Doug and Brent Munster met through mutual friends and on their first date they discussed a list of many things, one of which was about families.
Adoption was a big part of their lives. Doug’s parents and Brent’s brother were all adopted. After eight years of marriage, they started the adoption process. It took 1 1/2 years and a lot of capital.
“The cost surprised us. We were fortunate and able to handle it, but knew many weren’t as blessed. We wanted to find a way to give back and help adoptive families with the last bit of financial support needed to bring home a [their] child,” said Doug.
Kecia Tomlin and Doug Munster met in 2010 during a boot camp held at Grant Park. Both into fitness and racing, they hit it off immediately and became close. Doug discussed his idea with Kecia.
In June 2017, they founded the Adopted By You 5K & Fun Run in partnership with Gift of Adoption (GOA) – Georgia chapter.
Benefiting children in need of a forever family, the third annual Adopted By You 5K & Fun Run will take place June 8.
“The cost of adoption ranges roughly from $35,000 to $50,000, the majority being legal fees. There are always unexpected expenses and the costs add up,” said Doug.
The past two runs raised over $50,000, providing 19 families the necessary final expenses to complete their adoptions in Georgia.
Doug talks to parents around the world about adoption. His biggest piece of advice for prospective parents is, “You’ll never fully be ready. It’s all about patience. Knowing that you’ll have good days and bad days.
“Keep a positive attitude and know that one day they will complete their family. In the end, it will all be worth it,” he said.
This year’s goal is to raise $80,000-$100,000 in grant money, with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward completing adoptions for families in Georgia.
A small fund raiser will be held from 6-8 p.m. May 7 at Henry’s in Midtown.
Race info: Saturday, June 8 at 8–11 a.m., Phoenix III Park, Atlanta
Race signup: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Atlanta/3rdAnnualAdoptedByYou5KFunRun
For more information, visit giftofadoption.org
Each Sunday we write about a deserving person or charity events such as fun-runs, volunteer projects and other community gatherings that benefit a good cause. To submit a story, email us at ajc.doinggood@gmail.com
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