It was recently said, "Adopting a child who needs a home will NOT change the entire world. But for that child who finds a loving home, his or her entire world WILL be changed." That's what we're hoping to do. In addition to growing and enriching our family, we look forward to seeing the world, destiny, and life trajectory of a child change completely before our eyes. We are a Christian family of three living in Springfield, Missouri. For a few months we've felt God leading us to open our home, hearts, and lives to adopt a little girl whose family had either abandoned her, or who could not care for her. But from where? As a journalist and licensed Assemblies of God minister, Dan has had the opportunity to travel to almost 40 countries of the world. On these travels Dan has seen the ugly, brutal, heart-wrenching reality that human life is regarded as cheap in many places. And sadly the most cast aside, forgotten, abused, and long suffering ones who daily know and live this reality are little children. Tara always joked (half joked) when Dan would depart for another country, "Please know you can bring home one of those little ones because we'll give him or her the home and love they need." While traveling, Dan often anguished over the sheer number of little ones without homes, families, or love. But literally bringing one home was not an option. Finally, in 2016, after considering numerous options for adopting within the United States and other foreign nations, the country of BULGARIA in eastern Europe became the best option for our family. So we decided to pursue the adoption of a Burlgarian girl between the ages of 2-5 (the age at time of adoption), within the next two years. On October 31, 2016 our application as international adoptive parents was approved by MLJ Adoptions, a Hague Accredited adoption agency based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Within the next 24 months we hope to become the parents of a 2-5 year-old Bulgarian girl. There is a very high probability this child will be from Romani (or gypsy) descent. We are also open to adopting a child with special needs. What a marvelous journey this will be! So now the process begins. And it is far beyond our ability to manage or accomplish on our own. We know we will lean heavily upon family, friends, and complete strangers to help us reach our fundraising goals--which are significant. We need to raise at least $30,400 to finish this international adoption. We are willing to sacrifice our own resources and we are willing to work hard to make this happen. But even though we know this will be one of the hardest things we've ever done, we know that a little girl is out there waiting for a loving family to welcome her into their home. And every ounce of effort and every dollar invested is worth it! So we invite anyone with a heart for growing families, for children who have been abandoned or neglected, and for "the least of these" to partner with us in prayer and financial assistance. No gift amount is too small. If you can chip in $5 or $10 every so often, or one time, that will help us. If you, your family, or your church or buiness would like to help with $50, $100, $500 or more that will be a tremendous blessing. We want to offer thanks in advance for every person, family, church and/or business who will walk with us on this journey! Donations can be made online here or you can send a personal check in the mail, made outto: MLJ Adoptions Agency On the "memo line" write: Dan and Tara Kersten - Bulgaria And send your contribution to: MLJ Adoptions Agency 617 E. North Street Indianapolis, IN 46204 Or you can send the check to: Kersten Family Re: Bulgaria adoption 2536 S Camber Ave Springfield, MO 65809 We will make sure you receive a giving receipt for your taxes. Again, thank you for anything you can do to help! If you would like to contact us directly you may email dan.kersten@sbcglobal.net and request our phone number. We would love to speak with you and answer any question you have, as well as keep you updated on our journey. Sincerely, Dan, Tara, and Omar Kersten