$20,000 goal
$8,875 raised so far
44.4% raised
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“Every child deserves a home; overflowing with unconditional love, acceptance and belonging.” – JLC

Thank you for visiting our adoption support page.  We are grateful that you are taking the time to read our story and invite you to join us.

We have been blessed abundantly in many ways during our 29 years of marriage.  We have four children - two married adult sons, a son in college and our almost teen daughter at home.  We are grandparents to three and soon a fourth.  For the last eight years, God has called us to provide a loving home through orphan hosting programs for 17 children whose families are unable to care and provide for them.  Throughout this journey, God has been guiding and refining us in ways we could not have imagined at the start.

Historically, sibling groups are some of the least likely to find a forever home and family that they desperately crave and deserve.  God has opened our eyes and softened our hearts in that regard and called us to serve those in Eastern Europe.  Therefore, we have petitioned to adopt four children.  We are patiently and prayerfully waiting for news regarding next steps.  We anticipate receiving our referral in the near future and hope to travel in March 2019.

The total cost to complete the adoption is $68,000.  To date, we have incurred $31,000.  The $37,000 balance will consist largely of in-country legal fees, airfare, lodging and other miscellaneous fees and expenses.  The process in this particular country involves three trips and requires us to live there with the children for 3-4 weeks for the first trip.  We received a very generous grant last year of $10,000.  That leaves $27,000.

Experience tells us that we cannot accomplish this alone, nor were we ever meant to do so.  We need God and other people.  Some will pray. We absolutely need prayer. Others will offer physical assistance such as a periodic meal or much needed respite.  Some are able and will feel called to join us financially.  We simply and humbly ask that you prayerfully consider a financial gift of any size. Whether it’s $5, $500 or $5,000, it’s an important part of the story; one that will help us make a difference in the lives of these four children.

We praise God for what has been accomplished thus far!  We look forward with hopeful anticipation for what’s next.  We are humbled and grateful for your prayers and support.

Thank you again for taking time to read our story and invite you to join us.

With Gratitude,

Tony & Jodi Collette & Family

PS … Though we would love to share pictures of the children, the country’s laws prohibit sharing photos publicly out of respect and safety concerns for the children.


  1. UPDATE ...

    We are so grateful for the prayers, support and financial gifts we have received in recent weeks. Through this page, a PayPal fund and other gifts, we have received $9,450. In addition, we received a generous grant of $5,000 from a local non-profit. Of the remaining $27,000 we have received $14,450. This is all so humbling and encouraging! We are truly grateful for all of the support.

    As for the adoption process, we have encountered some paperwork delays but are hopeful to receive the referral in mid-April. Time will tell!

Brian Hinkle

Thomas Geissler

I'm really happy for you and your family, Tony. I hope everything goes well. Tom

Kelley and Alane Stickan

May God bless you and your family for what you are doing in the lives of these 4 children and their extended family. May your act of obedience be an example and encouragement to others who may be considering adoption. We are so proud of you and will be praying for you. Love, Kelley and Alane

Allison Miner

I watched you walk this journey for 5 years. Not sure what I will do when its all over!

Kenneth Larson

We are praying for you and your family during this exciting time.

Suzi Forst

Colleen Dellwo

Sending praying for God’s blessings and God speed with this donation

D Lugen

Molly Lahr

Will continue to pray that God will pave the way for these kids to join your family!

Stan & Karen Smith

Many thanks for extending the love of Christ to these dear children!

Jessica Jones

Abby Dean

Love and prayers for you and your family members, near and far!

Richard Popp

Emily Lincoln

Jamie and John Bergeland

God has you on an amazing adventure. Way to be open to his calling.

Greg and Kathy Lohmer

We are more than happy to assist you in this God-centered endeavor. It will be exciting to see how the Lord will use this new adventure for you and your family. God Bless, Greg and Kathy

Cheryle Johnson

Timothy Hafemeyer

Rob & Jennifer Hanson

We are thrilled that you have received your referral. It's a highlight in this long arduous process. May the Lord bless you in the days to come as you travel & look at your children-to-be in the eyes, as you dance into transition & as you become a new family.

Eli & Shannon Rupnow

God bless you, dear Collette family! You have been and continue to be in our prayers.