Ohio Chapter

About Us

Welcome to the Home Page of the Gift of Adoption Ohio Chapter.

GOA-Ohio

As of June 2020, Gift of Adoption Ohio has awarded $505,500 in adoption assistance grants across Ohio to complete the adoptions of 157 children.

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Chapter Goal 

Each year, Gift of Adoption Ohio receives requests from approximately 23 qualified families – representing a funding need of $93,500. The goal of the Ohio Chapter’s all-volunteer board is to raise enough funds to help complete each of these adoptions. 100% of the money raised by the chapter is directed to uniting children with forever families in the area.

The chapter is currently seeking leaders throughout Ohio to get involved as chapter leaders and help the chapter grow and reach more families.

Board members are responsible for building awareness and raising funds for this rapidly growing, energetic, national, nonprofit dedicated to putting adoption in reach for the millions of children world-wide without a family.

Board members can be located anywhere in the state, but must be willing to participate in monthly calls and quarterly in-person meetings to support the development of a strong state presence – as we create awareness of this new philanthropic category and resource our vision.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact Pam Devereux.

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Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
3 days ago
Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
We're celebrating our 25th anniversary this Fall! After so much time spent working to unite children with their permanent families, we've been reaching out to those who have been a part of our community over the years, to learn how Gift of Adoption has played a role in their lives.

Our first story is about Daniel.

After losing his family at a young age, Daniel became the responsibility of the welfare system in China. Even as a child navigating the system, he soon learned of an opportunity to request placement with a new family. Little did he know, just how much this one decision would change his life. ... See MoreSee Less
PlayThen and Now: Daniel's Story
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Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
1 week ago
Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
The grand finale to our series of board member spotlights is none other than the amazing—Sandra Henderson!

"During my journey to form my family through adoption, I encountered many well-intentioned people and organizations that often provided confusing and conflicting information. It seemed a total maze that required persistence, patience, and resources to navigate.

I learned that my situation was not unique and that for every 100 families considering adoption, only about 5% are able to complete the process. The overwhelming reason is insufficient financial means to afford adoption. On one hand I was not surprised given the many challenges to adoption, but certainly disappointed to learn that adoption is out of the reach for so many. I've been blessed beyond imagination by my children. It was my hope that by starting Gift of Adoption’s Central Ohio Chapter I could help bridge the gap for local families to help fulfill their dreams of having children too.

One of the aspects of Gift of Adoption that is appealing to me is its very basic mission: to raise money to write grants for those who, except for financial means, are close to bringing a child into their home. I've been active in providing grants to Ohio families for years, and now I have the opportunity to help raise awareness and funds locally. I have met other wonderful people through Gift of Adoption—each with their own personal stories of how adoption has impacted their lives in a truly remarkable way."

Sandra is the Founding Board Member of the Ohio Chapter for Gift of Adoption established in April of 2009. She resides in New Albany, Ohio and is the proud mother of her 3 adopted children: Henry, Grace and Reagan. ... See MoreSee Less
The grand finale to our series of board member spotlights is none other than the amazing—Sandra Henderson! During my journey to form my family through adoption, I encountered many well-intentioned people and organizations that often provided confusing and conflicting information. It seemed a total maze that required persistence, patience, and resources to navigate. I learned that my situation was not unique and that for every 100 families considering adoption, only about 5% are able to complete the process. The overwhelming reason is insufficient financial means to afford adoption. On one hand I was not surprised given the many challenges to adoption, but certainly disappointed to learn that adoption is out of the reach for so many. Ive been blessed beyond imagination by my children. It was my hope that by starting Gift of Adoption’s Central Ohio Chapter I could help bridge the gap for local families to help fulfill their dreams of having children too. One of the aspects of Gift of Adoption that is appealing to me is its very basic mission: to raise money to write grants for those who, except for financial means, are close to bringing a child into their home. Ive been active in providing grants to Ohio families for years, and now I have the opportunity to help raise awareness and funds locally. I have met other wonderful people through Gift of Adoption—each with their own personal stories of how adoption has impacted their lives in a truly remarkable way. Sandra is the Founding Board Member of the Ohio Chapter for Gift of Adoption established in April of 2009. She resides in New Albany, Ohio and is the proud mother of her 3 adopted children: Henry, Grace and Reagan.
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Sandra is responsible for raising much money for the Ohio Chapter—she is amazing. Thanks Sandra

What a wonderful biography. The lives you've impacted are countless, I'm sure. ❤

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Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
1 week ago
Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
Beginning with GOA around the same time as Javonte, our next board member spotlight is one of our most recent additions—Sam Rubinoski!

"My passion for investing in the futures of our youth has been a constant throughout my life. From time spent teaching and case managing in the US, to volunteering in rural villages around the world, this passion has only grown. Regardless of the country, school, or role I've been in, I'm continually inspired by people's capacity to care for one another. Being a part of Gift of Adoption has shown me yet another example of the positive impact people can have, when we choose to work together."

Sam was born and raised here in Columbus, OH, though she loves any chance to explore somewhere new. She devotes as much of her free time to being outside as possible; including activities like riding her bike, hiking, practicing yoga or relaxing at the park. ... See MoreSee Less
Beginning with GOA around the same time as Javonte, our next board member spotlight is one of our most recent additions—Sam Rubinoski! My passion for investing in the futures of our youth has been a constant throughout my life. From time spent teaching and case managing in the US, to volunteering in rural villages around the world, this passion has only grown. Regardless of the country, school, or role Ive been in, Im continually inspired by peoples capacity to care for one another. Being a part of Gift of Adoption has shown me yet another example of the positive impact people can have, when we choose to work together. Sam was born and raised here in Columbus, OH, though she loves any chance to explore somewhere new. She devotes as much of her free time to being outside as possible; including activities like riding her bike, hiking, practicing yoga or relaxing at the park.
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Great to have you on board! A real heart for service!

Great! Show them who you are! ☀️

Sam’s been a great addition to the Board—we love having her

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Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
1 week ago
Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
Our next board member spotlight, like our last, is another incredible example of the impact adoption can have on an individual's future—Dr. Jim Lawlor!

“As an adoptee myself, and growing up in an impoverished area, I know the value of finding a forever home and having financial support when needed. Being a part of Gift of Adoption has allowed me to give back when I, myself, have been so blessed by others on my adoption journey. I am living proof of the effect that others can have on one life.”

Dr. Lawlor grew up in Columbus, and now lives in central Ohio with his wife, Renee. He has 2 children at OSU, and he is a physician with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Lawlor attended Ohio University for both his undergraduate degree and Medical School, and recently completed an MBA with Ohio State. ... See MoreSee Less
Our next board member spotlight, like our last, is another incredible example of the impact adoption can have on an individuals future—Dr. Jim Lawlor! “As an adoptee myself, and growing up in an impoverished area, I know the value of finding a forever home and having financial support when needed. Being a part of Gift of Adoption has allowed me to give back when I, myself, have been so blessed by others on my adoption journey. I am living proof of the effect that others can have on one life.” Dr. Lawlor grew up in Columbus, and now lives in central Ohio with his wife, Renee. He has 2 children at OSU, and he is a physician with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Lawlor attended Ohio University for both his undergraduate degree and Medical School, and recently completed an MBA with Ohio State.
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Love this! ❤️. The best part of it all honey is that you found your biological family again! It was a true blessing and forever family love and it was met to be. Gosh cousin Jim I will never never forget the day that you and I met Jim. My mouth dropped open and I immediately called Aunt Edie and said yes he is ours ... our family and you looked just like uncle Don and your brother Josh. We love you and so proud of you. Jim Lawlor Edie Curry Chalfant Josh Chalfant

Great testimony. Thanks for sharing Jim!

Jim is the MAN

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Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
2 weeks ago
Gift of Adoption Fund - Ohio Chapter
Although a more recent addition to Ohio, we feel beyond fortunate to have Javonte Lipsey as one of our board members!

“I am one of seven children to have been adopted into my family. Being adopted changed the trajectory of my life. I was placed in a loving home that provided me the chance to pursue an education, and ultimately my dreams. I am compelled to serve on the board to help other children receive the same loving gift of adoption that I did.”

Javonte Lipsey is originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan. He received a Bachelors and Master’s Degree in Sport Administration, from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Sport Administration at The Ohio State University. Some of his favorite hobbies include going on long walks, watching sports, and cooking. ... See MoreSee Less
Although a more recent addition to Ohio, we feel beyond fortunate to have Javonte Lipsey as one of our board members! “I am one of seven children to have been adopted into my family. Being adopted changed the trajectory of my life. I was placed in a loving home that provided me the chance to pursue an education, and ultimately my dreams. I am compelled to serve on the board to help other children receive the same loving gift of adoption that I did.” Javonte Lipsey is originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan. He received a Bachelors and Master’s Degree in Sport Administration, from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Sport Administration at The Ohio State University. Some of his favorite hobbies include going on long walks, watching sports, and cooking.
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So happy to have Javonte as a part of our board and to share his journey.

What an inspiring story—thanks Javonte.

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100% of donations directly to the Chapter are used to provide adoption grants in this region.

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