Why Ukraine?

We have been asked this question many times over the past few years, usually simply out of curiosity.

The answer is easy, and yet it's not. Prior to our decision to adopt, we knew nothing about Ukraine. I was pretty sure it was in Europe. But I didn't know what the people looked like, what language they spoke; nothing about the culture or the economic climate of the country.

Once we decided to adopt, we began to consider various countries. Among the factors in our decision was the length of time it would take to go through the process, and the age of the children available. We had been pursuing parenthood for nearly 5 years, so a shorter timeframe was desirable. We also weren't insistent on a baby, and would actually prefer a toddler or preschool age child.

So why did we go to Ukraine to find our son?

God called us to Ukraine

That is the foundation of our "Why"

People and events crossed our path in what can only be explained as God-ordained circumstances. In particular, we learned about a family at our church who had 3 children adopted from Ukraine. They'd just returned from adopting the older 2, and once we learned about them, we set up a time to meet with them. They answered our questions, and gave us some great resources. They told us that Ukrainian adoption typically moves faster than most others*. They told us how infant adoption is not possible from Ukraine, and most people were adopting children between the ages of 3 and 5*.

We met that couple in our small group - a small group we'd been attending very sporadically. But we were there when they were there, and I don't consider that chance. Almost as quickly as we met with them, they moved on to a church closer to their home. God obviously crossed our paths intentionally, and I'm so thankful we were obedient to His will.

As time went on, there were other events that further confirmed His plan. These events demonstrated that it was all HIS plan, and He showed us over and over that we were where He wanted us.

If you (or someone you know) has questions about adoption from Ukraine, we are always glad to help. You can email us by clicking HERE.


* Keep in mind that with any adoption situation, circumstances and "norms" change with time. Governments make rule and requirement changes, programs close, agencies get suspended, etc. There are no guarantees in adoption - but then again, how many areas of life come with a guarantee?