by Steve York

November is National Adoption Awareness Month. Each year the Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange, Family Independence Agency of Michigan, and the Michigan Federation of Private Child & Family Agencies co-sponsor a special celebration to recognize successful adoptive families and to remember the many hundreds of Michigan children still in need of a permanent family.

The 10th annual "Calling Out For Those Who Wait" ceremony was held on Thursday November 6th from 12:00pm - 1:00pm in the Forum Auditorium at the Michigan Library and Historical Center in Lansing. Families throughout the state were encouraged to send MARE letters about their adoption experience based on the theme: "Adoption - A Celebration of Family." Several of these families were then chosen to read their letters aloud at the Calling Out Ceremony. Over 100 people turned out to show their support for adoption in Michigan! Here, we will share with you some of the letters we received during our annual letter-writing campaign and also some photographs from the event itself. Thanks to all who showed their support by writing letters and/or attending the ceremony. Congratulations to the many adoption workers and families who are making this year another record year of adoptions in Michigan. Finally, let us all remember the children who still wait for adoption. May they too have the chance to celebrate their own families one day.