What if we were each other’s greatest resource? What if we had ways to support foster and adoptive families both “before and after the balloons”? What if everyone – young, old, married, single – knew they had a part to play? And knew what it was? What if, together, we could find life from loss?

This is my dream. To be honest, it was a dream birthed in heartache. I never dreamt that words like orphan care, infertility, and failed adoption would be part of my story. But each of those have led me to a greater understanding of who I am, and who my God is. It’s also led me to believe that this generation can end the orphan crisis. No really, I believe it. In fact, with an unexpected career as an Attorney and Real Estate Broker, I run Home4Good and have lofty plans like changing the world – one home at a time. As a graduate and former faculty of Trinity Law School, I began – and continue – my professional endeavors with a view to integrate social justice, law, theology, and practical psychology. I try to blend those passions into each opportunity to speak and lead sessions directed at everyday ways to build a culture of support for foster/adoptive families. Because God chose the family as His vehicle of healing for the lonely, I want to see each foster/adoptive family be as healthy and strong as possible as they weather the storms inherent in loving the fatherless.

I am “Auntie Boo” to 16 littles, 3 by adoption, and I’m lucky enough to be married to my best friend – eleven years and counting. My favorite thing to buy is a stamp in my passport, and while I haven’t been everywhere, it’s on my list. The pitter-patters coming down our hallway belong to Abby, our Cavalier Spaniel. No one could be more surprised than me.

I occasionally blog at www.brookemardell.com/blog and try to keep my speaking schedule up to date so that future-besties know where they can find me.

Additional Resources

blog: She Came Back

Speaker Location

Orange County, CA

Speaking Themes

93/7 Orphan Care: Our Greatest Resource is Each Other; Unplanned Unparenthood; Captivating the Entire Community for Orphan Care; Before & After the Balloons: What adoptive families need their friends and family to know (audio available); Sad is Not Bad; Confessions of a Grief Virgin: Finding Life from Loss; Truest > Newest