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Q.

Why should I fundraise for my adoption expenses?

Many families who do not have the resources on hand to pay for their adoption outright look at large loans to cover the costs. Co-founder of Shades of Us, Kerri Bullock, also took this approach to her adoptions.

“We knew we were meant to adopt, so we took on the financial burden of loans and spent several years after each adoption trying to pay off the expenses. It never even dawned on me that others would want to help. Looking back, I realize that by doing it ourselves, I denied others an opportunity to be involved."

Many people are interested in adoption and want to participate in a meaningful way, even if they personally can not adopt. By fundraising, you will not only have the resources to pay for your adoption, but you will give others the opportunity to participate. This is a great way to promote bonding for extended family, who are anticipating your new arrival right along with you. We have even seen family members who are resistant to the idea of adoption have a change of heart when they use their own time and energy in support of your efforts.

Another important reason to fundraise is the impact you will have on those who purchase your products. You may be surprised who shares your dream of adoption. By letting others know that they can afford to adopt with the help of Shades of Us, you may help other children come home. As a result of our first fundraiser, six other families decided to adopt!
Q.

I'm not comfortable asking for money. Can't I rely on grants?

Most grant agencies award assistance based on your finances and the efforts you have put into fundraising. Many agencies will deny your grant application if you have not shown an effort to raise funds in other ways.

Q.

I don't want to be embarrassed when the products come! I've purchased from fundraisers before and when the items arrived, they were not what I had hoped for. What makes your products different?

At Shades of Us, our items are unique and beautiful, just like every child that longs for an adoptive home. Our products represent our organization, you, and most importantly, the children we are trying to help. That's why we have personally been involved in the creation and manufacture of many of our products. Quality is important to us. We will not sell any item that does not reflect our passion and purpose. We would be happy to send you a sample pack, for a small fee, of any of our wholesale products so that you can be assured of the quality before your purchase.