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Reyes elected vice president of North American Baptist Fellowship

Reyes elected vice president of North American Baptist Fellowship

Buckner President and CEO Albert L. Reyes was recently elected vice president of the North American Baptist Fellowship. ...
‘No one should have to live like that’

‘No one should have to live like that’

Do you ever look at a child and think to yourself, "Wow, no one, especially not an innocent child, should have to live like that?" If the answer is...
5 things I've learned since becoming a mom

5 things I've learned since becoming a mom

Being a mom is much more than caring for a child; it’s a life-transforming experience. It challenges us to rethink who we are, what we’re about...
In other words: Angry

In other words: Angry

Jesus got angry; he was indignant. The words struck me hard. So hard that I ran to my Bible commentaries to see if the words were correct. ...
Adopted into God's family

Adopted into God's family

“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to...

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IN THE MEDIA: Summer snack program going on now

From the East Texas Review: ...

LUFKIN: Dearest Dad: Local father celebrating Father's Day differently this year

From The Lufkin Daily News: ...

LONGVIEW: Summer meal programs keep children fed in East Texas

IN THE LONGVIEW NEWS-JOURNAL: ...
Faith Focus: A more excellent way

Faith Focus: A more excellent way

By Diego Batista ...
Faith Focus: The rules

Faith Focus: The rules

By Richard Muñoz ...

One body, many parts

By Jocelyn Trejo ...
From shoes to family: A church shoe drive brings Russian orphans home

From shoes to family: A church shoe drive brings Russian orphans home

By Lauren Hollon Sturdy ...
Count your blessings

Count your blessings

By Stephen N. Wakefield ...
Gone: Kidnapped at birth

Gone: Kidnapped at birth

By Russ Dilday ...
Rio Grande Children’s Home: A growing family

Rio Grande Children’s Home: A growing family

Former children's home resident now serves children as activities director ...
Helper of the fatherless

Helper of the fatherless

By Lindsay Roberts ...
Seeds of hope take root, prosper in Ethiopia

Seeds of hope take root, prosper in Ethiopia

For Zewdu Jima and his family, life was difficult. They didn’t have enough to eat. Their clothes were worn, and they could not afford to replace...
Ribbons and joy: Helping Dulce find her confidence

Ribbons and joy: Helping Dulce find her confidence

By Aimee Freston ...
Fear this

Fear this

By Whitney Landers ...

Missions to Kenya resume

By Aimee Freston ...
Family Place, a miracle-in-waiting

Family Place, a miracle-in-waiting

By John Hall ...

Body and soul: Mission team serves Hondurans through medicine and ministry

A line of people stretched along the seafoam green concrete walls and around the corner, past the coconut palm trees and out of sight. Moms, babies,...
The hidden treasure

The hidden treasure

By Maria Orozco ...

Buckner Villas residents featured on NPR affiliate station KUT 90.5

Roland and Elizabeth Johnson, residents at Buckner Villas in Austin, Texas, were featured in a heartwarming piece on NPR affiliate station KUT 90.5...

Alone no more: Samrawit's story in Ethiopia

Samrawit fidgets like the teenager she is when she meets strangers. It’s easy to assume nerves are getting the best of her, but that’s not the...

Upcoming foster care and adoption meetings

If you've ever wondered whether foster care or adoption was right for you, consider joining us in the coming weeks at one of our Buckner Foster Care...

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock family sacrifices for foster kids

Foster care has become a family legacy for the Conner family in Lubbock, Texas. ...
Strength to do all things

Strength to do all things

By David Graves ...
Buckner senior living couple offers relationship advice after 60 years of marriage

Buckner senior living couple offers relationship advice after 60 years of marriage

You'd think that after 60 years of marriage, a couple wouldn't have anything new to learn on the subject, but marriage veterans Cliff and JoAnn Payne...
5 tips for making marriage last

5 tips for making marriage last

As Valentine’s Day nears, couples around the country look for meaningful ways to express their love to each other and often pause to remember their...

Buckner adoptive family featured in the Odessa American

Two Odessa, Texas, girls officially became a part of their forever family through Buckner on Monday. The Odessa American reports: ...

Buckner President and CEO featured in San Angelo Standard-Times

Buckner President and CEO Albert Reyes was featured in the San Angelo Standard-Times yesterday in an article that shares the path that took him from...

Hope in a jail cell

Lorene Hoffman doesn’t look like the type of person who willingly walks into jails. She’s petite, soft-spoken and poised. But for 33 years, she...
We are God’s workmanship

We are God’s workmanship

By Sergio Ramos ...

Lufkin church builds house for Buckner family in Rio Grande Valley

Members of First Baptist Church in Lufkin, Texas, are changing the lives of a family living almost 500 miles away with the gift of a brand new...
On top of paradise: Buckner in Ethiopia helps family through microenterprise

On top of paradise: Buckner in Ethiopia helps family through microenterprise

Atop a mountain outside of Bishoftu, Ethiopia, the air is pure. It runs effortlessly through the nostrils, invigorating the body with each breath on...

A family everywhere they go: How Doug and Teresa opened their hearts and home to foster children

Doug and Theresa Lovett like to say they entered foster care through the back door. Their first placement was unconventional and without formal...
10 ways you can make a difference in 2015

10 ways you can make a difference in 2015

The New Year is here, and we’re all looking for ways to improve our lives. Why not look for ways to improve the lives of others, too? ...
Fostering through faith: One woman's courage and compassion through loss and grief

Fostering through faith: One woman's courage and compassion through loss and grief

On a warm June night, DeeAn Thompson and her elderly neighbor, N.E. Tittle, scan his pitch-black, 20-acre field with their flashlights. It's after 10...
Sharing our blessings

Sharing our blessings

By Paul Clark ...

Reporter-Telegram highlights new Buckner Midland leader

Jordan Parnell, new executive director for Buckner in Midland, was featured in the Midland Reporter-Telegram. ...

Buckner Senior Living: 'I remember'

[video align="right" aspect_ratio="16:9" width="100" autoplay="0"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_gaccaepGE [/video]
Project Go volunteer: 'I was made for one purpose'

Project Go volunteer: 'I was made for one purpose'

Hannah Hagar served with Project Go for five weeks in the Rio Grande Valley in 2013 with a small team of young people from her church, Memorial...
Beaumont couple celebrates 70th wedding anniversary

Beaumont couple celebrates 70th wedding anniversary

Agnes Northrup will never forget meeting her husband, Vernon, at the naval base in Long Beach, Calif., 71 years ago. He was a brand new chaplain and...

Pouring out God's love

“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:5...

A Project Go-er’s top six tips for a great mission trip experience

It might sound cliché, but serving in Guatemala through Project Go changed my life. I was able to serve in a capacity I never thought was possible...

Guatemalan Child Receives 3 Millionth Pair of Shoes

[video align="right" aspect_ratio="16:9" width="100" autoplay="0"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp603G7l8Ws [/video]
Freedom in the Lord

Freedom in the Lord

By Shea Svendson ...
Lost and found: Baby Sara's joyful return home

Lost and found: Baby Sara's joyful return home

As a caseworker for Semillas de Esperanza, Dina Tomás logs a lot of hours the old-fashioned way: on foot. Due to incomplete files, a backlog of...
Parnell named executive director for Buckner in Midland

Parnell named executive director for Buckner in Midland

Jordan Parnell has been named the new executive director for Buckner Children and Family Services in Midland, charged with leading the...
Top three things I learned through Project Go

Top three things I learned through Project Go

When asked to write about the top things I learned through my Project Go experience, I immediately agreed. Why? Because I could write about Project...
An eternal gift

An eternal gift

Two summers ago I got to see, touch, hear, smell and feel the beauty of Lima, Peru, in the midst of extreme poverty through Project Go. ...

Natasha's Story: A Pair of Shoes Changed My Life

[video aspect_ratio="16:9" width="100" autoplay="0"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIg01M7T3yM [/video]

Snapshots from Project Go 2014

Do you know a college student who is looking for a way to use their talents and experiences to make a lasting impact in the lives of people around the...
Why on Earth?

Why on Earth?

By Scott CollinsIn just a few hours, we’ll welcome 2015 into being. The New Year is a time we review and preview. We diagnose everything from our...
Building the kingdom, constructing a home

Building the kingdom, constructing a home

PEÑITAS, Texas – Sitting on tar paper with a stapler in her hand, Sandra Wisdom-Martin takes a deep breath and sweat runs down her temple. She...
Light of life: Reflections from Christmas in Peru

Light of life: Reflections from Christmas in Peru

I just returned from Christmas in Peru. We spent a week delivering gifts to fatherless children and wrapping arms around those who rarely receive...

Semillas de Esperanza: Margarita Gomez

[video aspect_ratio="16:9" width="100" autoplay="0"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPXXCUTk7dw [/video]

'Tis the season for volunteering! Find your place to serve with us.

Share the love and joy of the Christmas season in your local community through serving others. Buckner International has a wide variety of open...
‘The first time in my life I met someone with nobody’

‘The first time in my life I met someone with nobody’

Phillip and Sandra Battles are used to caring for children in their home. They’ve been caring for foster children in Beaumont, Texas, since 2000,...
Becoming a family

Becoming a family

November was National Adoption Month, and Buckner International celebrated as 45 children embraced their forever families through the ministry. In...
Thankful for three

Thankful for three

[caption id="attachment_10384" align="alignright" width="300"] Photo courtesy of Jessica Lee Photography.[/caption]In 2012, their family photo...

Buckner Westminster Place residents in Longview, Texas, deliver pies to firefighters

Residents of Westminster Place, a Buckner senior living community in Longview, Texas, made their local firefighters' holidays a little sweeter with a...

The theology of adoption: A pastor's perspective

Many people view adoption as a response to a need. While it is that, it is so much more. When we begin to view adoption as God views it, we will have...

Upcoming foster care and adoption interest meetings

Throughout National Adoption Month on www.buckner.org, you've seen devotional thoughts from the hearts of Buckner adoptive families, a first-person...
Our journey continues

Our journey continues

By Christa BlankenshipMy husband and I have been a foster-to-adopt family with Buckner for several years now. Each child who has entered our home has...
Building an unconventional family

Building an unconventional family

Shane and Kristi Hodges like to say they are an unconventional family. ...

Buckner Family Place Midland celebrates newly expanded facilities

Leaders from Buckner International and community leaders from across the Permian Basin celebrated the grand opening of two new apartments and the...
Adoption: A piece to my puzzle

Adoption: A piece to my puzzle

For as far back as I can remember, I have seen myself as female, African-American, black-haired, brown-eyed and adopted. Being adopted had no more...

10 ways to promote your holiday shoe drive

If daydreams of turkey and stuffing are filling your head or you’re already cranking up the Christmas classics, keep in mind that the holidays are...
When God laughs

When God laughs

By Toni McDonaldFoster care has taught us that God laughs when man tries to make his own plans.We thought we’d be one of those families who would...

Buckner Ethiopia: Samrawit Fesha

[video aspect_ratio="16:9" width="100" autoplay="0"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m8V2bigI6g [/video]

Worth the wait

For some, parenting is the most natural thing in the world. For others, learning to be a parent takes a little more struggle and intentionality. Jenny...

Houston WWII veteran recalls experiences as nurse for German POWs

With a little more than one million World War II veterans left in the United States, Veteran’s Day celebrations have become more and more...

KLTV: Buckner announces $6 million expansion in Longview

KLTV.com-Tyler, Longview, Jacksonville, Texas | ETX News

Buckner International expanding in Longview; $6 million campaign raising funds for new campus

Plans were announced Nov. 10 by Buckner International to build a new Buckner Family Place and Buckner Family Hope Center in Longview on property the...
Temporary struggles, eternal perspective

Temporary struggles, eternal perspective

By Tiffany WilkinsLife can be hard. We live in a sinful, fallen world and can become discouraged and worn down by what goes on around us. This is...
A forever family

A forever family

At first glance, it looks like any other Friday morning. Joshua and Jeralee Redmon are awake early and move around the house quietly to avoid waking...

Recommended reading for National Adoption Month

The journey of adoption is one of the most wonderful anyone will take. It can also be extremely difficult. Education is the key to understanding the...
God's got a way

God's got a way

By Brenda Hickman“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)I absolutely love sharing...
Family Place moms can be ‘Silent No More’

Family Place moms can be ‘Silent No More’

MIDLAND, Texas – Most of the moms who find shelter with Buckner Family Transition Programs either were a victim of domestic abuse or saw it in their...

Home: ‘A place where people help each other’

PEÑITAS, Texas – Kneeling on one knee, Paola Mendoza slides a new pair of shoes on a young girl’s feet. A squeal erupts from the preschooler as...

Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® garners support from Air 1 Radio

DALLAS – It’s hard to imagine what it’s like to live without shoes, but for many orphans and vulnerable children around the world, it’s a...

Something old, something new... couple celebrates wedding with shoes

For many engaged couples, love takes shape in the form of extravagant wedding plans or exotic honeymoons, but for one Reading, Mass., couple it’s...

Buckner receives 29,244 sandals from Niagara University

Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls received 29,244 sandals Aug. 1 from the Sandal Falls Project at Niagara University in Lewiston, N.Y. Buckner will send...
Counting her blessings: Houston Family Place gives mom space to achieve her dreams

Counting her blessings: Houston Family Place gives mom space to achieve her dreams

Tara Adesanya is used to hosting visitors. As soon as anyone crosses the threshold of her home, she becomes the ultimate hostess, buzzing around the...
JoAnn Cole to lead Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services

JoAnn Cole to lead Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services

DALLAS – JoAnn Cole, a veteran staff member of Buckner International, has been named by Albert Reyes to lead Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services...

A Distinctive Senior Lifestyle

North Texas family adopts three children

North Texas family adopts three children

Labor Day weekend held a special celebration for North Texas couple Joshua and Jeralee Redmon as they finalized three adoptions – two through...
'Buckner is a family for me'

'Buckner is a family for me'

Za-Kiya Payne – or Mama Kiki, as the neighborhood kids call her – has opened her heart and home for anyone in need of a hug or a prayer. A...
PepsiCo partners with Buckner to collect 1,438 pairs of shoes for vulnerable children worldwide

PepsiCo partners with Buckner to collect 1,438 pairs of shoes for vulnerable children worldwide

Global food and beverage leader PepsiCo collected 1,438 pairs of shoes this summer to benefit vulnerable children served around the world by Shoes for...
Buckner celebrates expansion of Family Hope Center

Buckner celebrates expansion of Family Hope Center

Buckner International executives and community leaders celebrated the new expansion of the Buckner Family Hope Center in Peñitas, Texas, with a...
Buckner seeks donations of hygiene kits for Latin American immigrant families

Buckner seeks donations of hygiene kits for Latin American immigrant families

Buckner International is asking friends and supporters to collect and assemble hygiene kits for distribution to vulnerable children and families who...
Mission team shows God's love through shoes in Guatemala

Mission team shows God's love through shoes in Guatemala

Editor’s Note: A team from Mt. Zion Baptist Church near Oxford, N.C., recently returned from a Buckner mission trip to Guatemala where they held...

Love conquers health, memory challenges

Couples age at different rates and sometimes one person needs a higher level of care than his or her spouse. Making decisions about living situations...

Buckner leaders brief partners on unaccompanied children issue

By John HallDALLAS -- Buckner International is working on several fronts to help thousands of children fleeing Central America and crossing into...

Future residents of Ventana by Buckner gather for Priority Club social

On August 6th, future residents of Ventana by Buckner gathered in Dallas to socialize, meet their neighbors and learn more about the project. ...
‘Serving God is not limited to your life circumstances’

‘Serving God is not limited to your life circumstances’

LUBBOCK – Erika Ponce is no stranger to the obstacles single parents encounter. She was raised by her single mom, and several years ago she became a...

85-year-old Buckner resident skydives to celebrate birthday

Skydiving has been on Hisae (Sue) DeCostanza’s bucket list since she turned 75. As the recreational activity started gaining popularity and people...
Buckner shoes offer respite for weary immigrant children

Buckner shoes offer respite for weary immigrant children

McALLEN, Texas – Daniela Cruz* is bone-tired. After a harrowing month on the road from her home in El Salvador, she crossed the Rio Grande River...
Featured volunteer opportunities -- Find your place to serve

Featured volunteer opportunities -- Find your place to serve

Have you been looking for a place to give back, but haven't found the right fit? Buckner International has a wide variety of open volunteer...

Buckner responds to unaccompanied children crisis

In recent days, Buckner International has been in communication with the faith community, government and non-government leaders in Texas to assess the...

Food donations create summer serendipity

“Burgers up!” rang the joyful cry at the Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid when In-N-Out Burger restaurants unexpectedly donated a surplus of...

The formula for family

“Family isn’t biology – it’s chemistry,” says Shelley Neimer. ...

Dallas foster parents live out their ‘untraditional love story’

By Lauri Ann HansonFor college sweethearts Calvin and Melanie Bailey, it was love at first sight. And still is.“She was drop-dead gorgeous, so...

Dominican Republic continues movement toward foster care

SANTO DOMINGO, Domincan Republic – The Dominican Republic took another public step toward starting a national foster care program as Claudia Leon,...
A badge of honor

A badge of honor

It was his fifth mission as a bomber pilot during the Second World War and pilot Birt Brumby, then 23, was leading the second crew of the 458th...
Sen. Cornyn visits Family Hope Center

Sen. Cornyn visits Family Hope Center

U.S. Senator John Cornyn of Texas visited the Buckner Family Hope Center in Penitas, Texas, in June, seeing firsthand the impact the ministry has on...
Going for the goal: Former foster youth on track for a bright future

Going for the goal: Former foster youth on track for a bright future

By Lauren Hollon SturdyChristian Camacho likes life to be orderly. A clean-cut finance major at Texas Tech University, he dresses neatly, typically...
Family, pure and simple

Family, pure and simple

Asking the Lowerys what they most like doing together is to misunderstand them completely. They're gracious and friendly, so they answer the question....

Volunteers commit 30,000 hours a year to help seniors

Altruistic seniors in the Baptist Retirement Community Auxiliary are committed to serving their peers by hosting fundraisers, committing hours of...
Shoe believers: Churches practice true religion by collecting shoes for the 'least of these'

Shoe believers: Churches practice true religion by collecting shoes for the 'least of these'

Editor’s note: Thousands of churches across the United States partner each year to provide support for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®, the largest...

Just like family: Buckner Villas residents find a place to call home

Six artists shuffle into the activities room at Buckner Villas in Austin, Texas, artwork in hand, waiting to be photographed.Judy Jackson, holding a...

Fitch affirms Buckner Retirement Services ‘A’ rating

DALLAS – Buckner Retirement Services received an ‘A’ rating earlier this week from the Fitch Group on its financial outlook. Fitch is a global...
A growing heart: Single mom blooms at My Father's House

A growing heart: Single mom blooms at My Father's House

By Lauri ArnoldPhotography by Lauren Hollon SturdySavanna Allen’s life was beginning to look like her dreams. She’d completed her prerequisites...

2014 Texas Rangers Fan Sleepover set for Thursday, July 3 at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas

Event presented by Buckner International and FOX Sports Southwest Tickets available for both Sleepover and Fireworks Show onlyArlington, Texas – The...
An image of salvation: Miss Bobbie's story

An image of salvation: Miss Bobbie's story

By John HallBobbie Bleer arrives early and sits at the corner of a table in a woman’s Sunday school class at First Baptist Church in Longview,...

Ministry for the ages

Photos and story by John HallEleven-year-old Tucker Burgin scrambles to put a series of small items in a blue bag with the Buckner International logo...
Buckner receives 500 mattresses from The Bed Boss to distribute to families in need around the world

Buckner receives 500 mattresses from The Bed Boss to distribute to families in need around the world

The Bed Boss, a Tennessee-based mattress company, donated 500 twin mattresses to the Buckner International. The beds will be distributed to families...
Buckner summer volunteers make international impact

Buckner summer volunteers make international impact

By Elizabeth ArnoldCommunications InternSummer break for most college students means lounging by a pristine pool, savoring home-cooked food and...
Peachy keen idea: Arizona girl sells fruit for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®

Peachy keen idea: Arizona girl sells fruit for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®

By Lauren Hollon SturdyEvery Saturday during the 2013 farmer’s market season in Payson, Ariz., 7-year-old Brooklyn Klein diligently set up her...

Council for Life and Young Leaders for Life award $40,000 to Buckner Children and Family Services

DALLAS – Council for Life and Young Leaders for Life awarded Buckner Children and Family Services $40,000 raised from the Run for Life 5k at the...

Families needed for on-campus group foster care in Dallas, Lubbock and Mission, Texas

Buckner International is seeking families with big hearts and Christ-centered values to fill several open foster group homes on Buckner campuses...

The impact of a shoe: Health and hope for vulnerable children worldwide

By Lauren Hollon SturdyIt’s easy to take shoes for granted. Many people have a closet full of them – all different kinds for different occasions...
'Every day is Mother's Day' at Calder Woods

'Every day is Mother's Day' at Calder Woods

BEAUMONT, Texas – Not many people go to work every day and see their mom. Ben Mazzara, executive director of Buckner Calder Woods, says he’s an...

United Way of Amarillo and Canyon awards $60,000 to support youth aging out of foster care served by Buckner

AMARILLO, Texas – United Way of Amarillo and Canyon committed to helping vulnerable youth aging out of foster care served by Buckner...

‘Thought will be transmitted by radio’

By John HallIn 1894, Guglielmo Marconi began conducting experiments in his attic. Building much of his equipment, he found a way to ring a bell on the...

Leaving a mark: Convencíon builds home, shines hope through Buckner partnership

Story and photos by John Hall ...
A life transformed, step by step

A life transformed, step by step

By Lauren Hollon SturdyAt 56 years old, Elvira’s life was not what she wanted or planned. She was lonely. Her son, Gerardo, was a violent alcoholic....

A passion for people

By Chelsea Quackenbush WhitePhoto by Lauren Hollon SturdyDALLAS – As Rita Stapp stirs cream and sugar into her steaming mug of coffee, carefully...
Mother-daughter mission team experiences miraculous meeting in Honduras

Mother-daughter mission team experiences miraculous meeting in Honduras

By Lauren Hollon SturdySherry Schrage had a feeling that bringing her 15-year-old daughter, Abby, on a mission trip to Honduras was a mistake.A week...

Buckner Aftercare: A trusted friend

By John HallPhotos by Nathan ChandlerIn 2011, Steven Lukas could no longer live as he once had.That year, he turned 18 and became one of the 26,000...
Hands and feet: Shoes for Orphan Souls® walking boldly into the future

Hands and feet: Shoes for Orphan Souls® walking boldly into the future

By Scott CollinsFor a guy who makes a living with his voice, Tim Sinclair knows feet. He’s seen just about every size and color – small ones and...

Her name was Mary

Her name was Mary. The fire that took the lives of her family also left her terribly scarred, and when all of the other orphans ran to welcome...
Featured volunteer opportunities -- We need you!

Featured volunteer opportunities -- We need you!

April is National Volunteer Month, and what better time to find a place to plug in and use your talents to serve others?Buckner International has a...
Resources to read, learn from and share for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Resources to read, learn from and share for Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, so we’d like to share this list of helpful child abuse-related resources. First things first: what is...
Meet a social worker: Phoebe Hawkins

Meet a social worker: Phoebe Hawkins

As you may know, March is National Social Work Month. We appreciate the hard work our social workers do across Buckner, whether in foster care and...

Buckner monitoring situation in Russia, planned mission trips currently unaffected

A Buckner security assessment team is monitoring the situation between Russia and Ukraine to determine how it may affect mission trips planned for St....
Meet a social worker: Alejandra Ramos Smith

Meet a social worker: Alejandra Ramos Smith

Meet Alejandra Ramos Smith, a foster care caseworker for Buckner in Midland, Texas. She has been in the social work field for nearly eight years and...
Join us April 13 for Buckner Day at the Rangers

Join us April 13 for Buckner Day at the Rangers

Buckner International invites you to Buckner Day at Globe Life Park in Arlington on Sunday, April 13! The Texas Rangers will take on the Houston...
The state of foster care from a roundtable of experts

The state of foster care from a roundtable of experts

Why is foster care important? What is the Church's role? What are the common misconceptions about foster children and how to parent them? We sat down...
Buckner senior living communities make U.S. News & World Report top honor

Buckner senior living communities make U.S. News & World Report top honor

DALLAS – U.S. News & World Report recognized Buckner Westminster Place in Longview, Buckner Calder Woods in Beaumont and Buckner Villas in...
Ways to raise money for your mission trip (part two)

Ways to raise money for your mission trip (part two)

Are you going on a mission trip this year? Maybe to Guatemala, Mexico or Peru? ...
March is Professional Social Work Month

March is Professional Social Work Month

Did you know? March is Professional Social Work Month! Throughout this month, we’d like to introduce you to a few of our social workers from across...
Ways to raise money for your mission trip (part one)

Ways to raise money for your mission trip (part one)

As we head into spring break and look forward to the summer months, we also move into the time of the year when many people are looking into mission...

Make a difference for kids like Dustin through school supplies

There’s nothing quite like the potential in a new box of crayons. Just thinking about it, you can almost smell them, can’t you? New crayons,...

Circus act builds self-esteem in South Dallas children served by Buckner

In an effort to promote self-esteem in at-risk children, The Artist Outreach has a solution: send in the clowns. The nonprofit arranged a clown...
The theology of adoption: Meurer family sees foster care, adoption as calling

The theology of adoption: Meurer family sees foster care, adoption as calling

By Russ DildayPhotography by Nathan ChandlerKerra Meurer has always had a heart for children, says her husband, Micah, pastor of Paramount Baptist...

Beaumont Foundation generously supports Buckner International

Beaumont Foundation of America committed to helping vulnerable children through Buckner International with a gift of $133,500 in 2014.Beaumont...

Shoe trip veteran recounts favorite mission trip moments

By Lauren Hollon SturdySonja Fowler is a mission trip expert. At 74 years old, she has 10 international trips under her belt since 2004, and has taken...
Get to know two of the first Peruvian foster families

Get to know two of the first Peruvian foster families

The Chavez familyThirteen year old Briana has lived with her foster family for six years. Her birth mom and her foster mom, Violeta Chavez, had been...
Fighting for family: Blessings come in threes for foster-to-adopt family

Fighting for family: Blessings come in threes for foster-to-adopt family

Story by Chelsea Quackenbush Photography by Lauren Hollon SturdyMicah and Sarah Brown get weird looks when they’re out in public with their kids but...

Do Family Transition Programs really make a lasting difference?

Buckner Family Transition Programs are residential programs for single-parent families who are seeking education and self-sufficiency. Families live...
Contagious confidence: Family Place graduate fulfills her calling at Buckner Parkway Place

Contagious confidence: Family Place graduate fulfills her calling at Buckner Parkway Place

By John Hall Photography by Lauren Hollon Sturdy HOUSTON – Working with a patient at Parkway Place, Melody Costello speaks into a person, not to...
There's still time to apply for Project Go! 2014

There's still time to apply for Project Go! 2014

There's still time to turn in your application and prepare for a life-changing summer of serving orphans, vulnerable children and families in Buckner...

Volunteers needed in Texas and internationally!

Do you want to make a difference in your community, but don't know how to start? Do you have time to give and skills to share? If you’d like to...

Baptist Retirement Community breaks ground on $22 million renovation project

SAN ANGELO, Texas – Leaders from Baptist Memorial Ministries and Buckner International broke ground Tuesday, Jan. 28 to begin construction on the...
Greater Dallas Movement Day: Looking for pioneers

Greater Dallas Movement Day: Looking for pioneers

By John HallDALLAS – The 19th century wood cabin built by Dallas founder John Neely Bryan stands in the heart of downtown Dallas as a symbol of the...

Exit interview: Amarillo mom reflects on Family Place’s influence

Story and photo by Russ DildayIt’s a surprisingly mild day for Amarillo in early September. The windows are open in Sandy Carrasco’s apartment at...

VIDEO: Stabbing survivor has second chance at life

Abused, stabbed, addicted and imprisoned, Margarita Acosta endured much pain and suffering in her former life. After moving to Dallas, she found hope...
Fostering adventures: Veteran parents rebuild lives

Fostering adventures: Veteran parents rebuild lives

By Lauren Hollon SturdyPhotography by Chelsea QuackenbushYou’d never suspect from looking at him that Tony Hawkins is a huge softie. Words like...

Ministry while waiting

Story and photos by Chelsea QuackenbushDavid and Beth Roberts* were both at work when Buckner staff in Beaumont called to say their first foster care...
Sacred ground: Missions-minded group relives shoe trip experiences

Sacred ground: Missions-minded group relives shoe trip experiences

By John HallTonight, the corner of Cracker Barrel is sacred ground. And it's not because of the heavenly biscuits.Roughly 10 people gather around a...
The Journey to Kenya: Lessons

The Journey to Kenya: Lessons

Editor’s note: This is the last story in the four-part series in Buckner Today, chronicling Melanie Miller and Brittani Cirinna’s journey to...

Buckner leaders join Greater Dallas Movement Day to ignite spiritual change in the metroplex

DALLAS – Church pastors and community leaders from across the metroplex will come together for the inaugural Greater Dallas Movement Day in a...

Youth in the Rio Grande Valley challenged to show hope through photo contest

Stonegate Fellowship Church from Midland, Texas, generously donated several cameras to the Buckner Family Hope Center in Peñitas, Texas. The staff...

Talkington Charitable Foundation establishes endowment for Buckner Lubbock programs

LUBBOCK, Texas – The J.T. and Margaret Talkington Charitable Foundation, Inc. established a $500,000 endowment to Buckner Children and Family...
USAID grant progresses for Buckner foster care in Guatemala

USAID grant progresses for Buckner foster care in Guatemala

By John HallIn Guatemala, hope for orphans begins with Buckner.Funded by a grant through the U.S. Agency for International Development, Buckner is...

‘It’s going to be OK’: West Texas foster parents teach truth to kids

By Lauren Hollon Sturdy Photos by Chelsea QuackenbushThe tiny town of Seminole, Texas, is quite a trek from the Buckner office in Midland – about 65...

Landmark vote makes foster care law in Peru

By Lauren Hollon SturdyLIMA, Peru—In a unanimous Dec. 5 vote, the Peruvian Congress passed a law that integrates foster care into the official legal...

Changing course for children: The story behind Buckner foster care in Peru

By Claudia Leon, Buckner Peru director, as told to Chelsea QuackenbushPhotos by Scott CollinsEditor’s note: The expertise Buckner has in foster care...

Veteran shares experiences on the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War

Often called the “forgotten war” because of its close proximity to World War II, the Korean War is not forgotten by those who served and...

Bruce Ford Transition Center to provide support for youth aging out of foster care

AMARILLO, Texas – Buckner leaders and the Amarillo community celebrated the grand opening of the Bruce Ford Transition Center with a ribbon cutting...

Small Church Sows Seeds, Reaps Blessings for Shoes for Orphan Souls

By Carolyn ThurmanCan God use a tiny seed or a small pebble to accomplish His mighty purposes? He can, and He does! What about the parable of the...

A Miracle of Adoption

Editor’s Note: November is National Adoption Month, and we invite you to celebrate with us by praying for orphans and vulnerable children, telling...

Woman's Missionary Union completes third annual Women's Build

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas sent two mission teams over two weeks to build one beautiful, purple house for a family served by the Buckner Family...
Buckner foster mom recognized by Congress as an Angel in Adoption™

Buckner foster mom recognized by Congress as an Angel in Adoption™

DALLAS – Retired Buckner foster parent Barbara Houston was honored Oct. 7 as an “Angel in Adoption™” for her outstanding advocacy and service...
Table of grace

Table of grace

I've been in the process of adopting a precious 4-year-old little girl named Missy from Haiti for 18 months now. Missy's biological mama died of AIDS...
Marilyn Campbell, wife for former Buckner president, dies

Marilyn Campbell, wife for former Buckner president, dies

Marilyn Campbell, wife of the late R.C. Campbell, former president of Buckner International, died Oct. 21 at the age of 86.Mrs. Campbell was married...
Glimpses of Light: Buckner Peru focuses on prevention, healing, strength

Glimpses of Light: Buckner Peru focuses on prevention, healing, strength

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Scott Collins, Chelsea Quackenbush and Nathan ChandlerYanet Caceres rose every morning, put on worn-down shoes...

The birthday girl’s guide to blessing orphans

By Kelsey BucknerCommunications InternGUATEMALA CITY-- All Sydney Sears ever wants on her birthday is shoes – lots of shoes. She always asks for a...
How a ‘heart for the orphan’ created the Kelly family

How a ‘heart for the orphan’ created the Kelly family

By Russ DildayBuckner InternationalLike a lot people, Kathy Kelly remembers exactly where she was when she made one of the most important decisions of...
Join us November 10 for DFW SpiritFest!

Join us November 10 for DFW SpiritFest!

Buckner International is pleased to present DFW SpiritFest, the largest family-friendly festival in South and Central Texas making its debut at the...

Long-term volunteer in Guatemala grateful for learning experience

By Kelsey BucknerCommunications InternGUATEMALA CITY – In a foreign country, teaching English to children who are uncomfortable with discipline made...
Tiny Alabama Church Makes a Big Impact through Shoes for Orphan Souls

Tiny Alabama Church Makes a Big Impact through Shoes for Orphan Souls

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMount Pleasant Baptist Church is home to about 50 worshippers on an average Sunday in a tiny community...

For one mother, hope comes in the form of a corn cart

By Lauren Hollon Sturdy ...
Family Hope Center Houston/Aldine Series: The Empowerment

Family Hope Center Houston/Aldine Series: The Empowerment

Josefina Herrero is well-spoken, professional and educated. She considers herself “a very responsible mom,” adding “sometimes maybe too much.”...
Family Hope Center Houston/Aldine Series: The Community

Family Hope Center Houston/Aldine Series: The Community

Almost 24 years ago, Sylvia Bolling looked around and saw a need. In fact, lots of them. The community where the public school worker was raising her...
Encouraged to Achieve: Rio Grande Valley Family Hope Center Becomes Second Home for Teen

Encouraged to Achieve: Rio Grande Valley Family Hope Center Becomes Second Home for Teen

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalGraciela Vazquez will be the first member of her family to attend college. She’s excited by the prospect...

Tying a Strong Knot of Hope: The Couples

Photography by Russ Dilday ...
Tying a Strong Knot of Hope

Tying a Strong Knot of Hope

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalSeven brides take turns posing one at a time beneath a red and white ribbon-bedecked arch at the end of...
In Longview, Fit Life encourages healthy lifestyles

In Longview, Fit Life encourages healthy lifestyles

By Kelsey BucknerCommunications InternIt’s hot outside, but the oven is even hotter as the 23 class participants pack themselves into a small...

Snapshots from Project Go! 2013

It was an eventful summer for Project Go! and we’re excited to share a quick recap of what our intrepid students accomplished. ...
Momentum’s the word in South Dallas

Momentum’s the word in South Dallas

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotos by Russ DildayIf there's one word to describe the atmosphere at the Wynnewood Family Hope Center in South Dallas, it’s...
Westminster Place residents collect books for children in Moore, Okla.

Westminster Place residents collect books for children in Moore, Okla.

By Lauren Hollon Sturdy LONGVIEW, Texas—Buckner Westminster Place residents held a book drive in support of Moore Books for Moore Kids, an...

Fundraising effort begins for Baptist Retirement Community expansion

SAN ANGELO, Texas – Fundraising efforts have begun for the expansion and renovation of Baptist Retirement Community. The project, estimated at $22...
Missouri church builds home for single mom in the Rio Grande Valley

Missouri church builds home for single mom in the Rio Grande Valley

By Lauren Hollon SturdyPhotography by Russ DildayBuckner InternationalIt’s oppressively hot. Even so, the mission team from Memorial Baptist Church...
Buckner awarded USAID grant for work in Guatemala

Buckner awarded USAID grant for work in Guatemala

DALLAS—Buckner International was awarded a grant for nearly $1 million from the U.S. Agency for International Development Aug. 1 to develop programs...
The Journey to Kenya: A conversation of preparation

The Journey to Kenya: A conversation of preparation

Story by Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Nathan ChandlerEditor’s note: This is the third story in a four-part series in Buckner Today, chronicling...

Dallas City Council approves rezoning request for Dallas retirement community

DALLAS – The Dallas City Council gave final approval in July for a rezoning request for the property purchased by Buckner, which allows the project...

Houston church breaks record, collects 100,000 pairs of Shoes for Orphan Souls

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalPhotography by Eric Guel and Lauren Hollon SturdyHOUSTON – Most churches greet the rush of the back-to-school...
22 Years Later, Buckner Children’s Home Resident Becomes Essential Buckner Volunteer

22 Years Later, Buckner Children’s Home Resident Becomes Essential Buckner Volunteer

By Kelsey BucknerCommunications InternKim Gomez was happy and in her element on one of the hottest summer days in Dallas. After she prepared to feed...
K-LOVE Photo Contest Winner:

K-LOVE Photo Contest Winner: "We need to fight for the broken..."

By Betty HociotaHolding in my hands a child of God, a tear rolled down my cheek. It ran down the gentle skin of someone who smiled through all the...

Buckner hosts life skills conference for foster teens aging out of care

ARLINGTON, Texas – Buckner Foster Care of North Texas joined the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services July 20 to host Metroplex-area...
Buckner foster camp is ‘the icing on the icing,’ says foster parent

Buckner foster camp is ‘the icing on the icing,’ says foster parent

Story and photography by Kelsey BucknerCommunications internBuckner foster and foster-to-adopt families from across Texas gathered at Camp Buckner in...

Mexico: Daniel's New Shoes

By Juan Carlos MillánBuckner Mexico DirectorDaniel turned 12 in February, and his life has not been easy. He was born in a village in the mountains...
Race car driver, 13, karts foster kids to next level

Race car driver, 13, karts foster kids to next level

Cole Glasson and Dallas Karting Complex treated North Texas Buckner foster kids to the ride of their lives in July on go karts that reach top speeds...
There’s No Way

There’s No Way

By Lysa TerKeurstJesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 (NIV 1984)I...

Single Mother Finds Hope, Opportunity through My Father's House Lubbock

By Kelsey Buckner ...
Tyler Parents Get Schooled on Nutrition

Tyler Parents Get Schooled on Nutrition

By Kelsey BucknerCommunications InternTyler families were in for a surprise when they learned a nutrition label is more than just a colorful feature...
Buckner Retirement Services Announces Two New Additions to Leadership Team

Buckner Retirement Services Announces Two New Additions to Leadership Team

DALLAS – Buckner Retirement Services has announced two new employees to their leadership team. Jordan Lovelady, a veteran financial planner and...

‘I can still be a mom’

Amarillo mother credits Family Place for opportunityBy Elizabeth Schiller as told to Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Chelsea QuackenbushI was 30...

Single mom: ‘My life is a miracle’

Back on Track: Family Place Graduate Engineers SuccessStory and photography by Lauren Hollon SturdyPeople told her to get an abortion. When she...
Download Our New Buckner Today App for Apple and Android Devices!

Download Our New Buckner Today App for Apple and Android Devices!

We are excited to announce the launch of the free Buckner Today app for Apple and Android mobile devices. ...
Mission team builds homes, hope in Rio Grande Valley

Mission team builds homes, hope in Rio Grande Valley

Tenth annual KidsHeart trip an ‘astounding’ successBy Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Mike McLean and Chelsea QuackenbushPENITAS, Texas –...
Letting go to gain a family | Host families urgently needed for Colombian orphans

Letting go to gain a family | Host families urgently needed for Colombian orphans

Editor's Note: Dallas-area families are still urgently needed to host seven Colombian orphans who will be visiting the United States in December....

Beaumont foster care program receives generous grant for respite services

By Chelsea QuackenbushBEAUMONT, Texas – Buckner Children and Family Services received a $5,000 grant from the Foundation for Southeast Texas to be...

Hearts of gratitude

Story and photography by Chelsea QuackenbushIf there’s one thing Wendi Hay wants her four daughters to learn about their time at Buckner Family...
Stories from the mission field: Understanding love

Stories from the mission field: Understanding love

Four years ago, during spring break of my senior year of high school, I went to Zacapa, Guatemala, on a mission trip and worked primarily in an...

Foster group home works miracles in violent Juarez

By Russ DildayJUAREZ, Mexico - Ismael Meza remembers when Marta* came to Buckner Mexico’s Amigo Fiel foster group home two years ago. Meza, who...
60 Years of Gardening Keep Buckner Senior Living Resident Healthy

60 Years of Gardening Keep Buckner Senior Living Resident Healthy

85-year-old Eddie Buddemeyer enjoys his days out in the garden at Parkway Place. “I tell everyone that the two best things in life are finding true...
‘Being Jesus with Skin On’

‘Being Jesus with Skin On’

South Dallas family gets home makeover ...
Contagious hope

Contagious hope

Story by Shawn SpurrierPhotography by Lauren Hollon SturdyThe sound of laughter coming from her grandchildren in the next room evokes obvious joy as...
The Journey to Kenya: When raising funds for Project Go!, it pays to have friends

The Journey to Kenya: When raising funds for Project Go!, it pays to have friends

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by John Hawk DildayEditor’s note: Project Go! is a short-term mission trip opportunity through Buckner...
Buckner, Baylor Health Care System, work together for global health, kingdom impact

Buckner, Baylor Health Care System, work together for global health, kingdom impact

By Chelsea Quackenbush ...

Niños de Promesa sets students up for success

TYLER, Texas – Mercedes Ojeda is in the seventh grade. She loves math, is on the swim team, plays the violin and takes advanced classes.She also...

A life redeemed, a family transformed

Family Place mom overcomes her past to claim God’s futureStory by Lauren Hollon SturdyPhotography by Chelsea QuackenbushMarisol Suarez’s voice...
New Buckner Ethiopia director hired

New Buckner Ethiopia director hired

ADDIS ABABA – Buckner Ethiopia hired a new director of the nongovernmental organization in December 2012.Moges Feleke came to Buckner with a...
Dreams for her future: Family Place Conroe prepares first resident for graduation

Dreams for her future: Family Place Conroe prepares first resident for graduation

Story and photography by Chelsea QuackenbushWhen Angie Wood smiles, she smiles big. And when she dreams, she dreams even bigger.Master’s...
Join Buckner at the Texas Rangers July 19

Join Buckner at the Texas Rangers July 19

DALLAS – Buckner International is inviting the community to the ballpark on Friday, July 19 for Buckner Night at the Rangers! A portion of the...
Family Pathways capital campaign reaches expansion goal

Family Pathways capital campaign reaches expansion goal

DALLAS – Buckner Foundation completed the second phase of fundraising in January for the $2 million capital campaign project to expand the Buckner...

Goodbye, Ms. Barbara. And thank you for being a mom.

Editor’s note: Barbara Houston retires in May after serving as a foster mother in Dallas for 21 years. The following is an open letter to her from...

Single foster mom goes ‘above and beyond’ to nurture

By Lauren Hollon SturdyKathy Hagler beamed with pride watching her 7-year-old foster daughter, Hannah*, on stage at the school production. Hannah wore...

VIDEO: Meet Victoria

Family Place Lufkin resident Victoria Santos loves chocolate pudding, journaling and movie stars, but most of all, she loves her children. As a single...
Dallas host families needed for Colombian angels

Dallas host families needed for Colombian angels

Dillon International Hosts Free Interest Meetings in Dallas May 30 and June 10 DALLAS—Seven Colombian orphans will make the trip of a lifetime as...
Young volunteers spread hope during National Volunteer Month

Young volunteers spread hope during National Volunteer Month

[caption id="attachment_6076" align="alignright" width="200" caption="Allie, Jacob and Christian Lively, along with two friends from church, sold...

Texas Baptists to collect Shoes for Orphan Souls®

Churches to collect shoes, bring them to Texas Baptist Family Gathering in San Antonio July 14-17DALLAS— Buckner International is teaming up with...
Carving out time for hobbies: Sculptors at Buckner Villas create art from wood

Carving out time for hobbies: Sculptors at Buckner Villas create art from wood

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Russ DildayMost mornings, three men gather in a modest shack, reminiscent of an Appalachian cabin, nestled on the...
Family Pathways breaks the cycle of poverty, creates cycle of pride

Family Pathways breaks the cycle of poverty, creates cycle of pride

By Lauren Hollon SturdyTwQuan ‘Fat Daddy’ Harris describes himself as ‘wise.’ It’s kind of a funny thing to hear coming from a 14-year-old,...
‘Barefoot in the Park’ Concert to feature Jeff Johnson Band

‘Barefoot in the Park’ Concert to feature Jeff Johnson Band

Free concert to raise awareness for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®Sunday, June 9 at Levitt Pavilion in Arlington, TexasDALLAS – Buckner...
April is National Volunteer Month

April is National Volunteer Month

If you've checked out our Facebook Page recently, you know we've been celebrating our volunteers all month. They are part of the Buckner family and...
A ‘Perfect’ Mistake

A ‘Perfect’ Mistake

By Lauren Hollon SturdyOne shoe-collecting family learned that when it comes to helping others, a mistake can turn out to be perfect.Bailey Johnson...
Buckner International’s Shoes for Orphan Souls® Garners Support From K-LOVE Radio

Buckner International’s Shoes for Orphan Souls® Garners Support From K-LOVE Radio

DALLAS – It’s hard to imagine what it’s like to live without shoes, but for many orphans and vulnerable children around the world, it’s a...
The Journey to Kenya: Two North Texas teachers prepare to serve children on their summer break

The Journey to Kenya: Two North Texas teachers prepare to serve children on their summer break

Editor’s note: Project GO! is a short-term mission trip opportunity through Buckner International for college students and young adults. During...

Buckner expands programs in Conroe with foster care, adoption

CONROE, Texas – Buckner officials opened a brand new foster care and adoption office donated by Alan and Jeanie Boehm, a local Conroe family, with a...
Shoes for Orphan Souls unveils the ‘Barefoot Experience’

Shoes for Orphan Souls unveils the ‘Barefoot Experience’

DALLAS – Volunteers at the Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid can now walk a mile in the shoes – or bare feet – of the children who are served...
It's World Water Day!

It's World Water Day!

Today is World Water Day, so we thought we'd share a clean water project the Buckner Mexico NGO staff has been working on.In a project funded by a...
Alaskan High School Students Collect Socks for Children

Alaskan High School Students Collect Socks for Children

Editor's Note: This story has been used with permission from the Juneau Empire. It was published on March 3 on their website here.A simple pair of...

Peru: Her name was Maria Elena

Her name was Maria Elena. She was only 3 months old when she completely changed my life. She was found abandoned as an infant in Lima, Peru, and was...
Why I volunteer: The day God's call changed everything

Why I volunteer: The day God's call changed everything

[caption id="attachment_5891" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Ed Wales (back left) and fellow volunteers pose at the Buckner Center for...
‘Never a Dull moment’: The renaissance man: husband, father, coach, chef, counselor and comedian

‘Never a Dull moment’: The renaissance man: husband, father, coach, chef, counselor and comedian

From teaching to coaching, counseling to cooking, Arlen White has lived a vibrant and varied life. His wife, Delores, says it’s never a dull moment...
Music translates beyond language, age

Music translates beyond language, age

[caption id="attachment_5920" align="alignright" width="200"] Natalie Goodman often shares her musical talents with the community at GreenRidge at...
First Person: Ditches and the Rain

First Person: Ditches and the Rain

A few years ago I heard a message at Willow Creek Global Leadership Summit that I never forgot. Last year, when our humanitarian aid team was tasked...

'A window into their world': Beaumont couple helps children from hard places heal

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Lauren Hollon SturdyThe modest exterior of the Rice home in Beaumont, Texas, masks the chaos that whirls inside...
Tailoring team blesses foster children through handicrafts

Tailoring team blesses foster children through handicrafts

 [caption id="attachment_5896" align="alignright" width="500"] Belinda Gibson (left) and Clarice Miller have made more than 180 pillowcases for...
What to expect with Project GO!

What to expect with Project GO!

Editor's Note: This post was written by Anne Marie Harris, a 2012 Project GO! volunteer who served in Kenya. She originally published the post on her...
Q&A: What's so great about volunteering?

Q&A: What's so great about volunteering?

[caption id="attachment_5862" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Lana Albers (far left) has been volunteering at the Buckner Center for...
Creative church campout collects shoes for kids

Creative church campout collects shoes for kids

A Sawyer, Kan., church gave their annual campout a new spin last fall with a shoe- and feet-themed weekend.The theme came to Beth Fisher after reading...
‘I see God at work’ : Retirement, hospice chaplains nurture faith amid aging, end-of-life issues

‘I see God at work’ : Retirement, hospice chaplains nurture faith amid aging, end-of-life issues

Pastoral care is an integral part of Buckner senior living communities. Chaplains are an anchor in a world where many feel they are “depreciating”...

Texas Rangers Winter Caravan stops at Buckner afterschool center in Amarillo

By Chelsea QuackenbushAMARILLO, Texas – Members of the Texas Rangers baseball team stopped at the Bruce Ford Community Center in Amarillo Jan. 30 as...
Evelyn Lord: Breaking the glass ceiling

Evelyn Lord: Breaking the glass ceiling

[caption id="attachment_225" align="alignright" width="672"] image caption[/caption] ...

A wing and a prayer: Michigan couple adopts last Buckner Russian orphan

By Scott CollinsPhotography by Russ DildayHUDSONVILLE, Mich. – John Nauta raises his fist and slams it onto the kitchen table, shaking the table and...

‘I’m Safe’

Family Place offers opportunity … and sometimes shelter from abuseVeronica Castillo has lived at Buckner Family Place in Midland for nearly two...
8 ways to get involved with Buckner in 2013

8 ways to get involved with Buckner in 2013

If you want to make a difference in the lives of others this year, we've got you covered. Here are eight ways you can get involved with Buckner and...
Dorka says,

Dorka says, "Thank you!"

Many of our supporters never get to personally experience the end result of all the shoe collecting, sorting, packing and shipping – putting shoes...
Buckner honors Preston Hollow Women’s Club for philanthropy

Buckner honors Preston Hollow Women’s Club for philanthropy

[caption id="attachment_5903" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Buckner Foundation honored the Preston Hollow Women's Club as their...
Crafting for cash in the Rio Grande Valley

Crafting for cash in the Rio Grande Valley

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalA few months ago, Lorena Reyes, 26, didn’t know the first thing about handicrafts. Today, she’s a...
Seniors at Parkway Place use technology to get in shape

Seniors at Parkway Place use technology to get in shape

[caption id="attachment_5833" align="alignleft" width="500" caption="Aaron Mendoza, an 88-year-old Parkway Place resident, hit a nearly-perfect score...
Buckner gives 'a little help' to East Texas families

Buckner gives 'a little help' to East Texas families

By Chelsea QuackenbushRain fell off and on one Friday morning in late August as the last of the summer days faded away and a hope for a new school...
With help from Buckner Family Place, young mom ready for future

With help from Buckner Family Place, young mom ready for future

An interview with CBS 7’s Tatum HubbardEditor’s note: Odessa native Tatum Hubbard anchors the 6 and 10 o’clock news for CBS 7, serving...

Farmers Cooperative Compress Partners with CoBank to Provide Support for Local Buckner Foster Children

LUBBOCK – Farmers Cooperative Compress’ gift of $1,500 to Buckner Children and Family Services in Lubbock was matched by CoBank to provide support...
Jobs for Life changes lives

Jobs for Life changes lives

[caption id="attachment_5803" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Sylvester Willis graduated from the Jobs for Life class at Buckner's...
Buckner builds better businesses, families

Buckner builds better businesses, families

By Chelsea QuackenbushOsvaldo and Maria Salazar live with their two young sons on the edge of a colonia in what used to be a trailer barely held...

My Father’s House mom: ‘I hope to do something big’

By Lauren Hollon Sturdy ...
Buckner Mexico Hatches Egg-Cellent Business Model

Buckner Mexico Hatches Egg-Cellent Business Model

Buckner Mexico Community Transformation Centers provide feeding programs in several locations around the country, but Country Director Juan Carlos...
The importance of feeling important

The importance of feeling important

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalSitting with Gracie Vazquez as she shares her life in the activity room of the Penitas Community...
Families celebrate Russian heritage, joys of adoption

Families celebrate Russian heritage, joys of adoption

[caption id="attachment_5774" align="alignright" width="500"] Natalie Bull, 9, of Waco, works on a craft project at a heritage gathering for Eastern...
Shelving expectations for blessings beyond imagination

Shelving expectations for blessings beyond imagination

By Lauren Hollon SturdyWhen Jason and Nikki Waligura first took the plunge into adoption, they had no idea what lay at the end of their long...
Buckner volunteer and former Children's Home resident recognized as finalist in The Dallas Foundation's

Buckner volunteer and former Children's Home resident recognized as finalist in The Dallas Foundation's "Good Works Under 40"

This biker isn’t bad to the bone – far from it. For the last two years, John Porter has poured his time and energy into making the annual Back to...
$28,500 grant builds capacity at Buckner Crisis Relief Center

$28,500 grant builds capacity at Buckner Crisis Relief Center

By Lauren Hollon SturdyDecember just got a little cooler at the Buckner Crisis Relief Center.On December 11, installation was finally complete on a...
INFOGRAPHIC: Poverty by the Numbers

INFOGRAPHIC: Poverty by the Numbers

We all know poverty is a problem, but do you know just how big? Here, we've aggregated some important stats on poverty and how it affects children and...

PHOTOS: Delivering Hope in Dallas

With a population of more than 1.2 million, about 19 percent of Dallas residents live in poverty*. Of those, 29.3 percent are children.Food aid is a...
Buckner Kenya: Creating independence, providing home

Buckner Kenya: Creating independence, providing home

By Dickson MasindanoCountry director, Buckner KenyaOur mission at Buckner Kenya seeks to provide safe and loving homes for children, promote...
Buckner, volunteers make dream home a reality for Valley family

Buckner, volunteers make dream home a reality for Valley family

By Lauren Hollon SturdyEvery day for the last three months, the De Leon family has walked together to the very edge of their lot, where the sparse...

Buckner Receives $1,000 Grant from the Allstate Foundation in Honor of Agent’s Community Service

BEAUMONT, Texas- The Allstate Foundation’s gift of $1,000 to Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont was given in honor of the exemplary...
Serenading for Shoes

Serenading for Shoes

Musicians and students to perform Christmas hits at Grapevine Mills to help orphans worldwide through Buckner InternationalGRAPEVINE, Texas – Music...

Longview family cultivates beautiful passion for children

For Chris and Amy Yoder, foster parenting is a simple math problem: more children equals more love to go around. They started their journey with...

Buckner Retirement Resident Debuts New Book on Amazon.com

HOUSTON, Texas — Clarke Newlin always thought retirement was about slowing down life’s changes. But after retiring, he discovered that life brings...

PHOTOS: Buckner Mexico empowers families through food production

Buckner Mexico is working to tackle hunger and poverty through its innovative programs in agriculture and poultry farming.Click on the first photo to...
Buckner feeding program gives hope to Estrella

Buckner feeding program gives hope to Estrella

About 22,000 children die each day from poverty, usually from the effects of malnutrition. One of the hardest-hit areas for hunger is Mexico.Estrella...
National Adoption Day Unites Families Forever

National Adoption Day Unites Families Forever

DALLAS, Texas – There was cheerful chatter on the fourth floor of the Family Law Center in Fort Worth, Texas Friday Nov. 16 as children anxiously...
Dallas Mavericks deliver Thanksgiving turkeys to Buckner families

Dallas Mavericks deliver Thanksgiving turkeys to Buckner families

DALLAS – About 300 families lined the parking lot of Buckner Children’s Home on Sunday, Nov. 18 as Dallas Mavericks players O.J. Mayo, Dahntay...

Reyes Receives Latino Leaders ‘Maestro Award for Community Service’

DALLAS – Buckner President and CEO Dr. Albert L. Reyes received the prestigious Maestro Award for Community Service from Latino Leaders magazine at...
Former Buckner President/CEO Moves to Baylor University as Senior Vice President

Former Buckner President/CEO Moves to Baylor University as Senior Vice President

[caption id="attachment_5659" align="alignleft" width="100" caption="Dr. Kenneth Hall"][/caption]DALLAS – Baylor University President Ken Starr...
Intergenerational Partnership Leads to New Friendships

Intergenerational Partnership Leads to New Friendships

Senior Mentors Help College StudentsLONGVIEW, Texas -- It is amazing to see what happens when you put a woman in her 90s in a room with a woman in...

It's Time to Apply for Project GO! 2013

Mission Network News featured a great story on their website yesterday about Project GO!, our summer program for college students who want to serve...

'Part of Us' – A foster-to-adopt story

After ‘rookie’ start, foster parents Rene and Donna Carrasco now naturalsBy Russ Dilday“Most of the kids we’ve had, the parents have either...
5 Ways to Support Foster Families and Kids During the Holidays

5 Ways to Support Foster Families and Kids During the Holidays

Holidays can be both a wonderful and challenging time for foster and adoptive families. Between parties, events, family visits and activities, kids in...
First Person Perspective: Out of Grief into Gladness

First Person Perspective: Out of Grief into Gladness

By Holly Garcia"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let...
Bookmarks for Buckner

Bookmarks for Buckner

By Thatcher D.I first learned about Buckner when Legacy Christian Academy started to “adopt” a child from Buckner in each class. At this year’s...

We asked, you gave -- the results are in from North Texas Giving Day!

Buckner Donors Give $381,019 on North Texas Giving DayOrganization celebrates its largest single day of online giving in 133-year historyDALLAS –...
Celebrate Orphan Sunday Nov. 4 with a shoe drive!

Celebrate Orphan Sunday Nov. 4 with a shoe drive!

Orphan Sunday is coming soon and we’d love for you and your church to celebrate with us by hosting a shoe drive through Shoes for Orphan Souls®,...
CiCi’s Pizza Barefoot Run to Benefit Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® this Saturday

CiCi’s Pizza Barefoot Run to Benefit Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® this Saturday

COPPELL, Texas –The second annual CiCi’s Pizza Barefoot Run, benefiting Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls, will be held at 8 a.m. Oct. 6 at Andy...
Texas and Tennessee shoe drives net more than 50,000 pairs of shoes

Texas and Tennessee shoe drives net more than 50,000 pairs of shoes

August and September marked the end of two of the largest shoe drives of the year – the Houston community drive, and the WMBW and WFCM radio station...
Kiwanis Governor Recognized at White House for Work with Shoes for Orphan Souls®

Kiwanis Governor Recognized at White House for Work with Shoes for Orphan Souls®

Susan Hennum, governor of the TX-OK District of Kiwanis International, was recognized this week at the White House as a “Champion of Change” for...

Guatemala: One by One, 10 Years Strong

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalThe height of the Martín Prado Vélez Bridge, better known as El Incienso Bridge, in Guatemala City is...

We asked, you gave …

… and the results are outstanding!The preliminary results are in and we surpassed last year’s contributions and the number of donors who...

Entergy Charitable Foundation Provides Support for Buckner Youth Aging out of Foster Care

BEAUMONT – Entergy Charitable Foundation gave $2,000 to Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont to provide support for youth aging out of...
Abigail's Smile

Abigail's Smile

Meet Abigail. She first came to Buckner through Bible classes and Vacation Bible School at the Buckner Community Transformation Center in Jocotenango,...
Presidential Perspective: Back to School

Presidential Perspective: Back to School

By Albert L. ReyesPresident and CEO, Buckner InternationalIt’s back-to-school time again. You can almost hear the groans of all the kids as they see...
Birthday Wish Brings Blessings to Children Worldwide

Birthday Wish Brings Blessings to Children Worldwide

It all started with an advertisement on the Disney channel one morning in June. Thomas Martinez ran into his mother’s room and asked her to stop...
The Impact of New Shoes

The Impact of New Shoes

[caption id="attachment_5553" align="alignright" width="231"] The Impact of New Shoes. Click to enlarge![/caption]New shoes affect children from head...
Drive for Success: Missouri Rotarians keep trucking for shoes

Drive for Success: Missouri Rotarians keep trucking for shoes

Editor’s note: This year marked the 11th consecutive year Rotary International District 6040 in Missouri collected shoes for Shoes for Orphan...

Stories from the mission field:College student finds her future in Kenya

By Jana BergesonKenya, Africa: aka number one on my bucket list. A trip to Kenya has been in the top three of every Santa letter since I first...
Missions: Buckner’s caring hand to ‘the least and lost’

Missions: Buckner’s caring hand to ‘the least and lost’

By Chelsea QuackenbushYou plan for months. You hold fundraisers and sell all your stuff. You go to meetings to talk about cultural awareness, new...

Presidential perspective: Close to Home

Maria* was born the year before Buckner began working in Guatemala. Today, she is an 11-year-old girl who has hope; not just a futuristic hope, as in,...
Aldine YOUTH Community Center Joins Buckner International

Aldine YOUTH Community Center Joins Buckner International

[caption id="attachment_5498" align="alignright" width="500" caption="U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), presented the center with a...
Hispanic Baptist volunteers distribute shoes, school supplies to Valley children

Hispanic Baptist volunteers distribute shoes, school supplies to Valley children

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalMISSION, Texas – Volunteers from the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas placed new shoes on the feet of more...
Hope shines at 2012 Convencion conference

Hope shines at 2012 Convencion conference

By John HallBaptist StandardSAN ANTONIO – “Rays of light” are flowing through the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas to impact people for...
The Turnaround: How Family Place changed one mom’s life for good

The Turnaround: How Family Place changed one mom’s life for good

Story and photography by Chelsea QuackenbushWith her two small children in tow, a bruised face and a heavy heart, 20-year-old Amber Fowler packed up...
Bernardo's Story

Bernardo's Story

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMeeting Bernardo*, you’d never guess what he’s been through.He’s a skinny 16-year-old, at least a...
Buckner, Wolverines Motorcycle Club Distribute School Supplies to Children

Buckner, Wolverines Motorcycle Club Distribute School Supplies to Children

DALLAS - Buckner International, a global Christian ministry, and members of the Christian motorcycle club, The Wolverines, hosted their second annual...

Staples, Buckner Team up to Collect School Supplies for Back-to-School-Bash

By Olivia Dodd ...
Buckner Westminster Place Residents Crafting for Children

Buckner Westminster Place Residents Crafting for Children

[caption id="attachment_5414" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Bobby Jo Walker, Geraldine Triplett, Mary Frances Morgan and Billie Lee sew...

PHOTOS: Barefoot in the Park and Buckner at the Ballpark

Last weekend's Dallas-Fort Worth events were a big hit with Buckner supporters, beginning with Barefoot in the Park on Saturday evening at Founders...
First Person Perspective: Sowing Seeds

First Person Perspective: Sowing Seeds

By Emily CandeeWhen I decided to go on a short-term mission trip, I was ready to conquer the world. With great intentions and high ambitions, I wanted...
“It’s not the shoes – it’s the love” - Volunteer spreads the Shoes for Orphan Souls message

“It’s not the shoes – it’s the love” - Volunteer spreads the Shoes for Orphan Souls message

By Lauren Hollon SturdyWhen Carlene James gets an idea in her head, she does something about it.So nearly three years ago when she heard a...
Foster Families Beat the Heat at Camp Buckner

Foster Families Beat the Heat at Camp Buckner

[caption id="attachment_5403" align="alignright" width="500"] Foster and foster-to-adopt families spent their evenings at Camp Buckner relaxing,...
Giving Back by Paying It Forward

Giving Back by Paying It Forward

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalThe Aguilar family’s story is a common one in the colonias of the Rio Grande Valley: poverty, struggle...
Meeting short-term needs leads to long-term changes

Meeting short-term needs leads to long-term changes

By Albert ReyesPresident and CEO of Buckner InternationalSmall things make a big difference. A brand new pair of shoes on a Peruvian orphan’s feet;...
Humanitarian Aid - By the Numbers

Humanitarian Aid - By the Numbers

"I See God Daily"

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalAs the director of client assistance for the Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid, Jackie Belt has an...
Buckner Receives Grant from Dallas Stars Foundation

Buckner Receives Grant from Dallas Stars Foundation

The Dallas Stars Foundation has issued its annual grants and Buckner is among the 20 local nonprofits receiving grants this year. Buckner Foundation...

Fort Worth: Look no further than Broadway

Buckner and Broadway partner to provide services to the community, homeless ...
Family Place Graduate Recounts Life's Blessings

Family Place Graduate Recounts Life's Blessings

By Lauren Hollon SturdyPhotography by Russ DildayDeLesa Morrison always had goals. She just wasn’t sure how to reach them.The second of seven...
Full House: Family of eight fills home with love

Full House: Family of eight fills home with love

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Scott CollinsIn the Rio Grande Valley, when it’s hot, it’s really hot.And when it’s cold, it’s really...
Buckner International to host 'Barefoot in the Park' featuring Dove-Award Nominated Band MIKESCHAIR

Buckner International to host 'Barefoot in the Park' featuring Dove-Award Nominated Band MIKESCHAIR

[caption id="attachment_5374" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Christian band MIKESCHAIR will perform at Barefoot in the Park July 28th, along...
‘The child that’s going to change our lives forever’ -- An adoptive family's first-person perspective

‘The child that’s going to change our lives forever’ -- An adoptive family's first-person perspective

In November 2001, John and Susie Kaufman and their son, Luke, welcomed the family’s newest member, Harrison, into their lives through adoption. Now,...
'Pure Joy' - Adoptive family of four Russian children recounts the laughs and the tears

'Pure Joy' - Adoptive family of four Russian children recounts the laughs and the tears

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhotography by Russ DildayOn an unseasonably warm Valentine’s Day evening, the Potts family gathers at their grandparents’...
First Person: God's Call Through a Child

First Person: God's Call Through a Child

I used to go through life and wonder: “What am I supposed to be doing? How can I further God’s kingdom? How do I share the best kind of love...

Journey of the Heart: An Adult Adoptee's Story

By S. Valerie GardnerI know who I am. I am a Korean-American. I was born in South Korea, but I was raised in Dallas, Texas. You see, I am a Korean...
Buckner partners with local agencies to send mobile medical clinic to Kenya

Buckner partners with local agencies to send mobile medical clinic to Kenya

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Buckner partnered with Christian Alliance for Humanitarian Aid, Baylor Hospital’s Faith in...
Bringing Hope through Humanitarian Aid

Bringing Hope through Humanitarian Aid

Tears welled up in Juan’s eyes. Standing on the front porch of the new home a group of Buckner volunteers had built for his family in the Rio Grande...
Journey to Yeni: Dallas Dad Will Count an Additional Blessing this Father’s Day

Journey to Yeni: Dallas Dad Will Count an Additional Blessing this Father’s Day

By Susan SerranoDillon InternationalSometimes Yeni’s a sassy, outgoing whirlwind eagerly drinking life in through a fire hose. But, like most 2 ½...
FivePoint Credit Union Makes Gift to Buckner in Beaumont

FivePoint Credit Union Makes Gift to Buckner in Beaumont

[caption id="attachment_5283" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Each year, FivePoint’s Community Action of Responsible Employees (C.A.R.E....

Save the Date July 29th - It's Buckner Night at the Texas Rangers!

DALLAS – Buckner International will be featured LIVE in the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation / FOX Sports Southwest / TXA 21 “Community Corner”...
8 Common Myths about Foster Care, Debunked

8 Common Myths about Foster Care, Debunked

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMyth: All foster children are emotionally disturbed and damaged beyond repair. There’s nothing I can do...

First Person: "My positive experience in foster care"

Editor’s Note: This letter was submitted to an Aaron’s Furniture writing contest for children across Texas about their experience in Buckner...

"This is what we're supposed to do" - Southeast Texas foster parents answer the call

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalWhile most middle-aged parents are emptying out their nests, Ron and Donna Wells of Orange, Texas, are...
6 Ways to Support Foster Families When Fostering Isn't Your Calling

6 Ways to Support Foster Families When Fostering Isn't Your Calling

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalYou've probably heard a lot about foster care during the month of May, National Foster Care Month. But you...
Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont Recognized by Better Business Bureau

Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont Recognized by Better Business Bureau

[caption id="attachment_5247" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Laura May, administrator of Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont,...
The Father of Hope, Provider of a Future

The Father of Hope, Provider of a Future

Story and photography by Chelsea Quackenbush ...
Buckner Provides Shoes at Convoy of Hope Outreach Event in South Dallas

Buckner Provides Shoes at Convoy of Hope Outreach Event in South Dallas

[caption id="attachment_5261" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Ida Bennett, a volunteer at the May 12 event, said she's lived in the...
Through the Fire: Rebecca Rosengren overcomes her scars

Through the Fire: Rebecca Rosengren overcomes her scars

By Scott CollinsPhotography by Russ DildayThe scars you see will never go away. The ones you don’t see already have.Rebecca Rosengren was a tiny...
Growing Up: Family Surrounds Brooke Turmes

Growing Up: Family Surrounds Brooke Turmes

By Scott CollinsPhotography by Russ DildayPlaques, signs and knick knacks adorn Wanda and Victor Turmes’ home in rural Kountze, Texas. Not too many,...
Southeast Texas Programs Receive Generous Gifts from Local Organizations

Southeast Texas Programs Receive Generous Gifts from Local Organizations

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalHOUSTON – Buckner programs in Southeast Texas received two generous grants from the Houston Endowment and...
Children Flock to Missions Team in Dominican Republic

Children Flock to Missions Team in Dominican Republic

Dozens of children were waiting at the Community Transformation Center in the Pedro Brand district of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic when Wilshire...
First Graders' Thoughts on Volunteering with Shoes for Orphan Souls

First Graders' Thoughts on Volunteering with Shoes for Orphan Souls

The five first grade classes at Mockingbird Elementary School in Coppell, Texas, held a school-wide shoe drive at the end of 2011 as a project-based...
The Heart of Juan Pablo

The Heart of Juan Pablo

Editor's Note: Many of our readers will recognize Juan Pablo from previous stories in the Buckner Today magazine and on our website. Some may have...
Nearing Home: After 19 years of leading Buckner, Ken Hall still goes back to family

Nearing Home: After 19 years of leading Buckner, Ken Hall still goes back to family

By Scott CollinsBuckner InternationalKen Hall can barely make it through the story. His eyes grow red as tears well up inside them. His voice is...
Buckner Becomes TOMS Shoes Giving Partner, Launches Distribution in Guatemala

Buckner Becomes TOMS Shoes Giving Partner, Launches Distribution in Guatemala

SAN JOSE PINULA, Guatemala — Buckner International held a TOMS Shoes distribution to children at the Buckner Community Transformation Center (CTC)...
Long Term Volunteer's

Long Term Volunteer's "Report from Kenya"

Jambo! These last few weeks in Kenya have been incredible! Not only have I traveled to Buckner’s western Kenya locations but I have also been on...

Buckner Opens Family Pathways Campus, Honors Dallas Philanthropist Annette C. Simmons

DALLAS -- Buckner International opened the Annette C. Simmons Buckner Family Pathways Campus during a 2 p.m. ceremony April 20 on the Buckner...
Buckner CEO Kenneth Hall Retires, Albert Reyes Assumes President/CEO Title

Buckner CEO Kenneth Hall Retires, Albert Reyes Assumes President/CEO Title

[caption id="attachment_5132" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Albert Reyes and Ken Hall shake hands in the Maris Alumni Center on the historic...
Buckner Foster Care Heals Scars

Buckner Foster Care Heals Scars

Some scars never heal. They may be scars no one sees or knows about. But others are there, visible for everyone to see. When we see someone badly...
First Person Perspective: Delivering More than Just Shoes

First Person Perspective: Delivering More than Just Shoes

When I found out Buckner was taking a mission trip to Peru, for some reason I just knew that was where I was supposed to be. I had never been on a...
Mother-Daughter Trip Life-Changing, Says One 2011 Volunteer

Mother-Daughter Trip Life-Changing, Says One 2011 Volunteer

Buckner Missions is currently seeking volunteers to travel to Honduras August 5-9 on the annual mother-daughter mission trip.Mother-daughter mission...
Alabama Girl Trades Gifts for Shoes

Alabama Girl Trades Gifts for Shoes

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalHaven Godwin is a dancer, a gymnast, a swimmer and a cyclist. She’s also a budding philanthropist who...
Volunteers Bring Hope to the Valley through KidsHeart

Volunteers Bring Hope to the Valley through KidsHeart

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalIt was a hot, dirty, sweaty and paint-splattered spring break for churches and Cooperative Baptist...
To Your Health

To Your Health

By Albert ReyesPresident, Buckner InternationalIf you’ve ever been sick – and who hasn’t? – you can appreciate being healthy. That’s...
Westminster Place is the answer for residents

Westminster Place is the answer for residents

By Chelsea QuackenbushJanelle Hudgins knew something was wrong with her 88-year-old mother Leoda Newsome last summer when she lost her memory...
Medical services save a child’s life in rural Kenya

Medical services save a child’s life in rural Kenya

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalStanley lost both of his parents to HIV by time he was 6. The young Kenyan boy then lived with his aunt,...
Teen serves with father on medical mission trip to Ethiopia

Teen serves with father on medical mission trip to Ethiopia

By Chelsea QuackenbushThirteen-year-old Jackson Glenn’s first time out of the country was not a luxurious vacation to the Caribbean with his family...
Buckner, MannaRelief make strides against malnutrition in the Valley

Buckner, MannaRelief make strides against malnutrition in the Valley

By Lauren Hollon SturdyWhen an 8-year-old child weighs what a healthy 6-year-old should, there’s a problem.That was the case for a boy living in the...

Domestic Adoption Trends Changing the Adoption Landscape

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalTREND: Fewer domestic infant adoptions nationwide. Most Americans favor adoption, according to recent National...
Q & A with Jerry and Deniese Dillon, Founders of Dillon International

Q & A with Jerry and Deniese Dillon, Founders of Dillon International

Adoption agency celebrates 40 years of operationQ: Why did you start this ministry in the first place? DENIESE: Well, Jerry is a visionary, and I'm...

Big Steps: Shoes for Orphan Souls™ Walks Tall

By Scott CollinsIt’s a scene I’ve watched for 13 years, going back even before Buckner took over what is today Shoes for Orphan Souls™.The...
Longview: The Real East Texas

Longview: The Real East Texas

By Chelsea QuackenbushPhoto by Lauren Hollon SturdyHead east out of Dallas on Interstate 20 and the whizzing cars and tall buildings shrink in your...
Longview couple funds school in Ethiopia

Longview couple funds school in Ethiopia

By Chelsea QuackenbushTom and Margaret Ann “Mac” Stone remember sitting in a Buckner meeting several years ago, their hearts breaking for children...
Bethel’s Family: The hands and feet in Houston

Bethel’s Family: The hands and feet in Houston

By Chelsea Quackenbush ...
Hillburn Hills reaches out to neighborhood children with afterschool snacks

Hillburn Hills reaches out to neighborhood children with afterschool snacks

By Chelsea QuackenbushDALLAS – Buckner-Hillburn Hills and AZAR Foundation, Inc. are reaching out to students in the Piedmont Home Association...
Foster care advocates: “Never underestimate the power of a praying wife”

Foster care advocates: “Never underestimate the power of a praying wife”

By Lauren Hollon SturdyPhotography by Chelsea QuackenbushLocke and Kara Curfman might be the strongest foster care advocates you’ll ever meet. Even...

Slideshow: Hitting the Roof

PEÑITAS – Sandy Wisdom-Martin knew building a home for a family living in desperate poverty in the Lower Rio Grande Valley would transform their...
Buckner Hospice Houston Provides Comfort, Peace of Mind

Buckner Hospice Houston Provides Comfort, Peace of Mind

[caption id="attachment_4976" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption=""Buckner Hospice truly helped me through every difficult stage," said...
Bamboo toothbrushes give kids their smiles back

Bamboo toothbrushes give kids their smiles back

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalIt started as a simple tooth brushing demonstration for a group of children in Guatemala on a Buckner...
From Homeless to Hopeful in Houston: Family Place makes dreams come true for single mom and four daughters

From Homeless to Hopeful in Houston: Family Place makes dreams come true for single mom and four daughters

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalPhotography by Lauren Hollon SturdyIn an odd way, Wendi Hay had a feeling she would be homeless one day.She...
Buckner International, Refuge of Light Sign Agreement to Help Sex Trafficking Victims

Buckner International, Refuge of Light Sign Agreement to Help Sex Trafficking Victims

DALLAS--Buckner International and Refuge of Light signed a three-year agreement Feb. 8 to work jointly serving female minors identified as victims of...
Supplies Needed for Summer Missions!

Supplies Needed for Summer Missions!

Project Go needs your help!Project Go is a summer missions program for college students and recent graduates who want to serve orphans and vulnerable...
“This is Home” – A Moving Move-in for Two Family Pathways Residents

“This is Home” – A Moving Move-in for Two Family Pathways Residents

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMargarita Acosta opened the door to her new home and immediately burst into tears. She walked into her...
Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas, Buckner Firman Pacto Misionero

Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas, Buckner Firman Pacto Misionero

[caption id="attachment_4899" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Líderes de la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas y Buckner Internacional se...
Hispanic Baptist Convention, Buckner Sign Missions Covenant

Hispanic Baptist Convention, Buckner Sign Missions Covenant

By Russ DildayBuckner News ServiceDALLAS -- Leaders of the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas and Buckner International met Jan. 12 at the Buckner...
First Person Perspective: Unspoken Joy

First Person Perspective: Unspoken Joy

My third week in Peru, my team and I served the community of Pamplona at a Buckner Community Transformation Center. I had only been in Peru for two...
Buckner Missions now accepting applications for Project Go 2012

Buckner Missions now accepting applications for Project Go 2012

Summer may seem like a far-off dream right now for many young people who have been so unceremoniously yanked from the leisurely days of Christmas...
Buckner International, Urban League Preventing HIV in South Dallas

Buckner International, Urban League Preventing HIV in South Dallas

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Participants in HIV prevention education classes held at Buckner International’s Simari Ridge...
DFW community programs kids slam dunks with Mavericks

DFW community programs kids slam dunks with Mavericks

By Chelsea QuackenbushDALLAS – Most kids dream of being able to see their favorite athletes play games against big-time rivals from courtside seats....
Beaumont Couple Honored As Foster Parents of the Year

Beaumont Couple Honored As Foster Parents of the Year

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT - Fifteen years of foster parenting paid off with a Region V Foster Parents of the Year award for...
‘I Held Her First’ – Buckner Alum’s story comes full-circle

‘I Held Her First’ – Buckner Alum’s story comes full-circle

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT - Dave “Daddy Dave” Bleakley first met Amelia by chance at a Buckner Children’s Village...

Buckner mourns “Mr. Camp Buckner” after more than 20 years of service

REPRINTED from the Daily Cities River TribuneMARBLE FALLS, Texas — Friends and family mourning the unexpected death of “Mr. Camp Buckner,” Jerry...
Creative Confections Benefit Beaumont Children

Creative Confections Benefit Beaumont Children

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT – Each year, Buckner staff in Beaumont think they’ve “seen it all” in the world of...
Buckner Provides 4,500 Pairs of Shoes to Dallas Homeless and Vulnerable Families

Buckner Provides 4,500 Pairs of Shoes to Dallas Homeless and Vulnerable Families

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Last Saturday outside the Dallas Convention Center, thousands of people huddled together,...
Nursing Students Bring a Dose of Holiday Fun to Buckner Afterschool Programs

Nursing Students Bring a Dose of Holiday Fun to Buckner Afterschool Programs

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalNursing students from Texas Women’s University and members of the Dallas Cake Club spread Christmas...
Photo Slideshow: Christmas in Peru Team Delivers Gifts, Smiles

Photo Slideshow: Christmas in Peru Team Delivers Gifts, Smiles

A 24-person mission team returned from Peru on Dec. 11th, where they recently spent 10 days delivering gifts to children, doing Vacation Bible Schools...
Sierra Leone CTC teaches business skills through GCPN training program

Sierra Leone CTC teaches business skills through GCPN training program

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalSIERRA LEONE – Matilda Conteh, 25, approached Buckner in 2010 desperate for change after years of having...

Roatán CTC protects, diagnoses, feeds and educates

by Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalThe island of Roatán, 40 miles northeast of the Honduran mainland, is a tropical paradise. White sand...
Buckner seeks to turn families around ‘180 degrees’

Buckner seeks to turn families around ‘180 degrees’

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalZAACHILA, Mexico – Fifty Mexican families are working with Buckner staff turn their lives around by...
Buckner domestic CTC walks with families for change

Buckner domestic CTC walks with families for change

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalPENITAS, Texas – Alberto Diaz’s five-year-old daughter used to ask him why it would continue to rain...

Buckner and Esperanza partner to provide self-sufficiency in Eduardo Brito

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalThe Buckner Dominican Republic Community Transformation Center has teamed up with Esperanza Bank in Eduardo...

Models of Transformation: Community Transformation Centers

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalAnd let us take thought of how to spur one another on to love and good works, not abandoning our own...
Mana CTC extends its reach to nearby communities

Mana CTC extends its reach to nearby communities

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalNEZA, Mexico – The Maná CTC in Neza has opened a satellite CTC in the Las Villas community, a squatter...
Long-Term Volunteer Takes on Parenting Role in Guatemala

Long-Term Volunteer Takes on Parenting Role in Guatemala

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalGUATEMALA CITY – Looking at spit from one of her students on the floor of a newly renovated classroom,...
Radio Stations Collect More Than 46,000 Pairs of Shoes

Radio Stations Collect More Than 46,000 Pairs of Shoes

[caption id="attachment_4555" align="alignright" width="500" caption="Carmen Brown of The Joy FM goofs around with band members from MIKESCHAIR on...
Buckner Employee Honored as Distinguished Alum

Buckner Employee Honored as Distinguished Alum

Henry Jackson, Buckner’s senior director for international operations, was named the Angelo State University Alumni Association’s 2011...

Musicians Serenade Shoppers for Shoes at Grapevine Mills

GRAPEVINE, Texas – Music Starz Studio and Serenata Strings musicians are serenading shoppers with violins, violas and guitars to raise money for new...
5 Ways You Can Bless a New Adoptive Family (and 4 discussion topics that are off-limits!)

5 Ways You Can Bless a New Adoptive Family (and 4 discussion topics that are off-limits!)

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalNovember is National Adoption Month, and we feel that everyone can celebrate – no matter whether your...

The Meaning of 'Mine'

It was just before the service began one Sunday night when she approached me. A very kind woman with whom we went to church wanted to express her...
The Journey

The Journey

Several years ago, I felt led to participate in a FamilyLife-sponsored mission trip to Guatemala where I visited orphanages and my heart was broken...

Buckner to help displaced children from Honduran orphanage

DALLAS, Texas – Buckner International is providing support to the children of Nueva Esperanza after a fire Nov. 19 forced the evacuation of 150...

Photo Slideshow: Texas Rangers Deliver Shoes, Baseball and Joy to Dominican Republic

Players from the Texas Rangers partnered with Buckner International in November 2011 to deliver new shoes to children in the Dominican Republic...
Texas Rangers, Buckner International Deliver Baseball, Shoes and Joy to Orphans

Texas Rangers, Buckner International Deliver Baseball, Shoes and Joy to Orphans

SAN PEDRO DE MACORIS, Dominican Republic – Children living at the Nuestros Pequeno Hermanos Orphanage received new shoes and baseball tips from the...
Best Buy Provides Funding for Upgrades at Buckner FYI Center Computer Lab

Best Buy Provides Funding for Upgrades at Buckner FYI Center Computer Lab

BEAUMONT—Buckner Children and Family Services received a $6,000 Community Partnership Grant from Best Buy this month to purchase new hardware and...
Mexico and Peru Programs Receive 30 Refurbished Apple Computers

Mexico and Peru Programs Receive 30 Refurbished Apple Computers

By Chelsea QuackenbushBuckner InternationalNorth Way Christian Community Church and ComputeReach donated 30 PowerMac G4 desktop computers for...
Chevron Phillips Charity Golf Tournament Has Record-Breaking Year at Annual Event

Chevron Phillips Charity Golf Tournament Has Record-Breaking Year at Annual Event

November 8, 2011BEAUMONT—Buckner Children and Family Services was presented with a check today representing proceeds from the 2011 Chevron Phillips...
Buckner Family Place Celebrates the Opening of New Apartments

Buckner Family Place Celebrates the Opening of New Apartments

MIDLAND, Texas – Friends, supporters and residents of Buckner Family Place gathered at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1 for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the...

Wanted: Doctors, Dentists, Nurses and Nurse Practitioners!

Buckner Missions has three medical mission trips scheduled for 2012, and we need doctors, dentists, nurses and nurse practitioners with a heart for...
Prayer Garden Project Breaks Ground

Prayer Garden Project Breaks Ground

By Mercy SalinasActivities CoordinatorBuckner Rio Grande Children’s HomeOctober 15 saw children’s dreams begin to blossom at the Rio Grande...
'Sports Sturm' Adds Another Player to His Team

'Sports Sturm' Adds Another Player to His Team

Buckner Finalizes First Honduran AdoptionBy Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalDALLAS—If you’ve ever tuned in to 1310AM The Ticket between...
First-Annual Barefoot Run a Hit

First-Annual Barefoot Run a Hit

by Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalThe first-annual CiCi’s Pizza Barefoot Run, benefiting Shoes for Orphan Souls, was a huge success, with...
Leaving a House to Find Her Home

Leaving a House to Find Her Home

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalDALLAS— For most people, it was a regular day in February, but for Leticia Marquez, a cold day in the...

Buckner to Close Trew Home at Buckner Retirement Village

UPDATE: Oct. 15, 2011Buckner to Provide Assistance to Residents of Buckner Retirement VillageDALLAS – Buckner Retirement Services announced Friday...
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and... Shoes!

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and... Shoes!

[caption id="attachment_4322" align="alignleft" width="500" caption="Ron and Rebecca Pyle used their wedding as a chance to affect children's...
Big Hearts Need Bigger Home

Big Hearts Need Bigger Home

Reprinted from the Amarillo Globe-News, Oct. 4, 2011It’s not that Tim and December Barcroft wouldn’t love to be in Washington, D.C., Wednesday....
Spanish-Speaking Preschoolers Find a Promise for Success

Spanish-Speaking Preschoolers Find a Promise for Success

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalTYLER, Texas — Students at Niños de Promesa are looking at a promising future.Like many preschools, they spend...

Buckner Foster Families, Advocates Recognized by Congress as Angels in Adoption™

DALLAS, Texas – Four Buckner families were recognized as 2011 Angels in Adoption for their outstanding advocacy for foster care and adoption by the...
Buckner Receives $288,774.98 through DonorBridge Giving Day

Buckner Receives $288,774.98 through DonorBridge Giving Day

DALLAS – Buckner International surpassed its goal Sept. 15, receiving $288,774.98 during DonorBridge Giving Day. This was Buckner’s third year to...
Buckner Featured at the Texas Rangers Game Sept. 24

Buckner Featured at the Texas Rangers Game Sept. 24

DALLAS - Fans of Buckner International and of the Texas Rangers cheered on the American League West division champions Saturday for the afternoon game...
Champions for Children

Champions for Children

An amazing group of Buckner friends in Missouri has provided tens of thousands of pairs of new shoes for children around the world.When it comes to...
Real Estate Rivals Collect Shoes for Children

Real Estate Rivals Collect Shoes for Children

A spirited company contest raised thousands of dollars and collected new shoes earlier this year.The Austin and San Antonio branches of the...
Shoe Shortage Delays Shipments to Children!

Shoe Shortage Delays Shipments to Children!

The supply of new shoes for orphans has been low since spring, forcing Buckner to delay shipments to children in need. We need your help to refill the...
CiCi's Pizza Barefoot Run to Benefit Shoes for Orphan Souls®

CiCi's Pizza Barefoot Run to Benefit Shoes for Orphan Souls®

COPPELL, Texas – Shoes for Orphan Souls, a ministry of Buckner International, has announced its first-ever running event to be held at 8 a.m. Oct. 8...
Buckner in Sierra Leone Helps Families Achieve Self-Sufficiency

Buckner in Sierra Leone Helps Families Achieve Self-Sufficiency

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalHalf of the population of Sierra Leone lives on less than $1 a day. In this country, people do what they...
50% off Registration for the Hope for Orphans Institute Conference

50% off Registration for the Hope for Orphans Institute Conference

Hope for Orphans Institute is hosting a conference Sept. 16 and 17 at the Hope Center in Plano, Texas, on special needs and at-risk adoptions,...
Paying it Forward

Paying it Forward

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT— When staff at Buckner Children’s Village decided an update to their emergency shelter’s...
Beaumont Foundation Provides the Essentials for Foster Children

Beaumont Foundation Provides the Essentials for Foster Children

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT, Texas – Beaumont Foundation gave $132,000 to provide clothes for Buckner foster children in...
Join Buckner at the Texas Rangers Game Sept. 24

Join Buckner at the Texas Rangers Game Sept. 24

Monday, Sept. 19, is your LAST CHANCE to buy tickets in the Buckner block for the Sept. 24 Texas Rangers game! DALLAS – Buckner International will...
Buckner Mexico Seeing Green

Buckner Mexico Seeing Green

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMEXICO — The Pan de Vida foster group home in Mexico City recently harvested more than 1,000 pounds of...
Adoptive Family Blossoms in the Desert

Adoptive Family Blossoms in the Desert

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalIn Amherst, Texas, nearly 50 miles northwest of Lubbock, the summer is scorching hot. There hasn’t been...
Family of 70 Keeps Growing

Family of 70 Keeps Growing

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalHishia and Rickey Conner have parented more than 70 children in the past five years at Buckner Children’s Home in...

‘Step Forward for Orphans March’ to Advocate for a Child’s Right to a Permanent Family

Child welfare leaders and advocates will unite 2 p.m. Aug. 26 on Capitol Hill to speak for children in need of families throughout the world at the...
Family Pathways Helps Single Mother Find Strength

Family Pathways Helps Single Mother Find Strength

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Keidra Perry knows that nothing in life is promised.Years before Perry arrived at Buckner Family...
A Rose is a Rose

A Rose is a Rose

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalJoran Rose had every reason not to trust.Removed from a negligent and abusive mother’s care at age 4, he...
Buckner Family Place rescues two moms

Buckner Family Place rescues two moms

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalMIDLAND, Texas – Ida Torres and her two children lived in fear. Neikedra Butler and her three kids never...
The More Family, the Merrier

The More Family, the Merrier

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalThe Duncan twins couldn’t be more different.Aaron, 2, is mechanical and hands-on. He loves taking things apart and...
Following the 'Master Plan'

Following the 'Master Plan'

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalMIDLAND, Texas – The Ewing family does everything together – they wash dishes, go grocery shopping, and spend...
Buckner Now Recruiting Individuals for Medical Mission Trips in 2012

Buckner Now Recruiting Individuals for Medical Mission Trips in 2012

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Buckner International is taking new steps to strengthen its medical services in community programs...

Mission Trip Participants Needed!

Buckner Missions is urgently seeking people who feel led to participate in fall and winter mission trips to Ethiopia, Kenya, the Dominican Republic...
Stories from the Mission Field

Stories from the Mission Field

See how God used our Project Go! volunteers this summer as they served in Peru, Guatemala, Kenya, Honduras, Russia, Dominican Republic, Mexico and the...

2011 Missions Photo Contest Submissions Slideshow

We want to thank everyone who participated in this year's Missions Photo Contest on Facebook. We loved looking at your submissions and seeing your...

Former Buckner Philanthropist of the Year Passes Away

Nancy Blackburn Hamon, widow of the late Texas oilman Jake Hamon, died Saturday at home in the penthouse where she lived. She was 92.She was named...
Longview Police Department Play Nice Guys at Buckner Feeding Program

Longview Police Department Play Nice Guys at Buckner Feeding Program

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalLONGVIEW, Texas— Children in Longview had the opportunity to interact with police officers in a positive...
Buckner Celebrates 10 Years in Kenya

Buckner Celebrates 10 Years in Kenya

By Scott CollinsBuckner InternationalA delegation of volunteers led by President Albert Reyes joined staff and dignitaries from across Kenya to...
Hall Announces Retirement; Albert Reyes Named CEO

Hall Announces Retirement; Albert Reyes Named CEO

AUSTIN, Texas – Ken Hall, chief executive officer of Buckner International since 1994, announced his retirement from the Dallas-based organization...
Feeding the Hungry in Peru

Feeding the Hungry in Peru

For the poorest men, women and children around the world, life is one continual crisis—a daily struggle for survival. Many of these desperate people...
Buckner Assists with Tornado Relief in Joplin

Buckner Assists with Tornado Relief in Joplin

On June 3, Buckner sent a shipment of disaster relief aid to Convoy of Hope’s warehouse in Springfield, Missouri for distribution to tornado victims...
Buckner Feels Pressure as Needs Increase

Buckner Feels Pressure as Needs Increase

Helping the poorest people in the communities we serve has become a greater challenge than ever as resources are stretched to meet needs.As the U.S....
Mother Finds Help for Body and Soul

Mother Finds Help for Body and Soul

Recently, a distraught mother walked into the Buckner Mission Center in Longview. As a staff member named Noemy helped her select clothes for her five...
Fitness Instructor Provides Tools for a Fit Body and Mind

Fitness Instructor Provides Tools for a Fit Body and Mind

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Marsha Taplett leans in on a hot June day as a room filled with young girl eyes lock with hers....
Buckner Beaumont Beautified By Keller Williams Realty

Buckner Beaumont Beautified By Keller Williams Realty

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT—Buckner Children’s Village in Beaumont got a major facelift May 12 thanks to Keller Williams...
Valley Residents Give the Clothes off Their Backs

Valley Residents Give the Clothes off Their Backs

By Diamond RichardsonBuckner InternationalMISSION, Texas – Many children across the Rio Grande Valley welcomed additions to their wardrobe thanks to...

CIOS Foundation to Help Fund Buckner Programs Texas-wide

By Lauren Hollon SturdyBuckner InternationalChrist is Our Salvation Foundation recently approved a grant proposal for $1.275 million to help support...
Bank of America Donates $10,000 to Buckner in North Texas

Bank of America Donates $10,000 to Buckner in North Texas

Buckner International President Albert Reyes accepted a $10,000 gift from the Bank of America Foundation May 27 to fund North Texas ministries. The...
Partner with Us to Be a Voice!

Partner with Us to Be a Voice!

In Proverbs 31:8, the biblical writer gives an exhortation that we have taken to heart here at Buckner.God’s Word says: “Speak up for those who...
Why Family Transition Programs? A Q&A with JoAnn Cole

Why Family Transition Programs? A Q&A with JoAnn Cole

[caption id="attachment_3668" align="alignright" width="200" caption="JoAnn Cole, Senior Director of Campus and Family Ministries for Buckner Children...
Family Place Midland Helps Single Mom Succeed

Family Place Midland Helps Single Mom Succeed

Last December, Christina received her degree from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin—as an honor graduate, no less!Christina’s story is...
Lives Changed at Family Place Conroe

Lives Changed at Family Place Conroe

Victoria was a new mother desperately needing to escape an abusive situation. She came to Buckner Family Place and saw God’s love in action...After...
Buckner Collecting Relief Kits  for Victims of Joplin Tornado

Buckner Collecting Relief Kits for Victims of Joplin Tornado

DALLAS – Buckner International is collecting humanitarian aid relief kits to send to Joplin, Mo., where the deadliest single U.S. tornado in decades...
Missouri Rotary Marks Decade of Raising Shoes

Missouri Rotary Marks Decade of Raising Shoes

By Jeffery RomineMissouri Rotary District 6040In partnership with the other 54 Rotary Clubs in Missouri Rotary District 6040, a total of 16,350 pairs...

"Because of Buckner, I am Whole"

By Russ DildayBuckner InternationalIn many parts of the world, including Kenya, there is a stigma attached to those living with HIV/AIDS. It cost Rose...
Volunteers Bridge the Generation Gap

Volunteers Bridge the Generation Gap

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalStudies show that intergenerational programs have real benefits for youth and elders.For young people, spending...
Adoptive Families Urgently Needed for Older Russian Orphans

Adoptive Families Urgently Needed for Older Russian Orphans

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalTwenty-two-year-old Natasha Potts flipped through her scrapbook, cleared her throat and began reading aloud...

Mother-Daughter Trip Offers Opportunity to Bond and Serve

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalWhether you’re a first-time mission trip participant or a seasoned pro, the mother-daughter Guatemala trip...

Buckner Suspends Fall Mission Trips to Guatemala

DALLAS – Buckner International has announced they will suspend all Guatemala mission trips scheduled from mid-August through mid-November due to...
Welcome to the new Buckner.org!

Welcome to the new Buckner.org!

Technology is always changing. One of the most notable ways it’s changing is how increasingly important it is in our lives. Our website is a good...
Foster Family Program Launches in Peru

Foster Family Program Launches in Peru

February 24, 2011LIMA, Peru—Living in the heart of a home not their own, with parents that aren’t biologically theirs who are ready to offer love,...
Buckner Rescues a Family from the Streets

Buckner Rescues a Family from the Streets

Buckner InternationalLeaving a 19-year-old alone to fend for himself and his four younger brothers on the streets of Mexico City sounds like a recipe...
Warm Meals – and So Much More!

Warm Meals – and So Much More!

Buckner InternationalMost people cannot imagine their children even walking on a trash dump, let alone digging through it for something to eat.But...
Real Estate Rivals Raise Shoes for Kids

Real Estate Rivals Raise Shoes for Kids

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalThe Austin and San Antonio branches of Transwestern real estate went head to head to help cover bare toes last...
Footwear Festival Bears Fruit for Bare Feet

Footwear Festival Bears Fruit for Bare Feet

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="495" caption="Pfifer and Finley Chastain helped raise more than 300 pairs of shoes for children in...
Angels from Abroad Postponed for 2011

Angels from Abroad Postponed for 2011

February 25, 2011FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:DALLAS - Recent changes in Russian law governing overseas hosting programs for orphans have prompted Buckner...
Church on Rush Creek Funds Clean Water in Busia, Kenya

Church on Rush Creek Funds Clean Water in Busia, Kenya

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalOf the many ways life in the United States differs from life in Kenya, few are harder to imagine than spending a...
First Person: Groomed for the Gospel in Peru

First Person: Groomed for the Gospel in Peru

By Chris CatoBuckner Missions CoordinatorOn a recent mission trip to Peru, God used a few college students from Hardin Simmons University to expand...
Ten Tips for Funding Your Trip

Ten Tips for Funding Your Trip

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalSpring break and summer mission trips are coming up, and you might be wondering where the money will come from....
Buckner International, Star of Hope to Collaborate on Educational Ministry to Single-Parent Families

Buckner International, Star of Hope to Collaborate on Educational Ministry to Single-Parent Families

HOUSTON — Buckner International and Star of Hope Mission formally announced a new transitional program for single-parent families Feb. 22 at Star of...
The Mother Effect

The Mother Effect

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalClick here to see Shanjula's video testimony.Shanjula Harris woke up early every morning in the homeless shelter to...
Buckner International Develops Foster Care Programs Worldwide

Buckner International Develops Foster Care Programs Worldwide

By Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Buckner International has been providing homes for orphans and vulnerable children in the United...

Buckner International in Lubbock, Texas

Volunteers Still Needed to Deliver Shoes this Spring Break

Volunteers Still Needed to Deliver Shoes this Spring Break

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalDALLAS – A Shoes for Orphan Souls mission trip to Guatemala is in danger of being cancelled if more people...
String Players Serenade Shoppers for Shoes

String Players Serenade Shoppers for Shoes

By Lauren HollonBuckner InternationalGRAPEVINE, Texas – Twenty-six students from kindergarten through 12th grade spent their Christmas break...
Finding Tess

Finding Tess

In the blue of the pool, between waves and the tiled bottom, I’ve lost her. My daughter’s missing in the chaos of churning chlorine. Arms, legs,...
Haiti Update: One Year Later

Haiti Update: One Year Later

[caption id="attachment_3362" align="alignnone" width="495" caption="Gladys Thomas, right, embraces a relief worker in the days following the 2010...
Top 10 Ways to Do Something in 2011

Top 10 Ways to Do Something in 2011

The New Year is here and we’re all looking for ways to improve our lives. Why not look for ways to improve the lives of others, too? We’ve made it...

Buckner Romania Becomes Independent NGO

Twelve years after it established an NGO (Non-Govermental Organization) in Romania to help that country’s overburdened orphanage system, Buckner...
Cowboys Linebacker Keith Brooking Hosts Party for Buckner Foster Children

Cowboys Linebacker Keith Brooking Hosts Party for Buckner Foster Children

DALLAS - Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Keith Brooking hosted a party for Buckner foster families on Dec. 10 at the Buckner Children’s Home campus. The...
Buckner, Baylor Collaborate to Provide Crisis Pregnancy Services

Buckner, Baylor Collaborate to Provide Crisis Pregnancy Services

DALLAS – Buckner International, the 131-year-old Christian social services organization, and Baylor University Medical Center signed a collaborative...
Single Mom, Kids Receive Home Makeover Dream for Christmas

Single Mom, Kids Receive Home Makeover Dream for Christmas

SOUTH DALLAS - Latoya Irish and her three children received a Christmas wish of a lifetime Dec. 15 when more than 150 “Elves in Disguise” gave...

Buckner Retirement Services, Inc. Opens GreenRidge at Buckner Villas

$38 Million Construction Project Revitalizing North Austin Community AUSTIN – Buckner Retirement Services, Inc. celebrated the grand opening of...
131 Years Ago Today

131 Years Ago Today

by Dr. Albert Reyes ...
Dallas Mavericks Host Turkey Dunk for Buckner Kids

Dallas Mavericks Host Turkey Dunk for Buckner Kids

DALLAS – The Dallas Mavericks and Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse hosted 120 children from Buckner after-school programs on Nov. 22, teaching them how...
Mavericks Guard Jason Terry Delivers Turkeys to Buckner Families

Mavericks Guard Jason Terry Delivers Turkeys to Buckner Families

DALLAS – Mavericks guard Jason Terry and Kroger delivered 200 Thanksgiving turkeys and holiday sides to families in need at Buckner Children’s...
Family Transformed through Adoption

Family Transformed through Adoption

DALLAS – When 2-year-old Jeremiah first arrived at the Williams’ home as a foster child, he couldn’t walk or crawl.“He just scooted around on...
The Story of Jules

The Story of Jules

Julisia came to our home on June 25, 2009. At that time, less than a month old, she had spent all of her time in the hospital. She was born to a...
It's About God

It's About God

Jacquie CraggettRowlett, Texas “Why should we adopt these two little girls?” We wrestled with this question. We already have four biological...
Churches, Buckner Provide Home for Edinburg Family

Churches, Buckner Provide Home for Edinburg Family

Click here to watch a video of the Zavala family's storyEDINBURG, Texas – Luis and Idalia Zavala came to the Rio Grande Valley with hopes for a...
Considering Adoption?

Considering Adoption?

Blessings Await: Click here to watch the new Dillon International adoption video Editor’s Note: We recently asked some parents of children with...
Shoes from Kids to Kids

Shoes from Kids to Kids

Analiz G. SchremmerChildren are not usually expected to make donations; yet so many are already seeking to help others.There are orphans who encourage...
A Day in the Lives of the Families Buckner Serves in Oaxaca

A Day in the Lives of the Families Buckner Serves in Oaxaca

The roads are dirt, the struggles are long and life is complicated. Join us on a written journey that shares a day in the lives of families that...
Buckner Opens New Community Centers in Dallas

Buckner Opens New Community Centers in Dallas

Analiz G. SchremmerDALLAS—In June of 2010 Buckner International took two new programs under its umbrella: Simari Ridge Community Resource Center and...
Meet the New Shoes for Orphan Souls Mascots

Meet the New Shoes for Orphan Souls Mascots

Meet the New Shoes for Orphan Souls MascotsMeet Tie and Lacey, the newest members of the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls family! Tie and Lacey are a...
Dallas Mavericks Charity Challenge to Highlight Buckner

Dallas Mavericks Charity Challenge to Highlight Buckner

Analiz G. SchremmerThe Dallas Mavericks will highlight Buckner International as part of its “Mavs Charity Challenge” during the 2010-2011...
Ingersoll to Lead Buckner Westminster Place

Ingersoll to Lead Buckner Westminster Place

LONGVIEW, Texas – Buckner Retirement Services Inc. has announced Cliff Ingersoll as the new executive director of Buckner Westminster Place, a...
The Miracle of Boots

The Miracle of Boots

Jynger Roberts, MSW, Dillon International, Inc.His cries echoed in the early morning darkness on the fields of central Ghana. A farmer beginning his...
Buckner Now Offering Long-Term Volunteer Opportunities Worldwide

Buckner Now Offering Long-Term Volunteer Opportunities Worldwide

Jenny PopeDALLAS – With images of extreme poverty plastering the media each day, more and more Americans’ eyes have been opened to the needs. And...
Dallas Junior League Sorts Shoes for Orphans

Dallas Junior League Sorts Shoes for Orphans

Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner International DALLAS—Thirty-four provisional members of the Junior League of Dallas volunteered 20 hours of their time...
Buckner Seeks Adoptive Families for Russian Boys

Buckner Seeks Adoptive Families for Russian Boys

Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner InternationalDALLAS – Buckner International is seeking adoptive families for eight Russian boys.“Unfortunately, boys...
A Legacy of Love

A Legacy of Love

Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalBEAUMONT, Texas – Diverna Abatte learned everything from her mom.“My parents were always giving and doing,” she...
Making a Difference

Making a Difference

Dallas company shuts its doors, serves Buckner seniors for a dayBy Amy StoneBuckner InternationalDALLAS — The Buckner Retirement Village was filled...
Student Finds Calling through ExxonMobil Internship

Student Finds Calling through ExxonMobil Internship

By Amy StoneBuckner InternationalDALLAS — For the third year, Buckner International received a grant from the ExxonMobil Foundation to hire an...

Sewell Golf Tournament to Benefit Dallas Children and Families

DALLAS – More than 220 people are expected to participate in the Sewell Golf Classic Sept. 20 at Bent Tree Country Club, located at 5201 Westgrove...
Houston Church Breaks World Record with Chain of Soles

Houston Church Breaks World Record with Chain of Soles

Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalHOUSTON – The thermometer read 94 degrees Saturday, Aug. 21 as volunteers at South Main Baptist Church patiently...
Russian Orphans Fly Home, Remember Life with a Family

Russian Orphans Fly Home, Remember Life with a Family

Brittany Black and Analiz SchremmerBuckner InternationalDALLAS — Every orphan longs for a mom and dad. So when 17 Russian orphans said goodbye to...
‘This is My Brother’

‘This is My Brother’

By Brittany BlackBuckner InternationalHALLSVILLE, Texas — At five weeks old, Abraham Vallery had two broken femurs, 27 broken ribs, a fractured...
Shoes for Orphan Souls® Enters 11th Season of Sole Searching

Shoes for Orphan Souls® Enters 11th Season of Sole Searching

[caption id="attachment_2823" align="aligncenter" width="485" caption="Children in Sierra Leone, one of the world's most impoverished countries,...
First Person: Discovering Life through an Angel's Eyes

First Person: Discovering Life through an Angel's Eyes

By Claire McGough"How did you know that I liked cats?" That was one of the first questions Anastasia asked my husband, Chris, and I when we first met...
Angels on the High Seas

Angels on the High Seas

By Brittany BlackROCKWALL, Texas -- The Angels from Abroad went on a “High Seas” adventure with Lake Pointe Church in Rockwall, Texas on Aug. 5...

San Angelo Health Foundation Gives $300,000 to Revamp Dining for Elders

By Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner InternationalSAN ANGELO—A gift of 300,000 will change the living experience of 60 residents at Buckner Retirement...
Russian Orphans Get Free Trims

Russian Orphans Get Free Trims

Brittany BlackAll that could be heard over the blow dryer was the sound of laughter. The giggles were coming from the four girls in the Angels from...
Angels from Abroad Program Gives Russian Orphans a Glimpse of Home Life

Angels from Abroad Program Gives Russian Orphans a Glimpse of Home Life

Brittany Black(DALLAS)—The Denson family is riding on a tandem bike for seven.God is the leader while Alyson, Wayne, Chase and Brett are peddling...
Letting Go

Letting Go

Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalAt 16 years old, *Paola already knows what she wants out of life – her own restaurant and a successful future for her...
Wynnewood Teens Receive Scholarships, Head to College

Wynnewood Teens Receive Scholarships, Head to College

By Brittany BlackBuckner InternationalDALLAS – For Jerrick Nash and Tevodrick Turner, the road to college has been filled with pot holes and...
Buckner Seeks Adoptive Family for Special-Needs Baby

Buckner Seeks Adoptive Family for Special-Needs Baby

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalDALLAS, Texas – Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services places dozens of children into loving families each year...
Transforming Honduras

Transforming Honduras

Buckner Opens New Centers in Tegucigalpa, RoatanBy Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalWatch video about Buckner Honduras director TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras...
Reasons to Return to Kenya

Reasons to Return to Kenya

By Dave AtkinsAs I hop out of the white van, I pretend not to see her. I’ve been here before; I know her name and she knows mine. It’s a game we...
Above and Beyond

Above and Beyond

Buckner foster family adopts, stays connected with birth familyBy Amy StoneDALLAS – When 2-year-old Jeremiah first arrived at the Williams’ home...
Diapers, Bibs and Camp

Diapers, Bibs and Camp

By Brittany BlackBurnet, TEXAS — By the time Cecilia Lopez was 16, she already had two sons. So going to camp was out of the question until...
Buckner Vietnam Orphans Return to Homeland they Fled

Buckner Vietnam Orphans Return to Homeland they Fled

[caption id="attachment_2566" align="aligncenter" width="485" caption="Holme Oltrogee consoles his mother, Nguyen Thi Thuan. Oltrogee was among a...
Buckner Children's Village Celebrates 40 Years

Buckner Children's Village Celebrates 40 Years

By Brittany BlackBEAUMONT, Texas – After 40 years, Buckner Children’s Village in Beaumont is a place where traditions are still carried out and...
From Glass Slippers to Shoes for Orphan Souls

From Glass Slippers to Shoes for Orphan Souls

By Brittany BlackST. CHARLES, Illinois – If one shoe changed Cinderella’s life, imagine what a pair of shoes could do. The cast of Cinderella at...
Buckner Center to Combat Child Abandonment in Guatemala

Buckner Center to Combat Child Abandonment in Guatemala

Analiz G. SchremmerSAN JOSE PINULA, Guatemala – Buckner opened a new Community Transformation Center on May 25 to serve people in one of...
Keller Williams Realty Renovates Emergency Shelter

Keller Williams Realty Renovates Emergency Shelter

BEAUMONT, Texas — Sixteen foster children from Buckner Children’s Village ran through a crowd of volunteers May 13 yelling, “Move that Van”...
Healing Abused and Neglected Children

Healing Abused and Neglected Children

For 131 years, Buckner has cared for many of the least fortunate boys and girls in our society. Many of these children have endured appalling...
Serving Korea with Hand and Heart

Serving Korea with Hand and Heart

By Susan SerranoFamilies will have an opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving in a unique way this year by giving thanks for their blessings from God...
Just a Pair of Shoes

Just a Pair of Shoes

Twenty-five years ago I was adopted by my parents. Little did I know that from that moment on the Lord was molding and teaching me for my first...
Crump Named VP of Operations for Buckner Retirement Services

Crump Named VP of Operations for Buckner Retirement Services

DALLAS – Patrick L. “Pat” Crump, president of Baptist Memorials Ministries, has been named vice president of operations for Dallas-based Buckner...
Missouri Rotary Gives Orphans 20,000 Shoes

Missouri Rotary Gives Orphans 20,000 Shoes

Analiz G. Schremmer(DALLAS)—For the ninth year in a row, the Missouri Rotary District 6040 has come through for Buckner, bringing a donation of more...
Church group answers dead mother's prayers

Church group answers dead mother's prayers

By Sean GaffneyThe McAllen MonitorPEÑITAS — Rolando Rosales and his six children plan to tend to his wife’s grave Sunday. As they do, he will...
DBU Students Collect 'Change for Change'

DBU Students Collect 'Change for Change'

[caption id="attachment_2355" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="Assistant Director of Apartment Life Jimmy Gunn, Resident Director Chris...
She Said | She Said

She Said | She Said

A Mother and Daughter's Perspective on Serving TogetherWe're all a piece of the quiltA year ago last spring, my daughter Jenny asked me to go with her...
Buckner Celebrates Success Stories at Annual Founder's Day

Buckner Celebrates Success Stories at Annual Founder's Day

(DALLAS)—Buckner International, a global ministry serving orphans and vulnerable children, celebrated some of its most notable success stories...

Russian Adoptions Continuing

MOSCOW [April 15] -- Officials with Buckner Adoption and Maternity Services say they have not received any official notification about the suspension...
Beaumont Foundation Brings Joy to Buckner Children

Beaumont Foundation Brings Joy to Buckner Children

[caption id="attachment_2303" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="Ed Keller, chief operating officer of the Beaumont Foundation of America, hands...
'The change we see is ... extraordinary'

'The change we see is ... extraordinary'

[caption id="attachment_2295" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="These are some of the first boys placed into families through Buckner's...
Update: Aid Arrives in Haiti, Helps Thousands

Update: Aid Arrives in Haiti, Helps Thousands

By Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner has sent three relief shipments valued at more than $568,000 to Haiti since the earthquake and another is on the way,...
Teens Answer Call to Serve Haiti

Teens Answer Call to Serve Haiti

[caption id="attachment_2290" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="Kentucky teens Drew Henderson and Nathan Crow model t-shirts that they are...
Defining Moments

Defining Moments

LONGVIEW, Texas -- Defining moments, you know, those small instances in the day that seem to make everything right; that make every effort worthwhile....
Zapotec Children Receive New Shoes

Zapotec Children Receive New Shoes

By Analiz G. SchremmerOAXACA, Mexico — In baggies that read, “Cobijando sus Pasos” or “Blanketing your Steps,” 247 Zapotec children in...
Helping Haiti's Children

Helping Haiti's Children

By Susan SerranoThey wander amid the rubble. Lost, hungry, scared, emotionally numbed by all they have seen. It’s these images of Haiti’s...
Fourth Grader Sends Hugs to Haiti

Fourth Grader Sends Hugs to Haiti

DALLAS—Christa Wood, 10, was watching the news on Haiti with her babysitter when she decided she had to do something.“It’s like I had no choice....
Buckner Ships More than 23,500 Pounds of Aid to Haiti

Buckner Ships More than 23,500 Pounds of Aid to Haiti

DALLAS — Buckner International, a global non-profit that helps orphans, vulnerable children and families, shipped more than 23,500 pounds of aid...
Buckner Parkway Place Names Johnson Executive Director

Buckner Parkway Place Names Johnson Executive Director

By Analiz G. SchremmerHOUSTON—Jimmy Johnson, who has served as administrator and interim executive director at Parkway Place, a Buckner senior...
Overview: Buckner's Response to Haiti Relief

Overview: Buckner's Response to Haiti Relief

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalDALLAS – When the news of Haiti’s earthquake reached the United States on Jan. 12, Randy Daniels, director of...
Dillon Focused on Adoption Calls, Aid to Children’s Village

Dillon Focused on Adoption Calls, Aid to Children’s Village

Almost three weeks after the earthquake that shattered the lives of Haitians, Dillon International continues to receive dozens of adoption-related...
Haiti Relief Update: Buckner to Ship Two Containers

Haiti Relief Update: Buckner to Ship Two Containers

DALLAS – Buckner International will ship two containers of humanitarian to benefit children and families affected by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake...

Photo Gallery: Inside Look at Port Au Prince

PORT AU PRINCE -- Since the 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Port Au Prince, Haiti on Jan. 12, Buckner International has been working with partners at...
Albert Reyes: The Man with Global Imagination

Albert Reyes: The Man with Global Imagination

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalDALLAS – It was the Friday before Christmas and the Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid was packed with families,...
David Slover Named President of Buckner Foundation

David Slover Named President of Buckner Foundation

DALLAS – The Board of Directors of Buckner Foundation named David M. Slover president Jan. 22.As the president of Buckner Foundation, Slover leads...
Albert Reyes Elected Sixth President of Buckner

Albert Reyes Elected Sixth President of Buckner

DALLAS -- Albert L. Reyes was elected as the sixth president in the 131-year history of Buckner International Jan. 22, succeeding Kenneth L. Hall, who...

In-Kind Donations Urgently Needed for Haiti

DALLAS – Buckner International is collecting medical supplies and aid to send to Haiti’s earthquake victims, including an orphanage and hospital...
Guatemalan houseparent killed during robbery Friday

Guatemalan houseparent killed during robbery Friday

[caption id="attachment_2034" align="alignnone" width="482" caption="Tragedy hits Buckner family -- In a 2007 file photo, Buckner houseparent Marco...
You can help ship aid to Haitian earthquake victims

You can help ship aid to Haitian earthquake victims

[caption id="attachment_2024" align="aligncenter" width="482" caption="Buckner is collecting new tents, blankets, personal care items and first aid...
Buckner, Dillon International Respond to Haiti Crisis

Buckner, Dillon International Respond to Haiti Crisis

[caption id="attachment_2009" align="aligncenter" width="482" caption="AFP / Getty Images / Daniel Morel"][/caption]Buckner and its international...
Kenya Children Learn Dental Hygiene from Mission Team

Kenya Children Learn Dental Hygiene from Mission Team

By Analiz G. Schremmer(NAIROBI, Kenya)—A group of Buckner orphans in Kenya learned about oral health during a seminar led by a group of short-term...
From Russia to Texas

From Russia to Texas

By Analiz G. Schremmer WACO, Texas — Sugar and spice and Russian adoption—twice. Sarah and Natalie, ages 6 and 7, became part of the Bull family...
Music in the Buckner Villas

Music in the Buckner Villas

By Analiz G. SchremmerAUSTIN—Dr. Lillian Brown can’t sing with her voice, so she does it with her piano.Brown, 89, said that when she moved to...
Young Life Comes to Camp Buckner in 2010

Young Life Comes to Camp Buckner in 2010

BURNET, Texas – Young Life, a non-denominational Christian organization that seeks to share Jesus Christ with adolescents through relational...
Wake-up Call

Wake-up Call

On Saturday I saw poverty. They didn't warn us. Saturday morning after a much needed deep sleep after a busy day of travel, we woke up and joined...

Resolve to Do Something in 2010

A new decade is upon us, and there are more orphans and vulnerable children in need than ever before. Resolve to do something in 2010 to make a...
Guatemalan Orphan Finds Home

Guatemalan Orphan Finds Home

By Analiz G. Schremmer(DALLAS, Texas)—More than two years after the adoption process started, Juan Pablo finally came home with his family.On...
Lost and Found

Lost and Found

By Cheryl WilsonAs told to Jenny PopeWhen I was 17, I got pregnant and dropped out of high school. And to make things worse, I married him. It was a...

Buckner Retirement Services, Baptist Memorials Ministries Affiliate

SAN ANGELO, Texas – Leaders of Dallas-based Buckner Retirement Services, Inc. and Baptist Memorials Ministries in San Angelo signed an affiliation...
Mavs Forward Gives Dallas Families a Thanksgiving to Remember

Mavs Forward Gives Dallas Families a Thanksgiving to Remember

By Analiz G. SchremmerDALLAS—Dallas Mavericks forward James Singleton teamed up with Kroger on Nov. 22 to provide Thanksgiving dinner for Buckner...
The Superheroes of Guatemala City

The Superheroes of Guatemala City

By Rachael BrownA few blocks away from the Buckner Office in Guatemala City is a house with a plastic grass yard, a living room with tile floors and...
Family Grows by Two through Foster Care and Adoption

Family Grows by Two through Foster Care and Adoption

CARTHAGE, Texas – Jim and Linda Kimberly were sitting on the porch on Easter Sunday, watching their youngest son Jared play with his cousins, when...
National Adoption Month Highlights Children in Need of Families

National Adoption Month Highlights Children in Need of Families

November is National Adoption Month and it is Buckner’s goal to help each and every child in the Texas find a loving family. That’s why Buckner is...
Community Transformation Centers: A New Model for Hope Worldwide

Community Transformation Centers: A New Model for Hope Worldwide

By Jenny PopeSometimes the needs are immediate. Children are removed from their home or found wandering the streets – they need a safe place to...
Dallas Seniors Encourage the Troops

Dallas Seniors Encourage the Troops

By Analiz G. Schremmer(DALLAS)—Buckner Hearts in Action, a group of military supporters from Buckner Retirement Village, spent their morning giving...
Valero donates $10,000 to Buckner children

Valero donates $10,000 to Buckner children

[caption id="attachment_1567" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Buckner International received $10,00 from Valero. The money will go to the...
Dreaming of Shoes

Dreaming of Shoes

[caption id="attachment_1527" align="alignnone" width="482" caption="A total of 121 Shoes for Orphan Soulks were distributed to Ukrainian orphans by...

Special Events- Buckner Golf Tournaments

Thanks for all the sponsors, volunteers and participants who took part in our 2009 golf tournaments around the state of Texas. They were a great...

Buckner Family Place in Midland Launching Expansion Plan

(MIDLAND, Texas) – Officials with Buckner Family Place in Midland announced Oct. 6 a $600,000 expansion of the facility located at 421 W. Pecan.The...
Dallas Junior League Volunteers at Buckner Warehouse

Dallas Junior League Volunteers at Buckner Warehouse

[caption id="attachment_1496" align="alignnone" width="482" caption="Women from the Junior League of Dallas sort shoes with children from Buckner’s...
‘We’re in the Miracle Receiving Business’

‘We’re in the Miracle Receiving Business’

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalOctober 18, 2007 was an average day for Cheri Griffin until she received a phone call that would change her life...
More than Just Make Believe

More than Just Make Believe

By Analiz González SchremmerCory and Lori Pepiton’s children like playing make believe.In their mind, the playground in their yard is a space ship....
Robin’s Story

Robin’s Story

Robin Moore greets us at the front door with three young boys standing nearby. “Anna!” she calls out, grabbing her friend and hugging her around...
Lucy’s Story

Lucy’s Story

Lucy Gutierrez was working at a prison and saw no future in it. She could hardly pay the groceries and wanted out.Gutierrez decided that she needed to...
Sabrina’s Story

Sabrina’s Story

For a while, Sabrina Sanchez lived in her car with her two little girls and another on the way.“We weren’t eating because I was doing meth,”...
Nichole’s Story

Nichole’s Story

Nichole Watkins and her children lived in a house with drug addicts before they came to My Father’s House.“I heard about My Father’s House when...
Elaine’s Story

Elaine’s Story

When Elaine Howard arrived at My Father’s House, she was broken and looking for repair.“I had an addiction to methamphetamines and had been...
Becky’s story

Becky’s story

by Analiz SchremmerBefore coming to My Father’s House, Becky Crowley felt like suicide was the only way out.“After I got a divorce in January, I...
Family Helped Out from Rock Bottom

Family Helped Out from Rock Bottom

By Jon Mark Beilue ...
A Free Gift

A Free Gift

By Janet GerowAt first I thought the hardest thing was actually going to Vietnam. The trip was originally planned to go to China, and when we were...
Vietnamese Child Receives 2 Millionth Shoe

Vietnamese Child Receives 2 Millionth Shoe

By Analiz G. Schremmer(HA NOI, Vietnam) — A pile of more than 240 shoes, booties and slippers were distributed to orphans living on the outskirts of...
Baylor, Buckner partnership plants seeds of hope in Kenya

Baylor, Buckner partnership plants seeds of hope in Kenya

By George Henson, Staff WriterBaptist StandardPublished: August 27, 2009(WACO, Texas) — One family’s desire to honor its heritage has led to a...
Buckner to Give Longview Families Holiday Help

Buckner to Give Longview Families Holiday Help

– Buckner Children and Family Services wants to help 500 Longview-area children have a merry Christmas through its annual Adopt-a-Family for the...
Shoes Hits the 2 Million Mark

Shoes Hits the 2 Million Mark

After months of anticipation, Shoes for Orphan Souls reached its goal of collecting 2 million shoes during its 10th anniversary year.It’s an...
Event Distributes Train of Donations

Event Distributes Train of Donations

By Analiz G. Schremmer(LONGVIEW, Texas) — The line outside First Baptist Longview snaked through the parking lot and out into the streets for hours...

Rock Concert Brings Shoes for Orphans

(MIDLAND, Texas) -- About 13,000 people attended Rock the Desert, a Christian concert that brought in more than 8,500 Shoes for Orphan Souls. The...
Sara Frances Gregory Buckner Dies at 99

Sara Frances Gregory Buckner Dies at 99

(DALLAS, Texas) – Sara Frances Gregory Buckner, the last of the Buckner generation who helped establish and operate the ministries of founder R.C....
Buckner, Kids Matter Allied to Provide Children's Services on Honduran Island

Buckner, Kids Matter Allied to Provide Children's Services on Honduran Island

(Roatan, HONDURAS) – Leaders at two Dallas-based international children’s organizations have initiated an alliance to provide services to protect...
Goslin Care Center Provides Spiritual Food

Goslin Care Center Provides Spiritual Food

By Ryan BrownBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) – For Val Delacruz and the other volunteers at the Goslin Care Center at Cliff Temple Baptist...
Legacy Sports Camp Keeps Buckner Kids Active

Legacy Sports Camp Keeps Buckner Kids Active

By Ryan BrownBuckner International(FRISCO, Texas) – Brittany Woodson, 13, looks forward to her summer at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth every...
Update: Angels Fly Home

Update: Angels Fly Home

By Analiz G. SchremmerBefore coming to stay with host families in Dallas, some of the Russian orphans in the Angels from Abroad program had no idea...
A Safe Place to Grow

A Safe Place to Grow

By Analiz G. Schremmerand Ryan BrownShe asked for a set of windows and got a new house, instead.“Gloria Fuentes came to me asking for windows for...
Support the Families for Orphans Act

Support the Families for Orphans Act

The Joint Council for International Children’s Services (JCICS) is promoting a nationwide call to action for support of the Families for Orphans Act...
Update: Ministry Continues in Honduras Despite Conflict

Update: Ministry Continues in Honduras Despite Conflict

(HONDURAS) -- Recent rumors in San Pedro Sula, Honduras purported that the city “shut down,” but Buckner Director of Missions George McCain...
China Trip Rerouted to Vietnam

China Trip Rerouted to Vietnam

By Analiz G. SchremmerMission trip participants scheduled to travel to China on Aug. 30- Sept. 9 will instead fly to Vietnam or receive a refund.The...
Antle Named TAHSA Administrator of the Year

Antle Named TAHSA Administrator of the Year

By Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner International(AUSTIN, Texas) — The Texas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (TAHSA) named Doyle Antle,...
Bringing Change to South Oak Cliff

Bringing Change to South Oak Cliff

By Ryan BrownBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) – High crime rates, low school retention rates and low employment rates are a part of life in...
Texas Community Cooks Things Up for Orphans

Texas Community Cooks Things Up for Orphans

(SEGUIN, TEXAS) – Full appetites and a year’s worth of bragging rights were on the line at the third annual Taste of Seguin fundraiser June 17 at...
Change 10

Change 10

By Jenny PopeAbout 100 kilometers east of Addis Ababa is the city of Nazaret, the third largest city in Ethiopia. More than 1 million citizens live...
Dallas Foundation’s $25,000 Gift Goes the Distance for Families in Crisis

Dallas Foundation’s $25,000 Gift Goes the Distance for Families in Crisis

By Emily UnderwoodBuckner International (DALLAS, Texas) – If a penny goes a long way, then The Dallas Foundation’s $25,000 gift to Buckner’s...
Parkway Place breaks ground July 1 for $2.5 million wellness center

Parkway Place breaks ground July 1 for $2.5 million wellness center

(HOUSTON, Texas) — Parkway Place, a Buckner senior living community in West Houston broke ground July 1 in preparation for construction of a...
Foster Families Receive Red Carpet Treatment at Camp Buckner

Foster Families Receive Red Carpet Treatment at Camp Buckner

(Burnet, Texas) - Buckner foster children and families left their worries at the gate when they arrived at Camp Buckner for a weekend retreat June...
For Giving’s Sake Only

For Giving’s Sake Only

[caption id="attachment_1128" align="alignnone" width="492" caption="Jack and Jill chapter leaders pose for a picture in front of a mountain of Shoes...
Peruvian Orphans Receive New Gym, Sports Equipment

Peruvian Orphans Receive New Gym, Sports Equipment

By Analiz G. SchremmerBuckner InternationalProceeds from a women’s volleyball game between the Dallas Baptist University Patriots and the Peruvian...
Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana Celebrates New Community Center

Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana Celebrates New Community Center

By Ryan BrownBuckner International(Dallas, Texas) — Buckner International and Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana saw an idea become reality on June 7...
From There to Here: Transitional Home Gives Orphans Fresh Start

From There to Here: Transitional Home Gives Orphans Fresh Start

By Scott CollinsST. PETERSBURG, Russia – It would be impossible to find the Buckner Boys Transitional Home without help. But help is what this place...
Buckner Urgently Seeks Volunteer Missionaries

Buckner Urgently Seeks Volunteer Missionaries

By Analiz SchremmerTime is running out for individuals to sign up to serve orphan and needy children in McAllen, Texas and China in two separate...
Add Some Color to the Gospel

Add Some Color to the Gospel

By Analiz SchremmerChildren’s Coloring Book Presents a Simple Plan to Know JesusIt isn’t likely you’ve seen a 4-year old reading the Gospel of...
Over the Edge

Over the Edge

John Hoyle overcomes challenges on the way to success(BEAUMONT, Texas) – John Hoyle is expressive and talkative. He has the energy of someone with a...
How You Can Prevent Abuse

How You Can Prevent Abuse

By Felipe GarzaVice President of Domestic OperationsBuckner Children and Family ServicesYou may be like a lot of people I know: You may not think you...
King Foundation Gives $15,000 to Foster Children

King Foundation Gives $15,000 to Foster Children

By Analiz González SchremmerBuckner International(MIDLAND, Texas) — Buckner International Hearthstone received $15,000 from the King Foundation in...

Host Families Needed for Russian Angels

Free Interest Meeting May 20 at Lake Pointe Church in RockwallTen Russian orphans will make the trip of a lifetime as they travel across the world to...

Double Your Investment

Matching Funds Available for Online Donations May 20Online gifts made to Buckner on May 20 will be matched dollar for dollar when made through...

Update: Boards of Buckner Retirement Services, Baptist Memorials Ministries Approve Affiliation

(DALLAS, Texas) – The boards of two senior living providers with Texas Baptist ties have given the green light for the organizations to affiliate in...

What Does it Mean to be a Voice?

Imagine moving your mouth, but having no sound come out. Not a very good feeling, is it? That’s what it’s like for millions of children around the...
The Spread of Good

The Spread of Good

By Analiz González SchremmerIt’s typically seen as something negative to be a “copy-cat.” Yet the Missouri Rotary Clubs have proved that good...
New Council Voices Goals

New Council Voices Goals

By Analiz González Schremmer(DALLAS, Texas) — The Buckner Voice Council, a group in their 20s and 30s, announced their goal to recruit 1,000 new...
Buckner, Center for Informed Faith Form Strategic Alliance

Buckner, Center for Informed Faith Form Strategic Alliance

(DALLAS, Texas) – Buckner International and the Center for Informed Faith have announced a strategic alliance combining efforts of the two...
Buckner Honors Valued Volunteers, Donors at Founder's Day

Buckner Honors Valued Volunteers, Donors at Founder's Day

By Jenny Pope Click here to view the awards videos from the event.(DALLAS, Texas) – In celebration of more than 130 years of serving orphans,...
Harvest of Shoes

Harvest of Shoes

Shoes for Orphan Souls Help Children Step Back Into the ClassroomBy Analiz González SchremmerBuckner International (BROWNSVILLE, Texas) — Without...
Samaritan’s Feet Contributes 6,000 Shoes

Samaritan’s Feet Contributes 6,000 Shoes

(DALLAS, Texas) – Samaritan’s Feet, a Christian shoe collection and distribution ministry, gave Shoes for Orphan Souls 6,000 pairs of new shoes...

Speed Returns to Lead Buckner in West Texas

(LUBBOCK, Texas) — Tommy Speed has returned to Lubbock as the new administrator for Buckner Children and Family Services.Speed formerly served as...

Buckner baby finds home again in retirement community

By HUMBERTO MARTINEZBeaumont EnterpriseApril 14, 2009Click here to watch the video.Not everyone can say they'll be living the last years of their life...

Laura May to Lead Buckner in Southeast Texas

(BEAUMONT, Texas) — Laura May will serve as the new administrator for Buckner Children and Family Services in Southeast Texas beginning May 1.“I...
Buckner Begins the 2 Million Shoe Countdown

Buckner Begins the 2 Million Shoe Countdown

Which pair will it be? Pink Converse or superhero sneakers? A pair of ‘Big Foot’ athletic shoes or a tiny pair of Crocs?In anticipation of the two...

Top 10 Ways to Get Involved with Buckner

You’ve wanted to make a difference for a while now, but weren’t quite sure how to do it. Now is your chance to do something! We’ve made it easy...
Food for Life

Food for Life

Pulling Village Children out of HungerBy Analiz González Schremmer(OAXACA, Mexico) — Some children are too hungry to go to school.[caption...
Teenage Moms Prepare for the Future

Teenage Moms Prepare for the Future

Life is tough for teenage mothers, and nobody knows that better than these women. All five mothers graduated from Forest Klein High School in Houston...
Russian Angels to Land in Dallas this Summer

Russian Angels to Land in Dallas this Summer

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalA group of Russian orphans will make the trip of a lifetime as they travel across the world to stay with American...
Buckner, CBF Spring Break Volunteers Construct Homes, Lives

Buckner, CBF Spring Break Volunteers Construct Homes, Lives

By Scott CollinsBuckner InternationalMISSION, Texas – Texas churches joined forces from El Paso to the Lower Rio Grande Valley during spring break...
Adoption Heritage Day Connects Cultures, Families

Adoption Heritage Day Connects Cultures, Families

By Jenny PopeBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) – Families traveled around the world and back Feb. 28 at the annual Adoption Heritage Day at...
Getting the Family Involved in Missions: Tips for Serving Together

Getting the Family Involved in Missions: Tips for Serving Together

By Analiz González SchremmerBuckner InternationalGetting a young family involved in missions might seem impossible, but there are several...
To Serve the Poor

To Serve the Poor

By Ashley GreenBuckner Shoes for Orphan Souls Trip Participant(El Paso, TEXAS) — We were in border towns, known locally as colonias, meaning poor...
Buckner to Start Shoe Drives in Countries Worldwide

Buckner to Start Shoe Drives in Countries Worldwide

By Analiz González SchremmerBuckner InternationalBuckner Shoes for Orphan Souls went from being a Dallas-based shoe drive in 1999, to expanding...

Welcome to the new Buckner Web site!

Buckner International is happy to launch our new Web site, designed to be easy to navigate and fun to read. ...
Buckner, Bright Hope and Ethiopian President Celebrate School Inauguration

Buckner, Bright Hope and Ethiopian President Celebrate School Inauguration

By Analiz G. Schremmer(BANTU, Ethiopia) — Buckner International and Bright Hope celebrated the inauguration of a new school in Bantu, Ethiopia in...

Valero donates $25,000 to Buckner children

By Analiz González Schremmer(BEAUMONT, Texas) — Valero Energy Corporation donated $25,000 to Buckner Children and Family Services in Southeast...
How Last Year Led me to Today

How Last Year Led me to Today

By Suzy HemmingFor the past few years I’ve been putting together Christmas gift boxes for orphans in Peru. It’s a shoebox that I would fill with...
Out of the Ashes

Out of the Ashes

By Analiz González Schremmer(SAN CARLOS, Texas) — Everything was gone. When the Longoria family came home from the flea market on January 18, all...
Emmanuel’s Story

Emmanuel’s Story

By Jenny Popewith reporting by Megan Petock, Mercy ShipsPhotography by Debra Bell, Mercy Ships (LIBERIA) – Emmanuel, 10, was used to being treated...
An Unexpected Thank You from Baghdad

An Unexpected Thank You from Baghdad

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Ray Perkins, 92, isn’t one to get involved in a lot of activities at the Buckner...
Sanctity of Life Sunday Reminds us, ‘Life is Good’

Sanctity of Life Sunday Reminds us, ‘Life is Good’

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Almost everyone can agree that society has an idolized group: the young, the wealthy, the...
Why I Chose Life

Why I Chose Life

By Lindsey RattanMy freshman year in high school, I wrote an essay regarding adoption and the affect adoption can have on a child. The essay covered...
New Hope for Orphans

New Hope for Orphans

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(ALDEA EL CARMEN, Honduras) — There is hope in the eyes of the orphans. It isn’t always clear where it...
Dallas Homeless Receive New Shoes, Socks from Buckner

Dallas Homeless Receive New Shoes, Socks from Buckner

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — The number of homeless is growing as the economy falls, so the president of Operation Care...

Buckner Distributes Shoes at Kickapoo Reservation

(EAGLE PASS, Texas) — Buckner distributed more than 200 children’s shoes to members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas Dec. 11. The...
Gingerbread Charity Competition Announces Winners

Gingerbread Charity Competition Announces Winners

Proceeds to Benefit Buckner Children and Family Services of Southeast Texas(BEAUMONT, Texas) — Bidders are trying to vie for the best Gingerbread...
Michael W. Smith Visits Shoes for Orphan Souls Warehouse

Michael W. Smith Visits Shoes for Orphan Souls Warehouse

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalClick here to view video from Dallas Morning News.(DALLAS, Texas) — Christian music performing artist Michael W....
A Family is Born through International Adoption

A Family is Born through International Adoption

By Jenny PopeBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — The crowd waited patiently at the international arrivals gate, holding signs and posters,...
Ethiopia School Builds Better Citizens

Ethiopia School Builds Better Citizens

By Jenny PopeBuckner International(BANTU, Ethiopia) — The orphans of Bantu may not have a lot by western standards. They live in mud and grass...
Buckner Celebrating 10 Years, Putting Best Foot Forward

Buckner Celebrating 10 Years, Putting Best Foot Forward

By Scott CollinsBuckner International(ST. PETERSBURG, Russia) — Rachel Garton has heard every pun imaginable during her 18 months as director of...
Buckner Children Give Thanks

Buckner Children Give Thanks

Buckner children living at the Buckner Children’s Village in Beaumont shared their gratitude during a Thanksgiving meal.“So many times, our staff...

Dallas-Based Buckner Unites with Dillon International to Expand Children's Services

Click here to read our letter to Buckner adoptive families. Click here to to read Frequently Asked Questions.(DALLAS, Texas) — November 21, 2008 —...
Buckner Honors Holy Trinity Church at National Philanthropy Day

Buckner Honors Holy Trinity Church at National Philanthropy Day

(DALLAS, Texas) — Buckner honored Holy Trinity Church on Nov. 14 as Volunteer Philanthropist of the year during the 23rd annual Awards Luncheon...

Gingerbread Charity Competition Open to Public

Proceeds to Benefit Buckner Children and Family Services of Southeast Texas (BEAUMONT, Texas) — A community-wide gingerbread house competition...
GreenRidge at Buckner Villas in a ‘League of its Own’

GreenRidge at Buckner Villas in a ‘League of its Own’

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(AUSTIN, Texas) — A total of 133 people have submitted their deposits to live in the soon-to-be built...
Buckner Signs Agreement with First Mexican Baptist Church

Buckner Signs Agreement with First Mexican Baptist Church

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Buckner signed its first collaborative agreement with a Hispanic church in the Dallas area...
Reasons for Giving Thanks

Reasons for Giving Thanks

The Buckner Family has a lot to be thankful for this November, so we asked Buckner children, clients and staff what they are grateful for this Thanks...
Buckner Breaks Record in Service to the Mexican/U.S. Border

Buckner Breaks Record in Service to the Mexican/U.S. Border

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalBuckner and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship are celebrating their seven-year anniversary of sending mission...
A Jewel of a Gift

A Jewel of a Gift

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalMy Father’s House Lubbock receives $250,000 donation(LUBBOCK, Texas) — The night before Jewel Wells died,...
Buckner, First Lady Dedicate New Dormitories at Guatemalan Girls’ Orphanage

Buckner, First Lady Dedicate New Dormitories at Guatemalan Girls’ Orphanage

By Jenny PopeBuckner International(ANTIGUA, Guatemala) — Guatemalan First Lady Wendy de Berger and other government officials gathered with staff...
Ministry starts in the Sewing Room

Ministry starts in the Sewing Room

By Carla A. RobertsonBuckner Volunteer Missionary to Kenya On our first day at the Baptist Children’s Center and at the Technical Education Center,...
Buckner to Aid Flood Victims in Honduras

Buckner to Aid Flood Victims in Honduras

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Buckner International will ship $7,000 worth of shoes, socks, clothes, blankets and food...
Shoes Get Souls in the Door

Shoes Get Souls in the Door

By Jenny Pope and Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Shoes for Orphan Souls is usually the first to tread on new soil for...
Needs Are Up, Aid Donations Down

Needs Are Up, Aid Donations Down

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalThe masses are cramming into public buses, the house next door is foreclosing and the cost of food keeps going...
Buckner Retirement Staff Step Up to Serve

Buckner Retirement Staff Step Up to Serve

Hurricane Ike raged up the Texas Gulf Coast, but Buckner Retirement Services staff kept their cool when forced to evacuate one community and brace for...
Serving through the Storm

Serving through the Storm

By Analiz González Buckner InternationalIt’s one thing to help when you are doing well. It’s completely different when you help others while you...
On Being Willing

On Being Willing

By Jarred SchremmerImpact, transform, bless, inspire. I was prepared to live out those words when I first walked into the Buckner-run Vickery Wellness...
Sole-d Out Concert Brings More than 3,240 Shoes

Sole-d Out Concert Brings More than 3,240 Shoes

By Analiz González Buckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — More than 3,240 shoes were collected in Buckner International’s second annual Sole-d...
Buckner Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Buckner Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Sombreros and maracas decorated the tables on Sept. 16 at the Buckner Vickery Wellness...
Chevron Phillips Charity Golf Tournament Rescheduled

Chevron Phillips Charity Golf Tournament Rescheduled

The Chevron Phillips Charity Golf Tournament has been rescheduled to begin the morning round at 7 a.m. and the afternoon round at noon on Nov. 14 at...
Calder Woods Residents to Return to Beaumont

Calder Woods Residents to Return to Beaumont

DALLAS, Texas – 09-22-08 – 9:00 a .m. – Buckner Retirement Services has announced that it is safe for independent living residents to return to...
Dallas-based Refugees Start School with New Shoes from Buckner

Dallas-based Refugees Start School with New Shoes from Buckner

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Thirty-six refugee children from around the world received Shoes for Orphan Souls in...

Jaci Velasquez ‘Sole-d Out’ to Benefit Orphans

(DALLAS, Texas) — 91.7 The TRUTH (KVTT) and Shoes for Orphan Souls® will host a free concert and event featuring Jaci Velasquez on Saturday, Sept....
Give to Buckner Hurricane Relief Now!

Give to Buckner Hurricane Relief Now!

Evacuations Costing Buckner Thousands Click here to make a donationWe need special help during this hurricane season!Typically, we ask for disaster...
Buckner Calls Halt to Hurricane Ike Evacuation

Buckner Calls Halt to Hurricane Ike Evacuation

DALLAS, Texas: 09/10/08 4:00 p.m. — Buckner International President Kenneth Hall said the Dallas-based non-profit has no plans to evacuate its...

Buckner International Seeks Donations for Hurricane Evacuation, Relief Efforts

(DALLAS, Texas) – Evacuations in Southeast Texas during Hurricane Gustav cost Buckner International thousands of dollars, and with the imminent...
Lufkin's First Baptist Church Houses Buckner Hurricane Evacuees

Lufkin's First Baptist Church Houses Buckner Hurricane Evacuees

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(LUFKIN, Texas) — Lufkin’s First Baptist Church housed four Buckner foster families who evacuated from...
Calming an Anxious Heart

Calming an Anxious Heart

By Tim & Theresa Oloffson Many prayers and preparations went into the six months leading up to the 2008 camp for the children at the orphanage in...
A Blessed Journey of Healing

A Blessed Journey of Healing

By Dagmar MuellerI am not even sure where to start our story, so I thought I might begin with the happy ending. On December 22, 2005, we went to the...
Yolani’s Little Step

Yolani’s Little Step

By Robyn BushYolani is a precious girl around the age of 12 who never spoke.We were told she was mute, but we weren’t sure if that was a medical...
Blessed to Bless Others

Blessed to Bless Others

By Aracely PérezBuckner InternationalMy mother received her first pair of shoes when she was 14. She reminded me of this while we sat in my parked...
The Feet of Our Maker

The Feet of Our Maker

By Beth BatemanWe stepped out of the truck and took several steps back in time to a village in Bantu, Ethiopia. That’s when we saw the children. I...
Shell Gives to Hurricane Recovery Efforts

Shell Gives to Hurricane Recovery Efforts

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(SAN CARLOS, Texas) — Shell Exploration and Production donated $25,000 on Aug. 15 to Buckner...
A Night with the Orphans

A Night with the Orphans

By Malerie NelsonI was very excited about going back to Huehuetenango on Monday, so when we pulled into the orphanage I was pumped. The children, of...
Building a New Home for a New Generation in Peru

Building a New Home for a New Generation in Peru

By Tod BushAthens, TexasThe Red Dot team returned home from Peru with our hearts touched by the precious children we encountered in Cusco.We were able...
Buckner Connects Relief Teams to Hurricane Victims in the Valley

Buckner Connects Relief Teams to Hurricane Victims in the Valley

Help Still Needed for Border, Guatemala Relief EffortsClick here to make a donation.(RIO GRANDE VALLEY) —The day after Hurricane Dolly struck the...
Cleveland Radio Station Breaks its Own Record

Cleveland Radio Station Breaks its Own Record

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(CLEVELAND, Ohio) — WCRF Radio conducted its fifth Shoes for Orphan Souls drive from June 15-Aug. 3,...
Adoption Gives East Texas Family ‘Additional Blessing’

Adoption Gives East Texas Family ‘Additional Blessing’

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalFour-year-old Kellie Hodson loves to twirl in her pink dress. She makes faces with her big brother Jonathan, shares...
Educate Yourself: Back to School Around the Globe

Educate Yourself: Back to School Around the Globe

By Vanessa Mosharaf and Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalWe see it in the movies all the time: children grumbling because summer is over, reeling...
A Simple Request from a Hungry Homeless Woman

A Simple Request from a Hungry Homeless Woman

By Analiz GonzalezBuckner InternationalThere were about eight people living in the tent. It had been a week since Hurricane Dolly, so they’d been...

CBF, Buckner Launch New Ministry Along U.S./Mexico Border

By Carla Wynn DavisCBF Communications(ATLANTA, Georgia) – Buckner International, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Global Missions, and the Cooperative...
Buckner Children Receive Inspiration, Training at Legacy Sports Camp

Buckner Children Receive Inspiration, Training at Legacy Sports Camp

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner International(FRISCO, Texas) — Smiles were abundant on the playing fields at Legacy Christian Academy in Frisco as 72...
Buckner Missionaries Reach Out to Chatinos, Mixtecos

Buckner Missionaries Reach Out to Chatinos, Mixtecos

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(OAXACA, Mexico) — A group of 38 mission volunteers who traveled to Mexico last year may have been the first...
KidsHeart Missionaries ‘Pay it Forward’

KidsHeart Missionaries ‘Pay it Forward’

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(Rio Grande Valley, TEXAS) — Twenty-five-year-old Matthew Ryan Yow died in a car accident in May.But two...
Summer Community Programs Keep Metroplex Children Active

Summer Community Programs Keep Metroplex Children Active

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Ten-year-old Kewona Jones from Wynnewood Community Services Center confidently shared a...

Buckner Weathers Dolly; Help Sought for Colonias

(MISSION, Texas) – Buckner Children and Family Services’ Rio Grande Children’s Home fared well through Hurricane Dolly, suffering only a...
Hymnal Holds More than Three Decades of Precious Memories

Hymnal Holds More than Three Decades of Precious Memories

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner InternationalKen Shotts, 82, remembers everything he learns about the residents living at Buckner Retirement Village. He...
Buckner Children Find Healing, Happiness at Camp Buckner

Buckner Children Find Healing, Happiness at Camp Buckner

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(Burnett, TEXAS) — After a full day of kayaking, fishing, swimming and playing, the children from the...

Volunteers Urgently Needed to Deliver Shoes for Orphan Souls

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner InternationalBuckner still needs volunteers to travel on upcoming Shoes for Orphan Souls trips or they may be cancelled,...

Help Your Child to Love Volunteering

Tips for getting your family started this summerBy Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalIt’s the middle of summer and your kids are getting bored. Instead...
How a Girl Named Maggie Changed My Life

How a Girl Named Maggie Changed My Life

By Louis JohnsonIt is late Friday afternoon in Guatemala City and our church's mission group is in a van headed toward the Buckner Girls Transitional...
Shareable Wearables Clothing Drive a Success

Shareable Wearables Clothing Drive a Success

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner International(RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas) — The Shareable Wearables clothing drive in the Rio Grande Valley is stronger and...
College graduate finds her own TRAIL

College graduate finds her own TRAIL

By Jenny PopeBuckner International“I was 17 when I came here,” Janette began, sitting at a table in the library at Stephen F. Austin University in...
Alzheimer’s Screening Sheds New Light on Memory Loss

Alzheimer’s Screening Sheds New Light on Memory Loss

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Buckner Retirement Village hosted a free Alzheimer’s and dementia screening and...
Cancer Victim Finds Angels at Vickery

Cancer Victim Finds Angels at Vickery

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Eric Virrueta leaned down and stroked his mother’s head to wake her, but as his little...
San Antonio Baseball League Hits a Home Run with Kids

San Antonio Baseball League Hits a Home Run with Kids

By Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(SAN ANTONIO, Texas) — South San Filadelfia Baptist Church and Buckner International held its first-ever...
Interns Take Off to Change the World

Interns Take Off to Change the World

By Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalThey’ve studied the language. They’ve packed their bags. And now they’ve taken off.Twenty-one college students...
Live Chat Offers Quick Counseling for Women in Crisis

Live Chat Offers Quick Counseling for Women in Crisis

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner InternationalMothers experiencing crisis pregnancy can now chat with a counselor online through Live Chat on Buckner...
Children’s Home Opens in Mexico City

Children’s Home Opens in Mexico City

By Brenda Hernández and Analiz González(MEXICO CITY, Mexico) — A new children’s home called La Familia opened in Mexico City on May 18 to care...
Dallas Church’s Donation Completes Educational Center in Ethiopia

Dallas Church’s Donation Completes Educational Center in Ethiopia

By Vanessa MosharafBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Members of Pleasant Terrace Baptist Church illustrated a giving spirit when they donated...
Nine Years in Kenya

Nine Years in Kenya

By Carston WernerI am Carsten Werner from Germany and I worked in Kenya as a missionary for nine years with my wife Silke. In 1998 we founded a...
The Doll

The Doll

By Melanie MartinsenI am amazed at how God works.I helped with collecting items for our mission trip to Romania from the start. I saw all the items we...
Honduras Needs Us Now

Honduras Needs Us Now

By Russell Dilday, Editor, Buckner TodayNot again, I thought as I passed through the single steel door of Nueva Esperanza’s 20-foot concrete wall....
A Small Gift of Affection

A Small Gift of Affection

By Leigh Myers I met Borya in my second week during the Buckner summer internship program in St. Petersburg, Russia. My team spent the week at an...
Password to my Heart

Password to my Heart

By Heather MoodyElwood, Indiana“HueHue 01-08” was the password for my computer at work. Traveling to a Spanish speaking country and doing mission...
Looking into our Future

Looking into our Future

By Reb WayneAustin, TexasImagine getting on a plane in Dallas/Fort Worth headed to Frankfurt, Germany to meet 20 individuals you've never met and...

Honduras Photo Gallery

Bare feet, shaved heads and desperate circumstances abound in Honduran orphanages. Russ Dilday, director of communications, visited many of these...
Sunshine in Russia

Sunshine in Russia

By Ronne RockBuckner Marketing DirectorThey say Russia only gets 40 days of sunshine a year. I think they’re wrong.My husband and I journeyed to St....
Loaves and Fishes?

Loaves and Fishes?

By Dave JollySilvis, IllinoisThere are so many memories that come to my mind as I think about our time in Kenya. I remember the little school which...
The Rainy Season

The Rainy Season

By Mason KingIsaiah left the game to sit along the wall of the auditorium. With alarming speed he had moved from joyful to sullen and unresponsive. A...
Serving orphans is nothing like ‘Annie’

Serving orphans is nothing like ‘Annie’

By Brent KeslerDallas, Texas My daily life is too easy. I live in a nice little neighborhood, in a nice little community. I drive a nice little car...
Learning to Love

Learning to Love

By Brittney HarmonAlpha, IllinoisAll morning my team was having difficulties finding shoes for every child; it didn’t seem as if there were enough...
“A Child of God. A Child of Ours. A Child Named Winnie”

“A Child of God. A Child of Ours. A Child Named Winnie”

Beth Bateman, New Windsor, ILKenya SOS August 2007It was an ordinary day on a Shoes for Orphan Souls trip in Kenya. That is what I thought anyway....

"Have you found me a Momma and Poppa?"

By Debbie WynneDirector, Buckner Adoption and Maternity ServicesThis is a question that I have been asked many times from children who anxiously wait...
Felix

Felix

By Larry RobertsNew Windsor, ILAs the Buckner mission group walked into the church at the Baptist Children’s Center in Nairobi, Kenya, one boy...
The Best Birthday Gift

The Best Birthday Gift

By Susan FrostDublin, GeorgiaIn the fall of 2003, as I anticipated my upcoming 50th birthday, my husband asked me what I would like to do to...
What a Missionary Looks Like

What a Missionary Looks Like

By Olumayowa A. FamakinwaWaco, TexasJust to introduce myself, I am a 22 year old male, currently enrolled in school at Baylor University and working...

La historia de Emmanuel

Por Jenny PopeBuckner International(LIBERIA) — Emmanuel, de 10 años, ya estaba acostumbrado al rechazo. Nació con dos pies de club, una condición...

Escuela de Etiopía Hace Buenos Ciudadanos

Por Jenny PopeBuckner International(BANTU, Etiopía) — De acuerdo a los estándares del oeste los huérfanos de Bantú no tienen mucho. Viven en...

Michael W. Smith Visita Almacén de Shoes for Orphan Souls

Por Jenny PopeBuckner InternationalHaga clic aqui para ver el video de The Dallas Morning News.(DALLAS, Texas) — Michael W. Smith, cantante...

Motivos para Dar Gracias

La Familia de Buckner tiene mucho de que estar agradecido este noviembre, así que les preguntamos a niños, clientes y empleados por que les...

El Mes Nacional de Adopción

Ilumina La Necesidad de Familias para NiñosBuckner Urgentemente Recluta Padres de Agogimiento y Adopción Para Cumplir con la Demanda (TEXAS) —...

Servicio en la Tormenta

Por Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalEs una cosa ayudar a alguien cuando todo está yendo bien, es completamente diferente cuando ayudas mientras...

Buckner Celebra el Patrimonio Hispano

Por Analiz GonzálezBuckner International(DALLAS, Texas) — Los sombreros y las maracas decoraban las mesas del Vickery Wellness Center. Música...

Los Niños Regresan a la Escuela Alrededor del Mundo

Por Vanessa Mosharaf y Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalSiempre lo vemos en las películas: niños que se quejan porque se les terminó el verano,...

Hay más necesidad y menos que dar

Por Analiz GonzálezBuckner InternationalLas multitudes se amontonan en los autobuses, al vecino no le alcanzó para hacer el pago de su casa y el...
Put Family First

Put Family First

 Where Crescenciana Sosa lives, there are no electrical services. There’s no running water. No sanitation services, either. Everyone buys clean...

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