2005 Holt Graduates Vietnam ReopensSeoul Sisters 27 Two graduates model an enduring friendship....

Sept/Oct 2005 Vol. 47 No. 4

2005 Holt GraduatesVietnam Reopens

Above: A childcare worker and children in care at the new Holt-supported Hanoi Center. Story page 8.

cOuntry fOcuSVietnam commitment 8The new Hanoi Center shows Holt’s endur-ing commitment to Vietnam.

frOm the familyarchitects 14An adoptive mother stopped reacting to intrusive questions—and became an archi-tect of cross-cultural understanding.

Korea: a young man‘s Journal 16A trip to Korea with Holt’s Annual Gift Team brings peace to one adopted teenager.

Special SectiOn2005 holt adoptee Graduates 18

adOpteeS tOdaytranscending Borders 26A Holt graduate’s college essay.

Seoul Sisters 27Two graduates model an enduring friendship.

adOptinGSpread the Joy 28Here’s what you can do to help more children find families.

departmentS

dear readers 3update 4directions 5around the Globe 6calendar 7easy to love 12family tree 30holt history 31

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contentsAs I looked through this year’s photos and listings of 121 graduat-ing adoptees, I saw several familiar names. Through the years, I’ve seen many of these adoptees in photos submitted for the “Family Tree” sec-tion or accompanying a letter to Holt. Now here they are on the brink of adulthood. How amazing!

For us here at Holt, it’s always a bit of a guilty plea-sure to scan these photos of bright and confident faces, try to absorb the tremendous breadth of accomplish-ments this group of young people has accumulated, and bask in the joy of seeing such positive progress in the lives of children we’ve helped into their families.

Among this year’s crop of grads, my eyes landed on the photo of Matt Bladek. I immediately went over to one of my file drawers of 35mm slides and pulled out a sheet marked “Bladek Arrival.”

Eighteen years ago I made the short drive to the airport just outside of Eugene, Oregon, and took photographs as one of our staff returned with a little boy from Korea and delivered him to a young couple.

The slides brought an instant recall of the wonder in those parents’ faces as they looked on their son for the first time. The little boy seemed a bit dazed by the whirlwind transposition from Korea to the western United States. Like new parents everywhere, Michael and Donna Bladek received their new son overwhelmed by the scope of what had been placed into their arms—a life, a child, a world in a little person.

It’s easy to see that so much has taken place since that day at the airport. I know firsthand about the invest-ments a parent makes into the lives of children: doctors bills, music lessons, braces, must-have clothes… But of course, as parents, we give those things willingly because we also get to give and receive things so much deeper and more meaningful.

Each graduate photo and entry represents years of a family’s commitment, investment, and devotion. Every personal history encompasses an extended family with generations that reach back and will reach forward in time. And each history involves people in at least two countries.

To the graduating adoptees—on behalf of all of us at Holt International, I wish to express our great pride in you. We pray that you will continue to develop in character and ability. We pray that you will be a blessing in your families as you continue on to further milestones in your lives.

Dear Readers

—John Aeby, Editor

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Cover photo: Nha, a girl in care in Vietnam with a Holt-support-ed foster family, spring 2005.

www.holtinternational.org 3

Bladek family, 1987.

update

sept/oct 2005 vol. 47 no. 4

holt international children’s services P.O. Box 2880 (1195 City View) Eugene, OR 97402 Ph: 541/687.2202 Fax: 541/683.6175our mission Holt International is dedicated to carrying out God’s plan for every child to have a permanent, loving family.

In 1955 Harry and Bertha Holt responded to the conviction that God had called them to help children left homeless by the Korean War. Though it took an act of the U.S. Congress, the Holts adopt-ed eight of those children. But they were moved by the desper-ate plight of other orphaned children in Korea and other countries as well, so they founded Holt International Children’s Services in order to unite homeless children with families who would love them as their own. Today Holt International serves children and families in Bulgaria, China, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Korea, Mongolia, the Philippines, Romania, Thailand, the United States, Uganda, Ukraine and Vietnam.

president & ceo Gary N. Gamer

vice-president of programs & services Carole Stiles

vice-president of marketing & development Phillip A. Littleton

vice-president of public policy & advocacy Susan Soon-keum Cox

vice-president of finance & administration Kevin Sweeney

board of directors chair James D. Barfoot vice-chair Julie Banta president emeritus Dr. David H. Kim secretary Steven Stirling members Donna V. Bailey, Kim S. Brown, Lawrence R. Cahill, Wilma R. Cheney, Clinton C. Cottrell, Will C. Dantzler, A. Paul Disdier, Rosser B. Edwards, David L. Hafner, Claire A. Noland, Janet E. Peterson, Jeffrey B. Saddington, Shirley M. Stewart

holt international magazine is published bimonthly by Holt International Children’s Services, Inc., a nonprofit Christian child welfare organization. While Holt International is responsible for the content of Holt International magazine, the viewpoints expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the organization.

editor John Aeby

managing editor Alice Evans

assistants Sara Moss; Mia Gryseels

subscription orders/inquiries and address changes Send all editorial correspondence and changes of address to Holt International magazine, Holt International, P.O. Box 2880, Eugene, OR 97402. We ask for an annual donation of $20 to cover the cost of publication and mailing inside the United States and $40 outside the United States. Holt welcomes the contri-bution of letters and articles for publication, but assumes no responsibility for return of letters, manuscripts, or photos.

reprint information Permission from Holt International is required prior to reprinting any portion of Holt International magazine. Please direct reprint requests to editor John Aeby at 541/687.2202 or [email protected].

arkansas office 5016 Western Hills Ave., Little Rock, AR 72204 Ph/Fax: 501/568.2827

california office 3807 Pasadena Ave., Suite 115, Sacramento, CA 95821 Ph: 916/487.4658 Fax: 916/487.7068

midwest office serving iowa, nebraska and south dakota 10685 Bedford Ave., Suite 300, Omaha, NE 68134 Ph: 402/934.5031 Fax: 402/934.5034

missouri office/kansas office203 Huntington Rd., Kansas City, MO 64113 Ph: 816/822.2169 Fax: 816/523.8379 122 W. 5th St., Garnett, KS 66032 [email protected]

oregon office Capitol Plaza 9320 SW Barbur Blvd., Suite 220, Portland, OR 97219 Ph: 503/244.2440 Fax: 503/245.2498

new jersey office 340 Scotch Rd. (2nd Floor), Trenton, NJ 08628 Ph: 609/882.4972 Fax: 609/883.2398

copyright ©2005 by holt international children’s services, inc. issn 1047-7640

Alternative Gift MarketsIn 1986, Alternative Gift Markets, Inc. (AGI) was orga-nized as a nonprofit, interfaith agency to send authentic, life-giving gifts to a needy world—gifts that nourish and sustain a more equitable and peaceful global community. AGI began publishing and distributing an alternative gifts catalog called “My Shopping List for the World.” Now in its 20th year, the catalog lists 35 projects from around the world helping homeless, sick and hungry people in crisis, and for the environment.

Holt projects in Romania, Thailand, and now Uganda, have been included in AGI’s catalog since 1998, raising almost $224,000 to help children affect-ed by HIV/AIDS. The catalog can be downloaded from the AGI website at www.alternativegifts.org.

Military serviceHolt parent Cindy Schuman asks for prayers for son Daniel, a 2004 graduate adopted from Thailand, as he leaves for service with his Marine unit over-seas. Please pray for all Holt adoptees who are serving in the military.

Angels in AdoptionThree Holt workers are being honored this year with the “Angels in Adoption” award. Jian Chen, Director of International Programs for China and a Eugene staff member, was nominated by Senator Ron Wyden (OR). Long-time Holt social worker Pat Keltie, who opened the Holt New Jersey branch 24 years ago and retired from her post as branch director in June 2004, was nominated by Congressman Frank LoBiondo (NJ). And Portland volunteer Char Woodworth, who chairs the Portland Auction committee, was nominated by Senator Gordon Smith (OR).

In MemoryBlake Edward Armstrong passed away December 28, 2004, at age 30, after fighting a rare form of stomach cancer for more than a year. He was

adopted from Vietnam at age 1 by Gene and Mary Armstrong and raised in Texas. He studied criminal justice at Blinn College and worked for the Washington County Sheriff’s Department on the Narcotic Task Force. He is survived by his wife, Jenny Lynn Armstrong, of Brenham,Texas, along with his mother, brother and two sisters. ■

4 Sept/Oct 2005

Blake Armstrong (Vietnam) holds nephew Ryan Henderson, 6 months (Korea), January 2004.

directions


My friend Rev. Schulyer Rhodes recently wrote that children are God’s promise to the world. As I reflect on this insight, I think of the great potential every child has if just given the

chance. Also coming to mind is the simple but profound admonition from our founder, Harry Holt, that every child deserves a family. Finally, there is also a sense of trans-formation in this insight. If children can be nurtured and thrive, our world will be a better place.

Central to all the work of Holt International is the act of advocacy. Holt advocates for the basic right of children to be cared for through permanent, loving families. To be success-ful, we must transform the way people think about children and act in their best interest. Nowhere has this been more evident in recent times than in Vietnam and Romania.

In 1991 Holt began its work in Romania, responding to the nightmare of thousands of children languishing in insti-tutions across the country after the fall of the Ceausescu dictatorship. Infants lay motionless in their cribs with few caregivers present. Toddlers rocked back and forth in an effort to self-stimulate themselves. Older children showed evidence of serious developmental delays… and children with disabilities were mired in squalid conditions. Foreign families arrived in droves looking to adopt children. Taxi drivers met them at the Bucharest airport and tried to serve as adoption facilitators.

Amidst this chaos, Holt International entered Romania. Our objective was to develop family-based care as an alter-native to institutionalizing children, and to place children responsibly with U.S. parents if families could not be secured for Romanian children in the country of their birth.

Holt has been instrumental in reversing institutionaliza-tion in favor of family-based alternatives for children. Our impact was made clear to me in July when I visited the city of Medgidia, where Holt has helped hundreds of children stay in their birth families. The deputy mayor told me, “Holt has changed the way we think about children.” Families in crisis whose children are at risk of institutionalization are identified by officials and agencies in the community and referred to Holt. An emphasis on parenting skills has

been key to the family preservation success of our partner agency, the Holt Romania Foundation.

Shortly after my conversation with the deputy mayor, I spoke with a young mother within the minority Roma com-munity. She told me that because of Holt, she no longer allows her frustrations and challenges to be taken out on her child. Transforming people’s thinking and behavior about children goes to the core of Holt’s work. It is what we strive for as we seek to reverse the global crisis of children being outside family care through permanent, loving families.

Unfortunately, adoptive placements to foreign families have been virtually shut down due to pressure from the European Union, which Romania is trying to join. But Holt’s presence in Romania has gone far beyond intercountry adoption and continues to make a profound difference in the lives of children.

Half a world away in Vietnam, Holt faced another situ-ation where intercountry adoption had been stifled for three years due to the absence of an agreement

between U.S. and Vietnamese authorities as required by a new Vietnamese law. Holt did not withdraw its presence as did many other agencies whose sole focus was intercountry adoption. While we vigorously lobbied the governments to come to an agreement, Holt continued to provide vital ser-vices to children through foster care, domestic adoption and family preservation.

We are thankful that so many Holt supporters and others joined us in successfully lobbying for the bilateral agreement to enable intercountry adoption to resume from Vietnam. Officials signed such an agreement in July.

Although Holt specializes in providing direct services to children, our advocacy efforts in countries such as Vietnam are crucial to laying the groundwork for children to be in families. As in Medgidia, Romania, this arena of Holt’s work ultimately requires transforming people’s attitudes and the regulatory framework that so directly affects children. In every country of Holt presence, we are strongly engaged in such advocacy. ■

In Romania and Vietnam Holt’s steadfast commitment to childrenBy Gary n. Gamer, President & ceo

Gar

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India

Bharatiya Samaj Seva Kendra (BSSK), a Holt partner agency in Pune, lost the con-

tents of an outreach office in Chiplun during the disas-trous July floods in Mumbai and the Konkan region. Staff reported, “Records of ten years of work are lost.” BSSK facilities in Pune, Aurangabad and Sangli were not dam-aged. BSSK’s construction of a center in Chiplun was set back by loss of material at the construction site, includ-ing donated appliances such as a washing machine, refrig-erator and water purifier. After ten years of starting this branch, BSSK will have to start almost from scratch again.

In other news from India, Mary Paul, the director of Vathsalya Charitable Trust, traveled to the Andaman Islands to provide training in grief counseling at the invitation of the Institute of Christian Counseling. The islands are in the area devastated by the December 2004 tsunami. The training workshops occurred on the tiny island of Car Nicobar, where in one village of 2500, 300 died or were missing. Mrs. Paul reported that the “Nicobaris are very good singers and are musically minded, but the disaster we learnt stilled their voice and music. As part of the healing process, we taught them two songs and encouraged them to start singing again. At the end of the program, we were rewarded by their teaching us a Nicobari number—a song of victory. This was an action song, and we do believe that it helped lift their hearts and will aid in recovery.”

china

In the tradition of its long-running Korean Heritage Tours, Holt International led its first heritage tour to China in mid-June. Holt staff from China and the United States accompa-

nied the group of 12 families with 16 children—most of them adopted from Guangxi Province. They toured cultural and tourist sites in Beijing, Nanning, Yangshuo, Guilin, Suzhou and Shanghai. Government officials and staff at the offices of the China Center of Adoption Affairs welcomed the families and their children. The group also visited orphanages, caretakers and foster families that played an integral part in their personal

adoption stories. Officials of the Guangxi Ministry of Civil Affairs joined the families for a banquet meal. Special discussion meetings related to adoption and Chinese culture were held along the way.

Holt plans at least one family tour to China next year. Families whose children will be at least 8 years old at time of travel may con-tact the China Program for more information.

Romania

Despite current impasses in domestic adoption and fos-ter care due to recent regu-

latory changes, advances in child welfare in Romania are notewor-thy—and Holt has played a major role in this process. In July, Holt President and CEO Gary Gamer visited Holt-funded facilities in Romania and talked to local officials. The deputy mayor of Medgidia told Gamer the single biggest accomplishment Holt made in his town was it “changed the way we think about children.” A family preserva-tion parent said that due to Holt’s intervention in her life, she doesn’t take her troubles out on her children any more. “Both comments,” said Gamer, “show the transformational shift we have been a key part of—particularly the role of responsible parenting to children as a means to prevent abandonment and homelessness.”

Holt played a significant role in the transformation through its model programs, Gamer said. Examples are: Holt reached extensively to minority communities having high risk of child abandonment. Children staying in families through crisis early intervention services have replaced traditional orphanages. Other youth are in long-term foster care or family-type group homes. Now, local families may have the capacity to absorb all young and healthy children in need of homes.

Ukraine

A Holt grant to assist the Sunshine Summer Camp program is giving city youth a chance for fun and interaction at a camp in the countryside. The children are selected from

Holt’s street shelter program and from families in crisis. Staff get to know the children well and use this program as a spring-board to provide services best suited for them. Foster place-ments and family reunification and preservation activities have stemmed from this program. Sunshine specializes in therapy for youth and families.

Mongolia

this year the Ministry of Social Welfare and Labor in Mongolia completed the first ever survey of orphanages and childcare centers in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

The care centers’ housing conditions, provision of food and commodities, availability of medical aid and socialization spaces

6 Sept/Oct 2005

VCT director Mary Paul traveled to Car Nicobar to offer grief counseling for tsunami survivors. File photo (2004).

At the Great Wall with China Tour travelers Grace Kirkpatrick and her mom, Sally Fessler.

country news

calendar


Family Tours to China

Holt is now in the process of planning heritage tours to China for 2006 and beyond. For more information, contact: Lisle Veach

at [email protected] or Steve Hejna at

[email protected]

Arkansas Oct. 22—Little Rock, War Memorial

Pavillion Annual International Festival & Picnic includes a potluck and informational meeting for prospective families and support meeting for existing families. RSVP (501) 568-2827.

CaliforniaOct. 1—Plaza Park, Visalia

Holt Family Picnic for adoptive families, adult adoptees, parents in process and prospective adoptive parents. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. (rain or shine). Contact: Todd Kwapisz at (503) 244-2440.

Jan. 29, 2006—St. Mary’s Cathedral, San Francisco Silk Bag Luncheon to benefit homeless children in Thailand. Contact: Monica Wilton at (800) 451-0732 or [email protected]

IowaSept. 19—St. Andrews Lutheran

Church, Cedar Rapids Recruitment Meeting for adoptive parents. 7–9 p.m. Contact: Linda Langland at (641) 752-4561.

Sept. 22—Best Western City Centre, Sioux City Recruitment Meeting for adoptive parents. 7–9 p.m. Contact: Phyllis Lesage at (712) 722-4653.

Sept. 24—Le Grand Community Park Holt Family Picnic for adoptive families, adult adoptees, parents in process and prospective adoptive parents. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. (rain or shine). Contact: Todd Kwapisz at (503) 244-2440.

KansasSept. 25—Overland Park Holt Family

Picnic for adoptive families, adult adoptees, parents in process and prospective adoptive parents. 1–5 p.m. (rain or shine). Contact: Todd Kwapisz, (503) 244-2440.

MissouriOct. 8—Concordia Seminary, St.

Louis Adoption Workshop

9 a.m.–noon. Contact: Judy Young, Branch Manager, (816) 822-2169.

Oct. 26—Central United Methodist Church, Kansas City Halloween Costume Fest for Holt Support Group. Contact: Judy Young, Branch Manager, (816) 822-2169.

Oct. 29—Cox Health South, Springfield 2005 Adoption Fair. Contact: Judy Young, Branch Manager, (816) 822-2169.

NebraskaSept. 21—Westside Community

Conference Center, Omaha Recruitment Meeting for adoptive parents. 7–9 p.m. Contact: Celeste Snodgrass at (402) 639-0520.

Feb. 25, 2006—Omaha Benefit Auction for children in India. To donate or volunteer contact Tracy Frerichs at (402) 614-6002 or [email protected].

OregonSept. 10—Cook Park, Tigard

Holt Family Picnic for adoptive families, adult adoptees, parents in process and prospective adoptive parents. 11–3 p.m. (rain or shine). Contact: Todd Kwapisz, (503) 244-2440.

Sept. 24—Athey Creek Middle School, Portland Chusok Celebration sponsored by NW Korean Culture Society.

Oct. 22—Montgomery Park, Portland Live & Silent Auction to benefit children in India. To donate an item or volunteer, contact: Char Woodworth at (503) 638-2518 or [email protected].

For more information visit holtinternational.org

Vietnamese Adoptees Reunion* sept. 16–19, 2005YMcA of the Rockiesestes Park, colorado

For more information visit:[email protected]

*this event not sponsored

by Holt International.

were assessed. The MSWL found many inconsis-tencies in the quality of care children receive in these facilities, and recommends approving stan-dards of care for childcare centers in Mongolia in addition to monitoring centers’ activities. The MSWL is developing a set of standards for Mongolian childcare centers as well as a national plan of action to implement safeguards against the commercial sexual exploitation and traffick-ing of children. The Mongolian government plans on expanding the survey process to outly-ing provinces in the coming months.

KoreaHolt-Korea held Bertha Holt’s 5th Memorial Service at Ilsan Center in July. Grandma Holt passed away on July 31, 2000. ■

neighborhoodcalendar

8 Sept/Oct 2005

by John Aeby, Director of Communications

two small children suddenly scampered out of the doorway as I approached one of the toddler rooms at the newly opened Hanoi Center.

A little girl, about two years old, pushed past my legs and pattered away just as fast as her little red tights would allow.

A little boy followed also heading down the covered veranda, his white socks barely keeping traction on the tile floor. A slight “wardrobe malfunction” forced a sud-den slowdown while he reached back to hitch up pants that had started to fall down.

The two wayward toddlers had gotten only 25 feet or so down the veranda when they turned to look back. Like many other children who are being just a bit naughty, the two escapees checked to see if someone was coming after them—hoping perhaps to actually get away with their little breakout and, at the same time, hoping to have the assurance their caretaker wouldn’t ever let it happen.

Then there she was at the doorway. After a quick, gra-cious greet-ing to me, the childcare worker turned her attention to the chil-dren. She spoke a few words in Vietnamese that I couldn’t translate, but the tone was unmistakable: “Yes, you’re cute and fast, but this is where you need to be, so please come back.”

The two toddlers started back, considerably slower than when they escaped. The girl’s red tights now bag-ging a little around the toes, and the little boy still holding up the back of his pants. But the two children didn’t slink

A new childcare center near Hanoi opens just in time to meet the needs of orphaned and abandoned children coming into care following the reopening of adoption between Vietnam and the U.s.

Developing Little

Adventurersin

Vietnam

back, dejected or pouting. I think they were still just a bit proud of themselves.

You can learn a lot about a childcare center seeing a small incident such as this. At most children’s institutions you’re more likely to notice the absence of such an incident. It takes a lot of attentive care to give children the energy, confidence and spunk to test the boundaries a little bit. Children are naturally inquisitive and adventuresome, but so many children’s institutions don’t have enough staff to give children freedom and encouragement to develop their personalities and a thirst to explore the world.

Not so the recently opened Hanoi Center. The brightly decorated toddler rooms have open shelves and bins of books and toys, all at the children’s level where they can get them.

Even the infant rooms have floors covered with brightly colored and illustrated foam panels.

The government of Vietnam and Holt-Vietnam opened the newly constructed child-care facility this past February. At the Center homeless children from infants to pre-school-ers receive loving care, medical treatment and lots of loving stimulation until a permanent family can be prepared or temporary foster family arranged.

Since the mid 1990s Holt had been working toward opening a new center near Hanoi in the north. Holt-Vietnam is already caring for children in well-designed childcare facilities in central Vietnam at DaNang and in the south at Binh Duong.

Several Holt supporters who visited the previous center recognized the need to pro-


Opposite page: Top, child in care at the new Hanoi Center. Bottom, a childcare worker at the Hanoi Center embraces a child. This page: Dam Thi Thuy Hang, Adoption Coordinator and Northern Program Coordinator for Holt-Vietnam, and Ho Dang Hoa, Country Director, hold children in care in front of the new Hanoi Center.

Developing Little

Adventurersin

Vietnam

10 Sept/Oct 2005

Above: Dam Thi Thuy Hang, Northern Program

Coordinator and Adoption Coordinator

for Holt-Vietnam, stands in front of the Hanoi

office. Right: Dr. Thuy, Orphanage Director, helps toddlers with a

meal at the Hanoi Center.

vide a safer, healthier environment and pledged funds to build. Unfortunately, like many rapidly growing cities in Asia, Hanoi has a severe shortage of available land. That and other complications delayed the project, but a fortunate chain of events led the Vietnamese gov-ernment to construct the colorful new facility conveniently close to the Holt-Vietnam administrative offices. The funds previously pledged to build the facility were used to furnish the Center. Stainless steel cribs, colorful child-appro-priate furniture, a well-equipped clinic and all the many other supplies need-ed to care for small children attest to

thoughtful attention to meeting children’s needs.

Holt-Vietnam and the Vietnamese govern-ment work very closely to maintain the cen-ter and meet children’s needs. “Our social workers are out here nearly everyday work-ing with the children, working with the staff, to make sure that the children are healthy and developing as they should,” said Holt-Vietnam Director Ho Dang Hoa.

When I visited last March, the program was still under a cloud of uncertain-ty. A moratorium on international

adoption placements of children with U.S. parents caused Holt-Vietnam to make many adjustments in its program. All of Holt’s other programs continued, however: single mothers programs, foster care programs, orphanage support, family preservation programs, and domestic adoption.

Because of the indefinite moratorium on international adoptions to U.S. families, Holt-Vietnam had been careful about the children brought into its program. The prospect of caring for children for years instead of moving them into permanent families forced Holt-Vietnam to take in only a limited number of the most needy children.

Phung, the little boy escapee, was one of those children. Born HIV-positive to parents diagnosed with AIDS, Phung was facing a child-hood devoid of human affection. Then Holt-Vietnam began working with the AIDS facili-ties where Phung was born, demonstrating the importance of affection for children, especially those diagnosed as HIV-positive. Holt also

helped design appropriate caring methods.Like many children born HIV-positive,

Phung spontaneously became HIV-negative as he began to grow. At that point the program transferred him to Holt.

Because of the international adoption mora-torium, his future was uncertain then. But recently the U.S. and Vietnamese govern-ments reached an agreement, paving the way for reopening international adoptions between the two countries. Phung and other chil-dren who probably would not be adopted in Vietnam can now hope for a family in the United States.

With adoptions resuming, Holt-Vietnam is now also gearing back up to take in more orphaned, abandoned and vulnerable chil-dren. The opening of the Hanoi Center, as it turns out, was well timed.

The children at Holt-Vietnam centers and in Holt-Vietnam foster care can now see a bright future with families of their own. In the meantime, however, they’ll continue to receive loving care—and a little encouragement to be a bit adventuresome. ■


In June 2005 an historic agreement was reached between the United States and Vietnam that will pave the way for reopening adoptions of Vietnamese children to American families. This came after nearly three years of negotiations between the two countries.

Adoptive families and proponents across the United States also advocated for the children by urging the U.S. government to expedite its efforts to resolve issues con-nected to the agreement.

The agreement was required as a result of efforts by the Vietnamese government to improve the adoption process in Vietnam. Part of the decree required Vietnam to place children only in countries with which it has bilateral agree-ments on adoption.

The new decree improved the past system by:• Creating a central office for processing adoptions at the

Ministry of Justice. • Requiring that children be placed only from licensed

child caring facilities.• Requiring that children can only be placed through for-

eign adoption agencies, which must be licensed in their home country.Holt International is committed to ethical adoption

practices and has supported the efforts of the Vietnamese government to improve the system for children.

In the next few months the government of Vietnam is establishing a protocol for placing children with U.S. adop-tive families. Adoptions are expected to resume before the end of 2005.

During the years of negotiations for the adoption agree-ment, Holt could not place children with American fami-lies, but all of our other programs continued. Holt provid-ed single mothers programs, foster care programs, orphan-age support, family preservation programs, and adoption programs. During the moratorium Holt helped more than 200 children remain with their birth families, more than 75 children be returned from orphanage or foster care to their birth families and more than 50 children be placed with families domestically.

Vietnam and U.s Reach Accord on Adoption

SurajBorn in India, Sept. 22, 2002Cheerful and helpful, Suraj has a charming smile, enjoys playing with other children and behaves “like a leader.” He has undergone surgery for bilateral cleft lip and pal-ate and for hypospadias and will continue to need sur-geries along with speech therapy. Suraj may also have scoliosis. His physical and cognitive development are said to be on target for his age. He can speak several words, run without support and string beads together. When he came into care he was very underweight and although still underweight, he is doing well.

NitinBorn in India, June 10, 2004Nitin likes to play with other children and enjoys receiving personal attention from his caretakers. He is described as active, curious and observant. Born premature with a low birth weight, he was hospitalized for jaundice and hyaline membrane disease. Nitin also has moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears. In March he could roll over, sit alone and crawl on his stomach. He responded to facial expressions with smiles and sounds.

AmandaBorn in Haiti, September 3, 1994Amanda is a hard worker who follows through with her work and is a big help to her housemother. She does not do well in school but enjoys reading. She is often the group leader and likes to play with other girls in her group home. She enjoys braiding their hair and can do some intricate styles! Amanda came into care at about 4 years of age and is reported to have had a seizure once in the past. Two inconclusive tests were performed to determine if she has syphi-lis. She is currently report-ed to be in good health. In this section we introduce children who are wait-

ing for adoptive families. They may be older, have medical conditions or be part of a sibling group. Each child is very special with much to offer the family who accepts one as their own son or daughter.

The children shown here represent just a few of those who need parents. Because Holt’s website provides a more complete listing and can be updated daily, we ask you to view additional children at www.holtinternational.org/waitingchild.

If you would like more information about a particular child, please contact Carrie Palmer in our Waiting Child Program. She would be happy to share more information with you. You can request a Waiting Child Packet either by calling the Waiting Child Program at (541)687-2202 or through our website.

These descriptions of waiting children are based on information available to Holt from caregivers and medical personnel in the children’s country of origin. Holt cannot guar-antee the accuracy of these descrip-tions or that the medical and psycho-logical diagnoses of the children are correct or complete.

Suraj

Printing photo-graphs of waiting children in lively,

full color has been made possible

through a donation from the Cassani

family. On behalf of the children…

thank you.

12 Sept/Oct 2005

Mary

Vivek

children with special needs

aren’t hard to adopt,they’re…

Amanda

Nitin

VivekBorn in India, June 26, 2004Vivek enjoys looking at colorful toys and listening to music. In April he could turn fully with a little help, was trying to crawl, and raised his head in response to sounds. Vivek has cerebral palsy, hypertonicity in his upper limbs and was hospitalized in Sept. 2004 for seizures. A cranial USG was nor-mal. He has physical and cognitive delays, does not recognize his caretakers or peers and sometimes has short concentration. He verbalizes happy sounds and moves his limbs in response to attention from his care-takers.

MaryBorn in Latin America, May 9, 2002Mary loves to dance, play with dolls and ride her tricycle. She joined her foster family shortly after birth and loves to imitate her foster mother doing laundry and household work. In Sept. 2003 she had a seizure and was diagnosed with epilepsy, for which she takes medication. She has not had a seizure since. She has mild cognitive and motor delays and has made good progress in catching up in all areas since her seizure. Mary attends day care where she receives language and behavior modification therapy. She follows instructions, learns quickly and is curious to learn new things.

ClaytonBorn in Latin America, Oct. 30, 1998Clayton likes to draw, create games to play with other children and has adapted well to his foster family. He takes initiative to help with errands. Clayton has some develop-mental delays, most notably in communica-tion skills, and was recently diagnosed with Attention Deficit Syndrome but is otherwise healthy. An experienced family who has par-ented past his age, and where Clayton would be the youngest, would be a good fit for him.

JasonBorn in China, June 8, 1998A smart, energetic boy who likes drawing and sports, Jason makes many friends and is learning some English. He has already undergone surgery for cleft lip and palate. A small hole remains in his palate, and he will need additional surgeries along with speech therapy. Jason is attached to his foster family, who he joined shortly after birth, and loves playing with their dogs.

Jeffrey & JacksonBorn in Haiti, July 26, 2001 and Dec. 28, 2004—These brothers recently came into care and are reported to be in good health. Jeffrey is well liked by his peers and enjoys playing with them. He is described as being very talkative and polite, and he enjoys draw-ing. Jackson appears to be a happy little boy. In June he turned his head to voices, grabbed toys, transferred them from hand to hand, and inspected them. Experienced par-ents would be ideal for this sweet pair.

ShrikanthBorn in India, December 26, 1998Shrikanth came into care Sept. 2003 in good health. Friendly, active and expressive, he gets along well with other children. His physical and cognitive development are normal for his age. He attends school, loves learning new things including English, and his language and communication skills have improved since he entered care. He reported a history of abuse in his birth family. Shrikanth has adjusted well to the foster family he joined in mid-2004.

VikramBorn in India, March 3, 2004Vikram smiles and coos when carried by his caretakers, enjoys watching other children play, and shares his toys with them. In March 2005 he could pick up toys, sit with-out support, and creep forward. He has developmental delays, metabolic seizures, his neck and limbs are hypertonic, and he receives therapy. Vikram also has bilat-eral otorrhea, which currently affects his hearing. He waits for a family who can provide the love and services he needs.

Clayton

VikramShrikanth

oregon Waiting child In Oregon many children in state foster care are waiting for adoptive homes. Agencies reduce fees for the adoption of a child in state care, and financial assistance may be available. To learn more, call the Special Needs Adoption Coalition at The Boys and Girls Aid Society at (877)932-2734 x 2392, or DHS at 1(800)331-0503. Also visit www.boysandgirlsaid.org and www.nwae.org for information and photos of waiting children. Singles and couples are encouraged to call.

Tabbitha, age 8 Tabbie, with her cop-pery-red hair and out-going nature, made admirable progress in the last year. She is savoring her new experiences. Soccer, hockey and hiking are sports she enjoys. She also has a penchant for arts and crafts

activities. At school, Tabbie is in a regular classroom and receives assistance from an IEP as well as an individual aide. Counseling has also been an important tool for Tabbie.

Adoptive parents will need to be skilled in parenting special needs children and able to provide structure, supervision and consistency. When Tabbie gives one of her frequent hugs or takes your hand to show you her latest discovery, your patience and sacrifice will seem well worth the consider-able challenges of healing her past hurts.

Tabbie likes to listen to all kinds of music, watch movies, play dress-up, walk the dog, swim, play with her baby foster sister and ride a bike. She likes to ride a 4-wheeler with her foster mom and play on the swing-set and trampoline.

“My favorite foods are pizza and spaghetti,” she says. “If I could pick my mom and dad I would like them to be nice. Also let me play outside and let me play with my brothers and

sisters if I had any.”

Jeffrey & Jackson

Jason www.holtinternational.org 13

See more children at www.holtinternational.org/waitingchild

14 Sept/Oct 2005

Bridge building involves precision design, skilled workers and hours of labor for the final product—a bridge—connecting two pieces of land so people can travel

with ease between destinations. Building bridges as an adoptive family is also a challenging feat, one that requires openness, communication and a willingness to share personal stories to promote understanding between people. When we share our families with others, we extend our hand in a gesture to strengthen cross-cultural awareness.

When I was a young girl, I made the decision that I would forego having children of my own when I got married, and would instead create my family through adoption. This fit my beliefs and my strong desire to provide a home for an orphaned child. Although I didn’t realize then that this decision would involve more than sim-ply providing a home for a child, I knew the path would be unique.

In 1997, my husband and I adopted our daugh-ter from India through Holt. Since then, I have waded through some challenging situ-ations with strangers who prodded me with

questions and unusual remarks. Some were blatantly impolite, some innocently curious, but all stemmed from the fact that my daughter and I look different from one another. Our differences in appearance seem to elicit a primal response in some people to make a connection.

On our daily outings to parks or supermarkets people often stared at the two of us and asked pointed questions about my daughter and what our relationship was. Questions such as, “Is she yours?” “Her skin is darker than yours.” “She’s really your daughter?” They asked what my husband’s ethnic background was as they tried to make sense of our differences. Although I am half East Indian and not that different in appearance from my Indian daughter, it’s true we weren’t biologically related. We were, however, related as mother and daughter, and the sting of their remarks hurt because Sumi felt like my biological daughter.

At first I became angry and wanted to blow back rebuttals of outrage and shock. I wanted to tell these people how rude they were and how much their bold comments hurt. But I didn’t. I gave them only simple answers such as, “Yes, she’s my daughter.” And if they were lucky, I added, “And she’s adopted.”

My defensive reaction did not help me cope, nor did it create a positive environment for any of us. Then I realized I needed to take a differ-ent approach to handling questions and looks: I needed to acknowledge that my family was unusual—and our daughter did look different from my husband and me.

I slowly began to change my attitude toward the stares and remarks people made, and began to embrace them with an openness to help pro-

By sarojni Mehta-Lissak Long Beach, calif.

Above: Sarojni and Sumi, age 10 months, in

August 1995.

ARcHItectsOne conversa-tion at a time, adoptive families can help build bridges between cultures by being open to strangers curious about appearances.

from the family


My mom and dad wanted a baby very badly. On vaca-tion in Canada, they stopped to pray at the shrine of St. Ann Beaupre. St. Ann also had a hard time having a baby. It was there that they decided to start their family through adoption. Upon arriving home, they completed the papers, sent the money and began the hard part of waiting for me.

One hot July day, my mom received a phone call at work telling her that I was coming home from Korea around Thanksgiving. But on Mom’s birthday, a second call from the adoption agency told her I was coming home much sooner. What a wonderful birthday present. Her little girl was coming home. On September 9, 1996, I arrived in Philadelphia after a long plane ride. All, and I mean all, of my relatives were there. They went ga-ga over a 6-month-old baby girl from Seoul. Mom and Dad always say it was the happiest day of their life.

So, it isn’t so bad being adopted. Except when people stare at you. This makes me feel weird. Also, when every-one wants to show you everything that says, “Made in Korea.” Some people even ask me, “Who are your real parents?” I simply answer, “They are Mr. and Mrs. Rienzi.” Then they say, “Really?” and I say, “Yes, really.” These

things make up the .1 percent bad part about being adopted. There are 99.9 percent good parts about being adopted.

My parents love me so very much, as much as I love them. Whether it’s birthday parties, music and dance lessons, acting classes, auditions in New York City, learning about my Korean heritage, helping me study for tests or just reading together, they are the best parents any girl could ever have. They always put my brother and me first. Speaking of my brother, Anthony, even when he annoys me, I love him. My brother came to us from Korea when I was in preschool. I remember being excited to tell my teachers that I was going to be a big sister. My Aunt Annie had chocolate candy made that said “Annamarie has a new baby brother.” I got to hand them out to my class.

Being adopted is wonderful—and I am so glad it hap-pened to me.

—Annamarie Rienzi; Howell, NJ

the Good Parts About Being Adopted

vide understand-ing. I took a new approach to being an adoptive par-ent, one that would help people gain insight from my unique family and my child’s heritage. Instead of getting angry, I opened the door of dialogue. I answered people’s questions with honesty and pride and provided information, which seemed to quell their curiosity.

I’ve noticed through the years that the looks and remarks lessened as my daughter grew. Perhaps this is because people are more hesitant to express curiosity in front of older children, who understand conversations between adults. But regardless of how others perceive my fam-ily, I have accepted the fact that humans are, by

nature, a curious lot and like to fit pieces of the puz-zle together. This is our way of mak-ing sense of the world. And with this awareness, I have settled into a comfortable way of handling chal-lenging situations if they arise.

When we take this step as adop-

tive parents—especially with internationally adopted children—we become bridge builders, even if we’re uncomfortable with this role in the beginning. By extending our hand in open dia-logue we can share our stories and the experienc-es that have enriched our lives and those around us. And ultimately, this takes us to new destina-tions—one conversation at a time, as architects of cross-cultural understanding. ■

Left: Sumi at age 9 with her parents, Sarojni and Bruce.

At the new Jersey annual dinner, a 9-year-old girl offers her take on adoption.

from the family

Annamarie has a recurring role on Sesame Street, with her first appearance due to air in September on PBS.

16 Sept/Oct 2005

A Y o u n g M a n ’ s J o u r n a l

Above: top left, clock-wise: Chris Orazio with

a girl in care at Jeonju Baby Home. Next: Man with bicycle at Insadong shopping district. Next:

Chris with a boy at Jeonju Baby Home.

Next: Members of the 2004 Korea gift team,

left to right: Greg Plath; Mary Beth and Susan La Rocca; Helen Loprinzi;

Chris and Rhonda Loprinzi Orazio. Next: On the way to an eve-

ning meal in Seoul.

By Chris Orazio— Beaverton, Ore.

Born in Korea, chris orazio came home to the United states when he was 3 months old. In December 2004, he traveled to Korea with his mother and grand-mother as part of Holt International’s christmas gift team.

Sunday, December 5, 2004—Going to Korea has always been a dream of mine as young as I can remember. I can’t wait to go. I am finally at a place that for some reason I feel so at peace.

December 7, 2004—I am honored to be here in Korea. I met President Lee, the head of Holt Children’s Services of Korea. He gave us all a gift. We then got a quick tour of the Holt office. We had lunch with some of the foster mothers. Mine was not there, I am sorry to say, but I did get a video recording of her talking to me. She came into the office a week earlier to make this tape. She is now 82 years old. The foster mothers at the Christmas luncheon made me feel so much at home.

Next we went to the Salvation Army shelter for single mothers. That just brought sadness, but much happiness too. Sadness, because they would either choose adoption for their child or

try to raise them as a single parent. Happiness, because they were well taken care of by instruc-tors that cared a lot for them.

December 8, 2004—When we got to the Holt Ilsan Center, I didn’t really know what to expect. Ilsan is for mentally and/or physically challenged people. Probably like most people, I haven’t had much experience with them. But as soon as I got there, I could tell that everything was going to be fun. I could feel happiness in the air. The people there didn’t seem to care that they had disabilities.

Molly Holt took us to see her parents’ graves, which are located on a hill at Ilsan. Even in death Grandma and Grandpa Holt can still show the true love for God’s creation. I did meet Grandma Holt once, at the Holt Picnic in Oregon. I may have been very young, but I’ll always remember her. She had so much love to give to each and every one. I truly owe my life to Grandma and


Grandpa Holt. Without them I would not be with my loving family.

The residents of Ilsan put on different skits for everyone attending. The children were able to walk around, and many would sit on our laps. All of us (on the gift team) were very touched.

December 9, 2004—Destiny: Something that can never be explained until today. Going to Jeonju Baby Home was something else. Seeing those kids’ faces can truly lift even the meanest people. The kids are so happy, which is shocking. Many are left there by their parents who are going through a divorce. My heart now goes out to all of those children in the world who have been abandoned by their parents. I say that it is destiny that drew me to those kids. If I could have taken those kids at that minute, I would have. But the law does not allow a 14-year-old boy to adopt.

It was painful to leave. Just the short amount of time that we were there, they got to know us, even

though they didn’t speak English and we didn’t speak Korean. Unfortunately, I became attached to a little boy who would start to cry whenever I put him down. Therefore I held him for a long time. When we finally had to leave, I had to set him down. All he did was look up at me and hold his arms up. The only thing I could do was say goodbye to him and walk away.

The children were having the best time, play-ing with their new toys and eating candy as fast as they could. They wanted us to pick them up and hold them. We walked out of there with lots of chocolate stains, but it was well worth it.

December 10, 2004—Today we toured Gyeongbok Palace, the Insadong shopping district and South Gate Market, and attended a tradi-tional dance and music performance at the Korea House—it was the best time that I had in a very long time. I got to see what my birth country is really like. ■

“ I ’ve never known

harmony any sweeter

than at I lsan.”—2004

Team Member

Bring gifts and love to children in Korea this December. You’ll celebrate Christmas at Ilsan Center with Molly Holt, host a lunch for foster mothers and a party at Jeonju Baby Home, and

visit a shelter for unwed mothers—all

while experiencing the culture, cuisine, hospitality and

beauty of the Korean

people.

Celebrate Christmas in Korea Join Holt’s Gift Team—Dec. 4-10, 2005

Details• Travel: December 4–10, 2005• Registration deadline: October 21, 2005• Estimated cost: approximately $2,550,

includes airfare from the U.S. West Coast, lodging, most meals, gifts and party expenses.

• For more information, or to reserve space on this team, e-mail Debbie Francis at [email protected] or call her at 541-687-2202.

• Staff in Korea will purchase gifts before the team arrives.

“seeing abandoned children at the ’baby home‘ made me realize how lucky I am that my biological mother gave me up to a loving and caring family. My wish for each child is to be adopted into a home of their own.” —Chris Orazio

Kelsey Amara—Moses Lake, WA; Tennis, swim, Key Club, link crew member, 2005 Holt Heritage Camp counselor. Plans to major in pre-law at the Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA. (Guatemala)

Elissa Anderson--Sidney, NE; Homeschooled, city library volunteer. Plans to enter the Adventures in Mission program in Lubbock, TX.(Korea)

Jennifer Baker—Iowa City, IA; Band, choir, orchestra, jazz & wind ensembles, Cincinnati Flute Symposium. Plans to major in music performance at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, IA. (Korea)

Thaïs Baldini—Milton, MA; MEEK Community Service & Leadership Award, Ilsan volunteer 2004, Holt Heritage Camp counselor. B.A. in art history from Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, OH. (Korea)

Amber Barcel—Bellwood, NE; NHS, stu-dent council, valedictorian, volleyball, speech, class president, drama, English award, Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Plans to major in psychology at Peru State College in Peru, NE. (Korea)

Josiah Bell—Homewood, AL; Eagle Scout, Prudential Spirit of Community Award, Youth Serve Social Change Youth Council, Birmingham Youth Service Corps. Plans to major in art at Maryville College in Maryville, TN. (Korea)

Deborah Bernard—Hamilton, NJ; B.A. in psychology and elementary education, Monmouth University in West Long Branch. Psi Chi Honors Society, Dean’s List. Plans to work as an elementary school teacher and attend graduate school. (Korea)

Megan Billups—Lake Oswego, OR; President’s Award for educational excel-lence, student of the quarter, Merit Award for family & consumer studies, Certificate of Initial Mastery. Plans to work. (Korea)

Matt Bladek—Medford, OR; Valedictorian, NHS, math team, First Team All State in soccer, soccer captain, basketball, track. Plans to major in bioengineering at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, CA. (Korea)

Amanda Blassingame—Laguna Niguel, CA; Pep Squad Competition Team, scholar-

ship winner. Plans to major in pediatric nursing at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA. (Korea)

Christopher Blassingame—Laguna Niguel, CA; A.A. in general education, Saddleback College in Mission Viejo. Plans to pursue a bachelor’s in business management. (Korea)

Bhimabai Blodgett—Mondovi, WI. (No photo available) Graduated from Memorial High School in Eau Claire, WI. Currently employed by the Hampton Inn. (India)

Chris Brandt (2004 graduate)—Mt. Vernon, IA; Band. Plans to attend a transition pro-gram in Mt. Vernon, IA. (Korea)

Lena Brandt—Mt. Vernon, IA; Speech, choir, band, marching band, yearbook. Plans to major as a veterinarian assistant at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA. (Russia)

Michael Brandt (2004 graduate)—Mt. Vernon, IA; Band. Plans to work after grad-uation. (Russia)

Jesse Bronzo—East Brunswick, NJ; National Vocational Technical Honor Society, Cooperative Vocational Education Outstanding Student. Plans to major in automotive technology at Universal Technical Institute in Exton, PA. (Thailand)

18 Sept/Oct 2005

graduates

Kelsey Amara

Deborah Bernard

elissa Anderson

Megan Billups

Jennifer Baker

Matt Bladek

thaïs Baldini

A. Blassingame

Amber Barcel

c. Blassingame

Josiah Bell

chris Brandt

Intr oducing: Holt‘s 2005 Graduates

Lena Brandt Michael Brandt


graduates

Colin Brown—Richardson, TX; Asian American Leadership Career Achiever Club, honor graduate, baseball, basketball, Breakfast Club president,Texas Scholar Award. Plans to major in marketing at the University of Hawaii. (Korea)

Isaac Carpenter—Moscow, TN; Band, cross country, baseball, track, football—Best Defensive Back (senior). Plans to major in aviation. (Korea)

Catherine Cloud—Bel Air, MD; NHS vice president, French Honor Society vice presi-dent, peer tutor, hospital volunteer, cross country, Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Plans to major in international relations at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. (Korea)

Peter Coleman—Chapel Hill, NC; Soccer, track, football, rugby. Plans to attend Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. (Thailand)

Rebekah Combs—Prairie du Chien, WI; NHS, Biology Club, SOS, Homecoming court. Plans to major in history education at the University of Wisconsin in Platteville, WI. (India)

Kami Connors—Gladstone, OR; Varsity dance team. Plans to major in dance and journalism at Portland Community College in Beaverton, OR. (Korea)

Chelsea Crooks—Lucas, IA; Cheerleading, soccer. Plans to major in elementary edu-cation at Des Moines Area Community College in Des Moines, IA. (India)

Leah Daharsh—Lincoln, NE; NHS, peer mediator, Asian Caucus co-president, Asian Community & Cultural Center Scholarship. Plans to major in international business and French at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, NE. (Korea)

Benjamin Debelak—Owosso, MI; Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA. Top 15% of class, top 15% in National Board exams. Will begin a five-year orthopedic residency. (Korea)

Lijen DeLange—Cedarville, OH; NHS, cross-country, volleyball. Plans to major in nursing at Anderson University in Anderson, IN. (China)

Molly Douglass—Melrose Park, PA; Media Club. Plans to major in media produc-tion/ film and photography at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. (Korea)

Claire Dubois—Pleasanton, CA; Cum laude, campus-wide honors, Phi Beta Kappa, B.S. in biology, University of California in Irvine. Plans to pursue a Ph.D. in molecular biology. (Korea)

Zachary Eakins—Madisonville, KY; NHS, Beta Club, cross country, track, golf. Plans to major in military science at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY. (Korea)

Christina Easley—Hernando, MS; Abeka Honor Roll. Plans to major in nursing at Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia, MS. (Korea)

Michael Edwards—Williamstown, NJ; REBEL Club, Business Club, SADD, soc-cer, tennis, Academic Excellence Award. Plans to major in business at Rutgers State University in Camden, NJ. (Korea)

Peter Forsberg—Altadena, CA; Honor Roll, Scholar Award, yearbook, baseball, foot-ball, Key Club, Chess Club, Fishing Club, Asian American Club. Plans to major in Engineering at the University of California in Irvine, CA. (Korea)

Sylvie Fowler—Lake Oswego, OR; President’s Award for Educational Achievement, German NHS, choir, Link Crew leader, soccer, LOSEA Outstanding Student Scholarship. (Korea)

Renee Aeby Francis—Creswell, OR; Club soccer, orchestra, graduated with honors with Bachelor of Education in family & human services, University of Oregon in Eugene. Plans to be an at-home mom and

chelsea crooks

Zachary eakins

Leah Daharsh

christina easley

Lijen DeLange

Peter Forsberg

Benjamin Debelak

Michael edwardsclaire Dubois sylvie Fowler

Molly Douglass

Jesse Bronzo colin Brown catherine cloudIsaac carpenter Rebekah combsPeter coleman

Kami connors

20 Sept/Oct 2005

graduates

tyrone Good nathan Groff Jaya Guy

elizabeth Hayes

elizabeth Hall

Priya HempelMary Hall Mia Hall

Renee Aeby Francis Marina Fritz Bryce Froese chantiel Froese Grace Gasior Matthew Goetz

then work with at-risk youth & in Christian ministries. (Korea)

Marina Fritz—Beloit, WI; NHS, National Honor Roll, Student Council president, junior class president, band, Who’s Who, Coca Cola Scholars Semifinalist, scholar-ship recipient. Plans to study anthropology, international relations and education at Beloit College in Beloit, WA. (Thailand)

Bryce Froese—Athena, OR; 4-H Steer Champion Showman, football, track, bas-ketball, Athlete Scholar, Merit Scholar, Ford Scholar. Plans to major in computer science and business at Linfield College in McMinnville, OR. (Korea)

Chantiel Froese—Athena, OR; State and County 4-H Champion, 4-H Dog & Goat Showman, Christian youth groups. Plans to major as a watch technician at Watch Technology Institute in Seattle, WA. (Russia)

Grace Gasior—Hillsboro, OR; TAG stu-dent, gymnastics, track, basketball, drama, Outdoor School counseling, teaching children’s gymnastics. Plans to major in secondary education at Portland State University in Portland, OR. (Korea)

Matthew Goetz—Eatontown, NJ; NHS, UN Club, Assoc. of the U.S. Army Citizen

Scholar Award, Reinhold Law Enforcement Scholarship Award, Mahoney Memorial Scholarship Award. Plans to major in crimi-nal justice at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, NJ. (Korea)

Tyrone Good—Moses Lake, WA; NHS, Key Club, Link Crew president, Art Club. Plans to major in business at the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. (Korea)

Jacob Green—Stockton, CA; Graduated from Edison High School. (Korea)

Joey Green—Stockton, CA; Graduated from Edison High School. (Korea)

Nathan Groff—Sarasota, FL; Valedictorian, yearbook, varsity baseball. (Korea)

Jaya Guy—Newton, IA; Cross country, soccer, basketball, church activities. Plans to get involved in Youth with a Mission (YWAM) in Arvada, CO. (India)

Elizabeth Hall—Cynthiana, KY; Cum Laude Society, yearbook editor, lacrosse, field hockey, crew. Plans to major in busi-ness at Wake Forest in Winston-Salem, NC. (Korea)

Mary Hall—Cynthiana, KY; Cum Laude Society, yearbook editor, lacrosse, field hockey, crew. Plans to major in business

Katelyn Kessler

tracy Harden Kristen Haug

nate Kester

Jacob Green Joey Green

eric Hill

Bryn Hittle

nerissa Hill

thomas Kaminsky


at Washington University in St. Louis, MO. (Korea)

Mia Hall—Xenia, OH; NHS, student council treasurer, Chemistry & Key Clubs president, jazz band, Girl’s State delegate, HighQ, therapy dog work. Plans to major in pre-veterinary medicine at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, OH. (Korea)

Tracy Harden—Beachwood, NJ; Top 10% of senior class, Art Club, Poetry Club, march-ing band, two merit scholarships. Plans to attend Rider University in Lawrenceville, NJ. (Korea)

Kristen Haug—Fairfield, NJ; Archery, Dean’s List, President’s List. B.S. in math, James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. Plans to work as a cost analyst at the Virginia Company. (Korea)

Elizabeth Hayes—Lenox, MA; B.A. in English, Boston University in Boston, MA. (Korea)

Priya Hempel—Post Falls, ID; DARE role model, valedictorian, student body presi-dent, PLA Presidential Scholarship. Plans to major in pre-medicine and chemistry at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA. (India)

Eric Hill—Bloomfield Hills, MI; Eagle Scout, Tae Kwon Do, soccer. Plans to major in criminal justice at Olivet College in Olivet, MI. (Korea)

Nerissa Hill—Westerville, OH; Graduated with honors, basketball, soccer, rugby. Plans to major in nursing at Ohio State in Columbus, OH. (Philippines)

Bryn Hittle—Mountain Home, ID; Volunteer at local City Hall, nursing home volunteer, CNA certificate. Plans to major in nursing at Eastern Oregon University in LaGrande, OR. (Korea)

Thomas Kaminsky—Manhasset, NY; Student government, varsity soccer co-captain, varsity lacrosse, Latin Honor Society, Summer Study Award. Plans to attend Cornell University School of Hotel Administration in Ithaca, NY. (Thailand)

Katelyn Kessler—Mount Vernon, WA; Varsity volleyball, band, choir, Janson Scholarship. Plans to major in physical therapy at Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, WA. (Korea)

Nate Kester—Waterloo, IA; Drake Relays, track co-captain, 3-time letter winner, Holt Heritage Camp assistant (2003). Plans to major in business at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA. (Korea)

Daniel King—Seminole, TX; Student coun-cil, student athletic trainer, FFA, FTA, 4-H shooting sports, church youth group. Plans to major in law enforcement and photog-raphy at New Mexico Junior College in Hobbs, NM. (Romania)

Curtis Kleier—Elkton, MO; Class president (2001, 2003), vice president (2002), senior class agent (2004), ACS Student Chemist Award. B.A. in chemistry, Roanoke College in Salem, VA. Works in business sales for BF Molz. Plans to pursue an M.B.A. (Thailand)

Ethan Knox—Madisonville, KY; Valedictorian, NHS, Spanish Honor Society, DECA, Beta Club, Math/Science Clubs, Pioneer Scholarship. Plans to major in mathematics and business administration at Transylvania University in Lexington, KY. (Korea)

Ashlee Kocina—Platte Center, NE; Yearbook editor, school newspaper, cheer-leader, band, FBLA, class officer, Student Council representative, speech team, Science Club, Girls State. Plans to major in English & political science at University of Nebraska in Lincoln, NE. (Korea)

Sharvari Kolb—Royersford, PA; Looking into a job in missions and then possibly a technical school. (India)

A Graduate’s Memory QuiltThe years soar by and the baby that you received into your arms is suddenly a young woman making her way to her own adult life. That’s the way it seems with our daughter Elisabeth, so for her high school graduation her mother fashioned a memory patchwork quilt that com-memorates her first 18 years.

A combination of old-fashioned sentiments with modern technology, the quilt has nine central squares that repre-sent an aspect of Liz’s life. Each square includes photo-graphs that were digitally scanned and printed on pho-toset fabric and then sewn together with a patchwork of Asian style and novelty fabrics and elements of Liz’s life. These include a counted cross stitch done by her aunt and godmother announcing her birth and arrival, a piece of her grandmother’s handkerchief and remnants of outfits made for her over the years by her mom.

Each square represents a particular theme, including her arrival from Korea, adorned with dangling Korean shoes. Another square represents her years at Holt Heritage Camp with pictures of Grandma Holt and her friends from camp all patchworked together with a piece from

one of her camp t-shirts with the Holt logo. Other squares represent home and fam-ily (with a picture of her and her brother that appeared in Hi Families 17 years ago), special girlfriends, boyfriends, birthdays, her musical experiences and birthday celebra-tions over the years.

While it seems like only yesterday that Liz came into our lives there are a lot of memories and living already sewn into her memory quilt. I hope the quilt will remind her of her heritage and those who have loved her and cared for her in her first 18 years.

—John McPeak; Mickleton, NJ

graduates

22 Sept/Oct 2005

graduates

Sarah Kumm—Blair, NE; NHS, cheerlead-ing, yearbook, photography, gymnastics state and regional champion & national medalist, gymnastics scholarship. Plans to major in physical therapy at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, NE. (Korea)

Brady Lamp—Brookings, SD; Wrestling, baseball, football, Athletic Scholar Award. Plans to attend Lake Area Technical School in Watertown, SD. (Korea)

Nisha Lassman-Eul—Springfield, MO; A+ Scholarship, Girl Scout Gold Award, Girls Service Society, marching band, track, Holt Heritage Camp counselor. Plans to major in nursing at Ozark Technical College in Springfield, MO. (India)

Elizabeth Lawrence—Troy, MI; General Studies degree in culinary arts. Macomb Community College in Clinton Township, MI. (Korea)

Cara LeJeune—Tustin, CA; Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Dean’s List, Dean’s Scholarship. MSW in social work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. (Korea)

Katherine Lindley—Milford, OH; Tennis, graduated with honors, co-op work at pub-lic library. Plans to major in interactive multimedia at the University of Cincinnati Clermont College in Cincinnati, OH. (Thailand)

Kellie Loftis—Lincoln, NE; NHS, varsity cheerleader, Asian Caucus, People to People Student Ambassador, President’s Award for Educational Excellence, Presidential Volunteer Bronze Service Award. Plans to attend Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO. (Korea)

Jinny Lowe—Fort Smith, AR; State debate winner, newspaper assistant editor, Chancellor’s Scholarship. Plans to major in broadcast journalism at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, AR. (Korea)

Jeremy Manuel—Marksville, LA; Honor Roll, yearbook staff, Christian Character Award. Wants to follow God’s lead. (Korea)

Kira Marino—Omaha, NE; Honor Roll, marching & concert bands, volunteer work. Plans to attend the University of Nebraska in Omaha. (Korea)

Ashley Masteller—Corning, NY; NHS, Student Council, Double Honor Thespian, Directors Award Chorus, Cowburn Drama Award. Plans to attend Corning Community College in Corning, NY. (Korea)

Kristina McDonald—Hillsborough, NJ; Class president, PUSH, varsity lacrosse, state crew, National Young Leaders Conference. Plans to major in sports enter-tainment event management at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI. (Korea)

Brady Lamp

Jinny Lowe

nisha Lassman-eul

Jeremy Manuel

elizabeth Lawrence

Kira Marino

cara Lejeune

Ashley Masteller

Katherine Lindley

Kristina McDonald

Kellie Loftis

Beth McIntyre

Marissa Meloy Becky Miller

Daniel King curt Kleier ethan Knox Ashlee Kocina sharvari Kolb sarah Kumm

nathaniel McKinnon

elisabeth McPeak

Patrick McLinn

Zachary McPherson


graduates

Beth McIntyre—Charleston, SC; Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society, Silver Key Honor Society, Associate degree in baking & pastry arts, Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, SC. Plans to work as a pastry chef in a restaurant or bakery. (Korea)

Nathaniel McKinnon—Morganville, NJ; Chess team, science league, forensics, track, University Merit Award, AP Scholar with distinction, Distinguished Scholar Award. Plans to major in engineering in the honors program at Rutgers University in New Jersey. (Korea)

Patrick McLinn—Mason City, IA; Honor Roll, acting awards, football, baseball, wres-tling, band, choir, scholarship recipient. Plans to major in social work and psychol-ogy at North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City, IA. (Korea)

Elisabeth McPeak—Mickleton, NJ; NHS, concertmaster—All South Jersey Region High School Orchestra, Philadelphia Youth Orchestra. Plans to major in violin perfor-mance at Boyer School of Music at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. (Korea)

Zachary McPherson—Gilroy, CA; Youth Leadership, music, California Scholastic Federation. Plans to major in software engi-neering at San Jose State University in San Jose, CA. (Korea)

Marissa Meloy—Muscatine, IA; Yearbook, newspaper, chorus, Carver Excellence in Education Nominee. Plans to major in sign language interpreting at Scott Community College in Bettendorf, IA. (Korea)

Becky Miller—Nine Mile Falls, WA; NHS, Who’s Who, Washington Drug Free Youth, USA Swimming, class officer. Plans to major in occupational therapy at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. (Korea)

Amanda Mitchell—Albany, OR; NHS, dance team, cheerleader, yearbook editor, Honors Diploma, OSAA Academic Athlete, Who’s Who. Plans to major in elementary education at Linn Benton Community College in Albany, OR. (Korea)

Gina Moore—Fillmore, NY; Class secretary, drama, all-county choir. Plans to take a nanny position in Spain. (Romania)

Rashmi Moran—Reno, NV; NHS, cheer-leading, volunteer at local hospital, Honors Diploma. Plans to major in history at the University of San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. (India)

Torii Mount—Gresham, OR; NHS, ASB publicity manager, Interact Club, volleyball, Oregon Scholar Athlete, Outstanding Senior Award. Plans to major in exercise science at Seattle Pacific University in Seattle, WA. (Korea)

Samir Mukherjee (2004 graduate; no photo available)—Freehold, NJ. B.S. in elec-trical engineering, University of Minnesota, and B.A. in engineering sciences, Macalester College, St. Paul. Commissioned as a U.S. Navy Ensign in May 2004 and selected to pursue an M.D. degree at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Bethesda. (India)

Michael Novak—Lake Hiawatha, NJ; Varsity football, choir, Drama Club. Plans to join the U.S. Navy. (Korea)

Jesse Olander—Bayonne, NJ; Choir, con-cert, pep & marching bands, jazz & brass ensembles, Asian Cultural Society. Plans to major in English at New Jersey City University in Jersey City, NJ. (Korea)

Gregg Orton (2004 graduate)—Arcadia, CA; Eagle Scout, yearbook co-executive editor, AP scholar. Studies international politics at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY. (Korea)

Brenton Peplinski—Medford, OR; Eagle Scout, Best of the Best Artist, Mock Trial, Sheriff’s Explorer. Plans to join the U.S. Army military police. (USA)

Joanna Perlson—Medford, OR; Residence advisor, wind symphony, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship leader. B.A in com-munications, Lewis & Clark College in Portland. Wants to work in event planning or another area of communications. (Korea)

Mark Polett—Little Rock, AR; NHS, Astronomy Club, swim team—placed in Arkansas state finals (2004, 2005), Youth Leadership Institute. Plans to attend Hendrix College in Conway, AR. (Korea)

Ashley Rice—Sweet Home, OR; NHS, golf, cheerleading, International Club, Key Club, Who’s Who, chamber ballet. Plans to major in pre-med at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR. (Korea)

David Richardson—Encinitas, CA; NHS, track, worship team. Plans to major in busi-ness and economics at Westmont College in Santa Barbara. CA. (Korea)

Ben Sathrum—Salem, OR; Valedictorian, BSA, concert choir, bowling team, People to People Sports Ambassador. Plans to major in mechanical engineering at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR. (Korea)

Kiera Sattazahn—Toms River, NJ; NHS, Honor Roll, swim team manager, SADD president, Science League Recognition Award, Interact Service Award. Plans to major in biological sciences at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ. (Korea)

one of the Lucky onesMy son Pat had little direction prior to the illness that kept him down much of his junior year, but he has now decided to pursue a career where he can help people. He really was “one of the lucky ones.” True, he has pituitary damage that is permanent and requires medication for life, and there is always the fear that Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) can return in later years. But when you look at him today, you can see not only a healthy and happy kid, but also a kid who appre-ciates life to its fullest. Histiocytosis is a rare disease that causes the body’s white cells to form lesions within the body. The illness is not a cancer, but is treated like one. Our oncologist advised us to watch the mass and not treat with radiation or chemo, as the mass had already done the damage. Pat did not have to undergo any type of cancer treatment for this particular lesion. We feel blessed to have Pat with us and see him functioning as a happy teenager ready to take on the world.

—Jan McLinn; Mason City, Iowa

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do until I was diagnosed with histiocy-tosis two years ago. now I realize that I want to go into a field where I can help others, either through social work or a psychol-ogy-related career. I hope to make a difference. I feel fortunate to have family and friends supporting me through all my past chal-lenges as well as my future goals.”

—Pat McLinn

24 Sept/Oct 2005

Amy Schlesselman—Freeport, IL; NHS; jazz, pep & concert bands; soccer; Illinois State Scholar. Plans to major in animal sci-ence at Iowa State University in Ames, IA. (Korea)

Matthew Schlotfeldt—Florham Park, NJ; NHS; marching, concert & jazz bands; Tae Kwon Do. Plans to major in commu-nications at the College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ. (Korea)

Christopher Schultz—Fremont, NE; Plans to enlist in the U.S. Army. (Korea)

Lindsey Simmons—Howell, NJ; NHS, Patriot H.S. Scholars, scholarship in fine arts, Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad, Search & Rescue Explorer, EMT cer-tification. Plans to major in art education at Messiah College in Grantham, PA. (Korea)

Caroline Smith—Ridgeway, SC; NHS, drama, chamber choir, track, soccer. Plans to major in journalism at Northwestern University in Chicago, IL. (Korea)

Maya Smith—O’Fallon, MO; SOS, softball, basketball. Plans to major in elemen-tary education at St. Charles Community College in St. Charles, MO. (India)

Wendy Smith—Willow Grove, PA; National Trial Team Competition trial lawyer associ-

ations, corresponding secretary for student bar association. J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law in Bristol, RI. Will work at a law firm in Philadelphia. (Korea)

Katherine Spies—Ankeny, IA; Varsity girls track manager. Plans to major in office assistance at Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny, IA. (India)

Alex Stinard—Kansas City, MO; M.D. University of Missouri Medical School in Columbia. Plans to begin a residency in emergency medicine at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, MO. (Korea)

Julia Strang—Portland, OR; NHS, student body vice president, 2-time MVP in ten-nis and state quarter finalist (2004), choir, theater, cross country. Plans to major in biology and government/law at Lafayette College in Easton, PA. (Korea)

Karrie Streeter—Saginaw, MI; Trustees Scholarship, Honors graduate, mem-ber of Undergraduate Student Advisory Committee. B.A. in speech-language pathol-ogy, Michigan State University in East Lansing. Plans to pursue an M.A. in speech-language pathology. (Korea)

Megan Streeter—Saginaw, MI; Student Assembly, Science Olympiad, pompom, LIFT, Michigan Youth in Government. Plans

graduates

Brenton Peplinski

Kiera sattazahn

Gregg orton

Ben sathrum

Mark Polett

Matthew schlotfeldt

Joanna Perlson

Amy schlesselman

David Richardson

Lindsey simmons

Ashley Rice

christopher schultz

Gina MooreAmanda Mitchell torii MountRashmi Moran Jesse olanderMichael novak

Julia strangAlex stinard

Maya smith

Katherine spies

caroline smith

Wendy smith

graduates

to major in engineering at Delta College in University Center, MI. (Korea)

Robert Sullivan—Whitefish, MT; Dean’s Advisory Council, Buck Rodgers Leadership Council. B.S. in business finance, Miami University in Oxford, OH. Plans a career in business consulting and financial develop-ment. (Korea)

Trevor Teague—Williamsburg, KY; Honor Roll, SADD, Christian Youth Club, 4-H, Spanish Club. Plans to major in nursing at Somerset Community College in Somerset, KY. (Korea)

Kelsey Thompson—Eugene, OR; Pioneer Pacific College in Springfield, OR. Now working as a medical office assistant in a clinic in Eugene. (Korea)

Alexandra Thore—Newberg, OR; Valedictorian, Oregon High School Equestrian Team—state dressage champion (2005), Albertson College Heritage Award, academic scholarships. Plans to attend col-lege. (Thailand)

Emily Turack—Louisville, KY; Varsity cheerleader, Key Club, FCCLA secretary. Plans to major in criminal justice at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY. (Korea)

Whitney Van Loos—Bellevue, WA; Key Club, track & field, Tae Kwon Do, mis-sions, Excellence in Media Production Award. Plans to attend Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA. (Korea)

Tristan Walker—Jacksonville, OR; Wind ensemble, jazz band, chosen for Western International Band Clinic, honor graduate. Plans to attend Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR. (Korea)

Matthew Weber—Lake Elsinore, CA; NHS, football, Science Club, amateur pilot. Plans to major in kinesiology at California State University in San Marcos, CA. (Korea)

David Wells—Easton, MD; Varsity wres-tling & lacrosse, Leadership Detail with highest rank of Cadet 2nd Lieutenant, McCloskey Medal for discipline leadership, Parent’s Assn. Award for science, Anthony Wayne Legion Guard for meritorious con-duct. Plans to attend the University of New England in Biddeford, ME. (Bolivia)

Tyler White—Fairbanks, AK; NHS, Eagle Scout, President’s Academic Achievement Award, graduated Cum Laude. Plans to attend the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, AK. (Korea)

Sara Wright—Geyserville, CA; Key Club vice president & secretary, NHS, cross

country, track, National Honor Roll, gradu-ated with highest honors. Plans to major in journalism at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, CA. (Korea)

David Yates—Louisville, KY; FCC, ten-nis, cross country, school theatre. Plans to major in theatre arts at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY. (Korea)

Leah Zelnick—Cedar Rapids, IA; Bachelor’s of Music with academic honors from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Plans to pursue a graduate degree in violin perfor-mance at SUNY—Stony Book. (Korea)

emily turack Whitney Van Loos

David Yatessara Wright

tristan Walker

Leah Zelnick

tyler WhiteDavid Wells

Karrie streeter Megan streeter Robert sullivan trevor teague Alexandra thoreKelsey thompson


Matthew Weber

Memory quilt, p. 21

“Now that you have graduated, you have proved your ability to com-plete what you started and to suc-ceed at what you aimed for. For this, I congratulate you.

It has not always been easy. Some of you worked long hours at a job to support yourself while you were in school, and each of you studied to get good grades. Many earned hon-ors in sports and scholastics for which you deserve praise.

Now you have scattered; some to your chosen occupation, others to marriage or to higher learning. I pray that you ask God for guidance... While you are so involved in your future or preparing for it, it is difficult to take time to ask God for advice or even to become acquainted with Him, but it is more important to learn from Him and be involved in what He has planned for you, than all the planning that you do for yourself.”

—Grandma Holt 1996 Sept/Oct Hi Families

adoptees today

26 Sept/Oct 2005

Above: Julia, 13, partakes of bulgogi on a Holt

Heritage Tour of Korea.Right: Julia as a

Portland Rose Festival Ambassador, June 2005. In addition to being full-time students and mem-

bers of the graduating class, potential ambas-

sadors are evaluated on character, communica-tion and presence.The honor carries with it a

$3,500 scholarship.

no mas muerte, no more deaths. This is the rally-ing cry of inhab-

itants of Mexican border towns. Eight people

die every day attempting to cross what is known as the Coyote Trail, the stretch of no-man’s land sepa-rating the United States and its southern neighbor.

Last summer, I traced the steps of illegal immigrants across this desert. I saw clothes, water bottles, toys, and other personal items that had been abandoned in the quest of a better future. I spent a week teach-ing young children of Agua Prieta and wondered if any of them had family members who had risked their lives to leave their poverty for economic opportunities on the northern side of the border. These children’s lives were so different from my own. How can a manmade boundary determine one’s future? Where is justice when one’s fate is not determined by personal merit, but by the loca-tion printed on a birth certificate?

three years earlier, on a trip to my homeland, I visited another border halfway around the world. The DMZ between North and South

Korea is the most guarded and closed interna-tional border. Fifty years ago Korea became a divided nation, separating families forever and cre-ating economic uncertainty for the North. Visiting Panmunjom, I looked across the border at stern soldiers standing erect, armed with guns ready to defend at any moment. Who did they think we were? Why such animosity? How can a line drawn across a country, sharing the same name and his-tory, divide it so drastically? I wondered about the teenagers on the northern side, living in a country so feared by the rest of the world, and how differ-ent their lives must be. If I had been born 50 miles north of my birthplace, I would be a citizen of that country.

At the end of my heritage trip, I helped take care of infants at an adoption agency in the heart of Seoul. A small, simple room void of the normal “necessities” of an American nursery. Eight metal cribs were scattered throughout the room, perhaps the same ones I slept in 13 years earlier. I fell in

love with an engaging little girl who was bound for Norway and her new family. I saw myself in her, leaving her homeland to enter a life brimming with opportunities. Initially, we both shared a des-tiny that was against the odds but whether through divine intervention or just pure accident of fate, we were able to overcome the obstacles of our birth because of others who reached for us.

As a member of my school’s U.S. Constitution team, I am aware of the need for self-determination of countries and the necessity of boundaries, but when those boundaries become instruments of con-finement and create personal tragedy and tremen-dous disparity of opportunity and hope, we must find ways to reach beyond them. In 1971, a group of French doctors formed Medecins san Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders). They believe “all people have the right to medical care… and that the needs of people supersede respect for national borders.” It is a group I hope to join one day; it is a way I can transcend borders. ■

When I was 13, my family took a heritage tour to Korea so I could examine my roots. During my trip, I got the opportunity to go to my adoption agency in seoul. there, I met a girl no more than 6 months old who was bound for norway the next week. I could see so much of myself in her, never learning of her “homeland” before leaving for a new one. Being in Korea triggered a lot of “what ifs”: “What if that was my crib she was sleeping in?” “What if I had grown up in Korea?” “What if I was never adopted?”

When I was in Korea I discovered more questions than answers, but after I came back home I became aware of what is most important: I am loved by my family. the “what ifs” in my life don’t define me. I have a sense of belonging that I will never take for granted; I have found my place.

—Julia Strang, Coronation Night Speech

Scholar, athlete, Rose Festival ambassador and Korean adoptee, this Portland high school graduate explains in her college essay why she plans to study medicine.

transcending Borders

By Julia Strang— Portland, Ore.

from the family


When families gathered at the Holt Midwest office in Fall 1986 to explore internation-

al adoption, who could have guessed that this meeting would lead to life-long friendships between two fami-lies—genuine friendships that made the sad times in life easier to bear, and the happy times more joyful.

Kellie Meena Loftis and Leah Song Daharsh were born within two weeks of one another in Korea. They came home to Lincoln, Nebraska, within three weeks of one another and have enjoyed a close bond for all their 18 years.

The girls spent time together as infants, propped on a couch for photos by proud parents, and later attended the same preschool where they enjoyed field trips to the Pumpkin Farm and entertained the rest of the class with their impersonations. Although they attended different grade schools and middle schools, the girls remained close friends and giggling companions, often having sleepovers at one another’s houses. The bond of the parents grew through the years also. Their moth-ers traveled to South Korea on the Holt Family Tour in 1989. The bonds were further strengthened and memories were formed as the two families shared holidays and took vacations together.

When Holt Heritage Camp came to Nebraska both girls attended for many years and last year participated in the Counselors in Training pro-gram. Holt camp provided them the opportunity to explore their heritage and adoption issues with caring, supportive camp counselors to whom they remain close. The experiences at camp further

strengthened the eternal bond they share. The friendships made with other Holt adoptees

have given them a strong support base across the United States. Holt camp is where they

began referring to one anoth-er as “Seoul Sisters.”

Leah and Kellie went to high school together where they each had their own circle of friends but r e m a i n e d c o n n e c t -ed to one a n o t h e r t h r o u g h a c t i v i t i e s such as co-

founding and co-chairing the Asian Caucus Club and being on Varsity Cheerleading squad. They studied together and attended proms, football games and honor assemblies together. During these years, when they experienced feelings and emotions relat-ed to adoption issues, they always knew the other understood and was there for them.

High school graduation begins a new chapter of their lives and sees them going to colleges in sepa-rate states. In the emotion-filled final days of their senior year, however, Leah and Kellie have vowed to “always be there for one another, regardless of the distance separating them,” and have reminded each other of their promise from their younger years of being the maid of honor in one another’s wedding. And so the story continues…. ■

By Linda Loftis and Paula Daharsh— Lincoln, Neb.

Adopted from Korea almost simultaneously into the same U.S. town, these recent graduates model an enduring friendship.

seoul sisters

Above: Leah Song Daharsh (left) and Kellie Loftis as varsity cheerleaders; center: Kellie and Leah in 1990; bottom: Kellie with Grandma Holt in 1996 at the American Mother of the Year recognition banquet.

Maybe you know someone at your church or place of worship who is interested in adopting a child internationally... or a friend has been asking about your experience with Holt.We’ve developed tools that can help you explain the process of adoption.

What Do You Get?

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inYour

ChurchinYour

Church

• Our kit includes a booklet with step-by-step guide-lines to help you set up a meeting in your home, church or other location.

• It also includes flyers you can personalize with your name and contact infor-mation, and a poster to announce a meeting time.

• A display mount, like the one shown to the right, can be tacked to a bulletin board.

• Brochures offer general information about Holt, fees, and time frames for the adoption process, and can be used with or with-out our display mount.

From Your HeartTo Your Home

Children overseas are waiting to belong and be loved in families of their own. Perhaps God is leading you to consider making one of them your own daughter or son.

Holt International, a Christian based agency with 50 years of experience, has placed thousands of children with

adoptive families in the United States.

For information on international adoption…

Faith is the substance of things hoped for,

the conviction of things not yet seen.

~Hebrews 11:1

From Your HeartTo Your Home

Children overseas are waiting to belong and be loved in families of their own. Perhaps God is leading you to consider making one of them your own daughter or son.

Holt International, a Christian based agency with 50 years of experience, has placed thousands of children with

adoptive families in the United States.

For information on international adoption…

finding familiesfor children

Faith is the substance of things hoped for,

the conviction of things not yet seen.

~Hebrews 11:1 finding familiesfor children

Spread the Joy of adoption


Finding Families for Children in Your Church

by Todd D. Kwapisz, Family Recruitment Coordinator

For 50 years, God and faith have been the pillars of Holt International. Because of Harry and Bertha Holt’s trust in the Lord, this ministry now spans five decades.

Homeless children around the world once neglected, starv-ing, sick, and without families, now have families to call their own. And thousands of homeless children around the world still need loving, permanent families.

You can help Holt find families for children in our care through spreading the ministry of adoption in your church community.

As adoptive families, you have powerful messages to share on adoption about the love and joy a child brings to your life, and about the need of loving families for home-less children. You are our strongest advocates!

Holt has created an easy-to-use kit to guide families who are interested in sharing their story with their church to help find adoptive families. These kits will provide you “how to” ideas such as hosting a dinner and invit-ing friends interested in adoption, or simply displaying information about Holt and adoption in a public location at your church or place of worship for people to take on their own.

Please help share Holt’s ministry. Give a child an oppor-tunity to have a permanent, loving family.

“Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west.” Isaiah 43:5

Sharing Holt’s Ministry

To Receive a KitFor more information or to request a kit, please contact:

Todd KwapiszFamily RecruitmentCoordinator(503) 244-2440Ext. 102toddk@holt international.org

HomeHome

HeartHeartFrom YourFrom Your

to Yourto Your

Home

HeartFrom Your

to Your

I have always known I was capable

of giving much love. What I didn’t

know is that a child could love me

this much.

— a Holt adoptive mother

A child needs a home—a place where he or

she will feel safe and loved, protected and

supported. In adoption families form a bond

that can be as deep and strong and

meaningful as any on earth.

Holt International: uniting parents and

children for 50 years… helping build loving

families every step of the way.

To receive your free adoption application

packet, visit Holt on the web at:

www.holtinternational.org

or call

888-355-HOLT

finding families

for children

International Adoption

Spread the Joy of adoption

30 Sept/Oct 2005

Katie Huff, 3, Korea—Alpharetta, Ga. Newlyweds Ian and Loann Watts, Vietnam—Aloha, Ore.

Geta Cox, 7, Romania, and Tena Cox, 6, Bulgaria—Forest City, Iowa

family tree

send your photos to Family tree!mail original color prints to:

Holt International MagazineFamily treeP.o. Box 2880 eugene, oR 97402

Please send glossy photographic prints or e-mail high resolution digital images.We cannot use studio photos or prints from digital files.

Father Payce Reynolds with children Jourdan, 12, Korea, and Journey, 4, China—Oconomowoc, Wisc.

Emily Kriner-Woodworth, 1½, China—Bayfield, Wis., and Grace Genszler, 9, China—Ashland, Wis.

Jonas Dovel, 2, Mongolia—Keswick, Va.

Lexi, 6; Logan, 2½; and Sara Weiss, 5, China—Freehold, N.J.


Holt history

early morning, October 14, 1955—Bertha Holt was awakened to take a phone call. It was Harry call-ing from Hawaii where he was just about to board a plane for the last leg of his journey back to the

West Coast.On board with him were the Holts’ eight adopted chil-

dren from Korea and four other children bound to two other adoptive families. It was the age of prop-driven air-liners, and so Harry and the children had been traveling for nearly three days since leaving Seoul.

Harry was tired, but all the children were handling the travel well. Bertha warned Harry that a lot of news media would greet him.

“We’re getting used to flashbulbs,” Harry responded. “We’ve been looking at them all the way and a few more won’t many any difference…”

“We were so much a part of this tremendous miracle that we were perpetually forgetting the magnitude of what God had done,” Bertha wrote later. She and the six Holt children arrived at the airport an hour before the plane was to arrive. In those final minutes the crowd swelled and news reporters and photographers set up an arsenal of cameras and lights.

Shortly after noon, the plane touched down at Portland International Airport. It took more than two hours for

reporters to photograph the arrival of the Holt children and then interview the Holts at a reception.

It was another 120-mile drive before the Holts would be home, but they were glad to be headed toward peace and quiet and the business of being a family again.

But already the images of Holts holding their newly arrived children were being beamed across the country. In thousands of homes, a new vision of

families was beginning to take shape.Adoption had been a largely secretive institution.

Parents and children were matched often by their physi-cal appearance to hide the adoption. Children were often never told they were adopted.

But here the Holts had opened their hearts to children who were obviously not theirs by birth. And it didn’t matter. They could love them, be committed to them as parents should be, proudly call them their own sons and daughters.

In thousands of homes across the country, families saw this and it resonated in their hearts, too.

Belonging in a family doesn’t have to be based on biol-ogy. It’s love and commitment that give a child a home, and adoption is a sign of that kind of love.

The next morning the phone began to ring at the Holt home. ■

by John Aeby, Director of Communications

ARRIVeHolt childrenthe

2 Sept/Oct 2005 www.holtinternational.org 25

Please send my new sponsor packet with a child report and photograph.

Yes, I want to help a child by sponsoring a boy girl either living in China Guatemala Haiti India Korea Mongolia

Philippines Romania Thailand Uganda Vietnam Check Enclosed VISA MC AMEX Bill Me (check one)

Name:______________________________________________ Mailing Address:_________________________________________

Name on Card (please print):_____________________________ Billing Address: _________________________________________

Credit Card #:____________________________________________ Exp. Date: ________________

Signature:____________________________________________ Daytime Phone:_______________________ S110

...to a child who is orphaned,

abandoned or vulnerable

The

World is a frightening

place

Your sponsorship can change the world for a

child in Holt’s care. Food,shelter, clothing, medical care, loving arms… your

gifts of $25 per monthwill help surround your

sponsored child with safety and nurturing until a

permanent family can be found. To begin your

sponsorship, visitwww.holtinternational.org/

sponsorship and select achild or you may call

800/451-0732 or return the following form.

P.O. Box 2880 Eugene, OR 97402 www.holtinternational.org

NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDEUGENE OR

PERMIT NO. 291Post Office Box 2880 • Eugene OR 97402

Change Service Requested

Color oƒ Hope

A Benefit Dinner & Auctionfor the children of India

Saturday, October 22, 2005Montgomery Park, Portland, OR

If you would like to donate an auction item, host a table, or

volunteer at the event, contact:

Char Woodworth, Chair(503)638-2518

[email protected]

Monica Wilton, Holt Events(800) 451-0732

[email protected]

www.holtinternational.org/events

2005 Holt Graduates Vietnam ReopensSeoul Sisters 27 Two graduates model an enduring friendship....

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