By Katie Wussow & Sue Sikkink |
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 Happy endings don’t always have happy beginnings. Late one afternoon, our agency received a call from a family stating they had been caring for a child that was not theirs for several months and they wanted to know how to go about providing a forever home for her. The child’s biological parents knew they could not provide a safe environment for their child and had asked the Smith* family if they would be willing to care for her. Ross and Sara* completed the home study process in rapid time – completing all three appointments and the required paperwork in just two weeks. The Smiths were determined to do whatever was necessary for this little child they had been entrusted with, for her ultimate well-being. Once Ross and Sara were home study approved, they worked with a lawyer to assist with finalization of the adoption. The Smith family is overjoyed to welcome this new addition to their family. Through Christian Adoption Services, God turned what began as a desperate situation into a beautiful story of hope. *Names changed to protect the privacy of the parties. |
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Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Paynesville, Minnesota!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University, pursuing their dual degree through Minot State University for Social Work and Human Development and Family Science. After graduation, I am hoping to work with families in some way. I am praying for the Lord to provide an open door for me to walk through.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
The ability to serve others while keeping God at the center of all work is what really drew me to Christian Adoption Services. Not all agencies allow God to even be mentioned by the social worker, so the opportunity for it to be such an influential part of an agency, and to learn from professionals who serve the Lord is amazing!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
My free time is usually filled with activities with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, chit chatting with my roommates and friends, wedding planning, or game nights with my friends!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” John 15:11-15 MSG God does not love us out of command, nor do we love him out of command. It is a choice and an honor. God provides joy, love, and leads by example. He calls us friends and desires relationship, what an honor!
I am originally from Paynesville, Minnesota!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University, pursuing their dual degree through Minot State University for Social Work and Human Development and Family Science. After graduation, I am hoping to work with families in some way. I am praying for the Lord to provide an open door for me to walk through.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
The ability to serve others while keeping God at the center of all work is what really drew me to Christian Adoption Services. Not all agencies allow God to even be mentioned by the social worker, so the opportunity for it to be such an influential part of an agency, and to learn from professionals who serve the Lord is amazing!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
My free time is usually filled with activities with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, chit chatting with my roommates and friends, wedding planning, or game nights with my friends!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” John 15:11-15 MSG God does not love us out of command, nor do we love him out of command. It is a choice and an honor. God provides joy, love, and leads by example. He calls us friends and desires relationship, what an honor!
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Chaska, Minnesota.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University and Minot State University. I plan to graduate with a dual degree in Social Work and Human Development & Family Science in May 2021. With my degrees I would love to work in Child Protective Services (CPS).
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
From a very young age I have always been interested in adoption. However recently, I was able to connect with a family that was blessed with a child through adoption at CAS. Through these moments I have always been interested in learning more about adoption and the career aspect of it. Being allowed the opportunity to intern at CAS has been a blessing, especially, being able to connect with my faith while serving both birth mothers and adoptive families.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I also love being active in nature, whether this is going for long outdoor runs, fishing, camping, or hiking, etc.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“Never travel faster than your guardian angel can fly.” -Mother Theresa I think this quote is something that I often look to as an important reminder that if I continue to go through things too quickly that my guardian angel cannot keep up. So, it is important to slow down and take time to think through everything and let my guardian angel stay by my side.
I am originally from Chaska, Minnesota.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University and Minot State University. I plan to graduate with a dual degree in Social Work and Human Development & Family Science in May 2021. With my degrees I would love to work in Child Protective Services (CPS).
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
From a very young age I have always been interested in adoption. However recently, I was able to connect with a family that was blessed with a child through adoption at CAS. Through these moments I have always been interested in learning more about adoption and the career aspect of it. Being allowed the opportunity to intern at CAS has been a blessing, especially, being able to connect with my faith while serving both birth mothers and adoptive families.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I also love being active in nature, whether this is going for long outdoor runs, fishing, camping, or hiking, etc.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“Never travel faster than your guardian angel can fly.” -Mother Theresa I think this quote is something that I often look to as an important reminder that if I continue to go through things too quickly that my guardian angel cannot keep up. So, it is important to slow down and take time to think through everything and let my guardian angel stay by my side.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Annandale, MN.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending Minnesota State University Moorhead. I plan to graduate with a Social Work degree in December! With my degree I hope to work with child protection services.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
I think adoption is a beautiful thing! So having an opportunity to work with an agency that changes lives through adoption was a blessing. It is truly Gods work!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I like to be active and spend time with my friends. We usually have game nights or movie nights.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This is a very common verse, but I think it is an important reminder that we are not in control of our lives, God has a plan for each of us!
We are currently accepting applications for spring interns, both in West Fargo and Bismarck. Contact our office for more information.
I am originally from Annandale, MN.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending Minnesota State University Moorhead. I plan to graduate with a Social Work degree in December! With my degree I hope to work with child protection services.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
I think adoption is a beautiful thing! So having an opportunity to work with an agency that changes lives through adoption was a blessing. It is truly Gods work!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I like to be active and spend time with my friends. We usually have game nights or movie nights.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This is a very common verse, but I think it is an important reminder that we are not in control of our lives, God has a plan for each of us!
We are currently accepting applications for spring interns, both in West Fargo and Bismarck. Contact our office for more information.
Per state licensing requirements, our COVID-19 preparedness plan is available to all staff, volunteers, and clients. Following the ND Smart Restart guidelines for the two office locations, we are currently open and serving clients remotely as well as in person when health screening questions have been asked and with social distancing, hand washing, and other preventative measures.
| CAS Covid_19_plan.pdf |
CAS family By: Cambria Larson
A connection was made. A nearby county was working on placing an eighteen month-old and I knew the foster parents. They were doing what they could to support the biological family, working towards reunification, but it was looking unlikely. Tina took a call with the county social worker and foster mom, but within a week or so, an extended family member was identified as the best option for the sweet little guy's placement.
Shortly after, though, we got a call from that county social worker. There was a sibling group of 4 who had been awaiting placement. Did we have any couples interested in adopting older children or siblings?
These are the moments we work for. Answered prayers of the agency, of waiting couples, of foster parents, of children who want a forever home....
Don't get me wrong. This journey was long and the process was tough. The waiting family and foster parents did not agree on everything along the way. The county required different steps than possibly what CAS would have. Despite all of it, this forever family is together and happy.
Christian Adoption Services has not focused on foster-adoption. Though we collaborate with the foster care system and county offices, we have primarily served clients in the infant adoption process. Whether or not you feel called to pursue foster care in this season, we are all instructed to care for the widow and orphan. Whether or not you think you "have what it takes" to welcome an older child into your home, there are many ways you can support families who do. What might it look like for you?
A connection was made. A nearby county was working on placing an eighteen month-old and I knew the foster parents. They were doing what they could to support the biological family, working towards reunification, but it was looking unlikely. Tina took a call with the county social worker and foster mom, but within a week or so, an extended family member was identified as the best option for the sweet little guy's placement.
Shortly after, though, we got a call from that county social worker. There was a sibling group of 4 who had been awaiting placement. Did we have any couples interested in adopting older children or siblings?
These are the moments we work for. Answered prayers of the agency, of waiting couples, of foster parents, of children who want a forever home....
Don't get me wrong. This journey was long and the process was tough. The waiting family and foster parents did not agree on everything along the way. The county required different steps than possibly what CAS would have. Despite all of it, this forever family is together and happy.
Christian Adoption Services has not focused on foster-adoption. Though we collaborate with the foster care system and county offices, we have primarily served clients in the infant adoption process. Whether or not you feel called to pursue foster care in this season, we are all instructed to care for the widow and orphan. Whether or not you think you "have what it takes" to welcome an older child into your home, there are many ways you can support families who do. What might it look like for you?
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27
By Jean Nasers
Link to Full Newsletter
Link to Full Newsletter
There is no typical or “cookie cutter” situation of those who face an unintended pregnancy, and this is why it is vital that we provide education in as many areas as possible in our communities.
It has been a privilege to see firsthand how simply educating people makes a difference in our ability to change lives. From our presentations, individuals are given the opportunity to see how many unintended pregnancies end in abortion verse adoption, who are the faces of adoption (birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents), and what adoption truly entails. After being presented with these facts, they are prompted to challenge their professed thoughts and opinions on the complex issues that surround a woman’s “right to choose.” This is extremely vital because it is only in the personal conversion of hearts and minds that we as an agency are able to persevere in the work God has given us of building forever families through adoption.
We are called to be children of the light. To produce every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:9). By supporting us in entering our schools, pregnancy centers, clinics, and churches to provide education on adoption, you are ensuring that hundreds of people are being given the opportunity to know, understand, and possibly consider this beautiful, life affirming choice.
History has shown that it often only takes a few people to change the world. At Christian Adoption Services, we are greatly motivated to change lives and make a difference. We are blessed to be supported by our community and ask that you consider supporting us in our mission of providing education on adoption.
First and foremost, we humbly ask for your prayers, for this is delicate and sometimes trying work. Second, we ask you to consider any personal or professional connections you may have that would benefit from receiving any adoption education (i.e. church groups, schools, community centers). Third, that you consider directly financially supporting our education efforts through a one time or monthly donation. All of our education programing is funded completely by donors and we need your support in order to continue providing this service to our community.
It has been a privilege to see firsthand how simply educating people makes a difference in our ability to change lives. From our presentations, individuals are given the opportunity to see how many unintended pregnancies end in abortion verse adoption, who are the faces of adoption (birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents), and what adoption truly entails. After being presented with these facts, they are prompted to challenge their professed thoughts and opinions on the complex issues that surround a woman’s “right to choose.” This is extremely vital because it is only in the personal conversion of hearts and minds that we as an agency are able to persevere in the work God has given us of building forever families through adoption.
We are called to be children of the light. To produce every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:9). By supporting us in entering our schools, pregnancy centers, clinics, and churches to provide education on adoption, you are ensuring that hundreds of people are being given the opportunity to know, understand, and possibly consider this beautiful, life affirming choice.
History has shown that it often only takes a few people to change the world. At Christian Adoption Services, we are greatly motivated to change lives and make a difference. We are blessed to be supported by our community and ask that you consider supporting us in our mission of providing education on adoption.
First and foremost, we humbly ask for your prayers, for this is delicate and sometimes trying work. Second, we ask you to consider any personal or professional connections you may have that would benefit from receiving any adoption education (i.e. church groups, schools, community centers). Third, that you consider directly financially supporting our education efforts through a one time or monthly donation. All of our education programing is funded completely by donors and we need your support in order to continue providing this service to our community.
By: Jean Nasers
About a month ago my husband and I found ourselves browsing the television trying to decide what to watch. We came across American Idol and decided to watch. Shortly after starting, a beautiful red headed young woman named Amber auditioned. She was thirty-eight weeks pregnancy and looked absolutely stunning. The judges immediately commented on her being pregnant. Amber launched confidently into her journey of coming to the discussion of choosing adoption for her daughter, stating “if I’m not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that?” For her audition she performed “Trust in Me” by Etta James. It gave both my husband and I goosebumps, and I may have teared up a bit. Amber’s voice is such a beautiful gift. A classic, rich tone that we rarely have the opportunity to hear these days.
I was so moved by this performance because her maturity and confidence in her decisions were evident. She understood that she was not “giving up” her child or “taking the easy way out,” but she was putting her daughter’s needs first. As someone who is constantly told that adoption is seen as something for those who do not love their child or as something that should not even be discuss, it was refreshing to see a modern story of loving sacrifice and a truly selfless choice broadcasted in such a public arena. It sometimes feels and appears that we are doing an upward battle promoting “the other choice” in today’s culture. It can seem hopeless sometimes, but then you see a story like Amber’s. A story of a woman who was broken and found her inner strength to make a life affirming decision for her daughter and gave a family the opportunity to have a child. What a positive and courageous choice!
The first performance that Amber gave on American Idol after her daughter was born was “Rise Up” by Andra Day. She had a remarkable and stunning performance, filled with emotion and passion.
She did make it though to the top 40 on American Idol but sadly did not make it to the top 20 (Final Performance). I hope that she continues to pursue her dream of being a performer and share her beautiful gift and story with the world. I know that my husband and I have become big fans and hope to see her succeed!
About a month ago my husband and I found ourselves browsing the television trying to decide what to watch. We came across American Idol and decided to watch. Shortly after starting, a beautiful red headed young woman named Amber auditioned. She was thirty-eight weeks pregnancy and looked absolutely stunning. The judges immediately commented on her being pregnant. Amber launched confidently into her journey of coming to the discussion of choosing adoption for her daughter, stating “if I’m not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that?” For her audition she performed “Trust in Me” by Etta James. It gave both my husband and I goosebumps, and I may have teared up a bit. Amber’s voice is such a beautiful gift. A classic, rich tone that we rarely have the opportunity to hear these days.
I was so moved by this performance because her maturity and confidence in her decisions were evident. She understood that she was not “giving up” her child or “taking the easy way out,” but she was putting her daughter’s needs first. As someone who is constantly told that adoption is seen as something for those who do not love their child or as something that should not even be discuss, it was refreshing to see a modern story of loving sacrifice and a truly selfless choice broadcasted in such a public arena. It sometimes feels and appears that we are doing an upward battle promoting “the other choice” in today’s culture. It can seem hopeless sometimes, but then you see a story like Amber’s. A story of a woman who was broken and found her inner strength to make a life affirming decision for her daughter and gave a family the opportunity to have a child. What a positive and courageous choice!
The first performance that Amber gave on American Idol after her daughter was born was “Rise Up” by Andra Day. She had a remarkable and stunning performance, filled with emotion and passion.
She did make it though to the top 40 on American Idol but sadly did not make it to the top 20 (Final Performance). I hope that she continues to pursue her dream of being a performer and share her beautiful gift and story with the world. I know that my husband and I have become big fans and hope to see her succeed!
Hearing the Stories of Birth Parents on Brave Love
This is part of a previous interview with a birth mom. One thing the social workers are often asked by prospective couples is how the expectant parents choose the family, or what things stand out to them when looking at a profile book or reading letters. It's different for every expectant parent, but here is what one birth mom said when reflecting on her experience....
What drew me to them... I wanted *Ethan to grow up in a similar way as our other kids. Seeing their pictures and reading their story probably 100 times just to make sure there wasn’t something I missed or that stuck out that didn’t feel right. Every time I read it I got a little more reassurance and felt some kind of connection to them. I had shared with Mike the link to take his time to see if any of the couples stood out to him. I had picked my top ones and he had then picked his 3. We had not shared with each other who we liked until one day at the same time we shared with each other and Jason, Alexa, and Carson (their son) were at the top of both our lists! I liked that Carson was the same age as my other son. The things they initially shared in their story about Carson spending time with dad learning things, as well as time with mom cooking, etc were similar to how I wanted him to be: well rounded in that way like my other kids. Upon meeting them for the first time, they were easy to talk to. Alexa reminded me of Mike, being more outspoken, and Jason reminded me more of myself, being maybe more shy/conservative in a way. We also found we have a lot of similar interests! There was some connection I felt with them right away. I also really liked how they had been through [an adoption] before and the openness they had with not just Carson’s parents but that his grandparents were in contact as well. Not one day has gone by that I have regretted picking them!
PS When we FaceTime or get together Carson and my son are like 2 peas in a pod and kind of like long lost friends in some weird way. They talk to each other right away and had done that from the first time they talked/met. It’s like another way God is reassuring me that this was how it was meant to be.
*Names changed for confidentiality
PS When we FaceTime or get together Carson and my son are like 2 peas in a pod and kind of like long lost friends in some weird way. They talk to each other right away and had done that from the first time they talked/met. It’s like another way God is reassuring me that this was how it was meant to be.
*Names changed for confidentiality
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Minneapolis, MN! I was born and raised in the cities and will always be a city girl at heart!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University. I will graduate with a bachelor's in Health Services and plan to continue on with my education and get my Master's in Social Work somewhere in the cities!
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
Some of my closest friends were adopted and I have always admired the adoption process and the amazing gift it gives families. When deciding what I wanted to do for a career, working with an adoption agency always had a special place in my heart because I love working with others and impacting their lives in such an amazing way.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
When I'm not working I love to spend time with friends and have game nights or stay in and watch movies on DisneyPlus!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
"Faith does not make things easy, it makes them possible" Inspired by Luke 1:37 and Phil 4:13. This quote has always inspired me because not everything in life comes easily, but with faith in the Lord there is nothing you can't accomplish.
Nicole is our first intern from NDSU! We are currently accepting applications for the fall.
I am originally from Minneapolis, MN! I was born and raised in the cities and will always be a city girl at heart!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University. I will graduate with a bachelor's in Health Services and plan to continue on with my education and get my Master's in Social Work somewhere in the cities!
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
Some of my closest friends were adopted and I have always admired the adoption process and the amazing gift it gives families. When deciding what I wanted to do for a career, working with an adoption agency always had a special place in my heart because I love working with others and impacting their lives in such an amazing way.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
When I'm not working I love to spend time with friends and have game nights or stay in and watch movies on DisneyPlus!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
"Faith does not make things easy, it makes them possible" Inspired by Luke 1:37 and Phil 4:13. This quote has always inspired me because not everything in life comes easily, but with faith in the Lord there is nothing you can't accomplish.
Nicole is our first intern from NDSU! We are currently accepting applications for the fall.
CAS
Working with expectant parents who want to make a life-affirming decision. Preparing couples to grow their family through domestic infant adoption.
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