Resources
Books
The Connected Child – Karyn Purvis
Adopted for Life – Russell Moore
Thriving as an Adoptive Family – David & Renee Sanford
Parenting your Internationally Adopted Child – Patty Cogen
Orphanology – Tony Merida & Rick Morton
Conferences
CAFO Summit This exciting conference draws over 2,000 foster and adoptive parents, orphan advocates, pastors, and professionals from around the world. Together, we explore effective foster care, adoption, family preservation, and global orphan ministry strategies.
Empowered to Connect Conference This is a powerful, 2-day event presented by Show Hope and the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development. All parents are encouraged to attend, but especially parents whose children have a history of trauma. (Simulcast is generally available!)
Refresh Gatherings This conference exists to encourage foster and/or adoptive parents, specifically those exhausted or discouraged on their post-placement journey. Escape from the distractions and chaos of life and be refreshed, equipped, and inspired.
Helpful Organizations
Empowered to Connect This parent training is an interactive learning experience taught from a Christian perspective, designed specifically for adoptive and foster parents.
Loving Shepherd This not-for-profit organization offers free, objective, personalized resources to make your adoption journey easier to navigate from start to finish. Not sure where to begin? Start by taking their free assessment here.
Hope for Orphans This organization provides Gospel-centered videos, articles, curriculum, training, and events to equip churches and Christians to love and advocate for orphans. Specifically, they offer an online training course, ROOTED, that provides Gospel-centered support for adoptive and foster families who may be struggling.
Adoption Learning Partners This organization offers interactive, e-learning courses on a vast array of topics designed to increase each person’s understanding of the joys and challenges of adoption.
Christian Alliance for Orphans Join 190+ respected organizations and over 650 church members to inspire and equip fellow Christians to effectively live out the Bible’s call to care for orphans and vulnerable children. Find invaluable resources and opportunities.