I recently read an article about new parents in a rather surprising place, the publication of AARP, the American Association of Retired People (Sept/Oct 2005). The article portrayed a new trend in parenting, empty nesters opening their hearts and their homes by adopting children from China, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Columbia. The article said that older parents “tend to have more wisdom, tolerance, and realistic expectations” making them well-suited to the task. It also said that older parents tend to have more money, a useful commodity for the type of international adoptions the article described.

Here in Helena, Intermountain Children’s Home and Services also values experienced parents for what they can offer to a child — a permanent family. However, heart and willingness are far more important than money, and whether experienced or inexperienced, adults willing to learn and grow in a new relationship is a priceless gift to a child with no family.

Intermountain helps families adopt children. These children, abused and neglected, need stable nurturing environments and adults to care for them, not only until they are 18, but for a lifetime. Parenting is lifelong, and children whose first years have been severely traumatized need emotional healing, guidance, mentoring, and love — in abundance.

Yes, “older” parents make tremendous adoptive families, and money is not required to make a difference in the life of a Montana child. In fact, the state recognizes and honors the commitment of these families by providing foster care stipends and adoption subsidies.

Why adopt? The AARP article says that many adults feel they still have more to give, and that children keep them active and involved. For the parents we’ve worked with, it’s all that and more — a desire to give back, even a spiritual calling. Whatever the motivation, and these can be as diverse as the families and children we bring together, adults interested in adoption need not leave Montana, nor have a lot of money. To find out more, call Intermountain at (406) 442-7920, or go to our website at www.intermountain.org and click on “Programs” and “Permanent Adoptive Treatment Homes.”

November is national adoption month. If you’ve ever thought about adoption, take time this month to look into it. It will be more than just you who will be glad you did.

Jim FitzGerald is executive director of Intermountain Children’s Home and Services.