2020 OS/SS Coordinators Guide

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T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S CLICK TO VIEW SECTIONS

H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E

WHO WE ARE CAFO MISSION CAFO VISION DEEPEST COMMITMENTS DESIGN STANDARD LEADERSHIP

C O O R D I N A T O R R O L E

ROLE DESCRIPTION BENEFITS COMMUNICATIONS TEAM BUILDING WEBINARS

H O W T O G E T S T A R T E D

NEW COORDINATORS VETERAN COORDINATORS

R E S O U R C E S

PODCASTS, BLOG POSTS + MORE WHO CAN PARTICIPATE + HOW?

I D E A S 50 IDEAS ANYONE CAN DO FOR ORPHAN + STAND SUNDAY

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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Dear Coordinators, There’s little better than being part of a great story. And you most certainly are.

Orphan Sunday and Stand Sunday both began in a small, hard-pressed church where the church members had little. But the pastor believed that all Christians are called to express God’s deep love for the fatherless in action. Today, this simple, compelling vision echoes around the world.

Your role as a Coordinator is absolutely central in this amazing growth. It came not via a huge, well-funded machine, but by faithful volunteers like you offering what you have. Thank you for being an indispensable part of all this. We hope this manual helps you fulfill your role with vigor and vision! It is a joy to get to labor alongside you in this, amidst a story that carries consequences for all eternity.

For the Fatherless,

Jedd Medefind, President Christian Alliance for Orphans

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E WHO WE ARE

The ​Christian Alliance for Orphans​ unites 200+ respected organizations and over 700 member churches. Our joint initiatives (including: CAFO Summit, Orphan Sunday + Stand Sunday, Foster Movement, Church Ministry, Global Network, OVC Research and Student) inspire and equip Christians to live out effectively the Bible’s call to care for orphans and vulnerable children.

In 2004, CAFO was born at a gathering of 38 Christian leaders who carried a shared sense that God desired to call His people to step up decisively for orphans and foster youth. Although serving in diverse fields, they pledged to “leave logos and egos at the door” to advance this vision in shared action.

T​oday, we get to see what is achieved when we labor together for a vision larger than any one could accomplish alone. Without CAFO, many good ministries would still faithfully serve - yet often in isolation or even in competition.

As CAFO helps Christians understand God’s call to care for vulnerable children and equips for effective response, the impact reaches far beyond a single program or met need. Rather, an ever-growing community of passionate individuals, families, churches and organizations invest time, talent and treasure in a personal and sustained commitment to caring for children in the name of Jesus. We are better together.

Around the globe we see Christians rising as God’s answer for orphans and vulnerable children.

Through CAFO Initiatives they are being equipped as never before:

- Non-Profit Organizations​ serving vulnerable children join together through CAFO Membership and unifying leadership to advance a vision larger than any one could do alone.

These organizations support the movement through membership dues and exhibit/sponsorship opportunities of the annual CAFO Summit. CAFO Members adhere to membership standards and are trustworthy partners.

- Adoptive parents​ are finding community, training and trusted CAFO Member agencies to partner with.

- Foster parents and advocates​ are finding their fit in foster care and receiving support from the local church and CAFO curated resources.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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Churches + ministry leaders​ are being inspired through one-on-one coaching and specifically designed church resources and networking events.

Researchers and practitioners​ are coming together to gather the best available research and practices to serve vulnerable children more effectively.

Pastors and leaders from around the world​ are being equipped to create networks that inspire effective care for orphans and vulnerable children in their local communities.

Young emerging leaders​ are inspired and equipped through our OVC Essentials course and internship program for a lifetime of effective service.

On ​Orphan Sunday​, Christians stand for the orphan. We are a people called to defend the fatherless, to care for the child that has no family and to visit orphans in their distress.

The seeds of this united Orphan Sunday come as a gift from the church in Africa. While attending a church service in Zambia in 2002, an American visitor was struck by the local pastor’s passionate call to care for orphans in a community that had been ravaged by AIDS and poverty. Members of the church faced deep need themselves. But as the service ended, one after another stepped forward with money, food and other goods, some even taking off their own shoes and placing them in the offering for orphans.

That visitor, Gary Schneider, was so deeply impacted by what he had witnessed that he began to help Zambian leaders coordinate Orphan Sunday efforts across Zambia and then brought this vision to the U.S. In 2009, the Christian Alliance for Orphans began shepherding this idea to make Orphan Sunday a catalyst for awareness and action across the U.S. and worldwide. Today, churches and organizations in more than 90 nations observe Orphan Sunday annually. Through Orphan Sunday, we join in the promise of “One Day, One Voice, One Purpose.” We pray that churches all over the world may be as faithful as our Zambian brothers and sisters to reflect God’s heart for the orphan, both near and far.

To see the 30-minute documentary about the birth of Orphan Sunday, visit: https://vimeo.com/52682226

On ​Stand Sunday​, Christians stand for the children and families in foster care. When Bishop Aaron Blake, a pastor and foster/adoptive father, left his breakfast table for church on the second Sunday in November of 2002, he had a sermon prepared and it wasn’t about foster care.

“I had prepared a sermon to preach that morning that I had worked on all week. I stood up to bring the message when the breakfast table image of our boys came back to my mind. The faces of our sons seemed to multiply in my emotions as I recalled the image from the breakfast table earlier. I knew then that God was prompting our church to answer the call to care for children and broken families.”

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

5 Without explanation, Bishop Blake said to his congregation, “Brothers and sisters, there are about 30,000 children in the foster care system in Texas and nearly a half a million in the US.” He then asked this one simple question (and he wasn’t expecting a verbal answer). “Who will stand with me to defend, care, and support abused, abandoned, and neglected children in our community?” After a brief moment of silence, one lady in the back of the church stood up and simply replied, “Pastor… I will.”

To his amazement, Bishop Blake watched as one family after another stood up and joined their voices to hers. As a result of that day, this church and the surrounding community has cared for and adopted hundreds of children in foster care over the last 14 years. In fact, their county actually has more than enough foster families to care for the kids within care in their county.

Each year since 2002, the church has celebrated that second Sunday in November. In 2017, these two efforts merged – Orphan Sunday for the purpose of inviting the church to care for orphans worldwide and Stand Sunday for the purpose of calling the church to stand for children and families in U.S. Foster Care.

W​atch this 2-minute video about the birth of Stand Sunday: https://vimeo.com/224756922

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E CAFO MISSION

THAT EVERY ORPHAN WILL EXPERIENCE GOD’S UNFAILING LOVE + KNOW JESUS AS SAVIOR.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E CAFO VISION

TO INSPIRE + EQUIP GOD’S PEOPLE TO EFFECTIVELY LIVE OUT GOD’S CALL TO CARE FOR THE ORPHAN

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E DEEPEST COMMITMENTS

Q U A L I T Y We seek to honor God and those we serve by producing work that is consistent, professional, and well-crafted.

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31

E F F E C T I V E We believe good intention is insufficient in itself, and so we are committed to seeking the best results possible — even while knowing that ultimate results are in God’s hands.

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” Matthew 25:21

T H O U G H T F U L + W I S E Our leadership, language, and loving actions are rooted in Scripture and guided by the best available knowledge and well-informed practice of others.

“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” Proverbs 18:15

B E T T E R T O G E T H E R We model unity in diversity and facilitate generous collaboration to accomplish more together than anyone could alone.

“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Ephesians 4:16

L E A D A S S E R V A N T S We strive to embody Christ-like leadership that is humble, others-focused, and sacrificial.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

9 “Not so with you. Instead whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43-45

D E E P F I R S T Aware of our limitations, we recognize that vibrant and fruitful ministry rises from a well-tended inner life rooted in Christ, cultivated through sabbath rest and the spiritual disciplines.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

In light of our commitments to Lead as Servants and Deep First, CAFO has created a Soul Health Self-Assessment.

The visible mission of the Christian Alliance for Orphans’ is to inspire and equip God’s people to effectively live out His call to care for the orphan. At its heart, this work is about the transformation of lives, both those serving and those being served.

As “lead servants” stewarding CAFO’s work, we believe this: if transformation is our goal, it must begin with us. Alongside our external mission, we desire also to grow as a community of spiritual formation.

We unite as followers of Jesus, led by the Holy Spirit and under the authority of Scripture, growing together to know, love and reflect the character of Jesus more each day. This formation, and all that we pray it will grow within us, is the true wellspring of our daily service.

This assessment will (A) allow you to reflect on the most important things in life and provide insight into choices, practices and habits you may want to alter or prioritize; (B) Help CAFO better encourage and support you and our whole team in the cultivation of thriving souls.

Take the Assessment Here

R O O T E D I N T H E G O S P E L We are motivated to love, and work to motivate others, by the love of God revealed through the gospel.

“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E DESIGN STANDARD

We believe having a clear and consistent message will continue to amplify and unify the Christian orphan care movement. We join together to be part of a vision larger than one could do alone. These standards and guidelines inspire creativity while maintaining core attributes of CAFO and its initiatives.

BASIC GUIDELINES + PRINCIPLES TO FOLLOW When designing any piece for any initiative we strive to maintain a level of excellence not only to be professional to the outside world but also because the work deserves it. A core value of the CAFO team is our commitment to quality. We seek to honor God and those we serve by producing work that is professional, consistent, and well-crafted. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) In light of this commitment, we expect and will help support growth towards design projects to be submitted to the highest quality and attention to detail.

Professional:​ CAFO is a thought-leader for the Christian orphan care movement and looked to as a producer of thoughtful, best practice research and accessible resources for inspiring and equipping the local church. We like clean lines, white space, clear and concise design that isn’t cluttered. We also want our designs to have texture and rich earthy tones.

Photos:​ As an organization that advocates for vulnerable children and orphans, it’s easy to find a compelling photo of a child and call it a day. However, our creative team cares deeply about the way our organization uses photos of children in design. There is much brokenness and beauty that we see in caring for the fatherless and want our designs to hold and embrace this tension. We push ourselves to design first then find a photo that adds to the message.

Whether child or adult, a person’s physical image and story represents them. Photos, films and written stories of any person should be created and shared only in ways that respect their wishes and affirm their dignity as sons and daughters made in the image of God. Photography is a big part of the CAFO brand. We work to handpick photos that display both the hope and need. We seek to reveal a child’s gifts - strength, beauty, hope, competence - alongside their needs.

There is much beauty and brokenness in caring for orphans and vulnerable children. You’ll see photos that balance and embrace this tension. Read “​Children in Media: Principles & Questions to Consider​” 2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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ORPHAN + STAND SUNDAY DESIGNS

All official Orphan Sunday and Stand Sunday designs are available in each toolkit online. You’ll also be given access to some of the design files and PDFs to download via Dropbox.

Here’s a couple design points to keep in mind: 1. When creating your own designs, keep in mind the year’s design theme and colors if possible.

2. If adding other photos note “Children in Media: Principles + Questions to Consider.”

3. When using logos, see the appropriate ways below. Do not distort or stretch the OS + SS logos.

If there’s an occasion when you’d like to use both logos together, see the approved way to show them together.

Download logo files:

Orphan Sunday Logo Combined Logos

PNG ​JPG PNG​ J​ PG

​EPS​

Stand Sunday Logo

(Click on the link and then right click to save the image to a computer) 2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

PNG

​JPG

​EPS

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H I S T O R Y + C U L T U R E LEADERSHIP CAFO STAFF Amanda Baird, Project Manager, National Foster Care Initiative Ashley Otani Reyes, Creative Director Ashley Phelan, Consultant Brandie Smith, Chief Operations Officer David Hennessey, Director for Global Networks Elizabeth Wiebe, Vice President of Engagement Jason Johnson, National Director of Church Ministry Initiative Jason Weber, National Director for Foster Care Initiatives Jedd Medefind, President Jodi Jackson Tucker, Director of Orphan & Stand Sunday Karl Dinkler, Communications Director Leah St. Pierre, Student Initiative Meredith Morgan, Project Manager, Research Initiative Michael Mitchell, Director of Development + Discipleship Nicole Wilke, Director for Applied Research & Best Practice Initiative Sarah Temple, Executive Assistant

ORPHAN & STAND SUNDAY: VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP TEAM Alex Caceres, Latin America Regional Coordinator Barbara Ruegger, Europe Regional Coordinator Chola Simwanza, Africa Regional Coordinator David A. Arruda, International Pastoral Director Eleanor Johnson, Multicultural Ambassador Elizabeth Occhipinti, Foster Care Ambassador Eric Mills, National Pastoral Director Jacob Sturges, U.S. Social Media Coordinator Janiece Wieschhaus, Coordinator Coach Janna Danilova, Russia Regional Coordinator Joel Marcaida, International Social Media Coordinator Kody Krady, International Web Manager Malen Papadopolous, Asia Regional Coordinator Malen Pappadopoulos, Asia Regional Coordinator Sandra Flach, Media Director

ORPHAN + STAND SUNDAY COORDINATORS ​orphansunday.org/contact

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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C O O R D I N A T O R R O L E ROLE DESCRIPTION

You are the local voice of Orphan + Stand Sunday. Help spread the word by educating yourself and others on the importance surrounding this day. Your success is not measured by the “greatness” of any event, but by any simple act of new awareness that takes place.

Awareness inspires ACTION

Expand your borders + Equip God’s people + Engage God’s people = ACTION

COORDINATOR ACTIVITIES + OPPORTUNITIES

1. Join the Foster Care Prayer Call (U.S. team) for your state (15 minutes per week), to pray for foster care in your area. (recommended). ​Find and Join a prayer call in your state​.

2. Participate in the CAFO Global Network in your country (International Team, if network is present), https://resources.cafo.org/global/networks/

3. Connect with the CAFO Leadership Team a minimum of four times per year, such as an individual coaching call, participation in a team building webinar, attending CAFO Summit.

4. Regularly check and respond to your email inquiries. We manage our communications by email.

Your email will be the primary way you will receive information. In addition, your email will be listed on the ​Orphan/Stand Sunday Contact page here​.

5. Join the online coordinator coaching group on FB, and respond to one post per month (recommended). Page is listed here: ​https://www.facebook.com/groups/orphansundaycoach/

6. Reach out to churches in your area, encourage them to participate in CAFO activities year-round.

Note: Coordinators may be provided an email list of past participating churches in their state/nation from the previous year.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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COORDINATOR ACTIVITIES ANNUALLY

Quarter 1 & 2: January - June ● Participate in CAFO Coordinator Training Webinars ● Participate in one other Webinar opportunities offered by CAFO ● Enroll in a free CAFO online course ● Join a Foster Care Prayer Call ● Build a list of churches in your region

Quarter 3 & 4: July - December ● Promote participation in Orphan & Stand Sunday. The main role of a Coordinator is to be the local voice of Orphan & Stand Sunday. Help spread the word by educating churches about Orphan & Stand Sunday and the importance surrounding this day. Each church may participate differently and every step is a move toward opening eyes to the plight of the orphan. Your success is not measured by the “greatness” of any observance, but by any simple act of new awareness that takes place. Churches will build on these beginnings each year, even if they start with one simple prayer for orphans. You are the vessel to bring the ideas of Orphan & Stand Sunday and God will lead the church leaders in the right direction!

● Encourage at least 10 individuals or churches to join the ONE Child Campaign and pray for specific waiting children.

● Register a minimum of five Churches (and those you are aware of in your area) on the ​online Map​. The OS/SS Map is a great tool to track observances across the globe. Although it is difficult to track the thousands of observances worldwide, this is our best tool to keep everyone inspired by seeing participation in their region and globally.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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C O O R D I N A T O R D E T A I L S BENEFITS

We are truly grateful for the time and energy you will pour in as a Coordinator this year. The benefits below are a small token of appreciation of your choice to join in a Kingdom vision larger than any one of us could accomplish alone. Enjoy these benefits:

★ Free Registration* for some CAFO online courses, including OVC Essentials and Church Ministry Essentials. This includes all the associated materials, teaching as well as a certificate for those completing the course.

★ Discounted Registration to CAFO Summit annually (and scholarship priority for international coordinators).

★ A CAFO gift of appreciation each year at year-end.

★ Listing on the CAFO Website as a recognized coordinator for orphans and vulnerable children.

★ Invitation to the CAFO Global Network in your country (International Team, if network is present)

★ Invitation to the Coordinator Annual Awards held annually at CAFO.

★ Free Orphan Sunday or Stand Sunday T-shirt for those who attend Summit.

★ Recognition Certificate as a Coordinator.

★ Subscription to Coordinator Newsletters, with advance notice of any new resources or courses, perks, benefits and important news.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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C O O R D I N A T O R D E T A I L S COMMUNICATIONS

NEWSLETTERS

The “​Coordinator Corner​” will be sent monthly with custom content just for you.

FREE Courses & Webinars!

OVC Essentials Broaden and deepen your knowledge of best practices and critical issues within OVC (orphan + vulnerable children) care.. Alongside an encouraging and stimulating community, OVC Essentials supplies challenges where necessary, and plenty inspiration for the road ahead. You will find this course to be an informative, accessible, and stimulating experience in their journey towards engaging wisely and effectively with vulnerable children and families.

See more information here

Church Ministry Essentials Whether launching a new ministry or leading an existing one, this course will provide a framework for you to discover, implement and sustain your next best steps no matter where you are on your ministry journey of foster care, adoption, family support and global orphan care.

See more information here

CAFO SUMMIT

The Orphan and Stand Sunday team gathers annually at CAFO Summit for connection, equipping and fellowship. This is our time to bond as a team and celebrate each of you! Discount registration is always provided, as well as additional Coordinator perks and a Coordinator Annual Awards event to worship and praise God and reflect on all your success.

See more information here

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H O W T O G E T S T A R T E D NEW COORDINATORS

Welcome to the Coordinator Team, we are grateful for each new advocate who steps into this leadership role. We want to help you to grow awareness in your community and educate others. Here’s a few things to get you started!

1. Mark your calendars for as many of the team building webinars as you can possibly attend. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to share awareness with others.

2. Do Your Research: Consider researching the statistics for your community. These statistics will enable you to educate the community on the needs of children worldwide and near you.

● How many children’s homes are within a 30-mile radius? (International) ● How many children are in foster care in your community? (U.S. More info can be found here: https://cafo.org/nfci/#state ● Is there a local branch of CASA (legal representation for children in foster care)? ● Are there adoption agencies in your community? ● Are there nonprofit organizations in your area serving vulnerable children?

3. Build Connections: Find your support network

● Begin by connecting to church members who are adoptive, foster, respite and host parents, volunteers, social workers, children’s homes and those with a heart for vulnerable children. ● Coordinators take this a step further by connecting with these same men & women across multiple churches of different denominations.

4. Strategize! Here are the top 10 strategies for Coordinators:

Recruit – Churches, nonprofit organizations, individual advocates and community groups Meet – Host a brainstorm meeting for local advocates with interest in participating Post – Use social media to spread the message via posts and live video Call/Visit – Call area churches or stop by to introduce yourself & initiate relationship Mail – Send the ‘Save the Date’ postcards or other resources to area churches Distribute – Place flyers in locations such as a library, coffee shop, bookstore Connect- Connect with area adoption & foster agencies, children’s homes, CASA Exhibit – Watch for conferences and festivals where you can set up an info booth Radio – Submit the prerecorded PSA to local Christian radio stations in your area Publish – Submit the press release to local publications

Still feel lost, need help or just a word of encouragement? ​Our Coordinator Coach is here to help! Reach out at OSresources@cafo.org

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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H O W T O G E T S T A R T E D VETERAN COORDINATORS

If you are a veteran of our Coordinator team, we want to offer you our deepest appreciation! The breadth and impact of Orphan & Stand Sunday would not be possible without your sacrificial service.

You represent the true backbone of the movement - those who have laid down their lives to follow God’s heart toward vulnerable children. The fruits of your labors will only be seen in Heaven, but we hope you can see around you just a glimpse of what you have accomplished in the children prayed for, ministered to, fostered and adopted as a result of this message.

At CAFO, our deepest desire is that your servant leadership on our team first and foremost draws you closer to Christ. Thank you for continuing to use your gifts to reflect his image to a watching world.

One of the best ways you could serve the team this year is to ​share your wisdom and experience!​ If there is a new coordinator in your state or area, reach out and offer to mentor them! Having your insights and experience will be a huge encouragement and help them get started with excitement.

Think about what you can do this year that will be fresh, new or exciting! What have you only dreamed of doing, and how could you ask God to make that a reality this year? Think big and put your faith in action!

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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R E S O U R C E S PODCASTS, BLOG POSTS + MORE

These resources have been carefully selected to give you an overview of the work of CAFO. As the movement has grown by God’s grace over the last several years, we have sought to tell the story.

CAFO WEBSITE​ ​ ​CAFO Website Look through all the Initiatives: CAFO Summit, Church Ministry, Global Network, Foster Movement, Orphan Sunday and more in the menu dropdown “Initiatives”. See if there are “Next Steps” you can help provide churches who participate in Orphan & Stand Sunday through one of the CAFO Initiatives.

PODCASTS Justice & the Inner Life​ ​Listen Foster Movement​ ​Listen Orphan Sunday: Stories of Impact Listen

BLOG POSTS Read the following Blog Posts concerning Orphan + Stand Sunday.

Never Underestimate the Difference One Committed Person Can Make Read Blog

Orphan Sunday Changes the World for Vulnerable Children Read Blog

Thanksgiving for Orphan Sunday Read Blog

Orphan Sunday Award Winners Read Blog

So We Did Orphan Sunday, Now What?

Read Blog

ORPHAN STATISTICS This ​short booklet​ is a brief overview of orphan statistics.

CHAMPION PARTNERSHIP PROSPECTUS Look at these CAFO goals and priorities 2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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R E S O U R C E S WHO CAN PARTICIPATE + HOW?

CHURCHES It’s important to understand that while OS/SS is primarily recognized in the church, it is not restricted to the church setting. Even within the church, OS/SS isn’t restricted to the main sanctuary. If it’s your first time planning an observance, consider that the path to participation might come through the Children’s Ministry, Youth Group, Women’s or Men’s Ministry, Prayer Team, Missions Team or your Sunday School Leader. These onramps are equally powerful and important!

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS There are hundreds of incredible faith-based, nonprofit organizations doing God-honoring work domestically and globally on behalf of orphans and vulnerable children. These leaders can also leverage OS/SS to bring awareness to the tremendous work they are championing.

Please note: The deep impact of CAFO comes especially through the hundreds of volunteers all around the world and our network of 200+ member organizations. To see the CAFO member organizations, visit: ​https://cafo.org/members/

INDIVIDUALS There are many men and women who are advocates for the Fatherless. These individuals have been given a heart for orphaned and vulnerable children and should be empowered to use their voice on Orphan & Stand Sunday. Social media is a great way that they can be engaged to help spread awareness.

BUSINESSES Christian business owners can certainly participate in OS/SS activities as well. In fact, we have seen several businesses in recent years take an active role in promoting awareness using the tools of OS/SS with special events, fundraisers for local ministries, and more.

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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I D E A S EVERYONE CAN DO SOMETHING​ FOR ORPHAN + STAND SUNDAY

1. Collection Drive for items for foster care, orphanages, local children’s homes 2. Distribute prayer cards of children waiting for adoptive/foster/ sponsorship 3. Set aside time of intercessory prayer 4. Dedicate a personal fast to orphan issues that burden your heart 5. Write letters or cards of encouragement to orphaned and vulnerable children 6. Gather together a small group and read an orphan care related book together and discuss 7. Prepare curriculum related to orphan care for a small group of adults, youth or children 8. Share an orphan-care related sermon on Orphan & Stand Sunday 9. Plan worship songs that reflect God’s heart for the orphan, youth or children’s choir 10. Commission families in your church/workplace who stepped into orphan care in the past year 11. Plan a baby/child dedication or shower for the new adoptive children in your congregation 12. Invite a former foster or orphaned youth to speak to your group 13. Invite an adoptive, foster, host or respite family to speak to your group 14. Invite a nonprofit organization working with vulnerable children to speak to your group 15. Plan a fundraiser to benefit for Orphans + Vulnerable Children (OVC) 16. Take a love offering to benefit for Orphans + Vulnerable Children (OVC) 17. Gather together a small group and watch an orphan care related movie together and discuss 18. Service project for an adoptive/foster family, local children’s home or crisis pregnancy center 19. Host a breakfast or lunch for local CASA volunteers and ​Family and Children Services​ (DFCS) 20. Host a ‘date night’ for local adoptive, foster and host families 21. Sew dresses and other handmade items (dolls, jump-ropes) for overseas orphans 22. Take a meal to a local adoptive, foster or host family 23. Show a CAFO produced Orphan + Stand Sunday video to your group or congregation 24. Host an orphan care forum to educate your community of the needs locally and globally 25. Host an info table to share orphan care opportunities at a church, festival or school

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org

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26. Host a webinar to educate others on the orphan-care issues that burden your heart 27. Host a “Lunch and Learn” in the workplace to present orphan-care needs locally and globally 28. Donate a portion of your business proceeds to raise awareness of Orphan & Stand Sunday 29. Begin an adoption grant or scholarship fund for aging out foster youth in your church 30. Distribute flyers to local libraries, coffee shops, bookstores or businesses 31. Offer to be interviewed on local Christian radio station about Orphan & Stand Sunday 32. Share the official PSA with the radio stations in your area 33. Mail the “Save the Date” cards to local pastors in your area 34. Submit the official Press Release to local publications in your area 35. Write letters to politicians requesting participation and support in Orphan + Stand Sunday 36. Create a visual representation of the orphans worldwide, ex. shoes on the church stage 37. Include the Bulletin Insert on Orphan + Stand Sunday 38. Sign-up to mentor and/or tutor a local foster youth or child residing in a local children’s home 39. Host a birthday party for children in foster care or in your local children’s home 40. Kickoff or relaunch and orphan care ministry in your church 41. Sign-up to serve on a mission trip to serve Orphans + Vulnerable Children (OVC) 42. Sign-up to volunteer in your local children’s home 43. Sign-up to volunteer as a court approved babysitter for supervised visitations 44. Sign-up to sponsor a child 45. Donate for orphans + vulnerable children (OVC) to attend Christian summer camp 46. Become a CASA 47. Sign up to host orphans 48. Register to be a foster parent 49. Register to provide respite care 50. Begin the Adoption process

2020 Onboard Training for Coordinators | Christian Alliance for Orphans | cafo.org