Jedd Medefind

CAFO President

Desiring to help inspire and grow this deep transformation, Jedd serves as President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Through CAFO, more than 300 respected organizations unite in shared initiatives to inspire and equip families, churches and organizations for effective service to vulnerable children and families — from adoption and US foster care, to aid and empowerment programs worldwide.

Prior to his this role, Jedd served in the White House as a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush, leading the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. In this post, he oversaw reform efforts across the government to make community- and faith-based groups central partners in all Federal efforts to aid the needy, from prisoner reentry to global AIDS. As described by the Harvard Political Review, these reforms “fundamentally changed the government’s strategy for improving the lives of the downtrodden…”

Previously, Jedd held a range of posts in the California State Legislature. He has worked, studied and served in more than thirty countries, with organizations ranging from Price-Waterhouse in Moscow to Christian Life Bangladesh.

Jedd writes and speaks frequently about faith, human flourishing, and wise use of emerging technology. His books include Upended and Four Souls, and his appear in publications ranging from the Wall Street Journal and Washington Post to Comment Magazine and The Gospel Coalition. He also appears regularly on radio and podcast interviews with both faith-based and mainstream outlets, from NPR and Al Jazeera to Moody Radio. Jedd’s most recent book, Becoming Home, spotlights how families and churches can embrace vulnerable children with wisdom and love through adoption, foster care, mentoring and more.

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Latest Articles by Jedd Medefind

Short Video of One of the Most Moving Moments of the Year

Without exaggeration, it was one of the most moving and meaningful things I’ve experienced in the past year.  It came in the opening moments of CAFO2019, as participants from across...
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What was the Heartbeat of CAFO2019? Watch the Keynote

Every talk at CAFO2019 wove together threads of the theme – In Brokenness and Beauty…It is Well.  I treasured each one, coming from so many remarkable people.  We’ll share them...
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Why Children? Why the Church?

I received an email today from a friend I greatly respect, Trace Thurlby, who gives leadership to the Global Orphan Project alongside a number of other tremendous followers of Christ. ...
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Why is the Word “Brokenness” in the CAFO2019 Theme?

Virtually every person I know in this field has expressed something similar.  Fellow adoptive and foster parents.  Nonprofit leaders.  Social workers.  Church ministry leads.  Dedicated mentors. “It’s beautiful.  And it’s...
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The Astounding Findings of Neuroscience…and What They Mean for You Today

Among the most fascinating, and hopeful, discoveries of cutting-edge science today spring from the field of neuroscience. They reveal the marvel of how we’re created…and, best of all, that we...
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The Special Dangers of Technology Use for Children Who’ve Experienced Trauma: New CAFO Study

The explosive growth of technology brings potential for both great good and great harm for children.  All the more so for kids who’ve experienced trauma and loss. You’re invited to...
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