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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
Children deserve parents who love them and care for their needs, but sadly, that's not always the case. However, Wasatch International Adoptions, a non-profit organization in Ogden, is striving to make a lasting difference in the lives of children around the world.
I spoke with the agency's executive director, Kathleen Kaiser. She said that the inspiration for the agency goes back to 1991 when Kathleen's daughter, Kristine, adopted a little boy from Romania. It was a wonderful experience for the family, but the new mother couldn't forget the living conditions of the children left behind. For the next few years, Kathleen and Kristine helped organize literally tons of clothing, blankets, toys and medicine that were then shipped to orphanages in Eastern Europe. In addition, they sponsored teams of doctors and dentists sent over to care for the children.
But they soon realized, said Kathleen, that those efforts weren't enough. The only way to give the children a real chance at happiness was to help them find families — families that would love them and care for their long-term needs. Consequently, Wasatch International Adoptions was formed.
Since then the agency has assisted Americans from across the country in adopting more than 700 children. Most, if not all, of the paper work and application process can be done over the Internet. Kathleen admits that at times, the process can be extremely emotional, tedious and even frustrating. But she's proud to say that the organization has never failed in one of its attempts. Furthermore, the organization continues to raise money for scholarship and medical funds. Donations are tax deductible and 100 percent of the donation goes to its intended project.
Kathleen's job has taken her to countries around the world. A few months back she returned from China with 26 children and their new parents. For Kathleen, each adoption is an enduring victory in that child's life.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
