-13.

Celebrating Adoption Event with Michael McLean

2011-03-09T10:34:00.001-07:00

WHEN:

Friday, May 06, 2011 at 7:00 PM

WHERE:

Bountiful Regional Center
835 North 400 East North Salt Lake, UT 84054

You can get your tickets for FREE by clicking HERE. (Click on the register tab under Ticket Information)

More info below

"...stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God." ~ Job 37:14

The Northern Utah Chapters of Families Supporting Adoption are pleased to have Michael McLean come and spend a night with us to Celebrate Adoption.

On May 6, 2011 at the Bountiful Regional Center we will be pleased to have Michael McLean relating his experiences of adoption through stories and song. Please come early to get your seats; seating is on a first come first serve basis and no reserve seating is allowed. We will be opening the doors after 6:30 pm for general admission for those who do not have tickets.

About Michael McLean

For 25 years Michael McLean has been changing lives with his tender songs and candid messages. He has shared the “hard stories” — those from his own life and those of others — and has sung us all the way to light at the end of the tunnel. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that for every person, twist, or turn along life’s path, Michael McLean has the perfect song.

McLean released his debut album, You’re Not Alone, in 1983 and with every song that followed, his lyrics filled voids, encouraged love, and offered hope. Now, more than 25 albums later, his musical legacy has not only resonated in the hearts of thousands, but continues to be a standard for those seeking meaning and peace.

To celebrate this exciting anniversary, McLean released a boxed set of six albums in 2008. The definitive collection, 25, is filled with his most beloved songs from the last 25 years, many of which were out-of-print, as well as a handful of brand-new songs on each album.

With a background in film, McLean began early in his career making commercials for radio and television, receiving numerous national and international awards for advertising. Such awards included the prestigious Clio Award, National Addy Award, New York Ad Club’s Andy Award, two National Emmy Finalists Awards, and the Bronze Lion at the Cannes Film Festival. He later used his film experience to produce and direct several films including, Together Forever, The Prodigal Son, and Mr. Krueger’s Christmas starring film legend Jimmy Stewart.

Ever the engaging performer and master storyteller, McLean has shared his beloved Christmas musical, The Forgotten Carols, with more than a half-million people across the country since 2001. With humor and heart, “The Carols” has become a beloved tradition for thousands of families who mark the beginning of their holiday season with this magical musical.

Celebrating the Light, another of McLean’s musicals, ran for five seasons at the Promised Valley Playhouse in Salt Lake City and The Garden, an allegorical oratorio written with Merrill Jenson and Bryce Neubert, opened in Jerusalem and has been performed across the country as well as in France, South America, and Russia. His popular sea-faring musical The Ark enjoyed a New York City debut in 2005.

In addition to his music and films, McLean has also authored four books with accompanying CDs – Distant Serenade, Hold on the Light Will Come: And Other Lessons My Songs Have Taught Me, The Forgotten Carols,and most recently, From God’s Arms to My Arms to Yours. (info taken from Michaels website:http://www.michaelmcleanmusic.com)

Free pass along cards!

2011-02-21T15:12:00.008-07:00

Front of our old pass along cards

Looking for an EASY way to inform and/or remind others you are waiting to grow your family through adoption? Here is a great deal to get you started! When we first got approved to adopt I got our cards through Vista Print and I was very happy with them. They have a deal going on right now where you get 250 free - just pay the cost of shipping (around $6).

Find the link HERE (more info HERE)

Another website I've heard good things about and that is also inexpensive for cards is Spaces For Faces.

And since you get 250 you will be busy finding new places to stash 'em. I've heard some great ideas lately like sending out Valentine's Cards with your card included, or how about St. Patrick's day?

Here are some other ideas on how to use pass-along cards.

Slip one in any letter or bill that you send out
Holiday cards: New Years, Valentine’s, Fourth of July
Hang them up where’er you go: grocery stores, apartment complexes, car washes, community bulletin boards, etc.
Keep them handy in your wallet or purse.
Staying in tune for opportunities to share!
Asking trusted family and friends to share them as well.
Leave a pass along card with your bill at restaurants.
If you see a “business card” drop box, drop one in.
If someone asks about your family, pull out a “family photo” conveniently disguised as a pass along card and leave it with them. Perfect opportunity to talk about your desire to adopt.
Don’t be afraid, even if you don’t feel comfortable sharing your own story, share the agency cards!
Email Pass Along Card to everyone in your address book,

ask to forward it on!

(above list found HERE)

For some suggestions for creating cards and what info to put on them click here (courtesy West Valley FSA )

Minute To Win It!

2011-02-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

FSA Couples Minute To Win It Party!

Lots of awesome prizes in addition to the grand prize: Ben Lomond hotel, movie, and dinner package!

See you there!

Check out the details below.

This free invite card made with Smilebox

Exciting Upcoming Activity!

2011-01-22T13:35:00.003-07:00

Click play for more info

Adoption Tax Credit Info

2011-01-13T15:54:00.001-07:00

Below is some information provided by Wendy's Wonderful Kids with some helpful tips and a video to help you maximize your adoption tax credit. See below.

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and Jackson Hewitt have partnered to help adoptive families understand the Adoption Tax Credit. For tax tips from the professionals, please view this video produced by Jackson Hewitt. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQryETwRziA (video featured above)

Jackson Hewitt is also offering a coupon for $25 off tax preparation services. For every coupon redeemed, Jackson Hewitt will make a donation to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Download your printable coupon athttp://www.davethomasfoundation.org/Home

This year, dramatic changes benefit adoptive parents, so it is important to understand the new tax laws, and to consider consulting a tax professional. Please don't hesitate to call us with any questions you may have.

Angela

Angela Marshall, MS, LPC l Director, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids l Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption l 614-764-8487 l 525 Metro Place North, Suite 220, Dublin, OH 4301

30 Ways to Celebrate National Adoption Month

2010-11-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

I hope you are all having a wonderful National Adoption Month! I'm really enjoying all of the blog and facebook talk about adoption, it makes me wish EVERY month was National Adoption Month! In my recent internet travels I came across THIS post on the Layton Chapter FSA. Check it out!

"Each year, the President of the United States issues a proclamation that sets aside November as National Adoption Month. In addition to the Presidential proclamation, many State governors also issue proclamations in an effort to raise awareness of the need for loving and permanent homes for children in their states.

National Adoption Awareness Month is a great time for you to get involved in the effort to make a difference in the lives of children from all across the country. The Adoption.com National Adoption Awareness Month 30 Days of Activities Calendar is a great way to promote adoption in your home as well as in your community. Take some time this November to get out and encourage the citizens in your community to become involved."

Information courtesy Adoption.com

Click HERE to view Adoption.com's National Adoption Awareness Month 30 Days of Activities Calendar.

To download Adoptive Families.com Calendar (shown below) click HERE.

National Adoption Celebration

2010-11-11T18:04:00.003-07:00

This year for the November Adoption Celebration, events will be held at TWO locations so that everyone has a chance to be involved: The Boondocks in Kaysville as well as the Boondocks in Draper. The Adoption Exchange will be at the Draper location. If your family would like to view the photos and profiles of waiting children, they will only be available at the Draper location.

*Enjoy unlimited mini golf
*10 arcade tokens
*1 pass that can be used for Go Karts, Slick Track, Rock Wall, Laser Tag, or Roller Coaster Simulator
*Chili provided by Wendy's
*Total cost $5 per family (any size family)

See you there!

(click on flyers below to enlarge for complete info)

Annual Adoption Walk on TV

2010-11-07T11:37:00.002-07:00

Fox 13 News featured a story on the "Orange you glad for adoption" Annual Adoption Walk. Check it out!

Happy National Adoption Month!!

Ogden FSA Temple Night

2010-11-04T21:21:00.000-06:00

Ogden Chapter FSA Temple Night

Please join us for an evening at the Ogden Temple

Thursday, November 11th, meet at the back of the chapel at 6:30 for the 6:40 session.

Our goal is that we will be strengthened, and united in our hope for adoption.

*Don't forget that November is National Adoption Month. Check back to our blog for all of the fun events!

Schedule Change

2010-10-11T09:56:00.002-06:00

Because of UEA weekend the craft and pizza night has been changed from Saturday, October 16th to Saturday, October 23rd at 6 p.m. at Barker Park (2900 North 1000 West in Pleasant View). Look for and invitations email this week.

Time to shake a leg, an orange leg.

2010-09-29T13:45:00.003-06:00

It's time for the
Annual Adoption Walk!

November 6th, 2010 @ Liberty Park.

(click picture to enlarge)

There will be bagels & schmears, hot chocolate, candy, fire trucks (the fire fighters give out hats and coloring books to the kids and let them climb around in the trucks). It's a great event. You won't want to miss it!

Upcoming Events

2010-09-14T10:03:00.008-06:00

We have lots of exciting upcoming events, some that we have done in the past and some brand new including our first Adoptive Moms Support class.

Check out the flyer below for all of the info!

(click on flyer to enlarge)

FSA Fall Kick Off

2010-09-08T10:01:00.001-06:00

Saturday, September 18, 2010

FSA Fall Kick Off At The Park Picnic

Barker Park 2900 North 1000 West in Pleasant View

11:00 to 4:00

Lunch at 12:30

FSA will provide Pulled Pork Sandwiches and Homemade Root Beer

Please bring a dessert or salad to share

Paddle boats, face painting, balloon art, games, and some surprises

Meet our new FSA Board Members

RSVP Karen at 801-782-2000 before
September 14th

Adoption Ally Program

2010-08-30T18:00:00.002-06:00

Being an Adoption Ally is a wonderful opportunity to be connected to the adoption community, new research and information on adoption trends and to be aware of legislation regarding adoption.

This opportunity is free.

Please see the flyer below for more details of how to become involved.

(click to enlarge)

Visit their website HERE

To join visit the website, select "Get Involved" then select "Become An Adoption Ally"

2010-08-12T09:53:00.002-06:00

FSA Lagoon Day is almost here!

Friday, August 20, 2010

Supper Served from 6-7 p.m. at the Pine Terrace Pavilion

Pick up your discount tickets at the Harrisville Office and get your FSA pin to wear to Lagoon

$24.00 plus tax per person/$8.00 to park

We hope to see you there

*We need a count to buy the food so please get your tickets by Tuesday, August 17 or send an email to btharper81@yahoo.com to let us know you are coming.

FSA Newsletter

2010-07-23T13:03:00.001-06:00

Newsletter design generated with Smilebox

2010-06-09T14:16:00.001-06:00

Have you signed up?

2010-05-25T08:54:00.000-06:00

Families Supporting Adoption
2010 National Conference

Together by Divine Design

You can now register for this years FSA National Conference HERE

Note: Each attendee must register separately. Contact info for lodging also available at the above link.

Can't wait to see you there!

National Conference Service Project

2010-05-21T12:51:00.002-06:00

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

~Mohandas Ghandi

This year Families Supporting Adoption will be hosting a service project at the annual conference. Collection baskets will be set up for conference participants to have the opportunity to serve two great organizations in collecting items that they are in need of. Please bring your donations with you to the conference.

The first organization we will be collecting items for is
Birth Mother Baskets.

Birth Mother Baskets is a non-profit organization started by Gina Crotts. Gina is a birth mother and refers to the daughter she placed as her "little butterfly." In an effort to give back to the adoption community and serve other women who have placed and may need some additional love, Gina created Birth Mother Baskets. Donated items are arranged into beautiful baskets and sent to birth mothers in need. We are honored to be part of her cause this year.

Items that we would love to collect for Birth Mother Baskets include:

Journals
Lotions
Bath Salts
Bath Bubbles
Movies
Jewelry
8 x 10 or 5 x 7 photo frame
Music CD's
Inspirational Books
Hair Products
Make-Up
Fingernail Polish
Manicure/Pedicure Sets
Photo Albums
Magazines
Small Blankets
Slippers
Stuffed Animals
Gift Certificates (Massages, spa treatments, pedicure, manicure, movies or book store ect.)
Large Baskets (Gina recommends laundry sized wicker baskets at Wal-Mart for only $4.00)
Tissue Paper
Ribbons
Candles

We will also be collecting school supplies for
The Christmas Box International.

The friendly environment of the Christmas Box Houses are unique. Children are brought into the shelter program after being removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Instead of spending the night in loss comfortable circumstances, they are able to arrive at the House were the staff is immediately available to talk to children and explain what is happening, what will happen, and why. The House staff provide a sense of caring, warmth and continuity at a very difficult time in a child's life.

Currently there are three Christmas Box Houses located in the state of Utah -- in the cities of Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Moab. The Houses all have the basic concept of a child-friendly, calm, home-like atmosphere and have added programs and services to meet the unique needs of the children in the communities they serve.

School supplies that we would love to collect for The Christmas Box House include:

-#2 Pencils

-Glue Sticks

-Backpacks

- Box of Tissues

- Pink Eraser

- Broad Tip Markers

- Pair of Scissors

- Pencil Case

- Wide-Ruled Spiral Bound Notebooks

- Pocket Folders

-Crayons

-Pkg. Wide Ruled Loose Lead Paper

(Info taken from National FSA Blog here)

Mark your calendars!

2010-04-09T14:15:00.001-06:00

Annual Adoption Conference

"Perspectives on Adoption"

May 12 & 13.th, 2010

Registration must be postmarked by May 4th.

For more info visit www.utahadoptioncouncil.com (select CONFERENCE)

Below is information on classes and registration.

(Click on flyers to enlarge)

National Infertility Awareness Week

2010-03-31T16:31:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,

Many of us in our adoption community have experienced the pain and isolation of infertility. Although adoption doesn't solve or heal infertility it certainly brings peace and comfort in finding our family members.

Since Brian and I experienced sorrow, isolation, and frustration with our infertility we have always desired to help others feel supported in this issue: to help bear one another's burdens. I am helping with a unique first annual event. Perhaps you would like to attend or know of others who would like to attend. Thank you for helping to share with others!! More information can be found at www.utahinfertilityawareness.com or join us on Facebook.

Sincerely,
Christine (and Brian) Anderson
SL FSA Co-Chairs

National Infertility Awareness Week is April 24-May 1.

Join the Utah Infertility Kickoff Event on Saturday, April 24th.

It is FREE! Yes, FREE! (They ask that all participants register beginning April 1st. Seating is limited)

They have four Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologists speaking on great topics!
They have AMAZING prizes for a giveaway--including FREE New Patient Consultations and a National FSA Conference Package.
We will have wonderful and helpful resources to share.

The day will be a great opportunity to learn, share, and network...all GREAT things to do to raise awareness about infertility.

Click below to enlarge the official flyer.

Spread the word to those you know who are in Utah.

You can get more information and even download a badge to put on your blog or website to help advertise...www.utahinfertilityawareness.com.

Federal Adoption Tax Credit

2010-03-26T17:02:00.002-06:00

The new healthcare bill may bring some good news when it comes to the adoption tax credit. Here are a couple of links to reports on the federal adoption tax credit in the new healthcare bill.

Article 1
Article 2

Here is a excerpt from Article 2 on the changes:

"Good news for adoptive families from the health care bill signed into law. The adoption tax credit has been extended until the end of 2011 and increased from $12,170 to $13,170 for adoptions occurring after January 1, 2010 (it’s retroactive). The credit is also now refundable.

USA Today’s brief analysis:
“Taxpayers who adopt children: Effective in 2010, the bill makes the adoption credit refundable, increases the credit by $1,000 and extends the increased adoption credit through 2011.”

Adopting Orphaned Haitian Children

2010-01-28T11:56:00.004-07:00

Adopting Orphaned Haitian Children

AdoptUsKids has received a number of inquiries from families that are interested in adopting Haitian Earthquake Orphans. At this time, the first priority of government and disaster recovery officials is to address the immediate medical and physical needs of the people affected by the earthquake and assist in the reunion of family members who have been displaced or separated by the disaster. Therefore, it may take a long time before children affected by the disaster may be available for adoption. The U.S. Department of State provides information on the adoption of children affected by natural disasters and conflict on their website at: http://adoption.state.gov/news/Haiti.html.

You also can locate contact information for adoption agencies that place children from Haiti through our resource list of U.S. Adoption Agencies That Place Children From Abroad at:http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/country_resource_lists.cfm

Para la versión española

ParentProfiles.com Discount

2010-01-22T10:51:00.002-07:00

ParentProfiles.com started a relationship with LDS Family Services in 2005 and has successfully placed with many of our adoptive couples.

LDS Family Services and ParentProfiles.com are working together to offer an exclusive discount for couples working with an LDS Family Services agency. ParentProfiles.com is extending their 25% discount on the monthly service fee and waiving the set up fee and listing fee!

For more information on taking advantage of this opportunity to promote your adoption, please talk to your caseworker at LDS Family Services for the promo code and instructions for set up.

Good Publicity

2009-11-22T20:20:00.004-07:00

Happy National Adoption Month! There has been some great media this month about adoption. Check it out!

Recently on Weber State radio, one of our caseworkers was interviewed along with 2 birth mothers. Check it out here.

Also, this article appeared in the Standard Examiner on November 8th.

LDS Family Services encourages open adoptions

By JaNAE FRANCIS Standard-Examiner staff jfrancis@standard.net

ROY — When young children ask where they came from, some parents say from a stork, others say from heaven. Scott Case tells his 4-year-old, Ben, he came from a “neighbor’s daughter’s husband’s brother’s ex-girlfriend.” And it’s true. Ben knows well that he and some of his cousins were adopted. They talk about their birth mothers together so often that one cousin who wasn’t adopted cried because he felt left out. “He said, ‘I don’t have a birth mom,’ ” Case recalls. Describing both of his adopted children as “on the extreme side of happy,” Case said baby adoptions have changed a lot over the years.

Coming from a family touched by baby adoption in many ways, the 32-year-old adoptive father said he’s personally witnessed the change from totally closed adoptions to those that are so open that the birth parents almost become another member of the family.

But the face of new baby adoption in the United States has changed in other ways as well.

November is adoption awareness month, but many national studies indicate that the number of birth mothers placing their babies for adoption has declined dramatically over the last 40 years.

According to reports by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, current estimates are that 1 percent of unwed mothers in this country now decide to place their babies for adoption.

Cristina Alvear, a caseworker with Children’s Aid Society of Ogden, said her agency placed about 1,000 babies in the 1960s and 1970s but is now down to about 10 a year.

Older children

She said older child adoptions are much more common as young, single women who become pregnant now are most often keeping their babies.

At the same time, the number of unwed mothers choosing to have abortions also has declined.

According to Utah Health Department vital records statistics, the number of annual legal abortions in Utah has been cut in half since the high in 1990 of 114.7 per 1,000 live births to 63.9 per 1,000 live births in 2007.

Despite clear evidence that single parents have more struggles limiting their education and employment, more single, pregnant girls and women are choosing to keep their babies.

A 1999 article by Maggie Gallagher, “The Age of Unwed Mothers: Is Teen Pregnancy the Problem?” and published by the Institute for American Values, blames societal values for the trend.

In the article, Gallagher states that girls in the United States are being told that single parenthood will be acceptable once they are older than 20.

Church’s stand

In the face of such trends, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is promoting a stance in favor of new baby adoptions.

The church’s First Presidency issued a statement on adoption three years ago that officials have continued to support and promote through church publications.

“We ... express our support of unwed parents who place their children for adoption in stable homes with a mother and a father,” reads the statement.

“We also express our support of the married mothers and fathers who adopt these children.”

Last month, the part of LDS Family Services that handles adoptions in the Ogden area moved from 1525 Lincoln Ave., Ogden, to 435 N. Wall Ave., Harrisville.

Mitch Hirano, adoption manager at LDS Family Services in Ogden, said the move has helped the agency promote the cause of baby adoptions. He said since the move, seven birth mothers have signed up to find an adoptive couple.

“That’s definitely higher than average,” he said. “We’re hoping to meet with 80 birth mothers a year who wish to place their babies.”

Open adoption

Although Scott Case found his first children through a series of personal relationships, both of his children’s adoptions were handled through LDS Family Services.

He said the openness of both adoptions has contributed to the self-worth and wellbeing of all involved.

“There’s definitely a love between adoptive parents and birth parents,” he said.

Sheri Barker, a birth mother from Pleasant View who placed her daughter through LDS Family Services, said the openness of her 7-year-old daughter’s adoption brought her a great sense of peace and closure.

“They treat me like an angel,” said the 38-year-old of her daughter’s adoptive parents. “I do feel like their angel.”

She said adoption, as difficult as it is for the birth mother, can be a birthplace for love.

“It’s the hardest thing I ever did but at the same time, it was the best thing I ever did.”

Barker and the other parents interviewed said their children were conceived in married but abusive situations that soon ended in divorce.

Giving child a family

Barker said she chose adoption because she wanted to give her daughter a family.

“I loved her but I didn’t have a family to offer her,” she said.

Heather Prescott, of Roy, said her 9-month-old adoptive son, Jayden, was the greatest gift she ever received.

Devastation, frustration and despair are the words that Heather’s husband, Eric, used to describe the couple’s eight-year struggle trying to get pregnant.

Both Heather and Eric are 32. Like the Cases, they thought they’d be parents long before now.

Eric Prescott said he was most upset when his younger siblings were all having children.

“I see them all popping kids out and I was the one who wanted kids the most,” he said. “To see that we were still standing on the sidelines was hard.”

But Eric Prescott said those feelings dissipated when he saw his son for the first time.

“That first moment you see him, you have an overwhelming feeling knowing it came from someone else,” he said.

Receiving his baby gave him an undeniable message of hope, he said.

“All the struggles and tests and trials, everything you’ve gone through up until that time — it’s all worth it,” he said.

“He was finally here and he was going to be ours.”

SKATE PARTY CANCELLED

2009-11-11T14:45:00.004-07:00

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:

The skate party that was originally scheduled for tonight has been cancelled. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Be heard, it's as easy as 1, 2, 3!

2009-11-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

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

Here is how:

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

2. Next, log on to http://thomas.loc.gov/ to find out whether your Congresspersons are already co-sponsors of the legislation. On the thomas.loc.gov opening page, under “Search Bill Summary and Status,” search by bill number for H.R. 213. Then click on “Bill summary and Status.” On the page that comes up, click on “Cosponsors,” “Text of Legislation,” or “All Congressional Actions” to follow the progress of the bill.

3. 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.

Even, if your Congressperson is already a co-sponsor, please pass this on to your friends and family, asking them to contact their congressperson, because this will effect EVERYONE adopting after 2011!!

*For more information on the Federal Adoption Tax Credit click here.

Utah's 4th Annual Adoption Walk With Me

2009-11-05T16:50:00.002-07:00

The theme color for this year's walk is ORANGE.

So wear your orange and come walk with us!

'Orange' you glad for adoption?

For more details and info visit the Walk's Blog.

2009-09-21T12:21:00.000-06:00

It's What Fun Is!

2009-08-14T15:48:00.005-06:00

Please join the Ogden Chapter of

Families Supporting Adoption

for a day at Lagoon.

Friday August 21st. $20.00 per person.

You must pick up a coupon at LDS Family Services in Ogden for each member of your family to get the discounted price at the gate.

The Pine Terrace is reserved for our use. Bring your own food. Soda pop and bottled water will be provided by the agency at 5:00 P.M.

FSA National Conference 2009

2009-07-14T12:02:00.004-06:00

July 31, 2009 to August 1, 2009
The conference will be held at the Davis Conference Center.
To view and share the official flyer, click HERE.

SCHEDULE

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

Saturday, August 1st
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 leave a comment on this post 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. They may register for free by typing in “itsaboutlove” in the special code field on the registration form.

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 31st). 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.

Just a Reminder. . .

2009-07-09T17:21:00.003-06:00

This month (JULY) is temple month. Pick a day to go to the temple and pray for a birth mom.

What Does That Medical Condition Mean For My Child?

2009-06-11T10:45:00.011-06:00

Recently the Ogden agency held a class for adoptive couples where a medical professional came and taught us about the birth conditions/preference checklist. The information provided was extremely helpful, and for those of us who have filled out this dreaded part of the adoption paperwork, it is so important to know what these medical conditions entail.

If any of the slides are too small to read email us at ogdenfsa@gmail.com and we can get you a copy of them.

Some of the medical conditions covered in the above slideshow are listed below.

Huntington’s Disease

Cystic Fibrosis

Hemophilia/Blood Disease

Muscular Dystrophy

Spina Bifida

ADHD

Tourettes

Alcohol/Drug/Tobacco Use

Sexually Transmitted Diseases-AIDS/HIV

Mental Retardation

Cerebral Palsy

Down’s Syndrome

A BIG thanks to Jennika Scadden for putting all of the information together and being willing to teach this class!

Community Outreach

2009-06-06T13:33:00.004-06:00

Ron Claire Community Fair

Today there was a community fair in Ogden. Jessica from LDSFS set up a booth there and with some help from volunteers (like Lorraine here) we were able to do some community outreach. Do you have any opportunities in your community to reach out? If you do and need any help contact us. Remember, a big part of community outreach is talking about adoption and educating those you come in contact with.

Upcoming Class!

2009-05-29T20:49:00.005-06:00

Ogden FSA invites you to an Education Class featuring
information about the birth conditions/preference checklist from a
Medical Professional.
Come receive information and answers to questions.

Tuesday June 2, 2009

6:00-7:30 PM

LDSFS Ogden Agency

Conference Room

Refreshments will be served.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T20:55:00.011-06:00

An Openly Adopted Child's Legacy
by Brenda Romanchik

Once there were two expectant mothers.
One carried and cared for you beneath her beating heart
She became your Birthmother.
The other carried the hope of you within her.
She became your Mom.

As the days passed, and you grew bigger and stronger,
Your Birthmother knew that she could not give you all you needed after your birth.
Meanwhile, your Mom was ready and waiting for you.

One day your Birthmom and your Mom found each other.
They looked into each other’s eyes and saw a friend.
Your Birthmom saw the life your Mom could give you.
Your Mom saw how much your Birthmom loved and cared for you.
They decided that what you needed was both kinds of love in your life.

So now you have two families,
One by birth, the other by adoption.
And you have a home where you can get:
your questions answered,
your boo boos bandaged,
your heartaches soothed,
And much needed hugs.

And a place where you can find:
answers to your questions,
your image in the mirror,
a part of yourself,
And much needed hugs.

Two different kinds of families
Two different kinds of love
Both a part of you.

Happy Mother's Day to ALL our moms: birth mothers, adoptive mothers, and future adoptive mothers.

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-03-31T19:24:00.003-06:00

Ogden FSA

cordially invites you to attend our

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Please join us on

Saturday, April 11, 2009

at 10:00 am

located at the

Washington Terrace East Stake Bowery

4800 South 300 West

Washington Terrace, UT 84405

Questions? Email us at ogdenfsa@gmail.com

See you there!!!

2009-03-23T20:02:00.015-06:00

On Saturday, March 21st, we had a great St. Patrick's Day Dinner at the Edgewood Reception Center at the mouth of Ogden Canyon. We had so much fun and the food was fantastic! We'd like to thank Randy and Karen at the Edgewood for making it possible! We'd like to thank all our couples who came for coming out and supporting FSA!

Christopher and Jeanette

Rodney & Kari and Diane & Justin

Nicole and Patrick

Brooke and Cody

Chris and Brittany

Sue didn't want her picture taken, but Les smiles for the camera

Cheryl and Perry

Brett and Shannon

Daniel and Ashley

Calleen and Neil

Travis and Kristin

We will be having our Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11th at 10:00 am at the Washington Terrace East Stake Bowery located at 4800 South 300 West in Washington Terrace. We hope to see you with your families there!

St. Patrick's Day Dinner and Dance

2009-03-11T16:26:00.002-06:00

CALLING ALL OGDEN FSA MEMBERS:

You are cordially invited to a
St. Patrick's Day Dinner & Dance

on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at:
6:00 pm at
The Edgewood Reception Center
1351 Valley Dr.
Ogden, UT 84401

Please RSVP by Thursday, March 19th
to ogdenfsa@gmail.com

See you there!

COMMITTEES

2009-03-05T15:18:00.003-07:00

There are lots of ways to serve and have fun in FSA. Join a committee!

Internet and Website Support Committee. (Committee Chair - Brittany Fowers). This committee is geared toward helping couples navigate the wonderful new Itsaboutlove website. You will help train new and all ready approved couples on how to put their profile and info online.

Conference & Activities Committee. (Committee Chair - Marisa) This committee will help provide special events and activities to help and support adoptive parents and their families, birth parents and their families, church groups, and the community. We planned out our calendar for the whole year 2009, so all you have to do is help us facilitate these activities!

Education and Support Committee. (Committee Chair - LoriAnn Garner). This committee will help LDSFS provide education and support to families involved in the adoption process. This committee usually helps with teaching the Adoption Education classes, as well as helps provide support to those who have been waiting a long time in the adoption process. This committee does school presentations on adoption and 5th Sunday presentations and Ward Counsel presentations about the services LDSFS provides.

Media and Outreach Committee. (Chair - Diane Humpherys) This committee in in charge of this blog! Now we have a source that you can come to day or night, 24/7 to get your Ogden FSA information. This blog is still under construction and we need all you tech experts out there to help make our blog a great place for adoptive couples and birthmoms to get information about adoption, our specific chapter and events, help and support, and networking and friendship. This committee is also charged with identifying resources to provide support to addoptive families and birthmoms.

If you are interested in joining a committee or serving as our Chapter Secretary please contact Marisa Stringham at stringhamms@gmail.com.

Calendar of Events

2009-03-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Here are the activities we will be involved in for FSA in 2009.

March
-18th - 19th - UAC Conference at the South Towne Expo Center
-21st - St. Patrick's Day Dinner - Couples Only

April
-11th - Easter Egg Hunt Activity - Families

May
-9th - Birth Mother's Day BBQ - Birth Mothers Only

June
-13th - Temple Night 6:00pm Session Ogden Temple

July
-15th - FSA Picnic - Families and Birthparents
-31st - Aug. 1st - FSA Conference Davis Conference Center in Layton

August
-1st - FSA Conference Davis Conference Center in Layton

September
-19th - Temple Night 6:00pm Session Ogden Temple

October
-? - Corn Maze/Pumpkin Carving Activity - Families

November
-Adoption Awareness Month
-? - Ogden Agency FSA Skating Party
-? - Adoption Appreciation Dinner for Couples

December
-Will Hold a Fast for Adoption

2009-03-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce the Ogden FSA Chapter Blog. Thanks for checking us out. This blog will keep you up to date on upcoming FSA activities and events. We hope to soon add additional links to helpful internet sites and articles on adoption related topics. Keep checking in with us and we hope this will be a helpful tool for adoptive couples and birth parents.

Ogden FSA

Annual Boondocks Activity!

FSA Lagoon Day!

National Conference News: Registration and Check-in Details

Win Conference Tickets!

Registration Reminder

Join us!

"I'm bored!"

Rooted In Love

Introducing 2011 FSA International Conference

Update: Flyer for Walk

FSA's Annual Celebrate Adoption Walk

Birthmother's Day Gift Ideas

Scrapbook of "All the Things I am Grateful For"

A Day in the Life Book

We need YOU!

FSA Shirt Design Contest!

Celebrating Adoption Event with Michael McLean

Bountiful Regional Center835 North 400 East North Salt Lake, UT 84054

Free pass along cards!

Minute To Win It!

Exciting Upcoming Activity!

Adoption Tax Credit Info

30 Ways to Celebrate National Adoption Month

National Adoption Celebration

Annual Adoption Walk on TV

Ogden FSA Temple Night

Schedule Change

Time to shake a leg, an orange leg.

Upcoming Events

FSA Fall Kick Off

Adoption Ally Program

FSA Newsletter

Have you signed up?

Families Supporting Adoption 2010 National Conference

National Conference Service Project

Mark your calendars!

National Infertility Awareness Week

Federal Adoption Tax Credit

Adopting Orphaned Haitian Children

ParentProfiles.com Discount

Good Publicity

SKATE PARTY CANCELLED

Be heard, it's as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Utah's 4th Annual Adoption Walk With Me

It's What Fun Is!

FSA National Conference 2009

Just a Reminder. . .

What Does That Medical Condition Mean For My Child?

Community Outreach

Upcoming Class!

Happy Mother's Day!

Easter Egg Hunt

St. Patrick's Day Dinner and Dance

COMMITTEES

Calendar of Events

Bountiful Regional Center
835 North 400 East North Salt Lake, UT 84054

Families Supporting Adoption
2010 National Conference