In this special edition of the River Foundation Podcast, Dan speaks with foster care and adoption advocate Dr. Sharen Ford. Discover what part the Church can play in adoption and foster care, and how to answer the question that so many ask: "What if I'm not called to adopt or foster a child?" You'll leave this interview encouraged and empowered to take the next step and get involved in this Kingdom work!

Episode Highlights

[1:32] The unlikely place where God called Dr. Ford (hint: it involves a convent)

[2:33] How Dr. Ford was prepared for her current role working with state government and law enforcement

[4:17] "I was going out and seeing children being removed from their homes...": The reality Dr. Ford faced when she transitioned to the program side of foster care and adoption

[5:08] The questions Dr. Ford asked to push for improvements at the state level

[6:25] "I came into the system with a family...I'm leaving the system, with no family": The story of permanent orphans

[8:12] Why God turned Dr. Ford's attention to the kids right down the street, instead of across the globe

[8:45] Dr. Ford asks: "Where is the Chuch for our kids?"

[11:43] What you can do if you're not called to adopt or foster a child

[13:46] "God is a God who redeems": How the Church can walk alongside people who need redemption

[16:51] Wait No More from Focus on the Family will be in these 4 communities on August 19!

[17:45] "Think through why you shouldn't be there": Dan's challenge to you

Resources

• Orphan Care Alliance
• Christian Alliance for Orphans
• Wait No More