First China Adopteen Conference a Huge Success

Thirty-five teens from thirteen states participated in the first-ever China Adopteen Conference – Red Thread Celebration, held in Centennial, Colorado, on July 25 – 27.

"This was truly an amazing conference that really addressed the emotional and social needs of our adopted teens," Lauren from Georgia commented after the fun-filled conference. According to our surveys, most of the teen conference participants agreed with her and 98% percent said that they couldn’t wait to come back next year.

The 2009 conference is scheduled for July 27 – 31. More details will be available soon, so please stay tuned.

Following are testimonies from conference participants and parents:

I had so much fun! The adult panelists really rock!

I was really shy at the beginning, but everyone’s friendliness quickly made me feel at home. I had a blast.

My favorite part of the whole conference? My host family! They were so nice!

I am the only Asian teen in my neighborhood. Being part of such a great group of teens who look just like me made me feel so happy.

I made so many new friends!

Joying came home absolutely thrilled with her time at the conference...the only negative she said was that it was too short!

Nina had a great time… She is definitely interested in going back next year. She'd like to recruit a friend to go with her.

This conference is absolutely timely. It offers a very valuable space where my daughter is able to share freely with other adopted teenagers of similar background.

the adoption conference was a life changing event for Leah. She met kids from all across the country that she is connected with by like circumstances. Her siblings are adopted, but as she said, not exactly the same way.

She learned more about who she is and it has given her added confidence. As parents, we are so appreciative. She wishes this event could happen several times a year....or at least have it last a week.