Did you know that adoption can cost anywhere between $25,000-$50,000 ! This is such a HUGE topic when couples decide to star the adoption process. "Where are we going to come up with that kind of money?" "Are we even going to be able to afford a baby after we pay all the fees?"
We wish it could be a fraction of that costs but it's not, so we knew we needed to bring in the troops to help bring our baby home. Here are some ideas for fundraising that we have either tried, heard of other adoptive families trying, or are excited to be doing in the near future.
1. Instagram Auction
This was our first fundraiser. My incredible sister helped coordinate it and I am so thankful. Definitely get one or two friends/family to help with this one. We had tons of amazing companies and even friends donate their time or product to our auction. I figured if people were going to help us financially, they deserved something in return. And an auction was just that. Make sure you stay organized with what products are being auctioned off, the starting bid and then who was the highest bidder. Then if the highest bidder has paid or not. We just used a google docs that was shared between my sister and I and it was so helpful! Nothing got lost, we didn't feel overwhelmed and we could thank each person/company who donated easily. We made a good donation off of this and we definitely will be holding another one for our next adoption.
2. Yard Sale
We personally haven't done this one but have heard of other adoptive couples doing them. People can donate their stuff also and it's a win win for them. They are helping a family get closer to their baby and they are getting rid of their junk haha. It's great to put up signs saying what the cause of the yard sale. People love to help other people in a great cause. So make sure they now that they are helping build your family. Who knows, they might end up purchasing more stuff!
3. Sport Activity
We are very close to the college cheerleading team out here. (Both Riley and I were on the team for a bit) They wanted to help in some way so they organized an "open gym" where anyone could come and stunt and tumble and all the admission fees would go towards our adoption. It was incredible! Definitely got in contact with a team you've been working with or even a extra curricular activity. People are getting some fun out of it and also helping build a family!
4. Community Run
This was on our list and we actually had a whole committee organized for a 5k. But since we were matched so quickly, we couldn't find the time to get it going (also why we did the "open gym") We had a list of food trucks that would donate a certain percentage to our adoption. We were going to have a silent auction going on also, with items that companies and small shops had donated. And then there was the 5k, the main event. We had a $5 fee to enter into the 5k and then a deal for larger families. We are so excited to do this for our next fundraiser because it involves the whole family and community. Plus, Riley and I are both very active so it fits our family perfectly. This is a fundraiser where you could make really good donations at. Just stay organized with how much money is going out and who is donating what. Hence our committee that we had. Each person was assigned a different task. It was so organized and relieved so much stress.
5. Donation Page
I put this as our last one because it's something that is going on in the background of things. Riley and I strongly agree that you should work for what you want. A gofundme page or youcaring page is a great place for people to go to if they can't make any of your local fundraising events. But do not rely on this to raise your adoption funds. Work to get your baby here! Work hard, so it's all worth it and you can say you gave it all your blood, sweat and tears. We did have a youcaring account but had 3 other fundraising events going on at the same time. Like I said, it's a great way for Grandma and Grandpa to donate when they can't be here physically.
**Helpful Tips**
- Stay Organized! (spreadsheets, planners, etc)
- Have a separate adoption bank account set up. This will help with not mixing up personal finances and adoption finances
- PRAY! Pray that you wont become overwhelmed with the financial burden. Pray that you will know who to be in contact with to help you with each part. Pray that you will be humble to those asking to help you. Pray for gratitude that you were given this opportunity to welcome a child into your home.
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