The More the Merrier!

  You can never show too much love. It is something that everyone needs and, at the same time, everyone is quite capable of giving. At times, I see so many youth that need the love, support, guidance, and attention that I had growing up and I wonder what will happen to them. Will they ever be able to have the same opportunities that I had? Fortunately, I've met many caring people who are willing to welcome into their lives with open arms this population with such a great need.

  First, I'm proud to announce that HopeTree Academy signed a contract with Roanoke County to provide services to 20 students of the Roland E. Cook Alternative Education Center (You can read about it here, scroll down to the third bolded sub heading). Now, 20 students will have access to the brand new HopeTree Education Center and a committed staff of teachers who are dedicated to providing the specialized alternative education that these students need.

  This past weekend was our Ector Hamrick Walk in Portsmouth. I had the opportunity to talk to a woman there from a nearby church. She brought her entire family to the walk, including several adopted children with disabilities. She was a lively, bubbly woman who had a lot of love to give. It warmed my heart just to know that there are people like her out there willing to open her arms, not just to adoption, but to children with disabilities.

  In the next issue of Caring Times (check our Publications page), there is a story about a woman from Franklin County who was a foster parent for several years. About 2 years ago, she had a family of four sibling to whom she was providing foster care. She fell so in love with them that, despite having two biological children of her own, she adopted all four! With six kids in the house, she really has her arms full. However, I could see that, because of her dedication and flexible schedule, she was able to give these kids all the love that they desperately needed.