I’d like to give credit where credit is due and pay tribute to a few people. As far back as I can remember, there have been men in my life by the name of “Jerry” that have positively influenced me in the way they desired to help children. Little did I know back then that those influences would mold and shape my desire to help children through Jerry’s Kids Adoption Foundation in my latter years of life. As I reflect on the lives of these men, one common trait stands out: they all held a special place in their hearts for children and utilized their prosperity and influence to invest in their lives.

I would like to start with Jerry Lewis and his annual Labor Day MDA Telethon. As a young boy watching his telethon every year, I can remember how there would be moments when my eyes would swell up with tears because of the love and compassion he and his celebrity guests showed. I used to wish I could do something meaningful like that to help children, and now that dream is coming true. One of the highlights of the telethon was the finale when Jerry would sing, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” No matter how often I heard him sing it, his finale was always very moving and inspiring! 

I could bring up Jerry Springer and how his show provided insight by showcasing the challenges people faced in their lives. Though, it wasn’t until after his death that I discovered his tender heart for children, especially those with disabilities. 

Jerry Seinfeld was a must because his show was incredibly funny and entertaining. He was the “King of Comedy” in his time, and I couldn’t wait to see what the cast would do next. However, I learned that Jerry Seinfeld was not only known as the “King of Comedy,” but he also had a deep desire to empower the next generation. Jerry started the Seinfeld Family Foundation to improve children’s education and health as well as the arts, which was launched in the year 2000.

And the last Jerry in my life was my pastor and friend, Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr. Words can’t adequately express his love for children. Jerry hoped to give them every chance and opportunity to succeed with a good Christian education and use their life to faithfully serve the Lord. That’s why he founded the Early Learning Center, Liberty Christian Academy, Liberty University, Family Life Services, and the Liberty Godparent Home. He truly covered all the basis when it comes to helping kids.

As a result of these compassionate, warm-hearted men named “Jerry,” I have been moved in my own life to help children through adoption. We have two incredible boys through adoption (Graham and Jackson). My desired goal for this foundation is “changing the lives of children, one family at a time.