MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Nov. 9, 2009) Foster and adoptive parents and children gathered today for the annual Shelby County kickoff for National Adoption Month. Held at the Youth Villages Operations Center, the event included a display of more than 100 balloons, each one symbolizing a Shelby County child who is waiting for an adoptive family. Representatives from the Tennessee Department of Childrens Services and foster and adoption providers including AGAPE, Adoption Support Center, Bethany Christian Services, Camelot Care Center, Cathedral of Faith, Meritan, Porter Leath, Phoenix Homes, South Memphis Alliance, Wendys Wonderful Kids, West Tennessee Focus and Youth Villages participated in the kickoff. Entertainment was provided by the Booker T. Washington High School Gospel Choir, and adoptive parent Sherry Pioreck shared her story. The Rev. Ralph White of Bloomfield Full Gospel Baptist Church gave the invocation and closing prayer. (less info)