This year we are gearing up for 3 camps in July and August. We are expecting over 50 families, and we are preparing activities for all ages.

If you haven’t had a chance to register but would like to come, we still have a few spots available. Here are some encouraging words from last year’s participants:

“Everything was amazing. The sharing of experiences with the other adoptive families, as well as the fact that the presenters actually have experience with adoption, made all the difference. Connection with our child is our main desire. The principles of TBRI are very important. Great work on the initiative and the work put into supporting adoptive families and children!!” – Manuela, adoptive parent, Timișoara

“We appreciated the willingness of volunteers and organizers to meet our needs. We realized that we are not alone. Our attachment influences our choices and behavior, and we should always prioritize connection over correction.” -Teodora, adoptive parent, Germany

This year, Summit took place in Bucharest from May 9th to 13th. It was our anniversary, celebrating 10 years of ARFO Summits!

The conference started with two pre-conference days (May 9th and 10th) where we offered two courses: “Competent Care in Trauma” and “Adolescents and Trauma” (presented for the first time). Participants ranged from parents to social workers, organizational representatives, and foster parents.

Impressions from the participants:

The information provided was well-documented. There was a large amount of information. The trainers had a lot of experience and applied the methods they presented themselves.

We learned about the importance of being aware of the impact trauma has on the lives of children and adults, the significance of the healing process, the importance of attachment relationships and social connections, and the importance of self-care.

We then proceeded with the rest of the pre-conference, which presented current and highly interesting topics, such as: Suicide in Romania; Burnout Syndrome and Secondary Trauma; Traumatized Children with Addictions; and Child Sexual Abuse. Participants spent half a day exploring these subjects in depth.

At the same time, there was also a session on Leadership and Responsibility in Non-Governmental Organizations: How to Build Trust and Efficiency? (This was a pre-conference dedicated to NGO leaders.)

Many well-intentioned projects and organizations have suffered serious damage to their reputations, and some have even closed due to the exposure of flawed practices (or worse, cases of malpractice or inappropriate behavior by employees or volunteers). It’s easy to believe that these types of things can never happen to us. However, to ensure long-term success, it is vital to establish procedures to protect beneficiaries, employees, and volunteers, as well as those who hold legal responsibility for the organization’s activities.

The main sessions of Summit took place from May 11th to 13th. We enjoyed the artistic presence of Cristian Cazacu and Laura Dinu, the presence of the National Authority through President Elena Tudor, along with many specialists and practitioners who shared their experiences and practices with us. We had over 350 participants from 22 counties in Romania, and international participants from: Canada, the USA, the Republic of Moldova, and the UK. We were pleased to host 30 foster caregivers from Bucharest who chose to receive training in order to be more effective with the children they care for.

Testimonials:

It was my first time attending this kind of an event. I was surprised by the topics discussed. I changed my perspective on many issues from listening to the opinions of specialists. I was pleasantly surprised by the kindness of everyone present, from volunteers to organizers, and all those involved.

I learned that it is important to apply self-care in our personal lives and to share this concept with our colleagues.

It is extremely important for adoptive parents to be trained in how to understand trauma since adoption itself can involve traumatic experiences for children. These children may have been subjected to previous trauma such as neglect, physical or emotional abuse, separation from their biological family, or prolonged placement in an orphanage, (all of which can have a profound impact on their development and well-being).

Here are some key reasons why training adoptive parents in trauma is essential:

Understanding the impact of trauma: Training about trauma helps adoptive parents understand how previous trauma can influence the behavior, development, and relationships of adopted children.This enables parents to provide appropriate support and address specific trauma-related issues in an empathetic and effective manner.

Sensitive and appropriate response: Trauma-trained adoptive parents can identify signs and symptoms of trauma in their children and respond to their needs in a sensitive and appropriate manner. This includes creating a safe and secure environment, promoting healthy attachment relationships, and providing emotional and therapeutic support.

Managing challenging behavior: Adopted children may exhibit difficult behaviors or adjustment disorders because of their previous traumatic experiences. Through trauma training, adoptive parents learn effective behavior management strategies, such as stress regulation techniques and specific therapeutic approaches, which can help them respond appropriately and aid in their children’s healing.

Building relationships and attachment: Previous trauma can affect the ability of adopted children to build healthy attachment relationships. Trauma-trained adoptive parents are equipped with the necessary skills to support and promote emotional bonding and secure attachment with their children. This contributes to the emotional and relational well-being of adopted children.

Self-care and support for adoptive parents: Trauma training provides adoptive parents with the knowledge and tools to manage their own stress and take care of their emotional well-being during the adoption process and beyond. Proper self-care and access to support and resources can help adoptive parents cope with challenges and remain engaged and healthy in their parenting role.

Training adoptive parents in trauma is essential for a successful adoption that ensures the healthy development and well-being of adopted children. It helps create an environment of trust, support, and safety in which children can grow and heal from their previous traumatic experiences.

In 2022, Romania launched the TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) training course for caregivers. This course uses an attachment-based approach with the goal of addressing trauma. TBRI is a method designed for parents and professionals that work with children who have experienced traumatic experiences such as abuse or neglect. The course is designed to be interactive and is taught by certified TBRI trainers.

Since April, we’ve provided three online TBRI courses. The total number of participants was about 40 people. Due to increased demand and interest, we will continue to offer these courses.

In addition to the online courses, we have also held physical TBRI courses in several cities:

Sibiu

On June 6th-7th, 2023, we organized a TBRI course in Sibiu. We partnered with AMEC (Association of Missions for the Education of Children) and welcomed approximately 20 participants (AMEC missionaries). We had a great time! There was lots of interactive learning in a pleasant atmosphere, motivating the participants to develop their skills for better interactions with children with a history of trauma.

Feedback received:

„At this course, I most appreciated the emphasis on connecting with the child, parenting styles, and proactive strategies. I understood the importance of connecting with the child before correcting them, how the brain develops, and how it is affected by trauma.”

„I appreciated the excellent presentation of the material and the videos, as well as the discussions after watching them. The main take-away for me from this course is that reconnection is crucial.”

„A very practical course, highly useful in our work. I am left with the idea that the foundation of a strong bond with the child is CONNECTION.”

Cehu Silvaniei

In collaboration with the Benefacto Foundation and DGASPC Salaj, we organized a TBRI course in Salaj County, in Cehu Silvaniei, from June 8th-10th, 2023. There were 27 participants, including social workers, psychologists, case managers, psychopedagogues, and educators working in foster care centers, maternal centers, or family-style homes.

It was three information filled, intense days, but also highly appreciated by the participants.

Testimonials from participants:

„I appreciated the in-depth and understandable content as it was educational and actionable. I liked the emphasis on greater involvement in children’s lives and listening to them, and how I learned calming techniques. I’m glad I had the opportunity to participate; I learned a lot.”

„I appreciated the entire content of the course, the calming techniques, and the emphasis on connecting with children. I learned that traumas can be healed. TBRI methods are effective and applicable. Thank you for your dedication! Thank you for everything! It was the best and most effective course I have participated in.”

At ARFO, we believe in the power of a refreshed life. With that in mind, we organized a retreat for the volunteers who have been with us throughout the years (for activities, support groups, camps, and events such as the annual Summit or other smaller-scale gatherings). For four days in April, 55 participants gathered together at Casa Bella in Bughea de Sus, Arges County (a charming location near a stream, on the edge of the forest).

Our goal was to rejuvenate our minds through games and reflection, as well as foster physical well-being through activities and hikes in the forest.

To foster connection with God and amongst us, we were blessed by worship and morning devotions, fellowshipped together in nature, and enjoyed games and campfire songs as a group. We also completed personality and conflict resolution tests, to help us understand ourselves better but also for the moments of laughter and fun that will remain as fun memories forever.

We also desired to refocus, to understand where we come from, where we are, and where we are heading. Evening sessions included reflecting on the past, understanding the present, and envisioning and shaping the future. These served as moments to recall the reasons why ARFO exists, the achievements we take pride in, and the hopes that drive us. We also reiterated the values that guide us in our collective work to ensure that every child in Romania has a permanent home dedicated to their well-being.

For married couples, Tim and Caroline Bailey provided guidance on married life, while other volunteers had the opportunity to learn and discuss living a purposeful life.

In the end, the volunteer retreat proved to be a valuable pause for replenishing our strengths and realigning our vision for the future—a stopover that we will cherish and remember in the years to come.

In Romania, Adoption Day is celebrated on June 2nd each year. This day aims to promote and highlight the importance of adoption and provide recognition and support to families who have chosen to provide a home and a family to a child through adoption.

Adoption Day in Romania holds special significance because adoption is an act of love and generosity through which children in need – or without a caregiving family – can find a safe and loving environment to grow and develop. This day brings the importance of giving children protection and support for a better life to the very front.

Adoption Day in Romania also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the needs of children in the child protection system and promote improvements in the field of adoption, which makes it an efficient and transparent process benefiting children and families involved.

This year, ARFO was present at local group events on June 2nd in five locations: Bucharest, Iasi, Oradea, Sibiu, Timisoara, and Cluj Napoca. Alex Ilie, ARFO’s executive director, spoke in front of hundreds of people attending the HeartBeats Festival about the 42,000 children in Romania who have no one to call mom or dad.

București

In Bucharest, the Romania Without Orphans Alliance (ARFO) and Tzuby’s Kids Association, in partnership with Roaba de Cultură, celebrated National Adoption Day in the Herăstrău Park – Pescăruș area of Bucharest.

Those that attended enjoyed an interactive activity titled „A Journey into the World of Adoption.” This event gathered over 250 participants and featured activity centers for children with various themes such as playdough creations, podcast fun, art and drawing, sensory play, working with clay, and sports games. We also listened to the stories of families who have experienced adoption in an interactive manner.

“We aim to raise awareness about the adoption needs of children in the child protection system. Currently, there are 7,000 children declared adoptable, but only 3,000 certified parents available for adoption. Additionally, we want to assure adoptive parents that they are not alone, and we are here to offer support groups, therapeutic camps, interventions, and training, making the process of integrating children into their families as smooth as possible,” stated Liviu Mihaileanu, President of ARFO and an adoptive parent.

Participants had the opportunity to receive information from Tzuby’s Kids Association about the stages of adoption, the process, and useful tips for adoptive parents. They also had the chance to purchase therapeutic products branded Tzuby Toys. The celebration was filled with surprises, including the child friendly stations, sports games, and a podcast organized by CrossOne radio, where children had the opportunity to sing and talk about amusing yet profound things.

„My advice to the President would be to help those in need and find parents for the abandoned children,” said Florin, an adopted child.

Adoptive parents also answered a few questions about the wonderful journey of adoption, and themes such as color, joy, fulfillment, challenges, and satisfaction were among their responses.

Iași

This year, we celebrated June 2nd, Adoption Day, in Iasi, in a warm and energetic atmosphere. Our journey into the world of adoption included 4 stations: three for children and one for parents. These stations offered various activities, such as face painting, family portraits, crafts, the Zum Zum puppet theater, a treasure hunt, parachute activities, and more.

The program also included the adoption story of a family from Iasi. In addition to the over 20 volunteers, approximately 40 children and their families participated, and together we celebrated family.

Oradea

In Oradea, we celebrated June 2nd with the Casa Speranței Foundation and A.P.A (Association of Adoptive Parents). The event took place at the Salem Christian Center in Oradea. Children enjoyed inflatable slides, followed by team games. Parents had a dedicated space for questions and answers, where Corina Caba, the director of Casa Speranței Foundation, was present. Over 100 people attended the event, including children, parents, and volunteers.

Sibiu

For June 2nd National Adoption Day, Sibiu enjoyed the interactive activity „Journey into the World of Adoption” at the Astra Library, Building B, from 10 in the morning to 8 in the evening. As the title suggests, visitors were invited to go through a journey with four stations, each station having a designated area with its own decor and location (in the mezzanine of the Astra Library).

As they arrived, visitors were served snacks and a refreshing drink, then given a map of the exhibition along with instructions on how to navigate the route, highlighting points of interest for both adults and children. Over 60 families participated, totaling approximately 200 adults and children.

Timișoara

On June 2nd, National Adoption Day, Timișoara celebrated with an event dedicated to families and children who have gone through adoption or are interested in it. Over 20 families and around 40 children participated in an event filled with sports activities, face painting, bubble games, music and dance, crafts, and temporary tattoos. Caricaturist artist Radu Clețiu created free portraits for both children and parents. In the end, a group of children delighted us with a mini vocal-instrumental concert. We were available to answer any questions about adoption, distributed brochures, and invited families to join our support group and Refresh Camps. All of this took place in the beautiful setting of the Children’s Park in the city center, near the Bega River.

We were supported by over 25 volunteers and our partners, DGASPC Timiș (represented by General Director Carmen Apostol and Mrs. Păuleț Gabriela), Vox Domini Christian Baptist Church, and Primii Pași Primary School.

Deo Gloria Sibiu, Betel, Emanuel, and Deo Gloria Ploiești are just a few of the churches where we have been invited in recent months to share our vision that every child would grow up in a permanent and loving family and know their Heavenly Father. Every time we are amazed to see how Christians, passionate about God and His mission among people, become enthusiastic about reflecting His love among the most vulnerable children.

„Adoption, the Heart of the Gospel” was the theme of these gatherings. The joy of understanding the width and the depth of the fact that God has adopted us, along with the realization that the best way to reflect this is by being part of the adoption movement, was part of the message we shared.. We are called to live extraordinary, not simply be „good Christians.”

One of the greatest joys has been to see participants dedicating in various ways to live out this calling. Some have even decided to adopt. Please pray with us for abundant fruit.

On May 26th to 28th, we were invited to the „Beyond Appearances” Conference in Târgu Jiu, organized by the „Din Mâna Lui” Foundation, where we covered the following topics: the impact of trauma, attachment and trauma, disciplining children with a history of trauma, and TBRI intervention methods.

Over 60 educators, social workers, psychologists, and nurses participated in the conference.

Some of the feedback received:

„I liked the presentation, the delivery style, the examples, and all the staff who presented the course.”

„I liked the involvement of the trainers, the clear explanation of all the information that was understandable to everyone.”

“I had the opportunity to put into practice what I learned in my relationship with children, and it was very effective. It may be a small victory, but you all deserve it. I don’t know how much it matters, but you have my utmost respect. I would like to learn more about TBRI in the future, have a session on this topic, the new principles are amazing.”

We joined World Without Orphans where we had the privilege to contribute to the development and strengthening of other national „without orphans” movements. This time, our journey took us to Nepal (a country with over a million orphans), Bangladesh (the country with the highest population density in the world and over 3.4 million children without parents), and Serbia (our neighboring country, striving to understand the value of collaboration, working together for such a wonderful cause).

In each location, our endeavor was to understand the culture and specifics of the respective area, then together with the people in that area, explore how the principles that guided us could work successfully in their contexts. Worldwide, it is valuable for people to join together to ensure that every child is loved and protected within a family.

The lessons learned and the relationships built have made these journeys extremely valuable, not only for those in the countries we visited but also for ourselves.

All of ARFO’s work is sustained by our generous sponsors. 100% of your donations go directly to the ARFO initiatives, focused on bringing awareness, growth, and guidance to the efficient care of children.

If you would like to support ARFO’s vision you can give in the following ways:

    One-time or monthly gifts

    Another way to give is to create a birthday donation initiative #AnotherKindofBirthday #UnLaMultiAniAltfel

    If you are in Romania, you can direct up to 20% of your company’s profit or up to 20% of your income from micro / small business owners to ARFO

Thank you for all the support and love and encouragement!

A child’s favorite dream is family. #arfo #donate #doneaza

„Every Child Deserves the Love of a Family”

With this thought in mind, we invite you to be a part of the ARFO Prayer Chain that takes place on the first weekend of every month, and we challenge you to be voices for those whose pain needs to be heard.

Since the beginning of the year, we have had 165 people registered in the Prayer Chain.

During the summer months, we invite you to pray for the Refresh camps, for the families and children who will be present. May this time spent in camps be a time of emotional renewal and strengthening of the parent-child relationship. May the knowledge gained and the techniques learned help them in the challenges they face every day.

More information about registration and how it unfolds can be found in the link below.