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National Adoption Month, 2008
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For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary October 31, 2008

National Adoption Month, 2008 A Proclamation by the President of the United
States of America

ÿÿWhite House News


During National Adoption Month, we recognize the compassion of adoptive and
foster families as we seek to raise awareness of the need for every child
in America to have a safe, loving, and permanent home.

Adopting a child is a great joy and also a great responsibility. Parents
are a child's first teachers, and adoptive families can help children learn
character and values, the importance of giving back to their community and
country, and the courage to realize their potential. On November 15, caring
parents across our Nation will celebrate National Adoption Day by
finalizing their adoptions and bringing home children in need of a hopeful
life.

My Administration is committed to helping young people find the love,
stability, and support that a family can provide. We have joined with
community and faith-based organizations to raise public awareness of foster
children awaiting adoption. With the help of the Congress, we are assisting
families in overcoming the financial barriers to adopting children through
programs such as the Adoption Incentives Program. In addition, the
Collaboration to AdoptUsKids project, which can be found at
adoptuskids.org, provides guidance and resources for parents exploring
adoption.

During National Adoption Month, we honor adoptive and foster parents who
have shown America the depth and kindness of the human heart. Their love
and dedication inspire the next generation of Americans to achieve their
dreams and demonstrate the true spirit of our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2008 as National
Adoption Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with
appropriate programs and activities to honor adoptive families and to
participate in efforts to find permanent homes for waiting children.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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