Family Link - Christian Foster Care and Adoption

Life Matters! with Dr Lewis Alexander

Caitlin — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 16:40:03 +0000

Mariah’s guest is Dr Lewis Alexander, from the Center for Relational Care. Dr Alexander and Mariah discuss helping your children transition into greater and greater levels of responsibility. Family Link - Christian Foster Care and Adoption9433 Bee Cave rd. Ste I-250 Austin, TX, 78733 USA jim@bluedovedesigns.com •&nbsp512-233-6464Related posts: Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II Life Matters! – Judith D’Amico Part [...] Related posts:

Life Matters! with Dr Marshall Lyles

Caitlin — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 23:15:53 +0000

Our guest today is Dr Marshall Lyles from the Center for Relational Care. He is a family counselor and therapist that works primarily with children and families, helping them navigate through raising successful children. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011 Life Matters! with Dr Lewis Alexander Life Matters! – Judith [...] Related posts:

Life Matters! with Nancy Thomas

Caitlin — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 22:31:51 +0000

Mariah’s special guest today is Nancy Thomas from Families by Design. Nancy has years of experience as a foster mom, helping the children with the ‘hopeless’ and critical issues. Nancy shares with us the things she has learned along the way that have helped so many children recover from their problems and learn to succeed [...] Related posts:

Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part III

Caitlin — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 22:17:19 +0000

In the final part of Mariah’s series with Judith D’Amico, Mariah and Judith talk about why kids misbehave and understanding the growth and maturing process that happens in children. Since this sometimes causes illogical or disruptive behaviors, they also discuss how you can help your child adjust. Related posts: Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II [...] Related posts:

Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II

Caitlin — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 21:50:47 +0000

In Part II of Mariah’s series with Judith D’Amico, Mariah and Judith discuss how common learning disabilities are becoming and what are some of the things that are contributing to this growing problem. Related posts: Life Matters! – Judith D’Amico Part I Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part III Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 [...] Related posts:

Life Matters! – Judith D’Amico Part I

Caitlin — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 19:12:56 +0000

Mariah’s guest is Family Therapist Judith D’Amico with Abba’s Child Learning Center. Judith has extensive experience with helping children progress past the labels they have been given from learning problems. Related posts: Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part III Life Matters! with Dr Lewis Alexander Related posts:

Legacy Ranch Volunteering

renee — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:29:56 +0000

Its always an ideal time to change the world…

Volunteers needed!!!

 Contact Nikki at nikki@familylinkkids.com or

 Caitlin at caitlin@familylinkkids.com

 for information and work weekend info

 Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities:

Monday through Friday 9 to 5

April 14 & 15 April 21 & 22

April 28 & 29 May 5 & 6

May 12 & 13 May 19 & 20

May 26 & 27

Beauty for ashes – Casey’s story

renee — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 01:37:38 +0000

I am going to take you back in time to a darker place in my life; my life has contained three T’s Tragedy, Trials, and Triumph. I would l would like you to close your eyes and picture this… In a suburban town in a quiet neighborhood there was a small yellow house across from the local fire department.

Inside the house was atrocity and chaos. Inside were my biological mother, my brothers Josh, Nathan, and Josef who were eight, five and two and a half and last but not least my little sister Alea Christina Nicole who was five months old. To look into the eyes of my Brother Josh’s was to look into the eyes of an old man that had seen far too much in his life. But his life had not yet begun. In Nathan’s eyes was heart wrenching fear, as wounded animal caged. The fear of death was there in his face, he had witnessed something that grown men shouldn’t see – his little sister murdered. It wasn’t till after her murder that Child Protective Services (CPS) intervened. Even though for months the fire department, school nurses, doctor, teachers and other local officials had reported abuse and neglect towards us children.

When we were removed the law officials who removed us has to put Josef in a strait jacket just to get him under control. I have been told that for months after being removed I would sit alone saying “Just let me die.” I was only three years old. I believe my thought process was that dying was the only way that I could make the pain raging inside stop or at least lessen.

I built a solid wall around my heart hoping that I could keep from being hurt again. But in building that wall I was keeping more than hurt in, I was keeping love in and love out. I was reported saying “Just Let Me Die” by Meri Reed. Mariah Wilde (Executive Director of Familylink)’s Mom. Mariah met me and my younger brother Josef when we were in our first Foster Care Placement and their family did respite often for my brother and I. Mariah wanted to take Josef and I in when we were removed a second time when our new little sister was born with Cocaine in her system but she already had five children and three little ones.

Mariah figured the next best thing was to suggest her parents become foster parents. So they were licensed and we were placed with the Reed Family. The Reed family then was Michael (Pop Michael), Meri (Mimi), Christianna (Toni), Michelle (Chelle), Charity, and David Michael.

Quickly they became like family and they were ever patient with the angry, hurting and scared children that we were. They started introducing us to Jesus and they held a weekly home Bible Study. Their friend Jane also attended these and low and behold the Reed/Wilde families had gotten her interested in fostering too! One day she brought her two foster sons and you can imagine the surprise when we saw not her foster sons but our older siblings that we had been separated from again. We were placed back three times with the biological family and removed just as many and continued to grow up in the state system for seven years.

I developed an emotional based stomach problem. I would get REALLY sick to my stomach every “visit”. I would think that this would be the day that I would go “home” and everything would go back to “normal.” I thought that the pain of never being sure of what was going to happen would leave. At the end of each visit Elizabeth (Bio Mom) would hug us tell us she loved us and would see us next time and leave. We would watch her leave and again the hopes of a child would be dashed. There is only so much that a child can take without being permanently damaged. I began to see that what I thought was normal wasn’t and that it was not how life should be lead and I quit calling Elizabeth mom because I realized that a true parent would have allowed the abuse that we suffered. I began calling my current foster mother mom – when Jane (Mom) realized that she had our siblings her heart broke knowing the amount of loss that we had already survived and requested that we be moved to her home to be with our siblings. We were with her for the rest of the duration of our time in care and she later adopted us. A single mom in her mid-fifties gave up the “cute little grandmother” image to be a mother to five hurting children.

Mom and I are now close as friends and parent. Because she was friends with the Wilde/Reed families we spent many a weekend/ weeks there growing up with Mariah’s children as well. We were like an extended family. I am now in college the first person in my biological family to graduate from High School and now the first to go to College. I am attending Austin Community College (ACC) until I can transfer to the University of Texas at Austin (UT at A). I am also working full time at Family Link. It is a different experience because I grew up in the system and now I am helping to prevent kids from spending the amount of years in the system that I did. We strive to limit the amount of moves that children experience because they are more insecure with each move and if you allow the children to build emotional walls around their hearts and emotions it is harder to help them feel safe and loved and secure.

I am now sick free, no medications and succeeding with Christ in my life. I thank Him for the second chance at life and I am doing my best to help kids that I can relate too. I hope that my story has given you some insight into the life of a child from the system. With Christ and people willing to open their hearts and homes to scared hurting children, we have an opportunity to make something from the ashes.

“ – bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.” Isaiah 61:3 NIV

A Heart For Children. . . .

Legacy Ranch

renee — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:02:54 +0000

Legacy-Ranch-Portfolio Related posts: FamilyLink Retreats! Champions for Children Questions and Answers Related posts:

Amy’s story

renee — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:23:10 +0000

Nearly five years ago, my husband and I completed our paperwork as foster parents with Family Link. We were both nervous and apprehensive about the life changing journey we were about to begin. Yet, we were both excited about the prospect of our home ringing with the music of childrens’ laughter and footsteps throughout. We were ready to start changing the lives of abused and neglected children. Not being able to conceive any children of our own, we had already adopted two children through Guatemala several years prior. We were now ready to complete our family and open our doors to these children who needed a family so severely. Over the next five years, we had the blessing of thirty two beautiful children come to our home. We were open to accepting children of all ages from premature, very sick babies to teenagers. With these children, we have cried, laughed and have learned more about ourselves and capabilities then we ever would have imagined.

Fast forward five years, and I mean “fast”, and we are now blessed with two more adopted children, one of which was a three pound infant, Jenna was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Seizure disorder. The doctors thought she would never walk and have severe medical issues her entire life. I am proud to say that Jenna is now a healthy, beautiful, four year old that runs faster than any other child in her class. Our next adopted daughter, Beverly is now 16 years old. When she came to us a couple of years ago, she was mistrusting of all adults and had a very traumatic childhood. She gave us a tough time in the beginning and with the never ending support offered through Family Link, is now a loving part of our family.

I look back now, and can’t imagine that she hasn’t been with us her entire life. With now four adopted children, we continued to open our home to foster children of all ages, we are now in the process of adopting two more little girls, a four year old sweetheart and her sister who was born at only two pounds. I have never been happier, or have felt more fulfilled than I do at this time in my life. The journey with Family Link and the services they offer have been outstanding! I can not imagine having shared this miraculous time with any other agency.

The need for foster parents is serious. As more and more children enter the system each day, foster homes are quickly filling up, leaving these children to be placed in shelters. Statistically, 400,000 children are in the foster care system in the United States at this time, only 50% of them are placed in homes. The rest do not have the opportunity to see what living in a normal household with loving parents is like. They have no role models to show they care or to listen. If you are considering being a fosteror adoptive parent, it is time to step up and take the initiative to take action. It is not always easy being a parent, as these children have often been traumatized, but each one of these precious children are deserving of someone who can care for them and give them the love they so desperately desire. With the wonderful support of the caseworkers and management of Family Link, you will have a knowledgeable team of experts and experienced professionals for your every need. Family Link is not just my agency, they are my family.

Amy Galvan

A Heart For Children. . . .

FamilyLink Retreats!

renee — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 00:35:49 +0000

We had such a wonderful time this summer making memories.

Families came and played together! So many of these beautiful little ones don’t have families yet too, so we can’t wait to be able to help even more of our sibling groups stay together when we open Legacy Ranch this winter.

They had so much fun playing at the retreats, we can’t wait to see how well they do at Legacy Ranch!!

Retreat Photos!!

A Heart For Children. . . .

renee — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:50:42 +0000

The Lord has always kept on my heart the desire to help children here in the United States; I just didn’t know how. That is, I didn’t know how until I came across the Life Matters radio show!

I first heard the program, hosted by Mariah Wilde, founder of Family Link Kids, on KLGO out of Austin, Texas. Near the end of a program not long ago, I heard Mariah speak about Legacy Ranch,and I became excited about this visionary project that is coming to pass! At long last! I knew that the Lord had shown me a way to help children in His name right here, in my own “backyard.” Especially appealing to me is the prospect of siblings being together — siblings who may have otherwise been torn apart, leaving them to agonize about the care given to one another.

I love listening to Life Matters. Mariah has special guests on her show who are exciting to hear, and each one speaks to some aspect of their lives that ties in with the highly effective Family Link Kids program for children in foster/adoption situations. So many adults have huge hearts that are big enough to hold these precious children. The Family Link Kids program that Mariah initiated sees to it that adults are screened and provided with training so that children are placed in homes where they are wanted and where they can find love, acceptance, and a place of belonging in families built by God – in “Forever Families.” The enthusiasm is contagious, so when I hear about incredible opportunities for connection through Family Link Kids between adults and the children who need them, I always hear a joyful message of hope and healing.

Jeanine Griggs – Texas

Life Matters Side Box

Caitlin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:54:43 +0000

‘Life Matters With Mariah’ Weeknights on KLGO!

A great way to learn more about foster/adoption is to listen to Mariah’s show; ‘Life Matters with Mariah’ Monday through Friday 7:30-8:30pm, on 99.3 and 98.5 F.M.

Our guests vary every night. We feature experienced foster parents and other interesting visitors with valuable information. It’s a great opportunity for an inside look at the heart of Family Link and the world of foster/adoptive care.

Did you miss a broadcast? Click below to listen to recorded programs.

Life Matters Broadcast – September 2, 2011

renee — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:21:59 +0000

I am talking about fostering and adopting children in Texas and different ways you can help and get involved through FamillyLink. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – July 18th, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 Foster/Adopt Mom Heather Hamilton Life Matters Broadcast – March 16, 2011 Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – July 18th, 2011

renee — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:05:15 +0000

Mariah and Sam Rylander, from the San Antonio office, talk about a sibling group of three that needs a home. How FamilyLink needs parents that are willing to start out loving the children as foster parents without any expectation of adopting – being willing to love without a reason! Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – July 15, 2011

renee — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:03:19 +0000

Mariah visits with Rob and Laura Coke, from Shoreline Church in Austin, Texas as they share some of their story and the reasons they started Caleb’s Run, a 5K Fun Run in honor of their son, raising money and promoting community awareness. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 Foster/Adopt Mom Heather [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 Foster/Adopt Mom Heather Hamilton

renee — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:01:00 +0000

Heather shares her story and about Life Books for your kids! Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – July 15, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – July 18th, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 28, 2011 Related posts:

Volunteer Orientation

Caitlin — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:32:47 +0000

Welcome Volunteers!

Below are the documents needed to apply to the volunteer program, the next volunteer orientation date, and the next CPR and 1st Aid certification class offered at our office. Please have all of the forms below completed prior to attending orientation class. You can scan and email them to documents@familylinkkids.com, mariah@familylinkkids.com, fax them to 512.532.6555, or bring them completed to turn in before class.

1. Application

2. Background Check Form

3. Confidentiality Statement

4. Child Abuse Acknowledgement

5. Affidavit – MUST BE NOTARIZED (most banks do this for free)

6. Life Matters! With Mariah Podcast Review – LISTEN HERE

Have the podcast review ready to fill out while listening.

In addition we will need:

Cleared TB Test results
CPR & 1st Aid Certification Infant Adult
Copy of photo ID

************************************

Below is a list of items and services that we need donated to fulfill our vision and make this experience as rewarding as possible for the children.

Gift certificates to HEB, WAL-Mart etc. for food and paper goods
Playscape
Sports Equipment
Basketball hoop
Baseball equipment
Badminton Set with net
Volleyballs
Soccer balls
Tennis equipment
Tubes for the river
Canoes
Life jackets for all sizes
Golf cart
Gardening supplies and plants
Lawn mower
Art Supplies
Picnic tables
Refrigerator
Stand alone freezer
Small kitchen appliances (microwaves, toasters, blenders, coffee pots, etc..) everything is needed
Canopy tents with screens
Bunk beds
Dressers
Counter tops
Clothing of all sizes
Linens and towels
Matching bed sets – sheets and comforters
Wall art, pictures, & clocks
Couch sets
Dining room sets
Service for 15 is needed for dining, but everything is needed for the kitchen and dining areas
Fifteen passenger van
Work truck
SERVICES NEEDED:
Landscaping
Construction
Sports field development
Graphic Designer

All donations are tax deductible!
Or, to give a financial donation, simply use the donate link in the top-left corner of the website. Thanks!

Life Matters Broadcast – Volunteer Program

renee — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:30:37 +0000

Listen to hear Mariah and Renee discuss the volunteer program and how YOU can get involved! Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – September 2, 2011 Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II Life Matters! with Dr Lewis Alexander Related posts:

Life Matters Side Box

Caitlin — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:35:45 +0000

Read Mariah’s Blog

Legacy Ranch

Caitlin — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:19:25 +0000

click here for more information

Multi-generational Foster Family & Senior Citizen Community:

a foster family community and retreat center where no child will be turned away and lives will be changed.

10 Residential Homes
School
Community Center
Gym
Library
Workshop
Click here to see pictures!

Life Matters Broadcast – March 28, 2011

renee — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:02:27 +0000

Mariah shares information about our trainings and retreats, how to volunteer, and be a church connector. Her special guest is one of Family Link’s Case Managers, Karen Black. Together they share about placing 5 children overnight with three Family Link families, Karen’s role as a Case Manager, and her case load which includes 3 sets [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011

renee — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:49:04 +0000

Family Counselors Marshall Lyle and Deborah Price talk about how to effectively understand and care for children with PTSD Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – March 19, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 16, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 15, 2011 Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – March 19, 2011

renee — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:34:55 +0000

Mariah & Christy Holland, from FamilyLink’s San Antonio office talk about the many things that go into finding homes and the challenges and excitement that goes along with it. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 16, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 15, 2011 Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – March 16, 2011

renee — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:52:10 +0000

Mariah discusses what life looks and feels like as a young child moving from home to home once in the foster care system, as well as some new ideas and suggestions for encouraging our children to positivity. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011 Life Matters Broadcast – March 15, 2011 Life [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – March 15, 2011

renee — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 18:54:49 +0000

Today I’ll share what’s going on at FamilyLink including the children we are placing with families right now! My special guest is Linda Carter, who became a foster sister at age five and has fostered 35 children. Her daughter continues this mission and has fostered 101 kids! Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011 Life Matters [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – August 26th 2010

Caitlin — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:56:46 +0000

Trey & Marianne Kent host, for Mariah, guests Daniel & Karen Evens. Daniel & Karen were told they could not have children but share how adopting has written the journey, that has become for them, what they believe is their perfect story Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – August 23rd 2010 Life Matters Broadcast – June 28th [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – August 23rd 2010

Caitlin — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:45:24 +0000

I interviewed a 15 year old young woman who is in foster care through Family Link. We are discussing the impact of having foster parents and what it felt like as a little girl moving away from the only home she had known. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – August 26th 2010 Life Matters Broadcast [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – July 14th 2010

Caitlin — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:51:19 +0000

I am discussing today the different ways we can cultivate a bigger vision in our children, starting with some basic and practical things to implement in our homes. Also, my guest today is one of our young foster moms as she tells us about the premature baby they got to welcome into their home just [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – June 28th 2010

Caitlin — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:01:37 +0000

My guest today is Jamie, one of our foster moms, talking about what it was like to go from not having ever had any children, to overnight having a big family; we’re talking about what some of the transition felt like and whether or not she and her husband would do it again. Related [...] Related posts:

Life Matters Broadcast – June 25th 2010

Caitlin — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 18:33:06 +0000

Mariah’s guest April, recounts some of her experiences getting placed in the foster care system, shares what is was like getting taken from her parents, where she is now, and some of her journey along the way. Related posts: Life Matters Broadcast – June 28th 2010 Life Matters Broadcast – August 26th 2010 Life [...] Related posts:

Life Matters – June 21st 2010

Caitlin — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:37:17 +0000

My guest, April, was in the foster care system from ages 13-18. Her story is unusual since she was in the same home that entire time. We get to hear what it was like going from being the primary caregiver for two younger siblings at such a young age, one of whom had cerebral palsy, [...] Related posts:

Life Matters – June 15th 2010

Caitlin — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:09:13 +0000

My guest today is Melissa, a traumatic care specialist with years of experience with patients, foster kids, and grandchildren. She has so many valuable ideas and good stories to inspire us, especially in caring for kids with PTSD. Related posts: Life Matters – June 21st 2010 Life Matters Broadcast – June 25th 2010 Life [...] Related posts:

Mariah Wilde interviewed on The River 102.3 FM in Austin

cwilde — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 20:23:24 +0000

Click below to hear Mariah Wilde, Director of Family Link, interviewed on The River – 102.3 FM in Austin.

Click Here to Get the Flash Player if you cannot see the player above

Donate

Caitlin — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:56:37 +0000

Donate Now

No related posts.

Mentor

Caitlin — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:31:44 +0000

Become a mentor to kids who need it!

[contact-form-7]

From an Adopting Parent

Caitlin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:31:45 +0000

“We just wanted to send you all another round of thanks…. This was one of the happiest days of our lives! (their adoption day)…this was a testament to the job that each of you do for children. Again, thanks for all you do for us and for the children of Texas. God bless you all.”

A Heart For Children. . . .

Federal Tax Benefit Guide for Foster/Adoptive Parents, and Kinship Caregivers

Caitlin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:58:36 +0000

The Following is helpful information for anyone who is a foster or adopting parent, or who plans to become one soon. http://www.nfpaonline.org/content/?page=142 Related posts: Checklist for Foster Parents Federal Adoption Tax Credit Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 Foster/Adopt Mom Heather Hamilton Related posts:

sidebar box

Caitlin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:29:15 +0000

with love from…

Legacy Ranch

Legacy Ranch Work Weekends

Get ready! Get set! Go!

Join us for Legacy Ranch Work Weekends!

Click here for dates and volunteer information

We Are Adopted!!

We want the children that come into our care to be cherished and valued, and for them to know that there is an incredible purpose and plan for their life. Children’s tears will be wiped, they will be held and their broken hearts will be healed.

Amy’s story – Nearly five years ago, my husband and I completed our paperwork as foster parents with Family Link. We were both nervous and apprehensive about the life changing journey we were about to begin. Yet, we were both excited about the prospect of our home ringing with the music of childrens’ laughter and footsteps throughout.

We were ready to start changing the lives of abused and neglected children. Not being able to conceive any children of our own, we had already adopted two children through Guatemala several years prior. We were now ready to complete our family and open our doors to these children who needed a family so severely. Over the next five years . . . . . . . click here to see the rest of the story

address box

Caitlin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:44:51 +0000

Family Link

Legacy Ranch

13326 Highway North 183
Gonzales TX 78629

Phone: 830-875-6062

Fax: 512-532-6555

Listen to ‘Life Matters with Mariah’ Weeknights on KLGO

Caitlin — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:21:25 +0000

‘Life Matters With Mariah’ Weeknights on KLGO!

A great way to learn more about foster/adoption is to listen to Mariah’s show; ‘Life Matters with Mariah’ Monday through Friday 7:30-8:30pm, on 99.3 and 98.5 F.M. or online at KLGO.

Did you miss a broadcast? Click below to listen to recorded programs.

home 2

Caitlin — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:54:31 +0000

“Mom, did you know there are children who don’t have homes?” This question came from the heart of a teenager who knew what the term “foster child” meant at an early age. Her parents tried to adopt a young girl when Mariah was five years old, and this birthed a desire in her that has grown and flourished into a ministry to the most vulnerable children in our society.

Mariah Wilde, Executive Director/Founder of FamilyLink Foster Care and Adoption Agency, an organization that connects families with displaced children, states that when it comes to the question of helping children by loving them, fostering them, adopting them, or whatever – God says “Yes!” and “Now is the time.”

home 1

Caitlin — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:34:54 +0000

Why did you start FamilyLink?

My husband Chris and I became a foster parent and adoptive parents in our early 20’s. Over the years we’ve seen what a huge need there is for kind, safe foster and adoptive families. At one point we had 14 children, including 10 teenage boys! We definitely tried to help as many as we could, but there was a limit. I was inspired to start FamilyLink because I believe that every child deserves a family and that God has an incredible purpose and destiny for them!

What has happened since then?

We have placed over 1040 children in foster and adoptive families in 5 years! We receive calls day and night with children who have been…

Slideshow

Caitlin — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:38:00 +0000

No related posts. No related posts.

Federal Adoption Tax Credit

Caitlin — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 17:59:33 +0000

This tax credit provides the adoptive parents with a $10,000 credit per child for expenses paid to adopt. For incomes below $150,000, the entire credit can be taken. For incomes between $150,000-$180,000, a partial credit can be taken. For detailed information, review IRS Form 8839 and instructions. 800-829-3676 www.irs.gov/instructions/i8839/index.html

New Year 2008

Caitlin — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 18:01:20 +0000

The longer children wait in foster care, the longer they go without knowing what it’s like to have a permanent home. Ten-year-old Katy has been in foster care since a young age. Behind her dimpled cheeks and freckled face (which she calls “angel kisses”) is a curious little girl who loves life.

Foster care is almost all the family like Katy knows. But she remain upbeat and optimistic

about getting adopted. Katy understands what adoption is because she’s seen it happen for other children. But this spunky, husky-voiced Texan needs it to happen for her.

We took Katy to The Sanctuary at J&M Aviaries, and she was clearly in her element. Katy says she wants to be a veterinarian because she loves animals. This fourth grader does really well in school. Of course, she likes summer as well. “We went swimming every day. I went to the lake. Found a lot of seashells. Made necklaces,” she said. Foster care is almost all the family like Katy knows. But she remain upbeat and optimistic about getting adopted. Katy understands what adoption is because she’s seen it happen for other children. But this spunky, husky-voiced Texan needs it to happen for her.

Family Link - Christian Foster Care and Adoption

Life Matters! with Dr Lewis Alexander

Life Matters! with Dr Marshall Lyles

Life Matters! with Nancy Thomas

Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part III

Life Matters! Judith D’Amico Part II

Life Matters! – Judith D’Amico Part I

Legacy Ranch Volunteering

Its always an ideal time to change the world…

Beauty for ashes – Casey’s story

Legacy Ranch

Amy’s story

FamilyLink Retreats!

A Heart For Children. . . .

Life Matters Side Box

Did you miss a broadcast? Click below to listen to recorded programs.

Life Matters Broadcast – September 2, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – July 18th, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – July 15, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – July 12, 2011 Foster/Adopt Mom Heather Hamilton

Volunteer Orientation

Welcome Volunteers!

1. Application

2. Background Check Form

3. Confidentiality Statement

4. Child Abuse Acknowledgement

5. Affidavit – MUST BE NOTARIZED (most banks do this for free)

6. Life Matters! With Mariah Podcast Review – LISTEN HERE

Have the podcast review ready to fill out while listening.

In addition we will need:

Cleared TB Test results

CPR & 1st Aid Certification Infant Adult

Copy of photo ID

Life Matters Broadcast – Volunteer Program

Life Matters Side Box

Legacy Ranch

Life Matters Broadcast – March 28, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – March 22, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – March 19, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – March 16, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – March 15, 2011

Life Matters Broadcast – August 26th 2010

Life Matters Broadcast – August 23rd 2010

Life Matters Broadcast – July 14th 2010

Life Matters Broadcast – June 28th 2010

Life Matters Broadcast – June 25th 2010

Life Matters – June 21st 2010

Life Matters – June 15th 2010

Mariah Wilde interviewed on The River 102.3 FM in Austin

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From an Adopting Parent

Federal Tax Benefit Guide for Foster/Adoptive Parents, and Kinship Caregivers

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with love from…

Legacy Ranch

Legacy Ranch Work Weekends

We Are Adopted!!

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Slideshow

Federal Adoption Tax Credit

New Year 2008