Adoption Fundraising Guide: 27+ Ideas, Resources & Strategies for Families
Are financial barriers holding you back from adopting? You’re not alone. The journey of adoption fundraising often reveals a challenging truth: with costs ranging from $30,000 up to $65,000, adoption can feel increasingly out of reach. Parents who are otherwise equipped and excited to open their hearts and home wait years to afford adoption—or never end up adopting at all.
Your adoption story doesn't have to end that way! Whether you're researching adoption fundraising ideas or just starting to explore your options, remember: we believe adoption is a beautiful reflection of God's love, and finances shouldn't be an obstacle to bringing a child into your family.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about funding your adoption journey, including a list of the highest-yield adoption fundraiser ideas. Plus, we'll share real stories from families who've been in your shoes and come out on the other side.
Table of Contents
- Preparing for Your Adoption Fundraising Journey
- The 10 Highest-Yield Adoption Fundraising Ideas
- Other Creative Adoption Fundraising Ideas
- Adoption Grants and Financial Options Beyond Fundraisers
- Legal and Ethical Considerations in Adoption Fundraising
- Other Tips For Making Your Adoption Fundraiser a Success
- Success Stories: Real Families Share Their Experiences
- Tools and Resources for Adoption Fundraising
- Next Steps
Preparing for Your Adoption Fundraising Journey
Remember when you first decided to adopt? That mix of excitement and nerves? Well, now you get to invite your community to join you on this special journey! And don’t worry - we’ll give you all the support, ideas, and tips you need to successfully launch your fundraising journey.
Setting Realistic Goals
First, let's talk numbers. How much do you need to raise? $30,000? $50,000? More?
Take a deep breath. Now, break that big number down into smaller, bite-sized goals. Maybe it's $5,000 per month for the next year. Or perhaps it's raising $10,000 through your first big event.
Setting these milestones not only makes your overall goal feel more achievable but also gives you and your supporters wins to celebrate along the way. And trust us, those celebrations? They're fuel for your fundraising fire.
Creating a Fundraising Plan and Timeline
Now that you've set goals, it's time to map out how you'll reach them. Think of this as your adoption fundraising roadmap.
- Determine your deadline: When do you need to have all the funds raised? Work backward from there.
- Budget wisely: List out all your expected adoption costs. Don't forget to factor in travel expenses, legal fees, and post-adoption support.
- Track every penny: Set up a spreadsheet or use a budgeting app to monitor your progress. Seeing that number grow is incredibly motivating!
- Mix it up: Here's a pro tip: Start with fundraisers that will bring in the most money. Why? It saves you from planning lots of smaller fundraisers plus it helps avoid donor fatigue. You'll find that if you 'tap the well' too many times, you might burn out your network. So, aim for high-yield fundraisers first, then supplement with smaller, ongoing efforts.
Building Your Support Network
Here's a little secret: Successful adoption fundraising isn't just about the money. It's about the people. Your network is your most powerful asset.
Start by sharing your adoption story. Be open, be honest, be vulnerable. Let people see your heart and share your story in as many ways as you can: Post on social media, send emails, have coffee dates. The more people who know about your journey, the more potential supporters you have.
And don't just ask for money. Ask for help spreading the word, ask for ideas, or ask for prayers. Because here's the beautiful thing: When you invite people into your adoption story, you're not just raising funds. You're building a village and support system for your future child.
Remember, every dollar raised, every share on social media, every word of encouragement—it all brings you one step closer to bringing a child into your home. So, are you ready to kick off your adoption fundraising journey? Let's make it happen!
The 10 Highest-Yield Adoption Fundraising Ideas
When it comes to raising funds for adoption, not all methods are created equal. Some strategies can help you reach your goals faster and more efficiently. Let's dive into the top 10 highest-yield adoption fundraising ideas, based on Julie Gumm’s insights from her book You Can Adopt Without Debt, which, by the way, we highly recommend you purchase for inspiration on your adoption journey.
1. Both Hands Project
Average amount raised: $23,000
A Both Hands project is a unique fundraising approach that combines service and fundraising. Here's how it works: You gather a team to help a widow with home improvements or repairs. Supporters sponsor your team, similar to a 5K run. This method not only raises significant funds but also gives back to your community. More on how a Both Hands project works.
2. Garage Sale
Average amount raised: $2,000-$4,000
Don't underestimate the power of a well-organized garage sale. Reach out to friends, family, and neighbors for donations. With a wide variety of items and good promotion, you can turn your clutter into a substantial contribution to your adoption fund.
3. 5K Fun Run/Walk
Average amount raised: $5,000
Organizing a 5K event can be a fantastic way to raise funds and awareness. It's a health-positive event that can attract a wide range of participants. Consider partnering with local businesses for sponsorships to increase your earnings.
4. Movie Night and Silent Auction
Average amount raised: $3,000
Combine entertainment with fundraising by hosting a movie night paired with a silent auction. Choose a family-friendly film, sell concessions, and auction off donated items or services. It's a fun evening that can significantly boost your adoption fund.
5. Benefit Dinner
Average amount raised: $1,000-$10,000
A benefit dinner can be scaled to fit your needs and network. Whether it's an intimate gathering or a large banquet, sharing your story over a meal can be a powerful way to connect with supporters and raise funds.
6. Pancake Breakfast
Average amount raised: $4,500
Who doesn't love pancakes? A community pancake breakfast is a great way to bring people together for your cause. Partner with a local restaurant or community center to host the event.
7. Silent Auction
Average amount raised: $1,000-$5,000+
A standalone silent auction can be a highly effective fundraiser. Reach out to local businesses, artisans, and your network for item donations. The key is to have a variety of appealing items at different price points.
8. Karaoke Night
Average amount raised: $1,300
Karaoke nights are fun, inclusive events that can attract a diverse crowd. Charge an entry fee, offer song requests for donations, and consider having a cash bar to increase your earnings.
9. Concert
Average amount raised: $1,800
If you have connections in the local music scene, organizing a benefit concert can be a great way to raise funds. You could feature local bands or even host a battle of the bands competition.
10. Restaurant Fundraiser
Average amount raised: $200-$1,000+
Many restaurants offer fundraising nights where they donate a percentage of sales to your cause. This is a relatively easy event to organize and can be repeated with different restaurants.
11. "Phill" the Box Clothing Drive
Average amount raised: Varies based on total weight of donated clothing
You can choose a weekend or 30-day clothing drive. Collect gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories, and Phill the Box will pick them up and send you a check based on the amount collected.
Available in the following participating states: Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Arkansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
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Remember, the success of these fundraisers often depends on how well you promote them and engage your community. Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt these ideas to fit your unique situation and network. With determination and the right strategy, you'll be well on your way to funding your adoption journey!
Other Creative Adoption Fundraiser Ideas
When it comes to raising funds for adoption, creativity can be your best friend. Here are some unique and engaging fundraising ideas that can help you reach your goal while bringing your community together:
- Community Potluck: Host a potluck with a suggested $5 donation. It's a great way to build relationships and support networks.
- Bake Sale: Turn your baking skills into an adoption fundraising opportunity. Set up at a local farmer's market or community center.
- Lemonade Stand: This is a classic fundraiser that's perfect for involving the whole family in the adoption process.
- Taco Night: Host a taco dinner with a suggested donation of $5-$10 per plate. Tacos are easy to prepare and always popular!
- Adoption T-Shirt Fundraiser: Design and sell custom t-shirts. Include a link to your adoption fundraising site on the back.
- GoFundMe Campaign: Create a compelling video or blog telling your family's story to inspire online donations.
- Social Media Campaign: Start a hashtag, ask friends to change their profile pictures, or challenge followers to donate instead of buying their morning coffee.
- Church Dinner: Organize a dinner at your place of worship and ask attendees to make a donation.
- Half Marathon: Organize your own running event. Set an entrance fee for runners, and ask spectators to make donations.
- Ice Cream Social: Host a community ice cream party with a donation bucket. It's a fun way for everyone to get involved.
And here are more ideas to consider:
- Noonday Collection jewelry party
- Parents' Night Out babysitting service
- Car wash
- Adoption fundraising letter
- Toy auction
- Birthday or Christmas campaigns
- No-Shave November
- Fantasy football fundraiser league
- NCAA bracket challenge
- Video game tournament
There are endless ideas out there, so make sure you find what works best for you, your community, and your unique situation. Don't be afraid to get creative and combine ideas or come up with entirely new ones.
Tips for Adoption Fundraising Letters and Support Communication
When it comes to adoption fundraising, one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal is the humble letter. It might feel a bit old-school in our digital age, but there's something personal and heartfelt about a well-crafted fundraising letter that can really resonate with your support network. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this approach:
Don't Be Embarrassed
First things first: Let's address the elephant in the room. You might feel a bit uncomfortable asking for financial support, even from close friends and family. But here's a secret: Nobody is really thinking about you that much once they open the letter.
As JT, our founder and president, always tells adoptive families: "If someone judges you for working on a widow's house while raising funds for your adoption, that's not something you should sweat." Remember, you're not just asking for money; you're inviting people to be part of your adoption journey and to make a difference in a child's life.
Include These Key Components of a Compelling Adoption Fundraising Letter
- Start with Your Story: Share why you've decided to adopt. Be open, honest, and vulnerable. Let your personality shine through.
- Be Clear and Respectful: Clearly state that you're seeking financial support for your adoption. Be respectful in your ask; remember, any contribution is a gift, not an obligation.
- Explain the Impact: Help potential donors understand how their contribution will make a difference. Break down the costs if possible, so they can see where their money is going.
- Offer Various Ways to Help: Not everyone may be able to contribute financially, but they might be willing to help in other ways. Mention opportunities like sharing your fundraising page or helping with fundraising events.
- Include a Call-to-Action: Don’t be afraid to clearly state your need and directly ask for help. You want to make it easy for people to donate! Include information on how to give, whether it's through a website, a check, or another method.
- Express Gratitude: Thank people in advance for their support, whatever form it takes.
- Add a Sticky Note: If you’re using a printed fundraising letter, be sure to include a handwritten note on it or a sticky note, which can add a personal touch and show your supporters that you genuinely appreciate their help. This small gesture can make a big difference.
Emphasize the Impact of Contributions
When writing your letter, it's crucial to help potential donors understand the tangible impact of their contributions. Here are a few ways to do this:
- Break down the costs: "$50 covers the cost of one hour of required adoption education classes."
- Share your goal: "We're aiming to raise $30,000 to cover agency fees, travel costs, and legal expenses."
- Explain the ripple effect: "Your support doesn't just help us—it changes the life of a child forever."
Offer Various Donation Options
People have different comfort levels when it comes to giving. Offer a range of options to make it easy for everyone to contribute in a way that feels right for them:
- One-time donations
- Monthly recurring donations
- Sponsoring specific expenses (like travel costs or legal fees)
- Non-monetary support (like helping with fundraising events or spreading the word)
Remember, your adoption fundraising letter is more than just a request for money; it's an invitation for your community to be part of something beautiful. By sharing your story and your heart, you're giving others the opportunity to make a lasting difference in a child's life. So take a deep breath, put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), and let your authentic voice shine through.
Sample Fundraising Letters
When you do a Both Hands project to raise funds for your adoption, Both Hands provides you with a fundraising letter that's ready to go. It includes information about the widow you'll be serving and outlines how you'll be supporting her, giving a clear call to action that asks your friends and family to help fund your child's adoption. Here’s an example of a fundraising letter a Both Hands family used to garner support, which helped them raise $42,000 for their adoption.
Adoption Grants and Financial Options Beyond Fundraisers
While fundraising can be a powerful tool in your adoption journey, it's not the only financial resource available to you. There are numerous grants, loans, and other financial options that can help make your dream of adoption a reality.
We've compiled a resource page on adoption funding. Here's a quick overview of what you'll find there:
- Adoption Grants: Organizations like Show Hope, Lifesong for Orphans, and Gift of Adoption Fund offer financial assistance that doesn't need to be repaid.
- Adoption Loans: Some organizations provide interest-free loans specifically for adoption, including ABBA Fund and Pathways for Little Feet.
- Adoption Tax Credit: The Federal Adoption Tax Credit can provide significant financial relief for adoptive families.
- State-Level Tax Credits: Some states offer additional tax benefits for adoption.
- Recommended Reading: You Can Adopt Without Debt by Julie Gumm is highly recommended for adoptive families.
For more detailed information on these resources and others, we encourage you to visit the Both Hands Adoption Funding page. This comprehensive guide can help you explore various financial options to support your adoption journey.
Remember, every adoption journey is unique, and what works for one family might not work for another. It's important to research thoroughly and possibly consult with a financial advisor to determine the best options for your situation.
By combining grants, tax credits, loans, and creative fundraising efforts, many families find that the financial obstacles to adoption become much more manageable. Don't let the initial costs discourage you; with persistence and the right resources, you can find a way to fund your adoption and welcome a child into your family.
Legal and Ethical Considerations in Adoption Fundraising
When embarking on your adoption fundraising journey, it's crucial to navigate the process with integrity and awareness. While your goal is noble, there are important legal and ethical considerations to keep in mind. Let's explore some key points:
Transparency in Fundraising
Honesty is the cornerstone of ethical fundraising. Always be upfront about why you're raising funds, clearly stating that the money is for adoption expenses. If possible, break down how the funds will be used, such as for agency fees, travel costs, or legal expenses.
Keeping your donors informed about your progress is equally important. Regular updates build trust and keep people engaged in your journey. This transparency not only respects your donors but also creates a community of support around your adoption process.
Protecting Your Privacy
While sharing your story is important, it's crucial to guard your personal information, especially details about the child you're hoping to adopt. Be cautious about what you share on social media, as these platforms can reach far beyond your intended audience.
If you're in an open adoption process, be particularly mindful of the birth family's privacy. Never share information about the birth family without their explicit permission. Remember, your fundraising story is just one part of a larger, more complex narrative involving multiple parties.
Tax Implications
Understanding the tax implications of adoption fundraising is crucial. In many cases, donations to your adoption fund are considered gifts and aren't tax-deductible for the donors, unless they're giving through a charitable or nonprofit organization like Both Hands. It's important to make this clear to avoid any misunderstandings.
Keeping accurate records of all donations received is not only crucial for your own tax purposes but also for maintaining transparency with your donors. Given the complexity of adoption-related tax issues, it's wise to consult a tax professional familiar with these matters.
Other Tips For Making Your Adoption Fundraiser a Success
Promoting Your Adoption Fundraiser
Effective promotion is key to a successful adoption fundraiser. Start by leveraging your existing networks of friends, family, coworkers, and community groups. Share your story on social media platforms, but don't stop there.
Consider reaching out to local media outlets or bloggers who might be interested in featuring your story. Remember, every share, every repost, is an opportunity to reach someone new who might support your cause.
Engaging Your Community and Building Support
Engaging your community goes beyond just asking for donations. Host events that bring people together and create memorable experiences. This could be anything from a charity run to a bake sale, or even a talent show.
These events not only raise funds but also raise awareness and build a supportive community around your adoption journey. Be open about your needs beyond just financial contributions, giving people opportunities to support you in various ways, such as offering skills or services.
Following Up and Expressing Gratitude to Donors
Never underestimate the power of gratitude in your fundraising efforts. Always follow up and express your thanks to donors, regardless of the size of their contribution. A personal thank you note, a phone call, or even a public acknowledgment (with their permission) can go a long way in making donors feel appreciated and connected to your journey. This gratitude not only acknowledges their generosity but also keeps them engaged in your story, potentially leading to continued support throughout your adoption process.
Success Stories: Real Families Share Their Experiences
Over the past three years, Both Hands family projects have raised an average of over $22,000, with many projects raising even more than that! Inspired by James 1:27, which calls us to care for widows and orphans, Both Hands empowers families to serve a widow in their community while simultaneously raising funds for their adoption.
These stories reflect the incredible impact that community support can have in uniting children with their forever families. Let’s dive into a few Both Hands success stories, and see how, with God’s provision and the support of their communities, these families turned their dreams of adoption into reality.
The Ariosas
After many years of loss and heartbreak, Ryan and Missy Ariosa took their first steps toward adoption in the spring of 2022 by completing a Both Hands project that not only served a widow in their community but also raised over $52,000 for their son Gage’s adoption. Soon after, they discovered that Gage had a biological sister, Josie, who also needed a forever family.
The Ariosas rallied their community again, planning a second Both Hands project that raised over $42,000. The Ariosas then traveled nearly 3,000 miles from Baltimore to Las Vegas to bring their little girl home and even made a pit stop at the Both Hands office on the road trip back home.
Missy stated, “The Both Hands project turned a seemingly impossible personal struggle into a community-wide celebration of faith and family. All of the love and support shown by family, friends, and community members during our Both Hands project eased our anxiety and lifted our financial burden. Working with such amazing people was ‘hands down’ the best decision we made on our adoption journey.”
The Diedrichs
Meet the Diedrich family. Prior to getting married, both Clark and Jordan had the desire to adopt, and eventually God called them into action. The Diedrichs started their adoption journey in November 2022. During the fourth quarter of Super Bowl Sunday, they received information about a baby girl, and they were matched the next day.
On Tuesday morning, they were flying out to Washington to meet their daughter, Grace Elorah Mae, who was born that morning, resulting in an unforgettable Valentine’s Day placement.
Through Both Hands, they raised over $30,000 for their adoption while working on the house of Ms. Lisa, a widow they met through their church. Reflecting on their experience, Jordan noted how they had seen God’s fingerprints all over their journey and their daughter’s birth story.
In her words: “We are forever grateful to Both Hands for the HUGE role it played in making this adoption possible! Your work has made an eternal impact for God's Kingdom, our family, and our precious Gracie Mae. THANK YOU for being a part of this story that only God could have designed!”
The Schmitts
The Schmitt family's journey beautifully illustrates the transformative power of adoption and its generational impact. In 2016, parents Brandon and Angie raised nearly $20,000 for their daughter Wendy’s adoption from Colombia through a Both Hands project.
Wendy recently connected with the Both Hands team at the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO) annual conference (pictured above), where she explained that she’s now a senior at Taylor University, majoring in Orphaned and Vulnerable Children. She aspires to help a new generation of children find their forever families and the love of Christ. (Talk about a full-circle moment!)
Wendy said, “Thank you so much for your work and for making our dreams of having a family come true. You are making it possible! May the Lord continue to bless your work!” Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the decisions we make in faith can create ripple effects that impact countless lives for God’s glory.
Tools and Resources for Adoption Fundraising
To help you on your adoption fundraising journey, we've compiled a list of valuable tools and resources. These can make your fundraising efforts more effective and organized.
Recommended Platforms
Different platforms offer various features for adoption fundraising. Here's a comparison of some popular options.
GoFundMe
GoFundMe is one of the most recognized crowdfunding platforms, making it highly accessible. It allows users to create campaigns for various causes, including adoption. With a processing fee of 2.9% plus $0.30 per donation, the costs can add up, especially for larger campaigns.
While the platform is user-friendly, the average campaign raises only about $1,126 according to data from WiFi Talents, which falls well below the typical cost of adoption. It’s certainly possible to raise funds for your adoption using this option, but just be aware of the transaction fees and have a plan to mobilize your community to raise awareness of your campaign.
Both Hands
Both Hands differentiates itself by focusing specifically on adoption and providing a unique fundraising approach that combines serving a widow in the community with raising funds for adoption. There are no processing fees; if a donor opts not to cover the transaction costs, Both Hands will absorb those costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to the family's adoption journey.
Families using Both Hands report an average fundraising total of $22,000, significantly higher than many other platforms. The organization also supports corporate matching, which can further amplify fundraising efforts. Additionally, it accepts payment methods like Apple Pay, Venmo, and Google Pay, making it easier for supporters to contribute.
AdoptTogether
AdoptTogether is tailored specifically for adoption fundraising, providing a dedicated space for families to share their stories and needs. AdoptTogether has assisted over 5,000 families in raising more than $35 million to adopt children from 67 countries, making it a valuable resource for those navigating the path to parenthood. It charges a 5% processing fee on donations, which is higher than both GoFundMe and Both Hands.
Unfortunately, it does not accept payment methods like Apple Pay, Venmo, or Google Pay, which could limit conversion rates for potential donors. The average amount raised on AdoptTogether varies widely and is often contingent on the family's network and outreach efforts.
| Platform | Processing and/or Platform Fees | Average Amount Raised | Accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Venmo |
| GoFundMe | 2.9% + $0.30 per donation | $1,126 | Yes |
| Both Hands | None* | $22,000 | Yes |
| AdoptTogether | 5% | Approx. $7,000** | No |
*Both Hands is committed to ensuring 100% of gifts support the cause, so if a donor chooses not to cover the platform fees, Both Hands will cover it.
**Based on $35M divided by 5,000 families.
Educational Resources
Educating yourself about adoption and fundraising can make your journey smoother. Here are some valuable resources to explore:
How to Adopt
Created by our friends at Show Hope, howtoadopt.org is a valuable resource for prospective adoptive families, offering guidance at every stage of the adoption journey. The site provides insights on first steps, understanding the process, and considerations for the journey ahead. Additionally, How to Adopt offers essential pre- and post-adoption support, equipping families with practical resources to navigate the challenges and joys of welcoming a child.
The National Council for Adoption (NCFA)
The National Council for Adoption (NCFA) stands as a leading authority on adoption issues, providing resources and advocacy in the adoption community. With over 40 years of expertise, NCFA offers comprehensive resources tailored to different segments of the adoption experience, from pre-adoptive parents to adopted individuals. Their member directory helps families find adoption professionals, including agencies and attorneys, to assist with services ranging from homestudies to post-adoption support.
Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO)
CAFO is a global organization committed to caring for the vulnerable children of the world. The organization equips foster and adoptive parents with guidance grounded in scripture and the latest research. CAFO offers a Research Center with a wide range of parenting resources, including information on parenting children with special needs. Their annual CAFO Summit gathers Christian leaders and families to discuss topics related to parenting children from vulnerable backgrounds while fostering a sense of community.
Next Steps
As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on adoption fundraising, remember that your journey to bring a child into your family is a profound and meaningful one. While the financial aspects of adoption can seem daunting at first, we hope this guide has shown you that with creativity, determination, and support, it's entirely possible to overcome these challenges.
But knowledge is just the first step. Now it's time to take action. Start by reviewing your financial situation and setting clear, achievable fundraising goals. Choose the strategies that resonate most with you and your community. Begin reaching out to your network and sharing your story. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to welcoming your child home.
A Special Opportunity with Both Hands
As you consider your next steps, we want to highlight a unique opportunity that combines fundraising with community service: Both Hands projects. Both Hands is a faith-based organization that helps families raise funds for their adoption while serving widows in their community.
Here's how it works:
- You gather a team of volunteers.
- Together, you serve a widow in your community by working on her home.
- Each team member sends letters to raise sponsorship for their day of service.
- The funds raised go directly towards your adoption expenses.
This approach not only helps you financially but also allows you to make a positive impact in your community and involve others in your adoption journey in a meaningful way.
Your future child is worth every effort. Let's get started!
