In this episode, Lifeline's very own Karla Thrasher and Jana Lombardo join the podcast to talk about the landscape of international adoption. Listen in as they reflect on the highlights of Lifeline's international adoption program in 2023, celebrating the impactful stories of waiting children whose lives were touched by Lifeline's ministry. Karla and Jana share the evolving landscape of international adoption as we enter 2024, delving into changes over the past five to six years and addressing factors contributing to the overall decline in adoption numbers worldwide. Looking forward, they discuss what's on the horizon for Lifeline in 2024, as well as provide valuable advice for families considering international adoption and offers insights for those who feel a calling to care for waiting children without adopting. The episode concludes with a focus on the power of prayer, inviting listeners to join in praying for the success and impact of Lifeline's international adoption ministry.

GUESTS

Karla Thrasher has served as Lifeline's Director of International Adoption since 2001. As a TBRI® Practitioner certified by the TCU Karen Purvis Institute, she manages daily operations, provides leadership, and coordinates with other departments to enhance services for waiting children and families. Karla's role includes government compliance, customer service, and quality assurance. She finds great honor in sharing the gospel through adoption. Karla is a graduate of the University of Alabama Birmingham and a licensed social worker. Karla is supported by her husband Jamie and three adult children. They are her biggest cheerleaders in her ministry at Lifeline.

Jana Lombardo serves as the Senior Program Director at Lifeline Children’s Services. A graduate of Aubree University, she oversees international adoption programs and provides leadership and coaching to her team. Jana's journey at Lifeline began in domestic adoption, birth mother counseling, and foster care. From 2002 to 2019, she served as the Eurasia Program Director, developing and managing international adoption programs for various countries. In addition to her current role, Jana is a certified TBRI practitioner, teaching subjects such as attachment styles and caregiving. She has shared her teaching skills domestically and internationally. Jana and her husband Luke have two sons.

HOST
Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.

CO-HOST
Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCES

For those embarking on the adoption journey in the new year, today marks the final opportunity to avail the $1,000 Hope Adoption Fund scholarship for families applying for international adoption. To initiate the adoption process and apply for the scholarship, please visit lifelinechild.org/begin-your-adoption-journey-today or check our show notes for the direct link.

In addition, we have crafted an informative eBook to assist families in financial preparation for this significant journey. Packed with tips, resources, contact information for grant organizations, and more, this eBook is available for free. To access your copy, visit lifelinechild.org/international-adoption/ for more information.

LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES

The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify