Saturday February 11, 2006 the SJA Adoption Ministry sponsored their annual Options Workshop from 9:00 AM until noon in Hospitality Hall at St Joan of Arc. The program was open to anyone in the community, to help spread the word and give out information on the different types of adoptions. Ten people attended.

The first part of the program was a continental breakfast. While eating, Sheri Ahl introduced the presenters and each speaker gave a synopsis of their agency. Lastly, the group was given directions to where each speaker would be located. The morning was divided into three sessions, so that people would have the option to attend different talks and learn other alternatives.

Jane Newell, from Children’s Home Society and Family Services presented for MN Waiting Children. The parent representatives were Barb and Martin Cruz telling of their experiences with adopting through MN Waiting Children.

Domestic Infant Adoption information was given by Susan Hodnefield from HOPE Adoption and Family Services. The parent representative was Frances Spalding.

Ann Sinnott of Crossroads Adoption Services spoke of International Adoptions. The parent representative was Mary Lee Freeman, who adopted from Ethiopia.

Erica Dalhquist(right) from the Homecoming Project discussed the MN Waiting Teen Program.

Paula Berger was available to discuss her experience of adopting internationally while using an agency only for the home study.

The couples were eager to visit each session and learn about all the types of adoptions. It was a wonderful, spirited morning. As always the Adoption Ministry felt pleased at being able to spread the word on adoption and the joy it brings.


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Nancy Lynch says, "Joy is being a wife, Mom of fourteen, eight with varying disabilities and living at home, Grandma of thirteen, and Great Grandma of three. Serenity is listening and watching the ocean, alone, at our home on Maui. Passion is friends, photography, reading, swimming and children." Nancy can be reached at nalynch@aol.com.


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